A Nostalgic Look: MGMT Perform “Kids” and Cover Talking Heads at Wesleyan University in 2003

A Nostalgic Look: MGMT Perform “Kids” and Cover Talking Heads at Wesleyan University in 2003

In the early 2000s, a small but vibrant performance at Wesleyan University served as a pivotal moment in the rise of MGMT, the indie-electronic duo that would later captivate audiences worldwide. In 2003, Andrew VanWyngarden and Ben Goldwasser, then college students, took the stage at their alma mater, delivering an unforgettable set that included an early rendition of their future hit “Kids” and a bold cover of Talking Heads’ iconic track “This Must Be the Place (Naive Melody).”

This performance has become a treasured moment for fans who followed the band’s evolution from experimental college musicians to Grammy-nominated artists. At the time, MGMT was still a fledgling project, unrefined but bursting with potential. Their performance at Wesleyan encapsulated the raw energy and creative spirit that would define their music in years to come.

The Early Days at Wesleyan

VanWyngarden and Goldwasser met as undergraduates at Wesleyan, bonding over a shared love of eclectic sounds and unconventional artistry. Their early work leaned heavily into experimentation, blending psychedelic rock, electronica, and pop. The duo’s approach was playful yet insightful, a hallmark of the music they would later release to global acclaim.

The 2003 performance showcased these roots. “Kids,” still a work in progress, was a standout moment. The song’s infectious melody and thought-provoking lyrics hinted at its eventual status as one of MGMT’s most enduring hits. Though rough around the edges, the performance captured the spirit of youthful exploration that would resonate with listeners worldwide when “Kids” was officially released on their debut album Oracular Spectacular in 2007.

Paying Tribute to Influences

Another highlight of the evening was MGMT’s rendition of Talking Heads’ “This Must Be the Place (Naive Melody).” Covering such an iconic song was no small feat, but the duo’s interpretation managed to pay homage while infusing it with their distinctive style. Talking Heads, a band known for blending art rock with avant-garde elements, was a clear influence on MGMT. The cover was a nod to their musical heroes and a testament to their ambition to push boundaries.

Audience members recall the cover as both daring and endearing. It reflected MGMT’s deep appreciation for the genre-defying artists who paved the way for their own experiments in sound and storytelling.

A Glimpse of Greatness

For those who witnessed the 2003 performance, it was clear that MGMT had something special. While their sound was still evolving, their charisma and talent were undeniable. The night at Wesleyan was more than just a college gig—it was a glimpse of greatness in the making.

In the years that followed, MGMT would release critically acclaimed albums, including Oracular Spectacular, Congratulations, and Little Dark Age. Tracks like “Electric Feel,” “Time to Pretend,” and “Kids” would cement their place in the indie music scene and beyond. But even as their fame grew, the duo often reflected on their college days and the creative freedom they found at Wesleyan.

Legacy of the Performance

Looking back, the 2003 performance at Wesleyan holds a special place in MGMT’s history. It was a moment of unfiltered creativity, a time when VanWyngarden and Goldwasser were simply two students sharing their passion for music with friends and classmates.

For fans, it’s a reminder of the duo’s humble beginnings and the authenticity that continues to define their work. The early rendition of “Kids” and the Talking Heads cover symbolize the essence of MGMT—innovative, nostalgic, and unapologetically unique.

As MGMT’s journey continues, this performance remains a testament to the transformative power of music and the enduring impact of artists who dare to be different.