Miss Honeydew, I must ask, what did you know about John Kennedy? He seems to be the most cryptic of the cryptic. Was he a serious musician in the group or just a behind the scenes financial backer (and was the one who sold his sports car to support Vileness Fats). Sorry I just want to know since he seems to be the least mentioned of the original line-up. It seems you weren't around at the time but it does come off the musical style/depth changed after the Clem/Kennedy exit.
@rossarooney it's now an orthopedic physical therapy/personal training "center". Whatever that is... It has like 3 security cams in front. looks shady!
In time to come The Residents will be acknowledged as The Artists that they are. Unfortunately they will probably go the way most GREAT Artists have gone.....not being granted the remuneration that they deserve. I'm now into my 5th decade of fandom, which for a 43 year old makes me young enough to be their child........I suppose we all are. BTW Always fancied Penny Honeydew, especially from the Full Version of Vileness Fats!!!!!! x
@dcarr84 Who else would have had stacks of Residents albums back then? ;-) thank you, rossarooney, for another enlightening, fun video post. *Spoiler Alert*--To see more recent video of The Residents, see the YouTube video called Modern Karaoke.
This b.s . Why would they have stacks of their own albums? And if you are an insider why would you reveal them? These people are just fans as is the author.
@dcarr84 You dumass, it was HAND MADE album covers in stacks, not the vinyl! They printed their own covers to save money. In those days, there were few people interested in selling or playing their records. I can reveal them because I WANT TO & and it gives me something to do.
@nondescriptman Well, the vinyl sleeve lists "Thanks to S. Lewis and R. Paulsen", and R. Paulsen is the narrator on the Epilogue, according to the Heaven and Hell collection. That means the female singer is called S. Lewis. "Who's S. Lewis", I hear you cry ... and that's a good question, at least it's a more specific question that "who is the female singer".
Thanks for the post! I love the quote from Penn Jillette in the Rz' bio where he describes revealing their identities loudly and clearly after overhearing a couple of concert goers discussing the subject and them not even noticing.
@elaentaksei This was hardly an elaborate studio. Gear was accumulated used and they all took turns working straight jobs. Rent and utilities were cheap then and the Rez dudes were experts finding things at thrift stores and yard sales.
I have the impression that some people don't understand that we don't need to know who they are. The Residents have to stay mysterious i think. Why ? Personally because, i have to love them for their music and not for what they are. After all, they act the opposite way if you compare them to some pop stars. Anyway there is also a charm in their anonymus.
Wow. That was really cool! I think I'm goin g to continue to believe that The Residents are just the voices in my head that other scary people also hear. To know that they're just normal hippies is a little too real for me. =)
@rossarooney A friend of mine warned me about listening to the residents, because they are weird hillbillies that will find you and fuck you up. I never laughed so much in my life.
They're just some weird "hippies" that like to make interesting music/art. I don't love everything they've done, but they're one of the few "bands" that still make my jaw drop every now and again.
People are too afraid to be weird these days. It's a shame.
Hard to believe folks are upset. It's been clear that Homer was the lead singer for decades, and it only stands to reason that his Cryptic partner Hardy is also key. Personally, the "concealed identity" pretense puts me off, particularly via the overworked gimmick of the eyeballs and skull. Its as if the boys don't trust their art to stand for itself.
Well I did it, I looked. However, I can say that my own impression of the "concealed identity" was just the opposite of yours. I thought it was all about the art standing for itself against the context of age, ego, and identity.
Thank you, Rossarooney! Forgive me if it's too personal but why did the Cryptics break from the PDX gang? Was it something that happened during the making of Eskimo? It seems that from Eskimo (Don Preston) onwards they've heavily relied upon session musicians and their ties to the PDX scene evaporated.
I mention Eskimo because of the rift between the creative and business sides of the band. Eskimo is also the last time they did much with their phonetic organization theory and N. Senada (excepting that one release years later). Seems their world in the years after this revolved around Joshua Raoul Brody and the session musicians involved in the early 80s SF comedy scene.
@crcomdc I can't speak for their bidness in the SF scene, Bill Reinhardt & Barry Schwam were the only ones promoting them in PDX. When Bill had a falling out with them in early 80's and left KBOO we stopped keeping up with Rez developments. Cryptic was created as a means to get serious and make the Rez obscure and help with the money & production management. N.Senada was Homer's character and 'phonetic organization' was just nonsense to hide the fact that they had no formal music training.
Because of the fact that clearly most of their fans are too dense to figure out "the myth" about their identities that they will NOT attack Ms Honeydew here. To all other die hards, what's new here for us except for the imagery??? Nothing, everybody in their right mind now that the Rez are Homer and Hardy. The rest left the band in the late 70's early 80's. You can even hear it in the music.
Somebody please tell me who is the guy demonstrating the cover art for TR&R? Is it the mysterious John Kennedy? I don't think that it looks like either Hardy, Jay or Homer (In another YT-vid there's a pic of Homer from '73).
That is Peter Newhouse (of the wealthy newspaper biz) who was visiting with Bill on that trip to Sycamore St. He has been contacted but refuses to show any interest in the past.
They have stated They have left the building, the orginal lineup is long gone. However there are still some original members( I said this with certainty because I recognize their voices)
Molly Harvey is one of the Residents.
She's a singer w/ a unique voice. She is most noteable on Wormwood and Demons Dance Alone, 2 of their finest albums. The others are teachers, artist, and muscians who just happen to be in the residents. It doesnt matter who they are :)
As has been stated here a Zillion times: HARDY & HOMER always were and currently are THE RESIDENTS! (plus many interchangeable players for the live stuff).
This is an absolutely incredible video... I've waited fifteen years to see something like this! THANK YOU! Anyone out there threatening ANYONE because of this should be arrested. It's a BAND!! It's all about the MUSIC! Saying a historical clip ruins anything about The Residents MUSIC is idiotic (and proof you care more for the myth than the music!).
Thanks for showing the film. Pretty amazing. I do hope it's the real deal. I noticed an eight track recorder. Wasn't it not until the mid seventies that they were "presented" an eight track by Cryptic according to the story? (another obsessed Rez fan--- all in good fun though.)
Let's get this straight- The Cryptic Corp IS the Residents! They created that co. to help with obscurity. I made this film on a visit in 1976 and shared in suggesting names for the new Corp.
