Daniel Johnston’s legacy continues to live on through a lovingly crafted second pressing of Love Lives Forever (BBC Sessions 2003–11) — a double album that captures the raw, heartfelt brilliance of one of America’s most singular songwriters. The collection gathers five intimate BBC sessions recorded between 2003 and 2011, offering a rare and radiant glimpse into Johnston’s later creative years.
The project, inspired by BBC Radio 6 Music’s Marc Riley, features two sessions for Rob Da Bank and three with Riley himself — both serving as executive producers on the release. Long sought after by fans, these performances have now been fully licensed, restored, and mastered from the BBC archives with the blessing of Johnston’s family, management, and charity.
Mastering was handled by Frank Arkwright at London’s legendary Abbey Road Studios — a fitting tribute for an artist whose love for The Beatles shaped his sound and spirit. “The overwhelming consensus from those who knew him,” the release notes, “was that he would be so proud and excited to have his music mastered above the legendary Studio 2.”
Available as a limited double vinyl edition (numbered to 500 copies), CD, and high-resolution digital download, Love Lives Forever features Johnston’s own artwork and includes an eight-page booklet with photographs taken at his Waller, Texas home. Each edition serves as both a collector’s treasure and a celebration of the enduring innocence, honesty, and creativity that defined Johnston’s career.
Importantly, proceeds from this release will support the Hi, How Are You Project, the Austin-based nonprofit founded in Daniel’s honor to promote mental health awareness and open conversations about well-being. Rather than revisiting his struggles, this project celebrates his music — pure, unguarded, and unforgettable — reminding listeners that Daniel Johnston’s love truly lives forever.