Conor Oberst, the frontman of Bright Eyes, joins the conversation from his Los Angeles home. He shares quirky insights on everything from Rolex sponsorships to the joys of pandemic puppies. Oberst humorously reflects on memorable moments, like opening for Obama in 2008. He talks about his earlier ventures, including buying his first car for just a dollar and his brief stint as a teacher. The chat blends nostalgia with laughs, covering playful rivalries and the peculiarities of modern shopping, all while gearing up for the release of his new album.
The conversation explores the importance of self-care routines, showcasing how they contribute to maintaining mental and physical health amidst busy lives.
Hosts discuss the impact of sports sponsorships on branding, particularly during events like the US Open, highlighting the luxury associated with athletes and brands.
Amusing observations about rapper fashion choices reveal the cultural significance of style in music and celebrity identities, reflecting broader trends and personal expression.
Deep dives
Self-Care Routines
Both hosts share their self-care routines highlighting their commitment to health and well-being. One host describes their day filled with activities such as kettlebell workouts, sauna sessions, and hair grooming. The other host mentions a busy day that includes a gym visit, blood work for health checks, a haircut, getting a pedicure, and having coffee with a friend. This exchange underscores the importance of self-care in maintaining mental and physical health amid a hectic schedule.
The US Open Atmosphere
The excitement surrounding the US Open is palpable as one host notes the vibrant energy in the city. They discuss watching a documentary about Roger Federer that featured prominent branding from Rolex, hinting at the elegant commercial partnerships associated with the event. The conversation flows into sports sponsorships, specifically mentioning tennis player Ben Shelton's deal with Rolex, which connects their shared admiration for both tennis and luxury brands. This illustrates how sports events create buzz and can serve as a platform for high-profile marketing.
Fashion and Personal Style
An amusing discussion arises about fashion choices, specifically focusing on what rappers wear, particularly concerning athletic shorts. The hosts speculate on popular figures, such as rapper Future, and analyze their style, including the juxtaposition of brands like Nike and Polo Ralph Lauren. They humorously categorize various artists based on their likely apparel choices, emphasizing the cultural relevance of fashion in music and celebrity. This light-hearted banter reflects the interconnectedness of style, identity, and public persona.
Travel Plans and Social Interactions
Anticipation builds as one host prepares for a trip to New York, featuring plans for dining, socializing, and attending events. They discuss the weather and packing adjustments while light-heartedly expressing a desire to enjoy local nightlife. This conversation emphasizes the enjoyment of social gatherings, such as enjoying wine on the street and dining at popular restaurants. The interplay between their plans signifies the excitement of reconnecting and experiencing new city vibes.
Cultural References and Personal Anecdotes
Nostalgia colors the conversation as one host reminisces about memorable cultural experiences from childhood, particularly watching Phil Donahue and snacking on Triscuits. They reflect on the simplicity of past media consumption and the comfort of familiar snacks during those moments. This fondness for childhood memories leads to a playful debate about favorite snacks and the evolution of food culture. Such personal stories highlight the lasting impact of media and food choices on individual lives.
Conor Oberst, aka Bright Eyes, is a band from Omaha, Nebraska. Their new record, ‘Five Dice, All Threes,’ is out next month on Dead Oceans. We chat with Conor from his home in Los Angeles about, Rolex sponsorships, which rappers wear shorts with built-in underwear, Triscuits, shopping at Whole Foods, never returning anything, pandemic puppies, hates Twitter loves X, he was a teacher somehow, bought his first car for a dollar, sync talk, we want to play in some cities more than others, and stories about opening for Obama in 2008.