Sturgill Simpson & His Band

Date: 2019-09-30 | Duration: 2h 41m

Episode Overview

Sturgill Simpson and his band join Joe Rogan for a wide-ranging conversation that delves into their creative process, musical evolution, and the realities of life on the road. They discuss the challenges and rewards of making music that defies easy categorization, highlighting how each album reflects a distinct phase in their artistic journey. Sturgill emphasizes the importance of spontaneity and collaboration in the studio, describing sessions where the band would improvise and build songs organically, capturing raw energy that resonates with their fans. The group also reflects on the intimacy of live shows and the unique connection they strive to create with audiences, contrasting it with the often isolating experience of large amphitheaters. Beyond music, the episode touches on the grind of building a career in the industry, with Sturgill sharing insights about maintaining artistic control amid commercial pressures. They explore the balance between staying true to one’s vision and evolving creatively, noting how inspiration can shift dramatically over time. The conversation also weaves in stories from touring life, including late-night stops and the camaraderie that develops among bandmates. Throughout, Sturgill’s candid reflections offer a window into the mindset of a musician committed to pushing boundaries while honoring the roots of his craft.

About His Band

His Band, led by Grammy Award-winning singer-songwriter Sturgill Simpson, is a dynamic collective known for blending country music with roots rock influences. Alongside talented musicians Miles Miller, Chuck Bartels, and Bobby Emmett, they create a distinctive sound that pushes genre boundaries. Their latest project, "Sound & Fury," showcases not only their musical prowess but also features a groundbreaking anime visual album streaming on Netflix. Additionally, the band is joined by Green Beret Medic Justin Laseck, adding a unique perspective to their creative process. Known for their innovative approach and thought-provoking themes, His Band captivates audiences, making them a standout act in the contemporary music scene.

About Sturgill Simpson

Sturgill Simpson is an acclaimed American country music singer-songwriter known for his innovative approach to the genre. He gained widespread recognition with his breakthrough albums, "High Top Mountain" and "Metamodern Sounds in Country Music," which have been praised for their authentic storytelling and genre-blurring sound. Simpson's unique blend of traditional country with psychedelic and rock influences sets him apart in the music industry, earning him Grammy nominations and a devoted fan base. His candid discussions on topics like mental health, authenticity in art, and the music business have made him a compelling figure beyond just music, captivating audiences on platforms like the Joe Rogan Experience.

Key Moments

– Music Production
– Live Performance
– Touring Life
– Military Service
– Pain Management
– Drug Rehabilitation
– Comedy Industry
– Music Collaboration
– Album Creation
– Martial Arts History
– Film and Animation
– Astrology and Numerology
– War and Politics
– Train Operations
– Mental Health
– Documentaries
– Sex Change Surgeries
– Music Influences
– Internet and Media
– Concert Venues
0:00:00 – Opening remarks and setting the scene
0:02:04 – Discussion on amphitheater concert experiences
0:03:07 – Surreal encounter with Everlast
0:06:45 – Talking about Eric from House of Pain and Eminem
0:09:36 – Comparing music promotion then and now
0:11:34 – The grind of starting as a musician or comic
0:12:54 – Uniqueness of albums and creative process
0:14:09 – Making danceable music and fan isolation
0:17:46 – Influence of record companies on new bands
0:20:36 – Experiences running a rail yard
0:22:25 – Skepticism about horoscopes and numerology
0:26:00 – Perceptiveness and psychic experiences
0:28:20 – Developing senses to perceive people
0:31:06 – Military experiences and saving teammates
0:33:53 – Value of veteran support foundations
0:36:36 – Ketamine treatment and war injuries
0:41:17 – Methadone versus heroin in addiction treatment
0:45:07 – Handling public attention and personal help
0:47:27 – Accepting war as an inevitable reality
0:50:12 – Concerns about Russia and geopolitical fears
0:53:13 – Observing a suspicious person leaving
0:56:50 – Rapid engagement and escape during an incident
0:58:16 – Facing multiple aggravated burglary charges
1:00:50 – Helping kids avoid becoming losers
1:03:39 – Recruiting a bass player for the band
1:06:30 – Musicianship and broad musical influences
1:10:41 – Story about a fight involving cowboy hats
1:14:30 – Discussion of exposed wiring and venue conditions
1:17:54 – Guarding heroin and drug trade insights
1:21:40 – Fashion and drug culture references
1:24:04 – Dangers of falling between train cars
1:27:57 – Train system design and derailment risks
1:31:04 – Tour life and airport interactions
1:34:13 – Martial arts cultural contributions
1:37:24 – Passionate reactions to music
1:40:39 – Samurai films and storytelling influences
1:44:10 – Anime and AI monster discussion
1:48:19 – Music writing and improvisation process
1:52:24 – Band chemistry and recording sessions
2:06:30 – Psychedelic film 'Head' and its impact
2:11:20 – Comedy and physical pain anecdotes
2:14:29 – Back injury and recovery story
2:18:15 – Robots and body slam anticipation
2:20:26 – Movie recommendations and influences
2:24:44 – Nature documentary about mushrooms and animals
2:28:45 – Unlicensed sex change surgeries discussion
2:34:06 – Mention of cult film 'The Room'
2:37:04 – Closing remarks and foundation promotion

