Aaron Rodgers and Bon Iver's Justin Vernon Have an Epic Conversation | One-on-One | GQ Sports

Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers and Bon Iver's Justin Vernon sat down at Lambeau Field to have a wide-ranging conversation. Mutual fans of each other's work, the two Wisconsin heroes cover everything from Aaron wanting to play football until he's at least 40 to Justin's love of his hometown, Eau Claire, Wisconsin.
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[@joshuafunk9438]

Whoever was responsible for the intersection of these two individuals at GQ, is a genius and should be treated as a national treasure.

[@luke_data_leader]

+1 ... Maybe this kind of unexpected duo would do well to bridge the gap between the arts & sports ... Like have Justin Timberlake sit down with Bret Farve next ...lol

[@LucasOliveira-uk1dv]

@@luke_data_leader Oh my God...

[@patrickgrimmer]

they're friends and fans of each other, whoever noticed this at GQ is smart but not responsible for the intersection lol

[@lukedmoss]

1k like

[@JoeMama-kc9lv]

@@luke_data_leader These are my two favorite people living in Wisconsin.

[@TheGeocachingVlogger]

This the most Wisconsin thing I have every seen.

[@johnperrigo6474]

Hmmm..... interesting perspective.

[@CaseyFraysier]

all that's missing is some Lienie's and cheese curds

[@seanpaulson9098]

Lmao

[@adaml9491]

@Sudden Arrival Vernon is born and raised in Eau Claire. Still lives there most of the time. Aarons lived in WI for almost 2 decades.

[@adaml9491]

@@nicholas7897 Or ice fishing

[@AeroSlaya]

This is like I'm having a dream. I never would have paired the the two together for an interview but I am definitely not disappointed

[@V1z1on]

I want more of this now. Instantly spoiled.

[@lukrangun596]

justin is slowly transforming into folk santa and it's great

[@emmaharris9052]

lolol

[@NathanMandjes]

Hahahah

[@coolmanjones]

Justin is going to take Rick Rubin’s throne when he passes on

[@JoshHinrichs-vv2ft]

Whoever over at GQ suggested this, deserves a raise

[@wyattrubin]

That story of what inspired Holocene is absolutely beautiful to envision

[@neversulky]

a little smokey smoke

[@chad1337]

easily the best part of the interview - aaron's reaction is so genuine

[@poop__sandwich]

Facts

[@jonathankey6444]

Time stamp?

[@MrSamuelhund]

27:40

[@lucas.coletti]

The levels of chill in this are over the top

[@RedPlayerOne]

It is an exciting time that society has progressed to the point where two grown men, one being the epitome of masculine achievement, can openly discuss their feelings and mental health.

[@kartoffelschweinehund9007]

definitely

[@mikeanderson5772]

Is it?

[@kelvinhorn8666]

Why is there always a comment like this? These are the comments and energy that constantly linger and for what? It's unnecessary really.

[@charmedprince]

@@kelvinhorn8666 to prove to you toxic masculinity is a myth

[@kelvinhorn8666]

@@charmedprince Really? Because it feels like it only keeps the conversation alive and perpetuates it and the stereotypes etc.

[@matthewaleman4401]

Rodgers is chill asf

[@ThinkingArtEntertainment]

Yeah, weird seeing him not yelling and losing his effing mind haha

[@matthewaleman4401]

Thinking Art Entertainment when does he do that

[@BadCoverMan]

Matthew Aleman When he’s being watched by 70,000 as things go wrong sometimes, and trying to handle that, mentally and emotionally.

[@matthewaleman4401]

BadCoverMan never has he exploded at a coach when he’s angry all you see is a scowl no theatrics on the other hand you can find a 10 minute video on KZbin of Tom Brady having screaming matches with his offensive coordinator or a ref but he can do no wrong but if Rodgers did that he’d be even more hated than he already is and he’s already probably the most hated quarterback in history for no reason at all

[@Ronnie.V.89]

@@BadCoverMan yaaa seriously when has he ever done that? Please give some examples because you sound really stupid here

[@liammccarthy9388]

It's so funny that Vernon and bon iver's music is known as like high pitched falsetto but his talking voice is so deep

[@dRippppa]

That's what makes his voice so good. It's a very low head voice that fills all the gaps. It's amazing.

[@ItsJennNotJenny]

Prince was the same way 💜

[@BlueAgaveStudios]

It's got range and it has been used both experimentally and conceptually to bend sound like light.

