MJ Lenderman Delivers Jason Molina Cover for ‘I Will Swim to You’ Tribute Album

## Jason Molina Tribute Album Announcement

A heartfelt tribute to **Jason Molina** is on the horizon. On Thursday, Run for Cover Records unveiled _I Will Swim to You: A Tribute to Jason Molina_, a collection dedicated to the beloved frontman of alternative bands Songs: Ohia and Magnolia Electric Co. To kick things off, the label shared a cover of “Just Be Simple” by MJ Lenderman alongside “Leave the City” by Sun June.

### Album Release Date and Features

Set to release on September 5, this covers album will highlight both well-loved pieces and lesser-known gems from Molina’s rich discography. Among the anticipated tracks are “The Old Black Hen” performed by Sadurn, “Whip Poor Will” by Teen Suicide, “Hard To Love A Man” by Friendship, and “Blue Factory Flame” by Horse Jumper of Love.

### Vinyl Variants and Donations

Music enthusiasts can not only stream the album digitally but also pre-order one of five unique vinyl variants. Notably, 10% of the proceeds will be donated to MusiCares, the organization that supported Molina during his battles with addiction. Additionally, fans will have the chance to obtain a split 7″ vinyl that features a previously unreleased demo of Molina performing “The Last 3 Human Words” alongside MJ Lenderman’s cover of “Just Be Simple” on the other side.

### Molina’s Legacy

Jason Molina passed away at the age of 39 due to organ failure linked to alcohol consumption in 2013. A prolific and influential songwriter, Molina faced significant challenges with alcoholism for over a decade. This struggle became public in 2011 when a plea for donations was posted on the Magnolia Electric Company’s website to assist him with mounting medical bills.

Molina’s musical journey began in 1996 with the inception of Songs: Ohia, a project known for its rotating lineup of collaborators. Their final album, 2003’s _Magnolia Electric Co._, produced by acclaimed engineer Steve Albini, gave rise to the new band that carried Molina’s vision forward. Magnolia Electric Company subsequently released three studio albums through Secretly Canadian between 2005 and 2009.

### Track List for _I Will Swim to You: A Tribute to Jason Molina_

1. “Just Be Simple” by MJ Lenderman
2. “Blue Factory Flame” by Horse Jumper of Love
3. “The Dark Don’t Hide It” by Trace Mountains
4. “Leave The City” by Sun June
5. “When Your Love Has Gone” by Runnner
6. “The Old Black Hen” by Sadurn
7. “Everything Should Try Again” by Advance Base
8. “Lioness” by Hand Habits
9. “Whip Poor Will” by Teen Suicide
10. “Hard To Love A Man” by Friendship
11. “Shadow Answers The Wall” by Lutalo
12. “The Farewell Transmission” by Another Michael

How are you planning to celebrate Jason Molina’s remarkable musical contributions?