This is a fascinating look into the creative process of one of the world's greatest art collectives. Thank your for posting.
The notion that this could in any way be detrimental to The Residents is preposterous, and anyone who would make threats over such a thing really needs to re-examine their motives. The identities of The Residents are no secret to those who care to know (I.E., the hardcore fans) and outside of that group, the rest of the world DOESN 'T CARE!
Well, ok, don't think this video answers ANY questions about who they are....and how can you believe anything that would be released, anyways? After you melt down all the different theories, and the various "truths" thrown at the public....still...interesting, even if true or not....I ain't making any threats at anyone....if the truth's out there, how's about a simpler hint...maybe some of us call ourselves Mr. Jones, dig?
This vid is great! Thx 4 posting. It's fun seeing where the Rez evolved from. I seriously doubt this hurts their obscurity since there are few original Rez left. I think even Flynn said via website there may have been as many as 50 Rez total. I also doubt celebrity mags have ever heard of the Rez. Everything is imaginary, incl. threats. No one can be obscure with an ego in the way.
Thanks for your accurate and astute observations. Also, no one here is recognizable mostly due to their age now. I received threats that have me concerned, fans have no sense of discovery!
the whole "Swapping of girlfriends" thing is true, awhile ago I came into contact with the residents old sound guy from i think 75 to 1985, he had an account on youtube but I cant remember the name at all as this was years ago.
Have you any similar footage that you can post that you haven't posted before, please? Please? Don't worry about the narrow mindedness of some individuals. The true fans REALLY just appreciate this footage for what it is. A RARE peek in to the Residents history. Please?
I have more old film but waiting for time and money to get it transferred and edited. I'm also a little hesitant to post revealing material due to personal threats I have received. I think I see bunnies everywhere!
I've been a huge fan of The Rez since first hearing them (in early 80s). I'm especially interested in their earliest material, up to the mid 80s. A lot of my own material is basically Residents-esque.
Roberta, these early videos are a WELCOME source of fascination for me. THANK YOU a million times over for this.
That is uncool. The Rez are probably happy that there is more controversy and chatter. Any publicity is good publicity! Besides, this is a video about their sordid youth, nothing that resembles the old men they are now.
Just a question: What's the truth behind Not Available? Is it actually the second album they recorded, or was it all part of the famous Residents wind and sails?
Hard to say, but there's more tape hiss than on "Fingerprince", so it was recorded earlier than then. ("Unless they added tape hiss to make it seem old", I hear you cry, but actually, The Residents' fakes aren't usually that clever.)
I've worked with Kid Rock here in studios in Detroit, and he told me a Long time ago that his uncle was in an art-rock group called the Resident's. His uncle's name by the way? Homer Flynn..
I'm not saying that this is impossible but, Homer is definitely from Shreveport, LA, not Michigan. And in no way does Robert Ritchie look anything like a Flynn family member - they're all very distinctive looking. Are you sure that he wasn't pulling your leg? Are you sure you're not pulling ours?
The only visible connection is that The Rz's have released albums under Cordless Recordings which is part of Warner Music Group - Along with Atlantic Records, one of Robert Ritchie's labels.
The Rz are too busy to bother. The Bunny Boy did comment a bit when someone sent him your vid and asked about it, if he should watch it etc.
DER ___ I DONT THINK THIS IS RELLY ABOUT BUNNYS FOR HAS CLUES OR ANYTHNG BUT RELLY ABOUT A WEASLE OR SOMTHING LIKE THAT BUT SINCE ITS THE RESI DECE IM NOT SUPPOS TO SAY ANY THIN OR TH EY GET MAD I M SOR Y FR OM BU NNY
PS I SA YOU CAN WATHC WHATEVR YOU WANT EVN GILLICAN S ILAND
The whole Obscurity angle is just part of the show, part of the Art they make. If they didn't want anyone to know, they'd hide better. They seem to want people to know. Less it more? The less you know, the deeper you're drawn in until you see them and everything else. Then it all begins to make sense. Once the curiosity is satisfied, you're no longer distracted by it. Everything becomes lucid. You can then find the "Zen" of what they do.
Thanks for your intelligent, level-headed observations. I posted this stuff for amusement only. I had no idea their would be such a controversy and I'm getting some hate mail from disgruntled fans. I hope I have done no damage to the Rez and that they are still able to sing and dance and make money.
Oh, they will be fine. And man, do they make money. They make plenty of money. Success is nowhere as allusive as their identities. And I seriously doubt that anything on YouTube is going to hurt them in any way. Stand strong, you've done most of us a favor.
Well, you know: There's a photographer on flickr who took a very good photo of Mr. Flynn recently, in NYC at MoMA. He summed his revealing of Homer as such, "Seriously though ... the standard line about the obscurity--that it causes people to focus on the music because it deemphasizes personality--is such bullshit. No one cares who Homer Flynn is, lots of people care who the Singing Resident is." There's truth in that, just look.
I'm not sure if that's a legitimate question or not. No, I'm not in the music business aside from being a paying customer. Is there a point to your question?
Well, nevermind how I first came to know their music. It didn't take much to figure them out. All it takes is careful observation and comparison. In the end, knowing who they were made them seem just that more real to me as the Artists that they are. I wasn't looking for myths - I never believed in Santa if that tells you anything. But I do believe in exceptional people. And exceptional describes The Residents well.
I have been a fan of The Residents since I was a kid in the Bay Area ('70s-80s). My parents were pretty liberal with whatever I saw or heard and I had flexible sleep hours - I was as much a night-owl then as now. My sisters knew guys who would play stuff on local TV and radio, very late at night when their bosses weren't around. They'd be told to listen to a station or watch a certain channel at designated hour. Anyone who might complain was usually asleep already. The Residents...
I was at the Philly show for the Bunny Boy Tour. We sat front row and center. To see both men who have made so much amazing art and music, in person (even if disguised), is beyond words. On stage, Homer has an amazing presence that is lost somewhat on video. Kudos to him and Hardy for what they do. Sure, they have the Obscurity gimmick which can be distracting at times but, some of you just don't seem to be able to see the forest for the trees. There's the myth and there's the music...
Ah, so the truth is, some of you are not really fans of The Residents at all, rather you are fans of their mystique and how that reflects back on to you? Whether you admit to who Homer is or isn't, should make no difference to you either way, if you truly like what you hear.
