Leaving On A Jet Plane

About the Single

“Leaving On A Jet Plane” was released as part of the Sub Pop Singles Club V.2 series in September 2001. This limited edition single features a cover of John Denver’s classic song on the A-side and an original composition “Too Hard” on the B-side.

A-Side: “Leaving On A Jet Plane”

The A-side features J Mascis’s interpretation of John Denver’s “Leaving On A Jet Plane,” originally released in 1969. Mascis brings his distinctive vocal style and guitar work to this folk-rock classic, transforming it into an alternative rock rendition that fits his musical aesthetic.

B-Side: “Too Hard”

The B-side “Too Hard” is an original composition by Mascis, showcasing his songwriting abilities in a more intimate setting. The track demonstrates his ability to craft melodic, emotionally resonant songs that work both in acoustic and electric contexts.

Release Details

This single was released as part of the Sub Pop Singles Club V.2 series, specifically as #42 in the collection. The limited edition of 1300 copies was pressed on yellow vinyl and cut at Golden Mastering. The artwork features a painting by Neil Blender, who has contributed artwork to several Dinosaur Jr and J Mascis releases.

Musical Context

Released in 2001, this single came during a period when Mascis was exploring more acoustic and melodic directions in his solo work, following the dissolution of Dinosaur Jr in 1997. The choice to cover “Leaving On A Jet Plane” reflects Mascis’s appreciation for classic songwriting and his ability to reinterpret familiar material through his own musical lens.

Legacy

This single represents an interesting moment in Mascis’s career, bridging his work with Dinosaur Jr and his later solo acoustic albums. The combination of a well-known cover song with an original composition demonstrates his range as both an interpreter and a songwriter.