#1038 - Billy Corgan

Episode Timestamps

• 00:00:00

  Billy Corgan's Surprising Shift: From Music to Ownership of NWA

  • Billy Corgan discusses his unexpected transition from leading The Smashing Pumpkins to becoming the owner of the National Wrestling Alliance (NWA).
  • Corgan reflects on his past involvement with TNA, where he was president before facing legal challenges and financial issues.
  • The journey into wrestling is rooted in his family history, as both of his great grandmothers were fans, highlighting a deep personal connection to the sport.
• 00:06:00

  Ric Flair and the Legacy of NWA: Billy Corgan's Passion for Wrestling History

  • Corgan talks about his respect for wrestling legends like Ric Flair and Dusty Rhodes, who were prominent champions in the NWA.
  • He explains the historical significance of the NWA, established in 1948, as a cornerstone of professional wrestling in America.
  • The conversation touches on the blurry line between wrestling personas and real-life identities, exploring the challenges Corgan faces as he balances fame with authenticity.
• 00:10:00

  The Eccentric Life of a Drug Dealing Musician: Growing Up with My Father

  • The speaker recounts life with their father, a drug dealer and musician, who was often in trouble with the law.
  • Experiences of finding weapons and drugs in the family home highlight a chaotic upbringing.
  • The father's dismissive attitude towards the speaker's music career gradually turns to jealousy as success grows.
• 00:16:06

  Chicago's Mob-Linked Violence: Personal Memories of Gun Culture and Generational Tragedy

  • The speaker shares stories of their father's encounters with Chicago's mob, including witnessing arson.
  • Discussion of the alarming rates of gun violence and shootings in Chicago highlights the city's ongoing struggles.
  • Insights into the controversial policing strategies and the impact of drug dealer arrests on escalating violence are revealed.
• 00:19:20

  Chaos in Chicago: A Former Cop's Perspective on Neighborhood Violence

  • A former cop discusses the power vacuum and insurgency-like violence block by block in Chicago neighborhoods.
  • The normalization of gun violence shapes the childhood and adult experiences of residents.
  • Chicago's unique bare-knuckle history contrasts with the influx of yuppies and changes in community dynamics.
• 00:27:04

  Billy Corgan's Musical Journey: Collaboration with Rick Rubin

  • Billy Corgan reflects on his relationship with producer Rick Rubin and the trust involved in their collaboration.
  • The creative process requires freeing oneself from overthinking and allowing for organic music creation.
  • Corgan shares insights on the pressures of musical success and the importance of maintaining a fresh perspective.
• 00:29:00

  Musician's Hubris: An Insightful Journey of Personal Struggles with Creativity and Fame

  • The musician reflects on the isolating effects of fame, feeling detached from reality while achieving success.
  • Despite having a massive fanbase, the artist experiences a deep sense of personal failure that leads to introspection and vulnerability.
  • In discussing past influences, the conversation touches on the complexities of authenticity in music and the struggle to innovate beyond initial success.
• 00:38:10

  Navigating the Music Industry: A Candid Take on Contracts, Success, and Artistic Integrity

  • The artist reveals the constraints of long-term record contracts, comparing it to indentured servitude and illustrating the lack of leverage for young musicians.
  • There is an ongoing battle between maintaining commercial success and artistic integrity within a challenging and often exploitative industry.
  • The discussion emphasizes the cyclical nature of fame, noting how artists evolve creatively and the public’s willingness to embrace their growth.
• 00:39:20

  Bob Dylan and Metallica: How Streaming Deals Undermine Artist Earnings

  • Record labels engage in 360 deals, controlling multiple aspects of an artist's career and profits.
  • The streaming service partnership leads to low artist compensation while labels gain equity.
  • Metallica's management criticizes YouTube's payment structure, reflecting broader concerns in the music industry.
• 00:46:50

  Conor McGregor: Breaking the Mold of Traditional Sports Contracts

  • Conor McGregor's high-stakes boxing match with Floyd Mayweather exemplifies independence from traditional UFC contracts.
  • Artists like Chance the Rapper and Sturgill Simpson navigate their careers by exploring new financial models.
  • The evolution of music consumption and free access via platforms like Napster challenges artist loyalty and compensation.
• 00:50:04

  Axl Rose's Resurgence: The Power of Brand in Music

  • Discussion on the value of music brands, comparing bands like Guns N' Roses (G&R) and Smashing Pumpkins.
  • Exploration of Axl Rose's tumultuous past and triumphant comeback, highlighting his influence on the G&R brand.
  • The importance of authenticity and freedom in an artist's journey, as perceived by fans.
• 00:57:24