[@TeddyMacSoFly]

Wow two of the 3 most important people in Wisconsin, all thats missing is Giannis

[@FunCoolGuy]

What about Greg Marcus

[@davetbassbos]

or Ralph Bruno!

[@JoshWeisenberger]

Let's admit it, he's half the reason why Wisconsinites go to showings :P

[@GottaWannaDance]

I would add Leopold.

[@oneeyedwiilly176]

You forgot Yelich.

[@nedroc5319]

This was by far the best Aaron Rodgers sitdown I’ve ever watched. Its refreshing to just see them be who they are. Not what the media portrays them to be. Had no idea who Justin was until the video. Respect 🙏🏽

[@MayorBrownn]

@Matthew Yupp. Now everything else I listen to just doesn’t hit me like bon iver does.

[@BlueAgaveStudios]

Who's being interviewed here? Rogers always best talking about what's most important to him. Aaron Rodgers

[@koennagel7518]

@@BlueAgaveStudios why does it have to be an interview? It’s just a conversation. It even says it in the title

[@joeyh31]

The fact that Justin is not wearing a hat is the bravest thing I've ever seen. Great video btw

[@souldesire5932]

lol...yeah that hair is the exact opposite of some of his music..I can't believe he doesn't shave it off, cmon Justin..He's growing his bangs out :)

[@brendantaylor3570]

Who cares? We are all going to die. I mean that in the best way possible. You won’t remember his hairline. His music however...

[@2thuggg]

Honestly, I feel like Justin has transcended past caring about something superficial like that.

[@samrichards8251]

Most people hopefully reach the stage where they simply don’t give a crap about insignificant things like hair. Feels great to grow out of insecurities about your own body and be 100% comfortable with yourself

[@possibility28able]

Only because society makes losing hair way bigger of a deal than it should be.

[@junemanuel6551]

Insane that when Justin says "Every time I look at the clock, it's that" is when the video hits the 20:22 mark.

[@landsend3417]

Justin could easily start his own podcast

[@MayorBrownn]

I would watch every episode multiple times

[@PresidenteBush1337]

@@MayorBrownn i would watch podcast too with my eyes

[@MayorBrownn]

@@PresidenteBush1337 I listen with my eyes and watch with my ears

[@austinshields8627]

As someone who just recently reached out for help after years of struggling with my emotions, it was extremely refreshing to hear them speak about their experiences with counseling.

[@toddkimberlin7609]

Glad you getting the help you need good luck on your health

[@bh-0330]

Aaron Rodgers is just so casual and humble.

[@peted8750]

Aaron Rodgers, and Justin Vernon, two amazing people beyond their jobs in life. They have great insight, values, and information to provide to everyone. This is an AMAZING conversation. I love you two guys. Thank you for this.

[@naomiminichini7740]

I just watched the whole video. This feels far better than anything I've watched in the last year. This is a very hard time for me and listening to such good and genuine souls and their thoughts made me feel in peace. Thank you

[@bryanreynolds9596]

watching this while looking at the Pablo Center, over the river in Eau Claire. Awesome. And Proud.

[@xPoDaH]

why proud?

[@cheesehead2399]

Fucken liar

[@Bear-im3cf]

That Holocene story though. It is unequivocally my favorite song ever to exist, and I’ve always wondered about how it was written.

[@Kaitlynel92]

Wisconsin proud 💚💛 I need to see more of these two together, such an interesting conversation

[@melindah194]

There needs to be a bowl of cheese curds and a couple of spotted cows in there.

[@toddkimberlin7609]

Love spotted cow

[@jordanroberts2248]

😂

[@rjmoran1467]

So perspective opening when you sit an athlete down with someone they are actually comfortable with. Very authentic. Thank you GQ

[@danielavila6534]

2 great guys, talking about REAL LIFE. Not ego involved just 2 dudes having a deep talk about things we all can relate to. Aaron is an amazing passionate player, and Justin is an amazing passionate musician...but now I get the whole point they are amazing people no matter their success, and their awesomeness goes further than a guitar or a ball. Awesome!

[@shawndrupp]

I am a Bears fan...but come on My favorite artist and Aaron rodgers!!!! cant hate!!!! . on a real note great video. such meaningful things were said and i have the utmost respect for these two!!!!

[@lumberzach3242]

Ahhh Justin Vernon. He sure is a hero here in Eau Claire. Love this town and love that guy!

