Jonathan Coulton Interview

July 09, 2009

by Dave Caputo

Jonthan Coulton is many things. He is a Yale graduate, a computer programmer, a father and an Internet superstar to name just a few. Some have called him a “Song writing machine” referencing his first major musical project called “Thing-a-week”. At that time Jonathan had just quit his job of 8 years as a programmer and decided to be a musician. Did I mention that was the exact time that his daughter was born? Some people might see this and think it quite irresponsible, to quit a lucrative job when you have a daughter to support. His mind set at this moment is something that I was extremely curious about and since talking to him I have come to understand it completely. He decided to take the plunge and follow his dream not only for himself but for his daughter. He was telling her to follow her dreams, but he did one better than just preaching it, he actually did it.

Since quiting his job in 2005 Jonathan has written over 52 songs and toured the country. He has collaborated with his old schoolmate John Hodgman on a literary tour and audio book, he’s written the theme song to a best selling video game and has just released a concert DVD entitled "Best. Show. Ever.".

So why exactly are we writing about Jonathan Coulton? Simply put, because he is our nerd troubadour. His songs are the themes to our obsessions and quirks. Love songs between moons and planets, zombie office negotiations or sad ballads of giant squids that, well, just crush everything. His songs span other topics as well such as furniture stores, creepy dolls and shop vacs. There is a common thread that ties them together, however, and that is their humor, wit and downright cleverness.

Be sure to check out the interview. We had a good chat and he was nice enough to play Code Monkey and a bit of Future Soon for us. Part two (at left) concludes with a Mad Lib so be sure to tune in till the end!