Did you stay after the Philly show to see them? We left the theater after the show but went around the corner to their vans near the stage door and waited. We eventually saw them when they left out. Great night.
The Residents are my Beatles, they changed the way I view art and music forever. I was lucky enough to be corrupted at age 12 by God in Three Persons, it hasn't been the same since. Thank you for posting this short film as I have always wondered about their early period. Please please post more, it's so inspiring. Their music will live on beyond the myth.
why do you want to destroy the resident´s art?? this video doesnt proves anything.... only that you are a dirt person and you like to harm to other people. We dont want to know who are The Residents... do you understand? The fans are fans beacuse we like the Resident´s music. We are Residents too!!! all the people is a part of The Residents. You are ridiculous uploading this video.
What's all this about destruction? I think you may be too obsessed with The Residents myth. They enjoy the controversy and are still able to make a living. The MUSIC Is what matters, after all. I suggest you save your vitriol for people like Sarah Palin, who is a real menace to society!
No, Im not obsesed.Its just respect. You are nothing for do that...and you dont have right for upload this video. You think that you are now important..but is stupid. A band has a concept and its art... you want to break a part of this concept in The Residents. Its the same that paparazzi work. you are doing the same.
I'd like to know what you see here that is so disturbing. The Rez built their career stealing and imitating commercial music. They are not the holy order you seem to believe in. Debunking myths is a good thing, regardless of who they are. You are a hopelessly rabid fan of a sophomoric 'artistic' cult. Are you a trekkie too? All is fair in love and art.
Well, you said all's fair in love and art, implying that what you did was fair. Hence, my question. Or let me make it clearer: since you knew the Rz and their mania with obscurity, did you contact them before posting this video to hear their thoughts on the subject?
How dare you attack Rossarooney like that. She's part of their History, she knew them personally, unlike yourself. Here's the juice; If The Residents truly wanted to remain 100% unknown, they'd have hidden themselves better. They seem to want you to look behind the curtain. It's part of the experience. At the same time, they can enjoy some safety from rabid fans who may become the next Mark David Chapman and destroy them far worse than these old films. Give thanks or get fucked.
Here's a cryptic clue...the Rez are behind all of this. Nothing they do is by accident! They calculate their moves very carefully to perpetuate cult worship. Read all the comments left here, it seems very manipulated to enhance their mythology. The movie is full of details pertaining to current themes (all the stuff on the shelves). Is this just coincidental or are they the most clever tricksters ever? And who the hell is this chick 'Roberta' anyway!!!!
But they don't nearly go to the same lengths to perpetuate these myths, as do so many fans themselves. Repeating nearly verbatim and as gospel, the same press releases, articles and flat-out lies and rumors. All they need to do is keep buying the music and the DVDs, go to a show or two. The truth will be right in front of them, short of a handwritten confession. And then some.
So you saw there faces when they were much younger and can FINALLY confirm it's not REALLY The Beatles behind the eyeballs, who cares!? Bet you a million bucks you wouldn't recognize them in the streets today and I'm certain no paparazzi will be hunting them down any time soon.
but this kind of action is very shameful. I see what kind of person you are. are you happy know? you are bigger now... wowowowowow what important.you dont win anything doing this.we are Residents.. Im one of them too... everyone is a Resident. You dont have any idea that what is that. You are really sad.
That is possible, The Rez did throw a bone to B. Reinhardt and allowed him to use rejected and or un-used material for his UWEB project, this was payment for his early help in molding and promoting The Rez.
stay tuned, a major project is in the works, can't say much right now!!!!
You're right. Homer was always the mastermind jester and 'reality' genius. His many characters always provided a 'slight of hand' for his rabid fans. The only thing bigger than his penis was his ego. 30 years later the Rez cult is still debating his identity. His voice on the 'Bunny' promos should give you a hint. He's an old man but an unflappable joker.
To all those who are annoyed by this invasion to The Residents' lives and by all this conjencture about their identities etc. I propose the following: put on your headphones, push play on your favourite song and get really to know The Residents...
the identity of the singing resident (homer flynn)is easily proven. just watch the residents interview, then watch the cry for the fire vid. the skinny clefted chin and every other facial feature are the exact likeness. hell, you can even tell in the wormwood videos.
Real proof will come only if Homer reveals his identity publicly! As rep for the 'Cryptic Corp' he could appear in anything as a 'performer'. This is not proof that he is the actual creator of the material.
As I have said before - He could come right out and admit who he is, etc. But I suspect that even if he did, some fans wouldn't believe it. They'd still insist that it was just another attempt to hide the identities of the "real" Residents (which for the most part have not been hidden much at all). I'm afraid that they are somewhat trapped by their own mythology/marketing. Which may not be an entirely bad thing for future generations of Fans.
You are right. It's very interesting that this forum of 'who's who' will never convince the hard-core fans. I will post more revealing material later as this discussion evolves. I want to help the rabid cult followers to 'get a life' and that there really is a guy behind the curtain and it has always been Homer, god bless him! More Cool Aid anyone?
there´s nothing wrong with people wanting to know the truth,& there´s nothing wrong with people not wanting to know the truth.
I personally enjoy the mistery about the residents, I find it very interesting, but that doesn´t affect the way I listen to their music, not by any means.
Please respect each other´s views
after all, is the art what matters, and the Residents the best (with the beatles)
Their identities have been known for two decades, but this line up split in the mid-80s, and since then it's mainly been Homer Flynn doing his own thing. It's good to see this footage of the Residents when they were still great. Tunes of Two Cities was their swansong.
Your are dead on correct with your comment! Homer was the resident genius. Yes, this footage was from a time when they were happy and inspired and much less 'commercial'.
Sorry, but I honestly believe reinhardt was the "mastermind" behind the residents. Though, technically not a residents himself, he created them, and is the genius behind it.
Let me clear this up! Bill Reinhardt was very close to the Rez in the early years when he promoted them on KBOO. He was generous and charismatic. They admired him and they shared an intimate, creative collaboration. They were an inspiration to each other and Bill helped them with audio tech, but he was not the 'mastermind' ! It was a very serendipitous relationship.
Well I certainly don't think the Rez would have gotten anywhere if it weren't for Bill and Barry!!! Well, mainly Bill. I'm so grateful for CPP, Radio Lab, and Onamatopeia. Thank you as well for making this available. I must admit, the moment I saw it, I was filled with rage and hatred though.
