The Partially Examined Life Philosophy Podcast

PEL Presents NEM#229: Peter Holsapple (dB's, Continental Drifters) Pays Tribute to His Adolescence

Mar 30, 2025

Joining this discussion is Peter Holsapple, a renowned singer-songwriter celebrated for his work with The dB's and Continental Drifters, and collaborations with musical giants like R.E.M. Peter reflects on his extensive career since 1972, sharing insights about balancing creativity with nostalgia and personal loss. He highlights the emotional depth of songs like "Larger Than Life" and explores the power of music to connect with memories. The conversation culminates in a heartfelt tribute to artistry and the passage of time through the poignant track "Where Does the Time Go."

01:18:30

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Episode guests

Peter Holsapple

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Quick takeaways

Peter Holsapple reflects on his evolving musical journey from the 1970s to present, highlighting the changing landscape for full-time musicians.

His songwriting has matured, shifting from personal heartbreak to exploring themes like loss and humor through richer narratives.

The songs discussed serve as personal tributes, illustrating emotional experiences related to friendship, war, and resilience in adversity.

Deep dives

The Evolution of Peter Holsapel's Career

Peter Holsapel reflects on his extensive musical journey, beginning with his early records in the 1970s and continuing through his work with The D.B's, R.E.M., and the Continental Drifters. He discusses how the demands of being a full-time musician have changed over the years, emphasizing that the current music landscape makes it challenging to sustain a full-time career. He notes that song themes have evolved from personal heartbreaks in his youth to more varied subjects reflecting a lifetime's experience, like loss and humor. This maturity in songwriting represents a shift not only in the style but also in the depth of the stories he aims to tell through his music.

Intro

2min

Reflections on Loss and Creativity

12min

Rhythms of Collaboration and Nostalgia

19min

The Weight of Memories in Songwriting

29min

Evolving Sounds: Balancing Legacy and Innovation

7min

A Musical Farewell: Reflecting on Time and Memory

5min

Reflections on Music and Future Musical Endeavors

3min

Peter recorded with Chris Stamey as early as 1972, and they reconvened as The dB's in the '80s. Peter has released six albums as the dB's, three more as a duo with Chris, four co-fronting the Continental Drifters, and three solo albums. He has also been a supporting/touring member in several bands including REM, Hootie and the Blowfish, and currently The Paranoid Style.

We discuss "Larger Than Life" from his new solo album The Face of 68), "Don’t Mention the War" from Game Day (2018), and "She Won’t Drive in the Rain" by The Db’s from their reunion album Falling off the Sky (2012). We conclude by listening to "Where Does the Time Go" by Continental Drivers from Better Day (2001). Intro: "Amplifier" by The Db’s from Repercussion (1981). More info at halfpearblog.blogspot.com.

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