JRE #757 – Gary Clark, Jr.

by

2/8/2016




This podcast features a conversation between Joe Rogan and Gary Clark, Jr., a Grammy-winning musician and guitarist. Topics range from the music industry to personal life, including Clark’s recent move from Austin to Los Angeles. There are discussions on the nuances of creativity, the appeal of psychedelics, the challenges of fame, and even a glimpse into the world of hunting. The podcast also delves into the complex relationship between humans and nature, exploring the dangers and beauty of the wild.

1. Gary Clark, Jr.’s Move from Austin to LA:

  • Clark’s move to LA stemmed from a desire to experience life on the West Coast and explore new opportunities.
  • He acknowledged LA’s complexity, ego, and traffic, contrasting it with the more laid-back vibe of Austin.
  • While he enjoys LA, Clark misses aspects of Austin, which he considers one of the best places in the world.
  • The move wasn’t driven by a specific reason but rather a desire for a change of scenery and a new chapter.

2. The Dangers of Mountain Lions in California:

  • Joe Rogan shares his concerns about mountain lion sightings in California and discusses their lack of natural predators.
  • He explains that mountain lions help control the deer population, which in turn helps prevent Lyme disease.
  • Despite the benefits, Rogan admits to being apprehensive about mountain lions and their potential threat to humans, pets, and other wildlife.
  • They discuss a recent mountain lion sighting in Santa Monica, highlighting the unpredictable presence of these wild animals even in urban areas.

3. Gary Clark, Jr.’s Musical Journey:

  • Clark began playing guitar in 1996, finding it a versatile instrument capable of expressing a wide range of emotions and sounds.
  • He didn’t take formal lessons but learned through friends, borrowed books, and watching Austin City Limits.
  • Music became Clark’s passion, his escape, and his way to express his creativity.
  • He attributes his long-lasting passion for music to finding his true calling, something that resonates deeply within him.

4. The Power of Music:

  • Clark’s journey reflects how finding a true passion can lead to a fulfilling life.
  • Music, for him, provided an outlet for self-expression and a sense of belonging.
  • The conversation highlights how music can transcend boundaries and connect individuals, forging a shared experience.
  • It underscores the significance of finding something that truly ignites your spirit and inspires you to explore your potential.

5. The Impact of a Strict Upbringing:

  • Clark shares his experiences growing up in a strict Baptist family, where music was discouraged and his desire to explore was suppressed.
  • He emphasizes how this strict upbringing fueled his rebellion, leading him to experiment with psychedelics and pursue a path of his own choosing.
  • The conversation suggests a common theme of rebellious youth in response to restrictive environments, seeking liberation and self-discovery.
  • Clark highlights the importance of allowing children to explore their own interests and encouraging independent thought.

6. The Benefits of Psychedelics:

  • Clark openly discusses his experiences with psychedelic mushrooms, emphasizing their positive impact on his personal growth.
  • He highlights the growing acceptance of psychedelics for therapeutic purposes, particularly in treating conditions like PTSD.
  • The conversation touches on the potential for legalizing psychedelics, citing their economic benefits and potential for improving mental health.
  • It encourages open discussions about psychedelics, moving beyond stigma and exploring their potential for personal and societal betterment.

7. The Comparison to Jimi Hendrix:

  • Clark’s musical style, particularly his use of fuzzy guitars and heavy riffs, often draws comparisons to Jimi Hendrix.
  • He recognizes the similarities, acknowledging Hendrix’s influence on his own musical journey.
  • While he embraces the comparison, Clark emphasizes his own unique sound and his desire to forge his own path in the music world.
  • The conversation explores the concept of legacy and how artists, even when inspired by others, strive to carve their own niche within the creative landscape.

8. The World of Hunting:

  • Clark’s exploration of hunting stems from a desire to understand the complex relationship between humans and the natural world.
  • He challenges the conventional view of hunting as cruel, arguing that it is a necessary part of nature’s balance and a sustainable way to gather food.
  • Clark highlights the ethical considerations of hunting, contrasting it with the cruelty of factory farming and the disconnect from our food sources.
  • He emphasizes the importance of respecting nature and understanding the role hunting plays in maintaining a healthy ecosystem.

9. The Impact of Fatherhood:

  • Clark reveals how fatherhood has changed his perspective on time, making him more focused and intentional about his creative endeavors.
  • He highlights the importance of finding balance between work and family life, acknowledging the challenges of being a musician on the road with young children.
  • The conversation underscores the profound impact of parenthood, forcing individuals to prioritize and re-evaluate their goals.
  • It highlights the shared experience of many parents, who find new meaning and purpose in their children’s lives.

10. The Future of Technology and Artificial Reality:

  • Rogan and Clark discuss the rapid advancement of technology, particularly the development of Google Glass and the potential for artificial reality.
  • They explore the implications of a future where artificial experiences are indistinguishable from reality, bringing up the concept of the Matrix and computer simulation theory.
  • The conversation touches on the philosophical questions surrounding the nature of reality and the blurring lines between what is real and what is simulated.
  • It encourages reflection on our relationship with technology and its potential to shape our perception of the world.

11. The Nuances of Martial Arts:

  • Clark and Rogan discuss the appeal of martial arts, particularly jujitsu, as a form of self-expression and a way to challenge oneself.
  • They emphasize the importance of finding a style that suits your body type and personal preferences, recognizing the diversity within martial arts disciplines.
  • The conversation challenges the perception of martial arts as solely about fighting, highlighting its artistic and spiritual aspects.
  • It emphasizes the transformative power of martial arts, developing focus, discipline, and a deeper understanding of oneself.