What's wrong with my radio? Is my radio skipping? I'm checkin' home. Listen to me listen to me listen to me, were all one, alone in love were all one Help me I'm trying to scream help me I'm trying to scream I will not eat death food I will not eat death food Help me I'm trying to scream! Stop laughing at me can't you hear that baby crying? Stop! Stop what you are doing, times up....... I was only trying to be normal.... WHAT ARE YOU DOING TO YOUR MOTHER?????
Miss Honeydew, I must ask, what did you know about John Kennedy? He seems to be the most cryptic of the cryptic. Was he a serious musician in the group or just a behind the scenes financial backer (and was the one who sold his sports car to support Vileness Fats). Sorry I just want to know since he seems to be the least mentioned of the original line-up. It seems you weren't around at the time but it does come off the musical style/depth changed after the Clem/Kennedy exit.
AirplaneRadio 3 weeks ago
@AirplaneRadio I'd like to know that too!! And could be the man at 4:00 the very John Kennedy?
Herod9 3 weeks ago
as far as I'm concerned, The Residents died in 1982.
nondescriptman 2 months ago
It's not necessarily fun to be naturally "weird". It's a lonely life.
casestudyification 3 months ago
what ever happend to old Jay Klem? i thaught he was just a made up radio personality that Homer made up for The Residents radio show thing
dsskater539 4 months ago
@dsskater539 That is Jay playing with the yo-yo. He was one of the 4 original Rez and the business manager until he left in the 80's.
rossarooney 4 months ago
eatexudingoinksuponandbleeddecrepritbrokenbonesandcausticspellsofhell. Nuff said. Thank you Walter Westinghouse.
MrMonsterstiffy 5 months ago
It seems to me that Diane Keaton's movie, "Heaven", had a bit of this music in it -- just for a few seconds.
Loved 18 Sycamore -- somewhere in this world I still have that clown lamp. They left it behind, broken, but I glued it together.
TheEggman51 6 months ago
So is Homer Flynn a member of the band?
thehumanbirdie 7 months ago
@thehumanbirdie uh, Homer Flynn and Hardy Fox are the only two original Cryptics left... Jay Clem and R. Kennedy left after the Mole Show fiasco...
Yes Homer is the vocalist.
MrMonsterstiffy 5 months ago
18 Sycamore may still be in use. It was a 2 story garage/ residence. I plan to go by there soon. Spent alot of my hippie daze stoned in there!
rossarooney 7 months ago
@rossarooney it's now an orthopedic physical therapy/personal training "center". Whatever that is... It has like 3 security cams in front. looks shady!
nondescriptman 2 months ago
Is the building still there? I looked it up on google maps and saw a building, but I dunno if it was the one.
tomservo3 8 months ago
What is the song playing in the video?
PrimusSucksOnThis 11 months ago
@PrimusSucksOnThis Walter Westinghouse from the Fingerprince album.
AirplaneRadio 9 months ago
In time to come The Residents will be acknowledged as The Artists that they are. Unfortunately they will probably go the way most GREAT Artists have gone.....not being granted the remuneration that they deserve. I'm now into my 5th decade of fandom, which for a 43 year old makes me young enough to be their child........I suppose we all are. BTW Always fancied Penny Honeydew, especially from the Full Version of Vileness Fats!!!!!! x
ResidentMich 1 year ago
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nondescriptman 1 year ago
What is this song?
PrimusSucksOnThis 1 year ago
@dcarr84 Who else would have had stacks of Residents albums back then? ;-) thank you, rossarooney, for another enlightening, fun video post. *Spoiler Alert*--To see more recent video of The Residents, see the YouTube video called Modern Karaoke.
PhotoCher 1 year ago
This b.s . Why would they have stacks of their own albums? And if you are an insider why would you reveal them? These people are just fans as is the author.
dcarr84 1 year ago
@dcarr84 You dumass, it was HAND MADE album covers in stacks, not the vinyl! They printed their own covers to save money. In those days, there were few people interested in selling or playing their records. I can reveal them because I WANT TO & and it gives me something to do.
rossarooney 1 year ago 4
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nondescriptman 1 year ago
@nondescriptman Well, the vinyl sleeve lists "Thanks to S. Lewis and R. Paulsen", and R. Paulsen is the narrator on the Epilogue, according to the Heaven and Hell collection. That means the female singer is called S. Lewis. "Who's S. Lewis", I hear you cry ... and that's a good question, at least it's a more specific question that "who is the female singer".
tjodolF2 1 year ago
Thanks for the post! I love the quote from Penn Jillette in the Rz' bio where he describes revealing their identities loudly and clearly after overhearing a couple of concert goers discussing the subject and them not even noticing.
anustowers 1 year ago 2
This elaborate studio indicates wealth. Were did all this money come from?
elaentaksei 2 years ago
@elaentaksei This was hardly an elaborate studio. Gear was accumulated used and they all took turns working straight jobs. Rent and utilities were cheap then and the Rez dudes were experts finding things at thrift stores and yard sales.
willyrein 2 years ago
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nondescriptman 2 years ago
Anyway i don't believe this is The Residents, for me The Residents are not humans.
franckygodmund1 2 years ago
I have the impression that some people don't understand that we don't need to know who they are. The Residents have to stay mysterious i think. Why ? Personally because, i have to love them for their music and not for what they are. After all, they act the opposite way if you compare them to some pop stars. Anyway there is also a charm in their anonymus.
franckygodmund1 2 years ago
I love it. Like Melody said: Thanks for sharing.
TheStrangerPage 2 years ago
Ps: How old do you reckon they all were when this was shot?
TheStrangerPage 2 years ago
@TheStrangerPage We were all mid-late 20's then.
rossarooney 2 years ago
Wow. That was really cool! I think I'm goin g to continue to believe that The Residents are just the voices in my head that other scary people also hear. To know that they're just normal hippies is a little too real for me. =)
TheStrangerPage 2 years ago 5
@TheStrangerPage Alot of great stuff was created by 'the hippies' then, and we did it with little money and very low-tech!
rossarooney 2 years ago
@rossarooney A friend of mine warned me about listening to the residents, because they are weird hillbillies that will find you and fuck you up. I never laughed so much in my life.
