JRE #1356 – Sturgill Simpson & His Band

This podcast features Sturgill Simpson, a Grammy Award-winning country music and roots rock singer-songwriter, along with his band members. They discuss various topics related to music, life experiences, and societal issues, with a focus on Sturgill’s new album “Sound & Fury” and the anime visual album released on Netflix.

• Sturgill Simpson’s Musical Evolution:
  • Simpson’s musical style has evolved significantly from his first album to his current work, demonstrating his experimentation and exploration of diverse genres.
  • He emphasizes the importance of finding creative freedom and pushing boundaries, rejecting the limitations of traditional country music.
  • Simpson’s current album “Sound & Fury” showcases his embrace of psychedelic and experimental sounds, reflecting his personal growth and musical influences.
  • He values the collaborative process and emphasizes the importance of musicians contributing their unique talents to the creative process.
• The “Sound & Fury” Anime Visual Album:
  • Simpson collaborated with Japanese animators to create a visual album for “Sound & Fury,” drawing inspiration from classic samurai films.
  • He sought to incorporate visual elements and textures that reflected the sonic landscape of his music, creating a unique and immersive experience.
  • The visual album follows a futuristic dystopian storyline inspired by themes of violence, addiction, and rebellion.
  • Simpson’s decision to produce an anime visual album represents his willingness to push boundaries and experiment with unconventional approaches to music and storytelling.
• The Importance of Live Performance:
  • Simpson and his band discuss the challenges and rewards of touring, emphasizing the importance of staying inspired and connected with their audience.
  • They share stories of early struggles and the transformative power of live performance, particularly in intimate venues.
  • The band members highlight the dynamic nature of live music, where improvisation and spontaneous creativity shape each performance.
  • They express a shared passion for music and a dedication to pushing their creative limits, even if it means alienating some fans.
• The Role of Record Companies:
  • Simpson discusses his experience with record companies and the challenges of maintaining creative control.
  • He emphasizes the importance of securing contractual protections to prevent artistic interference and ensure autonomy.
  • Simpson criticizes the emphasis on financial gain over artistic excellence in the modern music industry.
  • He highlights the importance of prioritizing creative freedom and artistic integrity, even if it means taking risks and defying conventional expectations.
• The Impact of War on Mental Health:
  • Justin Laseck, a Green Beret Medic who has served in Afghanistan, shares his harrowing experiences, including a near-fatal explosion.
  • He discusses the physical and mental consequences of war, emphasizing the importance of support and resources for veterans and their families.
  • Laseck highlights the emotional toll of witnessing loss and the challenges of transitioning back to civilian life after combat.
  • He emphasizes the importance of seeking help and finding support through organizations like the Special Forces Foundation.
• The Power of Belief Systems:
  • Simpson and Laseck engage in a conversation about belief systems, exploring the nature of faith, spirituality, and the role of personal experiences in shaping our views.
  • They discuss the allure and dangers of rigid belief systems, including Scientology and numerology.
  • Simpson acknowledges the human tendency to seek patterns and meaning in the world, but cautions against blindly accepting claims without critical analysis.
  • They explore the complexities of human perception and the potential for both positive and negative effects of belief systems.
• The Nature of Human Nature:
  • Simpson and Laseck delve into the inherent complexities of human nature, discussing the capacity for both violence and compassion, as well as the inevitability of conflict.
  • They explore the role of societal structures and personal experiences in shaping our behavior and choices, highlighting the importance of individual responsibility and the pursuit of self-improvement.
  • They acknowledge the challenges of navigating a world where violence and suffering exist alongside love and empathy.
  • The conversation emphasizes the need for critical thinking, self-reflection, and a commitment to building a more just and compassionate society.
• The Power of Music and Art:
  • The podcast highlights the transformative power of music and art, illustrating how it can inspire, connect, and heal.
  • Simpson and his band discuss the importance of pursuing creative expression and the role of music in shaping our emotions and perspectives.
  • They emphasize the importance of finding purpose and meaning in our lives, even in the face of adversity.
  • The podcast underscores the universal language of music and its ability to transcend boundaries and connect people across cultures and experiences.
• The Importance of Personal Connection:
  • The podcast emphasizes the importance of personal connection and the power of relationships to inspire and support us.
  • Simpson and his band share stories of their friendships and the role these relationships have played in their creative journeys.
  • They discuss the value of finding people who challenge, inspire, and support us in our endeavors.
  • The podcast underscores the importance of building meaningful relationships and creating a sense of community.
• The Importance of Finding Purpose:
  • Simpson’s journey from a career in railroad management to becoming a successful musician exemplifies the importance of pursuing our passions.
  • The podcast highlights the strength and resilience required to make significant life changes and the importance of finding meaning and fulfillment in our work.
  • The conversation encourages listeners to consider their own ambitions and to actively seek opportunities for growth and personal fulfillment.
  • It underscores the importance of embracing challenges and pursuing our dreams, regardless of age or background.
• The Complexities of Societal Issues:
  • Simpson and Laseck discuss various societal issues, including the drug trade, poverty, and the criminal justice system.
  • They acknowledge the complexities of these issues and the need for systemic change to address social inequities and create a more just and equitable society.
  • They challenge listeners to consider the root causes of these issues and to advocate for solutions that promote social justice and opportunity for all.
  • The conversation encourages listeners to engage in critical thinking and to advocate for positive change in their communities.
• The Power of Humor in Adversity:
  • Simpson and his band demonstrate a resilience and humor in the face of adversity, sharing humorous anecdotes and reflections on their experiences.
  • The podcast highlights the importance of finding laughter and joy even in challenging circumstances.
  • They emphasize the role of humor in connecting with others and navigating difficult situations.
  • The podcast encourages listeners to find humor in their own lives and to use it as a coping mechanism and a way to connect with others.

5 Memorable Quotes:

• “Whenever a country music song comes out with DMT in it, you got my attention.” – Sturgill Simpson, highlighting his openness to exploring new musical territory and challenging conventions.
• “You can’t just sit on YouTube and watch yourself all the time. You have to go out and do the work.” – Sturgill Simpson, emphasizing the importance of hard work and dedication in achieving success.
• “There’s no substitute for that seasoning of the unsuccessful or barely successful early years.” – Sturgill Simpson, reflecting on the transformative power of overcoming early struggles.
• “Don’t let this experience of war make you a more hateful human being. Let it allow yourself to go through post traumatic growth and become a better human being.” – Justin Laseck, sharing a powerful message about healing and resilience after trauma.
• “We have the most resources. We have this spectacular country filled with amazing people. And some of them just don’t get a chance because they’re stuck in a rut from the moment they come out of their mother’s body.” – Sturgill Simpson, highlighting the need for social change and opportunity for all.