In this lively discussion, Johnny Frank, known as Bilmuri, shares his journey blending country and metal in his unique 'country-core' style. He recounts his thrilling experiences touring with Sleep Token and the fun dynamics of performing for diverse audiences. The conversation dives into the emotional nuances of gaming and its relationship with music, as well as the evolution of heavy sounds in today’s music scene. Bilmuri also reflects on the nostalgia of social media and the challenges facing underground musicians, offering an authentic glimpse into his artistic world.
Johnny Frank emphasizes the role of music as a coping mechanism for mental health challenges, offering joy and connection on stage.
Touring with Sleep Token has been a pivotal experience for Johnny, exposing him to larger audiences and new opportunities in his career.
The fusion of rock and country in 'country core' allows Johnny to engage diverse audiences and collaborate with various artists while staying true to his roots.
Deep dives
Overcoming Daily Struggles
The episode begins with a discussion about the importance of battling personal demons and mental health issues on a daily basis. Johnny Frank candidly shares his experiences with these struggles, emphasizing that while the demons often win, engaging in creative pursuits, like music, helps him cope. He expresses that being on stage or streaming is a reprieve from these challenges, where he experiences joy and connection. This conversation sets a reflective tone, as both speakers acknowledge the significance of combating mental health issues through various means.
Experiencing Unexpected Success
Johnny discusses the surprise and excitement surrounding the unexpected success of his latest album and associated tours, particularly with Sleep Token. He narrates how touring with a band of such magnitude was a dream come true, as they played for audiences far larger than anything he had previously experienced. The contrast between headlining smaller shows and performing in massive arenas, ranging from 5,000 to 18,000 attendees, highlights a pivotal moment in his career that exceeded his expectations. This success has opened new doors for future opportunities, further enthusing him about upcoming projects.
Cultural Adaptation on Tour
Johnny shares intriguing insights about connecting with audiences in different cultural contexts while on tour in Europe and the UK. He reflects on the challenge of performing as an American band in front of international crowds, noting the need to adapt their stage presence and language to engage attendees effectively. The excitement of winning over new fans who are unfamiliar with their music adds an element of thrill to each performance. His anecdotes emphasize the satisfaction of bridging cultural gaps and expanding their fan base through genuine interaction.
The Balance of Genres
The conversation explores the blending of genres, particularly how Johnny's music mixes elements of rock and country, defining a unique sub-genre termed 'country core.' He notes that this creative fusion has allowed them to garner interest in both the rock and country music scenes, enabling him to collaborate with notable songwriters and reach diverse audiences. Johnny expresses enthusiasm for being able to explore this genre mashup while retaining the essential rock elements that define their sound. This balance reflects his ongoing quest to innovate while staying true to his roots.
Future Musical Directions
As the episode wraps up, Johnny conveys enthusiasm about upcoming projects and the potential evolution of their sound. He discusses the importance of embracing both polished and raw elements in music, considering live instrumentation versus programmed sounds. This introspection leads to a deeper contemplation of how to maintain creativity without compromising quality as they move forward. He expresses confidence that with the growth and support they have received, their music will continue to resonate with audiences and push boundaries in the music scene.