They're just some weird "hippies" that like to make interesting music/art. I don't love everything they've done, but they're one of the few "bands" that still make my jaw drop every now and again.
People are too afraid to be weird these days. It's a shame.
thecrikster 6 months ago
@thecrikster Well said and u speak the truth! The Rez were unique and still r in their old age!
rossarooney 6 months ago
@TheStrangerPage they all look better than hippies, just look like normal folks!
blefusku 1 year ago
Thank-you so much for sharing this! It is just great!
I have loved the Residents since I was the age of the people in these posts....
MelodyLynnKrause 2 years ago
You're very welcome!
rossarooney 2 years ago
Hard to believe folks are upset. It's been clear that Homer was the lead singer for decades, and it only stands to reason that his Cryptic partner Hardy is also key. Personally, the "concealed identity" pretense puts me off, particularly via the overworked gimmick of the eyeballs and skull. Its as if the boys don't trust their art to stand for itself.
pkazee 2 years ago
Thanks for your level-headed opinion and I agree, the ruse is getting old along with them. They are beyond the age of innocence now!
rossarooney 2 years ago
Well I did it, I looked. However, I can say that my own impression of the "concealed identity" was just the opposite of yours. I thought it was all about the art standing for itself against the context of age, ego, and identity.
actron 2 years ago
Thank you, Rossarooney! Forgive me if it's too personal but why did the Cryptics break from the PDX gang? Was it something that happened during the making of Eskimo? It seems that from Eskimo (Don Preston) onwards they've heavily relied upon session musicians and their ties to the PDX scene evaporated.
crcomdc 2 years ago
I mention Eskimo because of the rift between the creative and business sides of the band. Eskimo is also the last time they did much with their phonetic organization theory and N. Senada (excepting that one release years later). Seems their world in the years after this revolved around Joshua Raoul Brody and the session musicians involved in the early 80s SF comedy scene.
crcomdc 2 years ago
@crcomdc I can't speak for their bidness in the SF scene, Bill Reinhardt & Barry Schwam were the only ones promoting them in PDX. When Bill had a falling out with them in early 80's and left KBOO we stopped keeping up with Rez developments. Cryptic was created as a means to get serious and make the Rez obscure and help with the money & production management. N.Senada was Homer's character and 'phonetic organization' was just nonsense to hide the fact that they had no formal music training.
rossarooney 2 years ago
I think everybody should stop arguing and listen to the music!
Awesome Song.....much love for posting Ms. Rossarooney.
looshkin66 2 years ago
Jay's got a cute pelt. :)
Timmybear 2 years ago
Still greaaaaaaaaat fotage;)
atzenanu 2 years ago
Because of the fact that clearly most of their fans are too dense to figure out "the myth" about their identities that they will NOT attack Ms Honeydew here. To all other die hards, what's new here for us except for the imagery??? Nothing, everybody in their right mind now that the Rez are Homer and Hardy. The rest left the band in the late 70's early 80's. You can even hear it in the music.
atzenanu 2 years ago 2
Great, another astute observation from a REAL fan!!!
rossarooney 2 years ago
Thanks for sharing this! Great!
mrbuster123 2 years ago
The world would have been a duller place if the Residents did not exist.
bigboxbobby2 2 years ago
100% agree.
Pr0jectWeird1605 2 years ago
Somebody please tell me who is the guy demonstrating the cover art for TR&R? Is it the mysterious John Kennedy? I don't think that it looks like either Hardy, Jay or Homer (In another YT-vid there's a pic of Homer from '73).
Avledon 2 years ago
That is Peter Newhouse (of the wealthy newspaper biz) who was visiting with Bill on that trip to Sycamore St. He has been contacted but refuses to show any interest in the past.
rossarooney 2 years ago
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Pr0jectWeird1605 2 years ago
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Pr0jectWeird1605 2 years ago
this is great. I'd love to see the Grove St space given similar treatment
bweita 2 years ago
I never shot any movies at the Groive St. studio.
rossarooney 2 years ago
I'm a Resident.
I am also Spartacus!
Bortflancrest 2 years ago
hahahahah i've watched this like a 100 times!
I actually went to music millennium and asked if anyone worked there when they sold the original copys of M.T.R.
looshkin66 2 years ago
Dan Lissy is still around MM, ask for him, he remembers Bill bringing in a pile of 'MTR' and trying to sell them.
rossarooney 2 years ago
They have stated They have left the building, the orginal lineup is long gone. However there are still some original members( I said this with certainty because I recognize their voices)
Molly Harvey is one of the Residents.
She's a singer w/ a unique voice. She is most noteable on Wormwood and Demons Dance Alone, 2 of their finest albums. The others are teachers, artist, and muscians who just happen to be in the residents. It doesnt matter who they are :)
fascistbullygirl13 2 years ago
As has been stated here a Zillion times: HARDY & HOMER always were and currently are THE RESIDENTS! (plus many interchangeable players for the live stuff).
rossarooney 2 years ago
Incredible!
zamboni5000 2 years ago
This is an absolutely incredible video... I've waited fifteen years to see something like this! THANK YOU! Anyone out there threatening ANYONE because of this should be arrested. It's a BAND!! It's all about the MUSIC! Saying a historical clip ruins anything about The Residents MUSIC is idiotic (and proof you care more for the myth than the music!).
borowczyk76 2 years ago
Thank you for your rational point of view! They are old now and not the same, young faces here. They don't need to hide behind masks anymore.
rossarooney 2 years ago
Thanks for showing the film. Pretty amazing. I do hope it's the real deal. I noticed an eight track recorder. Wasn't it not until the mid seventies that they were "presented" an eight track by Cryptic according to the story? (another obsessed Rez fan--- all in good fun though.)
pazzensutra 3 years ago
Let's get this straight- The Cryptic Corp IS the Residents! They created that co. to help with obscurity. I made this film on a visit in 1976 and shared in suggesting names for the new Corp.
WmReinhardt 3 years ago
I you really Reinhardt?
ep784 3 years ago
I am not, but Bill made the original home movie posted here, one of many historical gems I inherited from our relationship.
rossarooney 3 years ago
This is a fascinating look into the creative process of one of the world's greatest art collectives. Thank your for posting.
The notion that this could in any way be detrimental to The Residents is preposterous, and anyone who would make threats over such a thing really needs to re-examine their motives. The identities of The Residents are no secret to those who care to know (I.E., the hardcore fans) and outside of that group, the rest of the world DOESN 'T CARE!