[@AndrewD1022]

As a Bears fan I hate the Packers, however, this is some great content. Both are super wholesome and have such great insight into life.

[@GottaWannaDance]

Add Trubisky and make it a threesome. 🤔 Actually, I'd like to see both win as much as they can, then play in the Championship for the Superbowl. Black and Blue division. No hate.

[@johnperrigo6474]

As a Packer fan I hate the Bears. FYI.

[@seanr1013q]

right there with you brother,,,Bear Down!! but yeah...dude seems pretty chill as a person and Justin is always awsome

[@williamthefloridano]

First insight into life: *Don't be a Bears fan*

[@Aaron-fe6le]

I don't think you hate the packers, I think you just have losing

[@ImBreakingBrad]

I never imagined these 2 people would ever be in the same room let alone doing an interview like this... AWESOME

[@69Board]

rodgers asking the important questions what an absolute nail gun. when he asked him about holocene i knew at that very moment rodgers was the fan not the other way around.

[@harnoordhaliwal6955]

And he was so happy with the response of the story behind holocene. You could see the happiness in his eyes

[@1356071]

Being an individual born n raised in EC, this makes me smile a lot. I fuckin loved every minute 💛

[@ThinkingArtEntertainment]

Well this is incredibly random, but simultaneously great!

[@decxhay66]

I listen to this once a week to make sure I am grounded as a human being

[@somestuffandwhatnot]

Justin describing Holocene is incredible

[@bradenrodriguez5183]

Just when I thought KZbin recommendations were completely off, you go and REDEEM YOURSELF!!!!

[@kellyf7498]

love a dumb and dumber reference

[@ilikecows44]

3:16 Rodgers starts talking about nutrition and by 3:45 Justin closing his jacket to hide his gut bahahaha killed me.

[@3rdschlong36]

JUSTIN VERNON!! It’s crazy to me that I’ve been listening to him since elementary days. I’m 28 now and he helped me heal my childhood days. It was rough growing up but his music was my sanctuary.

[@JamesAllen-im6eq]

I never realized Aaron Rodgers had so much depth. I will never again look at him in the same way. An authentic and perceptive conversation.

[@pneyu]

If you can, seek out the podcast with the comedian Pete Holmes (You Made It Weird) - one of my favorite interviews w/ Aaron

[@JamesAllen-im6eq]

I did listen to the Holmes podcast with Aaron Rodgers. Thank you so much. Throughout my life, people too often could not understand my love of team sports and the arts and my christian values which never included organized religion. Aaron Rodgers on this podcast explains the worldview which has always governed my life. I'm grateful to you for the recommendation.

[@el34glo59]

Idk why people assume he's some jackass or something. Pretty deep smart guy.

[@MusicVideosPCH]

this is all i never knew i needed

[@Sophie-xm6pd]

I love what Aaron’s says about the importance of sticking together as a team even when the times are tough

[@zmrushlow2720]

As a Lions fan and the mod of r/boniver I feel extremely conflicted right now. edit: That was great. Obviously knew JV was the chillest but I really enjoyed listening to Rodgers as well.

[@ThinkingArtEntertainment]

😂😂😂

[@MrSharky334]

Fellow Lions fan r/boniver user showing solidarity with your struggle rn

[@blakedavison2171]

glad you could overcome this ;)

[@aarongrayfan1]

Bears fan and a r/boniver follower. I feel the pain as well

[@johnperrigo6474]

@@aarongrayfan1 As a Packer fan this is very interesting to read these reactions.

[@Bathsssss]

Listening to these two talk is like a counselling session, brain feels cleansed afterwards.

[@briangreen5188]

Highly respect both Aaron and Justin for what they do and what they bring to this world. Great interview and I love the fact they are not scared to speak so candidly.

[@MrJex18]

Well, this is random

[@sorengiles8840]

Aaron but appreciated

[@pizzlepayne91]

C'mon Rodgers!

[@brandonb9806]

They picked them out of a hat?

[@Mynameisjoof]

So random.

[@BucksPackersBrewers]

Wisconsin connection

[@gbcaffee]

Holocene is my favorite Bon Iver song. I lived in Eau Claire for 7 years. It makes me happy to hear the story behind the song. Thanks for the question, Aaron.