Transcript Excerpt

Starting point is 00:00:00 We willed it into existence. Starting point is 00:00:14 We have Chuck. Starting point is 00:00:26 we weren't sure about this place Starting point is 00:00:37 because it's so intimate man. Starting point is 00:00:50 Yeah, it was interesting for us. Starting point is 00:01:06 She came with me too Starting point is 00:01:13 It was amazing Starting point is 00:01:22 Like everybody was like Starting point is 00:01:48 There's no connection because everybody that is close to you is sitting down, Starting point is 00:02:04 I thought you were trying something new out. yeah the amphitheaters are weird i mean uh Starting point is 00:02:48 He had a bunch of sneakers there. Starting point is 00:03:07 Then we're sitting there hanging out, and then fucking Everlast shows up. Starting point is 00:03:35 with like my generation so to be hanging out with him was super surreal i'm sure he's had a very Starting point is 00:03:58 That was a pretty, that album, I think I was in like seventh grade, sixth grade. Starting point is 00:04:22 It's what it is, y'all. Starting point is 00:04:35 Especially if someone says it with his voice. Starting point is 00:04:53 You know? Starting point is 00:05:14 Like rapping? Starting point is 00:05:21 Yeah. Starting point is 00:05:29 But you could do it. Starting point is 00:05:41 Yeah. Starting point is 00:06:14 to like talk like they were black i never could understand what was going on it's a weird one Starting point is 00:06:45 There's like, you know, Eric from Everlast from House of Pain. Starting point is 00:06:59 Eminem, of course. Starting point is 00:07:08 but like white guys Starting point is 00:07:15 is stupendous Starting point is 00:07:22 yes Starting point is 00:07:30 Sorry. Starting point is 00:07:38 What the fuck? Starting point is 00:07:47 That's Canada. Starting point is 00:07:56 Good call. Starting point is 00:08:06 toronto oh yeah born in toronto yeah born in toronto 49 wow there you go yeah he went jamaican ...

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Frequently asked about this episode

Who was the guest on Joe Rogan Experience #1356?

Sturgill Simpson & His Band was the guest on JRE #1356. This page includes the episode overview, topics discussed, and related resources.

What topics were discussed on JRE #1356?

On Joe Rogan Experience #1356 with Sturgill Simpson & His Band, topics include Music Production, Live Performance, Touring Life, and Military Service.

Where can I read the transcript for JRE #1356?

The full searchable transcript for Joe Rogan Experience #1356 with Sturgill Simpson & His Band is available on this page, along with key topics and timestamps.