The Rez don't care either!
MrWoofington 3 years ago 9
Well said!
rossarooney 3 years ago
I just saw the tags and I was wondering why you picked those particular ones...
Theohariss 3 years ago
Because that's what I remember about them.
rossarooney 3 years ago
Well, ok, don't think this video answers ANY questions about who they are....and how can you believe anything that would be released, anyways? After you melt down all the different theories, and the various "truths" thrown at the public....still...interesting, even if true or not....I ain't making any threats at anyone....if the truth's out there, how's about a simpler hint...maybe some of us call ourselves Mr. Jones, dig?
terryeads 3 years ago
This vid is great! Thx 4 posting. It's fun seeing where the Rez evolved from. I seriously doubt this hurts their obscurity since there are few original Rez left. I think even Flynn said via website there may have been as many as 50 Rez total. I also doubt celebrity mags have ever heard of the Rez. Everything is imaginary, incl. threats. No one can be obscure with an ego in the way.
du2vye 3 years ago
Thanks for your accurate and astute observations. Also, no one here is recognizable mostly due to their age now. I received threats that have me concerned, fans have no sense of discovery!
rossarooney 3 years ago
the whole "Swapping of girlfriends" thing is true, awhile ago I came into contact with the residents old sound guy from i think 75 to 1985, he had an account on youtube but I cant remember the name at all as this was years ago.
therealv0x 3 years ago
Hey Roberta/Peggy!
Have you any similar footage that you can post that you haven't posted before, please? Please? Don't worry about the narrow mindedness of some individuals. The true fans REALLY just appreciate this footage for what it is. A RARE peek in to the Residents history. Please?
brother46 3 years ago
I have more old film but waiting for time and money to get it transferred and edited. I'm also a little hesitant to post revealing material due to personal threats I have received. I think I see bunnies everywhere!
rossarooney 3 years ago
It's ridiculous that you have recieved threats. Some people have very sad lives.
sheriffsixtyfour 3 years ago 7
I've been a huge fan of The Rez since first hearing them (in early 80s). I'm especially interested in their earliest material, up to the mid 80s. A lot of my own material is basically Residents-esque.
Roberta, these early videos are a WELCOME source of fascination for me. THANK YOU a million times over for this.
Phil
66drummer 3 years ago
Thanks Phil, not everyone is so pleased to see behind the curtain! I'm amazed how bamboozled some of their fans are by Rez myth-making.
rossarooney 3 years ago
@rossarooney Very true. I actually chose to stop posting on their forum due to the over the top elitism of some of their fans.
Vondur 1 year ago
@rossarooney yes the are very zealous over there ... most of them are younger fans I guess
nondescriptman 1 year ago
I wouldn't be shocked if the Cryptic Corp. sent some hitmen after Rossarooney! :p
SheedyDoo 3 years ago
That is uncool. The Rez are probably happy that there is more controversy and chatter. Any publicity is good publicity! Besides, this is a video about their sordid youth, nothing that resembles the old men they are now.
roqueruiz 3 years ago
I am getting concerned after receiving some threatening emails. I have beefed up my security out here on the Oregon farm just in case.
rossarooney 3 years ago
Just a question: What's the truth behind Not Available? Is it actually the second album they recorded, or was it all part of the famous Residents wind and sails?
jesustrashcan 3 years ago
Hard to say, but there's more tape hiss than on "Fingerprince", so it was recorded earlier than then. ("Unless they added tape hiss to make it seem old", I hear you cry, but actually, The Residents' fakes aren't usually that clever.)
tjodolF2 3 years ago
this absolutley great!!!!more!!!more!!!
blefusku 3 years ago
I've worked with Kid Rock here in studios in Detroit, and he told me a Long time ago that his uncle was in an art-rock group called the Resident's. His uncle's name by the way? Homer Flynn..
bdabus 3 years ago 3
I'm not saying that this is impossible but, Homer is definitely from Shreveport, LA, not Michigan. And in no way does Robert Ritchie look anything like a Flynn family member - they're all very distinctive looking. Are you sure that he wasn't pulling your leg? Are you sure you're not pulling ours?
retroflow44 3 years ago
The only visible connection is that The Rz's have released albums under Cordless Recordings which is part of Warner Music Group - Along with Atlantic Records, one of Robert Ritchie's labels.
retroflow44 3 years ago
-Yea i was Clownin! Just saw 'The Bunny Boy' here in Detroit a few weeks back, Amazing.
bdabus 3 years ago
you know your favorite band is awesome when they have mr. peanut and colonel sanders in their house.
SheedyDoo 3 years ago
This has been flagged as spam show
Fuck the Residents and their stupid fairy tales!!! Only cretins and morons are into this crap!
roqueruiz 3 years ago
do you like Van Halen?
sheriffsixtyfour 3 years ago
The Rz are too busy to bother. The Bunny Boy did comment a bit when someone sent him your vid and asked about it, if he should watch it etc.
DER ___ I DONT THINK THIS IS RELLY ABOUT BUNNYS FOR HAS CLUES OR ANYTHNG BUT RELLY ABOUT A WEASLE OR SOMTHING LIKE THAT BUT SINCE ITS THE RESI DECE IM NOT SUPPOS TO SAY ANY THIN OR TH EY GET MAD I M SOR Y FR OM BU NNY
PS I SA YOU CAN WATHC WHATEVR YOU WANT EVN GILLICAN S ILAND
elaentaksei 3 years ago
Did he just call me a weasel? Is that a bad thing?
rossarooney 3 years ago
i think he just gave permission to post more!
its all in the p.s.
looshkin66 3 years ago
The whole Obscurity angle is just part of the show, part of the Art they make. If they didn't want anyone to know, they'd hide better. They seem to want people to know. Less it more? The less you know, the deeper you're drawn in until you see them and everything else. Then it all begins to make sense. Once the curiosity is satisfied, you're no longer distracted by it. Everything becomes lucid. You can then find the "Zen" of what they do.
retroflow44 3 years ago 2
Thanks for your intelligent, level-headed observations. I posted this stuff for amusement only. I had no idea their would be such a controversy and I'm getting some hate mail from disgruntled fans. I hope I have done no damage to the Rez and that they are still able to sing and dance and make money.
rossarooney 3 years ago
Oh, they will be fine. And man, do they make money. They make plenty of money. Success is nowhere as allusive as their identities. And I seriously doubt that anything on YouTube is going to hurt them in any way. Stand strong, you've done most of us a favor.
retroflow44 3 years ago
Yeah, it truly is in the Cryptic Corp's nature to continue to deny that they are The Residents.
theledzeppguy 3 years ago
Well, you know: There's a photographer on flickr who took a very good photo of Mr. Flynn recently, in NYC at MoMA. He summed his revealing of Homer as such, "Seriously though ... the standard line about the obscurity--that it causes people to focus on the music because it deemphasizes personality--is such bullshit. No one cares who Homer Flynn is, lots of people care who the Singing Resident is." There's truth in that, just look.
retroflow44 3 years ago
Let me guess - You're not in the music business, correct?
