Daniel Johnston was an American singer-songwriter and visual artist whose raw, heartfelt songs captured themes of love, hope, and mental struggle with striking honesty. Emerging from the 1980s underground cassette culture, his lo-fi recordings and childlike yet profound lyricism earned admiration from artists like Kurt Cobain, who championed his work. Johnston’s vulnerable voice and simple melodies became hallmarks of his deeply human style, influencing generations of indie and alternative musicians. His legacy endures as a testament to authenticity and emotional truth in music.