  From Big Stages to Intimate Settings: The Evolution of Performances

  • Reflections on the challenges and changes in audience expectations across different performance venues.
  • Commentary on the struggle of artists to balance fan desires with personal artistic expression.
  • Insight into the unique atmosphere of performing in unconventional venues, like a cemetery, and its impact on the artist's experience.
• 01:00:36

  Artistic Evolution: A Journey from Provocation to Audience Connection with Lead Singer of Nickelback, Chad Kroeger

  • Lead singer discusses the shift from explosive performances to creating intimacy with the audience.
  • Kroeger reflects on how his view of performances has evolved over time, emphasizing genuine interactions with fans.
  • He addresses the expectations placed on artists to perform classic hits, indicating a struggle between personal satisfaction and audience demand.
• 01:56:12

  Cultural Milestones and Generational Expectations: The Art of Sincerity in Music with Insights from Pete Townshend

  • Kroeger shares insights from his conversation with Pete Townshend about the responsibilities of artists to their fans' memories.
  • He discusses the pressure from audiences who feel possessive over iconic music and how that influences performers.
  • The chapter highlights the dichotomy between commercial success and artistic integrity in the music industry.
• 01:13:47

  James Hetfield Reflects on Fame's Impact on Family Dynamics and Personal Relationships

  • James Hetfield discusses the changes in his relationship with his step-grandfather after achieving success as a musician.
  • He describes the difficulty of maintaining personal connections while navigating the pressures of fame.
  • Hetfield highlights how financial success altered both his family dynamics and friendships.
• 01:56:12

  The Erosion of Metallica: James Hetfield's Struggle with Band Dynamics Amidst Success

  • James Hetfield shares insights on the tensions and misunderstandings within Metallica that arose from fame and financial success.
  • He explains how individual successes and side deals among band members caused long-lasting rifts.
  • Hetfield emphasizes the importance of recognizing the impact of fame on relationships and the learning curve for future collaborations.
• 01:13:47

  Inside the Music Industry: An Artist's Perspective on the Exploitation by Record Labels

  • Artists feel pressured by record labels, which limit their creative freedom and success.
  • Less than 10% of signed musicians achieve a sustainable career despite initial success.
  • The music industry's relationship with artists is compared to a con job, manipulating talent for profit.
• 01:56:12

  Conor McGregor: The Outlier Who Redefines Success in Combat Sports

  • Conor McGregor's unique talent and charisma set him apart in the MMA world.
  • He garners unprecedented support from Irish fans, showcasing powerful national pride.
  • The conversation touches on the psychological impacts of competition and discussion around athletes like Daniel Cormier.
• 01:13:47

  Vitor Belfort's Steroid Impact on MMA and the Controversy of Performance Enhancers

  • Discussion on whether Vitor Belfort's skills are enhanced by testosterone use in his fights.
  • Comparison of the effects of steroids in combat sports versus other sports like baseball.
  • Highlights the contrast between Vitor Belfort's physical transformation from pre to post-steroid use.
• 01:56:12

  Dennis Rodman's Surprising Friendship with North Korean Leader Kim Jong-un

  • Narrative about Dennis Rodman's unexpected visit to North Korea and his relationship with Kim Jong-un.
  • Discussion on Dennis's naivety in believing he can make a positive impact through basketball.
  • Reflections on Rodman's persona and history with celebrity culture, including his unique workout habits.
• 01:13:47

  Michael Jordan's Iconic Flu Game and Dennis Rodman's Vegas Debacle

  • Michael Jordan scored 36 points while battling the flu in a crucial playoff game against Utah.
  • Dennis Rodman, influenced by a billionaire, took a wild trip to Vegas during the NBA Finals.
  • The narrator faced Phil Jackson's wrath for enabling Rodman's partying antics leading to a tense encounter.
• 02:23:18

  The Importance of Free Speech and Unfiltered Expression in the Media

  • Discussion on the suppression of ideas and the need for free speech in a democracy.
  • The narrator shares experiences of being manipulated by media and the implications of censorship.
  • A critical view on the current culture regarding the suppression of dissenting opinions.
• 01:11:39

  Billy's Solo Acoustic Album Success with Rick Rubin's Production

  • Billy announces his new solo acoustic album titled 'O.G.' produced by Rick Rubin.
  • The album was released recently, and Billy shares details about finishing tour dates in Los Angeles.
  • He expresses enthusiasm about recording another acoustic album in the near future.
• 01:11:39

  Hopeful Future Projects: Billy's Plans for Next Year

  • Billy hints at a potential new project, likely titled 'pumpkin stew', for next year.
  • He emphasizes optimism for future endeavors in music.
  • The conversation wraps up with gratitude expressed towards Billy for his insights.