Paulie88 3 years ago
I'm not sure if that's a legitimate question or not. No, I'm not in the music business aside from being a paying customer. Is there a point to your question?
retroflow44 3 years ago
And I do agree with what that photographer had to say: That most people don't know or don't care who Homer is.
retroflow44 3 years ago
Well, nevermind how I first came to know their music. It didn't take much to figure them out. All it takes is careful observation and comparison. In the end, knowing who they were made them seem just that more real to me as the Artists that they are. I wasn't looking for myths - I never believed in Santa if that tells you anything. But I do believe in exceptional people. And exceptional describes The Residents well.
retroflow44 3 years ago
I have been a fan of The Residents since I was a kid in the Bay Area ('70s-80s). My parents were pretty liberal with whatever I saw or heard and I had flexible sleep hours - I was as much a night-owl then as now. My sisters knew guys who would play stuff on local TV and radio, very late at night when their bosses weren't around. They'd be told to listen to a station or watch a certain channel at designated hour. Anyone who might complain was usually asleep already. The Residents...
retroflow44 3 years ago
I was at the Philly show for the Bunny Boy Tour. We sat front row and center. To see both men who have made so much amazing art and music, in person (even if disguised), is beyond words. On stage, Homer has an amazing presence that is lost somewhat on video. Kudos to him and Hardy for what they do. Sure, they have the Obscurity gimmick which can be distracting at times but, some of you just don't seem to be able to see the forest for the trees. There's the myth and there's the music...
retroflow44 3 years ago
Ah, so the truth is, some of you are not really fans of The Residents at all, rather you are fans of their mystique and how that reflects back on to you? Whether you admit to who Homer is or isn't, should make no difference to you either way, if you truly like what you hear.
retroflow44 3 years ago 2
the myth is over guys, thanks to this lady.
robertronics 3 years ago
Thankyou rossarooney Wish I had seen these vids before last nights Bunny Boy show in Philly.
jchtv 3 years ago
Did you stay after the Philly show to see them? We left the theater after the show but went around the corner to their vans near the stage door and waited. We eventually saw them when they left out. Great night.
retroflow44 3 years ago
What song is this?
GaryMuffins 3 years ago
The Residents are my Beatles, they changed the way I view art and music forever. I was lucky enough to be corrupted at age 12 by God in Three Persons, it hasn't been the same since. Thank you for posting this short film as I have always wondered about their early period. Please please post more, it's so inspiring. Their music will live on beyond the myth.
estiempo 3 years ago 4
why do you want to destroy the resident´s art?? this video doesnt proves anything.... only that you are a dirt person and you like to harm to other people. We dont want to know who are The Residents... do you understand? The fans are fans beacuse we like the Resident´s music. We are Residents too!!! all the people is a part of The Residents. You are ridiculous uploading this video.
ratoneador 3 years ago
What's all this about destruction? I think you may be too obsessed with The Residents myth. They enjoy the controversy and are still able to make a living. The MUSIC Is what matters, after all. I suggest you save your vitriol for people like Sarah Palin, who is a real menace to society!
rossarooney 3 years ago 2
No, Im not obsesed.Its just respect. You are nothing for do that...and you dont have right for upload this video. You think that you are now important..but is stupid. A band has a concept and its art... you want to break a part of this concept in The Residents. Its the same that paparazzi work. you are doing the same.
ratoneador 3 years ago
I'd like to know what you see here that is so disturbing. The Rez built their career stealing and imitating commercial music. They are not the holy order you seem to believe in. Debunking myths is a good thing, regardless of who they are. You are a hopelessly rabid fan of a sophomoric 'artistic' cult. Are you a trekkie too? All is fair in love and art.
rossarooney 3 years ago
Did you upload this video as an act of love or of art?
Theohariss 3 years ago
Is that a trick question?
rossarooney 3 years ago
Well, you said all's fair in love and art, implying that what you did was fair. Hence, my question. Or let me make it clearer: since you knew the Rz and their mania with obscurity, did you contact them before posting this video to hear their thoughts on the subject?
Theohariss 3 years ago
are the res cool with this....just hope they were not backstabbed. regardless their music will transc...end?
dubbedcrazy 3 years ago
How dare you attack Rossarooney like that. She's part of their History, she knew them personally, unlike yourself. Here's the juice; If The Residents truly wanted to remain 100% unknown, they'd have hidden themselves better. They seem to want you to look behind the curtain. It's part of the experience. At the same time, they can enjoy some safety from rabid fans who may become the next Mark David Chapman and destroy them far worse than these old films. Give thanks or get fucked.
retroflow44 3 years ago
Here's a cryptic clue...the Rez are behind all of this. Nothing they do is by accident! They calculate their moves very carefully to perpetuate cult worship. Read all the comments left here, it seems very manipulated to enhance their mythology. The movie is full of details pertaining to current themes (all the stuff on the shelves). Is this just coincidental or are they the most clever tricksters ever? And who the hell is this chick 'Roberta' anyway!!!!
suzywoozyfloozy 3 years ago
But they don't nearly go to the same lengths to perpetuate these myths, as do so many fans themselves. Repeating nearly verbatim and as gospel, the same press releases, articles and flat-out lies and rumors. All they need to do is keep buying the music and the DVDs, go to a show or two. The truth will be right in front of them, short of a handwritten confession. And then some.
retroflow44 3 years ago 2
The "person" who wrote that "attack" was Bunny. Settle down, Beavis.
