#2340 - Charley Crockett

Overview

This episode dives deep into Charley Crockett's journey as a musician, his reflections on authenticity, the challenges of the music industry, and broader cultural and philosophical musings. From his early days as a street performer to his collaborations with Shooter Jennings, Crockett shares insights into his life, career, and the evolving landscape of art and technology.

Notable Quotes

- If you don't know what you want, if you don't know where you're going, if you don't know what you're selling, they're gonna sell it for you. – Charley Crockett, on navigating the music industry.

- If you have 'fuck you money' and you don't say 'fuck you,' what's the point? – Joe Rogan, on maintaining authenticity in the face of success.

- Love the strength that your creator gave you to overcome the struggle. Don’t love the struggle. – Charley Crockett, on resilience and faith.

🎸 The Roots of Charley Crockett's Music

- Crockett recounts his beginnings as a street performer in New York City subway platforms, where he honed his craft and learned the value of connecting with audiences in raw, unfiltered environments.

- His experiences hitchhiking and working odd jobs, including on ganja farms in California, shaped his storytelling and authenticity as an artist.

- Crockett credits his mother for instilling resilience and a sense of responsibility, which helped him navigate personal and professional challenges.

🤖 AI and the Future of Creativity

- Rogan and Crockett discuss the rise of AI in art and music, expressing concerns about its inability to replicate the soul and lived experiences that define authentic creativity.

- Rogan highlights the inevitability of technological advancements but emphasizes the enduring value of human-made art.

- Crockett reflects on the importance of staying true to one's roots, noting that AI cannot replicate the depth of lived experiences like his own.

🎶 The Music Industry's Evolution and Challenges

- Crockett critiques the predatory nature of the music business, emphasizing the importance of understanding the industry to avoid exploitation.

- He shares insights into the shift from artist development to a pump and dump model, where viral hits are prioritized over long-term careers.

- Crockett praises Shooter Jennings for fostering a collaborative and judgment-free creative environment, which has led to the creation of his Sagebrush Trilogy.

🌍 Reflections on Culture, History, and Purpose

- Crockett and Rogan explore the idea of purpose, with Crockett emphasizing the importance of finding fulfillment beyond material success.

- They delve into ancient civilizations, including Egypt, speculating on lost knowledge and the mysteries of human history.

- Rogan introduces the concept of Type One Civilizations, highlighting humanity's potential to harness planetary resources and achieve global interconnectedness.

🎤 Comedy and Music: Parallels in Authenticity

- Crockett and Rogan draw parallels between comedy and music, noting the shared challenges of connecting with audiences and staying authentic.

- Rogan reflects on the Texas comedy scene, particularly the influence of legends like Bill Hicks and Sam Kinison, and the emergence of Austin as a comedy hub.

- Crockett shares his admiration for Texas artists and the unique cultural identity that shapes their work, emphasizing the importance of embracing one's roots.