Is natural talent really the best predictor of success? Or can hard work, perseverance, and sheer determination take you further?

I sat down with the one and only Marc Brownstein to talk about exactly that, plus his background growing up in NYC, coming up in the music scene, the conspiracy of test-tube jam bands, playing SPAC with Goose, and a whole lot more.

Marc is thoughtful, hilarious, incredibly down to earth, and an all-around easy-going delight. 

In this episode, I sit down with the White Whale-multi-instrumentalist, and creator of some of the most textured, transportive music out there. He takes us deep into the worlds that shape his sound and creative process.

We talk about growing up in the musically rich, ever-dynamic community of Evanston, Illinois; making beats as a kid on a Dr. Rhythm; and the difference between what he calls “morning” and “nighttime” music.

Along the way, we get into working with Goose, Fela Kuti, improvisation, imitation, inspiration, learning how to truly listen, managing nerves, and what’s next on the horizon.

King of the zeitgeist. Brilliant photographer. Charismatic wizard. Culture creator, anthropologist, and one of the funniest storytellers you’ll ever meet.

Sitting down with the legendary Jay Blakesberg was an absolute thrill. We talked photography, music, counterculture, creativity, and the wild stories that only come from spending decades documenting history as it unfolds.

An unforgettable conversation with a true original and an all-around gem of a human.