Paulie88 3 years ago
the residents are now less interesting. thank you
treespunk 3 years ago
So you saw there faces when they were much younger and can FINALLY confirm it's not REALLY The Beatles behind the eyeballs, who cares!? Bet you a million bucks you wouldn't recognize them in the streets today and I'm certain no paparazzi will be hunting them down any time soon.
borowczyk76 2 years ago
but this kind of action is very shameful. I see what kind of person you are. are you happy know? you are bigger now... wowowowowow what important.you dont win anything doing this.we are Residents.. Im one of them too... everyone is a Resident. You dont have any idea that what is that. You are really sad.
ratoneador 3 years ago
You're silly, get a life! You've drunk too much of Rez cool-aide.
suzywoozyfloozy 3 years ago
Sharing girlfriends? I wonder - was that the basis for Not Available?
mephigog 3 years ago
Woweee!
Amazing footage!
Are yoo still in touch with The Residents?
nimbusthenoodle 3 years ago
Where did yoo get this footage?
nimbusthenoodle 3 years ago
I inherited much of Bill Reinhardt's old tapes and videos (from our former felationship).
rossarooney 3 years ago
Oh... wow!
kcaterpillar 3 years ago
Fantastic - thank you!
stoneylarsen 3 years ago
These dudes is old as dirt, how do they keep it up? Must have some special mojo or alot of young pussy in love with their big eyeballs!
roqueruiz 3 years ago
Let's not dis the old guys, unless it's about McCain!
rossarooney 3 years ago
The singing Residents is congressman Ron Paul, look at the ears. I do jest when I say that.
ep784 3 years ago 2
Let's get a Resident in office then!
darkx602 3 years ago
Again Residents For Presidents;)
atzenanu 3 years ago
You guys are hopelessly obsessed with fairytales!
roqueruiz 3 years ago
awesome footage! thanks
dawnofthered 3 years ago
Did you even notice that there is no sound editor for The Residents, that's because it was N. Senada, or rather, Hollywood sound man, Bill Reinhardt!
Keep your eye on the internet, some day there may be sounds coming from the Frozen North (Portland)that will blow you away!!!!
ambulatoryador 3 years ago
N Senada was not Bill it was Homer himself!
atzenanu 3 years ago 4
That is possible, The Rez did throw a bone to B. Reinhardt and allowed him to use rejected and or un-used material for his UWEB project, this was payment for his early help in molding and promoting The Rez.
stay tuned, a major project is in the works, can't say much right now!!!!
ambulatoryador 3 years ago
You're right. Homer was always the mastermind jester and 'reality' genius. His many characters always provided a 'slight of hand' for his rabid fans. The only thing bigger than his penis was his ego. 30 years later the Rez cult is still debating his identity. His voice on the 'Bunny' promos should give you a hint. He's an old man but an unflappable joker.
rossarooney 3 years ago
Too bad we only saw his crack instead of his penis then;)
atzenanu 3 years ago 2
its been the same voice for close to 40 yrs now people
looshkin66 3 years ago
To all those who are annoyed by this invasion to The Residents' lives and by all this conjencture about their identities etc. I propose the following: put on your headphones, push play on your favourite song and get really to know The Residents...
elaentaksei 3 years ago 4
the identity of the singing resident (homer flynn)is easily proven. just watch the residents interview, then watch the cry for the fire vid. the skinny clefted chin and every other facial feature are the exact likeness. hell, you can even tell in the wormwood videos.
jonasimage 3 years ago
Real proof will come only if Homer reveals his identity publicly! As rep for the 'Cryptic Corp' he could appear in anything as a 'performer'. This is not proof that he is the actual creator of the material.
flickwilly 3 years ago
As I have said before - He could come right out and admit who he is, etc. But I suspect that even if he did, some fans wouldn't believe it. They'd still insist that it was just another attempt to hide the identities of the "real" Residents (which for the most part have not been hidden much at all). I'm afraid that they are somewhat trapped by their own mythology/marketing. Which may not be an entirely bad thing for future generations of Fans.
retroflow44 3 years ago
You are right. It's very interesting that this forum of 'who's who' will never convince the hard-core fans. I will post more revealing material later as this discussion evolves. I want to help the rabid cult followers to 'get a life' and that there really is a guy behind the curtain and it has always been Homer, god bless him! More Cool Aid anyone?
rossarooney 3 years ago
here´s some cool aid from everyone Mrs Rooney:
there´s nothing wrong with people wanting to know the truth,& there´s nothing wrong with people not wanting to know the truth.
I personally enjoy the mistery about the residents, I find it very interesting, but that doesn´t affect the way I listen to their music, not by any means.
Please respect each other´s views
after all, is the art what matters, and the Residents the best (with the beatles)
robertronics 3 years ago
Thank god there's a least one other fan who shares my opinion! Funny he wears the skull as it was worn for years by Hardy...
atzenanu 3 years ago
Their identities have been known for two decades, but this line up split in the mid-80s, and since then it's mainly been Homer Flynn doing his own thing. It's good to see this footage of the Residents when they were still great. Tunes of Two Cities was their swansong.
RogerHoare 3 years ago
Your are dead on correct with your comment! Homer was the resident genius. Yes, this footage was from a time when they were happy and inspired and much less 'commercial'.
voblum 3 years ago
Sorry, but I honestly believe reinhardt was the "mastermind" behind the residents. Though, technically not a residents himself, he created them, and is the genius behind it.
crypticorp 3 years ago
Let me clear this up! Bill Reinhardt was very close to the Rez in the early years when he promoted them on KBOO. He was generous and charismatic. They admired him and they shared an intimate, creative collaboration. They were an inspiration to each other and Bill helped them with audio tech, but he was not the 'mastermind' ! It was a very serendipitous relationship.
rossarooney 3 years ago
Well I certainly don't think the Rez would have gotten anywhere if it weren't for Bill and Barry!!! Well, mainly Bill. I'm so grateful for CPP, Radio Lab, and Onamatopeia. Thank you as well for making this available. I must admit, the moment I saw it, I was filled with rage and hatred though.
crypticorp 3 years ago
This is great! I hope there is more of this myth-busting stuff languishing in the vaults.
ducksigeesie 3 years ago
Through you off course? I am threw with you all! Goobdye!
rsmko 3 years ago
why are u off then? whats up duderino?
sheriffsixtyfour 3 years ago
ambulatoryador 3 years ago