12. The Importance of Community and Inspiration:

  • Clark discusses the importance of surrounding oneself with inspiring artists, sharing experiences, and pushing each other to grow.
  • He highlights the role of musical jams and shared spaces where musicians can experiment and learn from one another.
  • The conversation underscores the value of collaboration, community, and the power of shared passions in fostering creativity and personal growth.
  • It emphasizes the importance of seeking out environments that nourish your creativity and provide opportunities to connect with like-minded individuals.

13. The Paradox of Fame and Authenticity:

  • Clark shares his experiences with fame, acknowledging the challenges of maintaining authenticity while navigating the demands of the music industry.
  • He discusses the importance of staying true to oneself and not letting external pressures define one’s creative vision.
  • The conversation highlights the struggle of many artists, who find themselves balancing their personal values with the expectations of the public.
  • It encourages a critical look at the impact of fame on artists and the importance of preserving one’s individuality within a system often focused on appearances.

14. The World of NASCAR and its Southern Roots:

  • Clark and Rogan delve into the cultural significance of NASCAR, exploring its roots in moonshine running and its popularity in the American South.
  • They discuss the disconnect between their own understanding of racing and the passionate fan base that fuels NASCAR’s popularity.
  • The conversation explores the complex relationship between regional culture, sports, and the enduring appeal of high-speed thrills.
  • It highlights the diversity of interests and passions within the American cultural landscape, highlighting the importance of recognizing and understanding different perspectives.

15. The Role of Suppression in Creating Culture:

  • Clark and Rogan draw a parallel between the illegal production of moonshine and the suppression of psychedelics, arguing that both have led to unique cultural expressions.
  • They suggest that suppression, in its various forms, can paradoxically foster creativity and innovation, driving people to find alternative solutions.
  • The conversation explores the complexities of societal control and the unintended consequences of prohibitions, highlighting the resilience of human ingenuity.
  • It encourages a deeper understanding of the dynamics between social forces, individual expression, and the evolution of culture.

16. The Detachment from Food Sources:

  • Clark and Rogan delve into the disconnect between consumers and the origins of their food, particularly meat.
  • They highlight the convenience and anonymity of modern food systems, where consumers are often removed from the realities of agricultural practices and animal welfare.
  • The conversation encourages a greater awareness of food sources and the importance of making conscious choices about what we consume.
  • It emphasizes the need for a more ethical and sustainable food system, recognizing the interconnectedness of all living beings.

17. The Power of Adaptation and Evolution:

  • Clark and Rogan discuss the remarkable adaptability of animals, particularly pigs and dogs, highlighting the drastic changes that can occur through selective breeding and environmental pressures.
  • They touch on the concept of genetic modification and the potential for altering species through controlled manipulation.
  • The conversation delves into the philosophical implications of genetic engineering and the responsibility of humans to manage the evolution of life on Earth.
  • It raises questions about the ethics of genetic manipulation and the potential for unintended consequences.

18. The Mystery of Human Variation:

  • Clark and Rogan explore the vast diversity of human physical forms, contrasting the variations between different human populations with the differences observed in dogs.
  • They acknowledge the lack of a definitive explanation for the origins of human diversity, exploring theories ranging from natural selection to extraterrestrial intervention.
  • The conversation highlights the ongoing scientific inquiry into human evolution and the complexities of genetic diversity.
  • It encourages an open and respectful approach to understanding human variation, acknowledging the beauty and complexity of our species.

19. The Impact of Climate on Human Adaptation:

  • Clark and Rogan discuss the impact of climate on human physical characteristics, highlighting how people have adapted to different environments.
  • They cite examples of adaptations like larger ears in African elephants and taller stature in African men as ways to regulate body temperature in hot climates.
  • The conversation emphasizes the interconnectedness of human biology and the environment, showcasing the remarkable ability of life to adapt to diverse conditions.
  • It underscores the importance of understanding the impact of climate change on human health and the need for sustainable solutions.

20. The Importance of Finding Your Lane:

  • Clark reflects on his journey as an artist, emphasizing the importance of finding and staying in your lane, honing your craft, and pursuing your passions.
  • He discusses the role of inspiration from other artists and the importance of staying true to your own unique voice.
  • The conversation encourages a self-reflective approach to artistic development, recognizing the importance of personal vision and the journey of creative growth.
  • It highlights the profound impact of art, music, and other forms of expression in shaping our understanding of the world and ourselves.

5 Memorable Quotes:

  • “I don’t fuck with nature.” – Gary Clark, Jr. expressing his cautious attitude towards wild animals.
  • “I think for most people, what they’re calling ADD is being bored.” – Joe Rogan’s perspective on attention deficit disorder.
  • “You gotta pay the family. If you wanna make a fucking documentary or a biopic about arguably the greatest guitarist has ever lived, you gotta use his fucking music.” – Joe Rogan on the importance of respecting an artist’s legacy.
  • “Everything life eats life.” – Joe Rogan on the natural cycle of life and death.
  • “I think one of the best ways to respect these animals is to hunt them and eat them. They become a part of your life to sustain you.” – Gary Clark, Jr.’s perspective on the ethics of hunting.


 

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