Elliott Smith is regarded as the father of “emo rock,” but I think limiting him and his music to this one classification is misleading. His music is definitely somber, but that doesn’t mean it lacks any more depth than any other genre of music. I remember listening to his music for the first time and wishing I could create something that intimate. The themes in his music often allude to his struggle with substance abuse and mental health. I love the way Elliott Smith didn’t try to change or conform his style in a way that would maybe attract more listeners. He made whatever he felt like making. He will always be remembered and well loved.