JRE #243 – Honey Honey

This podcast features a conversation between Joe Rogan and the musical duo Honey Honey. The episode explores a wide range of topics, from their experience touring with Cheryl Crow to the complexities of the music industry and the challenges of being an artist in the digital age. There’s also a candid discussion about their Kickstarter campaign, a touch of their eccentric humor, and a glimpse into Joe’s own musings on life, the universe, and everything.

Major Topics:

1. Honey Honey’s Rise to Fame:
   • The duo shares their journey from selling barbecue at Coachella to touring with Cheryl Crow.
   • They discuss the surreal experience of being backstage at Coachella and encountering famous musicians like Radiohead and Dr. Dre.
   • They highlight the importance of mentorship and the humbling experience of touring with a musical icon like Cheryl Crow.
   • They talk about the impact Cheryl Crow has had on their career, both on and off stage.
2. The Music Industry in the Digital Age:
   • The duo discusses the challenges of the modern music industry, where record sales have plummeted due to the rise of digital streaming services like Spotify.
   • They emphasize the importance of touring as a primary source of income for artists and the need to find creative ways to generate revenue.
   • They share their perspective on the changing landscape of music distribution, from physical CDs to digital platforms.
   • They discuss the role of Kickstarter campaigns as a way for artists to directly connect with fans and secure funding for touring and production.
3. Honey Honey’s Kickstarter Campaign:
   • The duo details their Kickstarter campaign, which aims to raise $17,000 to fund their upcoming tour.
   • They present a humorous and engaging Kickstarter video featuring a donkey, a rooster, and some unique rewards for donors.
   • They highlight the importance of fan support and the community they’ve built through their music.
   • They discuss the challenges of balancing their creative passions with the financial realities of being a band.
4. Life on the Road:
   • The duo shares the highs and lows of being a touring band, including the challenges of sleep deprivation, unhealthy eating habits, and the emotional toll of constant travel.
   • They discuss the importance of resilience and the bonds they’ve formed as bandmates.
   • They talk about the unique challenges of being a male-female duo in the music industry.
   • They emphasize the importance of staying grounded and maintaining a sense of self amidst the whirlwind of touring and the pressures of the music industry.
5. The Power of Live Performance:
   • The duo discusses the unique energy exchange that happens during live performances, highlighting the powerful connection between artists and their audiences.
   • They share their experiences with standing ovations and the emotional impact of seeing their music resonate with large crowds.
   • They talk about the importance of separating their personal selves from their stage personas to maintain a healthy balance.
   • They discuss the importance of staying grounded and avoiding the pitfalls of fame, using Cheryl Crow as an example of a successful and grounded artist.
6. The Legalization of Marijuana:
   • Joe Rogan expresses his frustration with the recent ban of marijuana dispensaries in Los Angeles.
   • He argues that the ban is illogical and harmful, highlighting the hypocrisy of legal alcohol and prescription drugs while prohibiting marijuana.
   • He discusses the potential impact on legal dispensaries and the rise of delivery services like LA Speedway.
   • He emphasizes the importance of a rational approach to marijuana legalization, arguing that prohibition is ineffective and counterproductive.
7. The Power of Authenticity:
   • The duo emphasizes the importance of being true to oneself and avoiding the pressure to conform to industry expectations.
   • They discuss the power of vulnerability and honesty in art, using Amy Winehouse as an example of an artist who expressed her authentic emotions.
   • They highlight the importance of having a strong support system and maintaining healthy personal relationships amidst the demands of the music industry.
   • They advocate for a more accepting and less judgmental approach to art and personal expression.
8. Joe Rogan’s Musings:
   • Joe Rogan shares his thoughts on the history of the American West, particularly the town of Deadwood, and the complex relationship between settlers and Native American tribes.
   • He discusses the lingering effects of historical injustice and the importance of acknowledging the past.
   • He expresses his fascination with the paranormal and the idea that objects and places can hold memories.
   • He talks about the importance of embracing discomfort and the power of creativity in overcoming challenges.
9. The Importance of Being Silly:
   • Joe Rogan and Honey Honey emphasize the importance of embracing silliness and humor, arguing that it’s a vital part of creativity and personal expression.
   • They discuss the dangers of taking oneself too seriously and the importance of finding joy in the unexpected.
   • They encourage listeners to embrace their inner child and find laughter in the everyday.
   • They share their own experiences with being silly and the positive impact it’s had on their lives and careers.
10. Crazy Encounters:
    • Joe Rogan shares a story about a bizarre encounter with a woman who urinated in a hotel lobby.
    • He discusses the importance of embracing the unexpected and the humorous side of life on the road.
    • He shares a story about a fan who offered to host a concert at his house, but then sent a bizarre email about Honey Honey’s appearance.
    • He emphasizes the importance of maintaining a healthy skepticism and being cautious when dealing with strangers, particularly those who may be overly enthusiastic or seem strange.
11. The Importance of Support Systems:
    • Joe Rogan and Honey Honey discuss the importance of strong support systems, particularly for artists who are navigating the challenges of the music industry.
    • They emphasize the importance of having friends and family who understand their passions and offer support during difficult times.
    • They highlight the importance of healthy personal relationships and the role they play in maintaining a sense of balance.
    • They acknowledge the power of community and the importance of connecting with others who share their interests.
12. The Role of Talent and Determination:
    • Joe Rogan expresses his admiration for Honey Honey’s talent and determination, emphasizing the importance of pursuing one’s passions with dedication.
    • He discusses the unique challenges of being a musician in the digital age and the importance of staying true to one’s craft.
    • He encourages listeners to support artists they admire and to acknowledge the hard work and dedication that goes into creating art.
    • He highlights the importance of embracing failure and learning from mistakes on the journey to achieving success.
13. The Power of Music:
    • Joe Rogan discusses the transformative power of music, highlighting its ability to evoke emotions and connect people in a profound way.
    • He shares his own experiences with music, emphasizing its importance in his life and how it has shaped his worldview.
    • He discusses the beauty of musical expression and the unique way in which it can communicate ideas and emotions beyond words.
    • He encourages listeners to embrace the power of music to connect with themselves and with others.

Memorable Quotes:

• “It’s like that’s the place where I am the happiest. You know what I mean? Like, to be right now as far as obvious is when you’re creative.”
• “It’s a weird thing performing. You know? I’ve always just try to describe it like to be step outside of civilization and look at what’s really going on.”
• “It’s like, you’re you’re giving them these things that you thought of, this creativity that you’ve worked on and honed, and you’re showing them this, and it’s entertaining and they feel good.”
• “You can’t be creative. I know people in that position have it’s it’s not out of maliciousness. It’s out of lack of awareness. You know? I mean, you just lose and touch.”
• “It’s it’s a it’s a weird thing playing for a large volume of people. What’s the most you guys have played for? 10000 people.”