[@Jamieforeals]

This is the most profound and deepest interviews ever. Blessed

[@aaroncharlesrodgers7729]

Jamie Nolastname I will make you have a last name

[@Jamieforeals]

Aaron Rodgers only if it’s Rodgers

[@aaroncharlesrodgers7729]

Jamie Nolastname I am with Danica, it was a joke.

[@aaroncharlesrodgers7729]

Jamie Nolastname Cody Parkey might be available

[@Jamieforeals]

Aaron Rodgers no thanks 😒

[@tanishqrahuja987]

Holocene always felt like a song about the sublime and the fact that it actually was, makes me feel a little more complete.

[@Hanna-uw1yb]

Justin Vernon has the most soothing speaking voice.

[@FunCoolGuy]

Yeah, I'm gonna need to hear a Justin Vernon produced Aaron Rodgers album

[@mariah4039]

This was the most attractive, underrated interview. Just two humble, well respected guys talking about mental health. The emotional and social intelligence is incredible. Ugh bed me!! Hahaha

[@brixiu5]

Waiting for Justin to bring up LSD

[@cl8822]

I think it's part of Rodgers pregame routine

[@dancoyle6911]

A very interesting conversation to have. People who are ride or die fans of Justin would probably say “who is this other guy” and people who are ride or die for Aaron would probably say “who is this other guy”.

[@irrelevantideology9640]

I lol when Justin asked Aaron if he wanted to get a tatt with him. What a fanboy move I live it. 😂😂😂

[@liamj3163]

Wow, I have aloot more respect for Aaron now even though i'm a Vikings fan. Love Bon Iver.

[@user-ze7tl2dw4i]

YANGGANG!!

[@Aaron-fe6le]

Man we have the coolest quarterback. Such a smart dude both physically and emotionally

[@Stbuster31]

listen to his episode on You Made it Weird!

[@jamesalon6861]

A lot of people hate this man, but at the end of the day he's chill af. Respect

[@Birbdup]

A 1974 walnut 335?! Probably with gold hardware and a bigsby. Man has CLASS.

[@o.o2561]

What? Rodgers listens to East Forest? AND Bon Iver? Fantasy football value just increased!

[@mslnie]

What a fantastic discussion. They are both super cool. Love Aaron's humility. What a cool guy. Love him all the more, now. Packers are so lucky to have him. And Justin is great, too. Will have to look him up. Thanks to GQ for putting this together!

[@eggrollrocks]

As someone who is tattooed with Bon Iver lyrics, ever since For Emma For Ever Ago, and a lifelong Packers fan (since AFreeman and BFavre) this is the bromance I didnt know I needed in my life.

[@davidblairmusic]

I love what they are talking about, the similarities between professional sports and being a musician, the voices in the head and anxiety and preparing before the game or show is enamouring. And Justin rockin that bald head...wow - courageous!

[@i8ittoo]

I would have never thought of Aaron to be into Justin's music. That makes me like him even more.

[@almostalbino88]

I could listen all day to them talk.

[@MayorBrownn]

Can we PLEASE have another one of these. PLEASE

[@Shemzinho]

My fave QB and one of my fave artists together YESSSSSSSSSSS

[@simmons3477]

Seems like, famous or not, we all go through similiar experiences in the quest for growth. Intelligent fellas, great convo.

[@noelsplectrum9]

Even his talking voice is brilliant.

[@BachMaiMusic]

The holocene story was beautiful

[@bryanhess2585]

I love that Rodgers is a music man! Go pack go!

[@evanstanek5838]

As a Vikings fan and a Bon Iver fan, the single 2 greatest comments in this interview were Justin saying he'd like to play forever, while Rodgers admitted his career will be much more shortlived. Those wrinkles bring hope.

[@davidjohnjrlindstedt9555]

Great exchange between two mature individuals, both appear well adjusted and enjoying life. Life is good!

[@_Tyler-G]

This was very authentic. Great Job GQ. Justin could start his own podcast for sure.

[@timphillips3873]

The therapy session everyone needed, right here.

[@Norskellunge]

The Joynt is a national treasure

[@suakhaab]

I truly appreciate this! Thanks for making this happen! 💕

[@q2le26]

Me too, Shoua!

[@suakhaab]

@@q2le26 it's so great 😍

[@q2le26]

[@foxglovepearls]

Those two. Oh, yes! Two good looking men and I ain't gonna lie, Justin's hair is adorable!

[@ToddChevrier]

I can't believe Aaron Rodgers knows about The Pickle and The Joint! I wish I knew when he was here!

[@cheeo2]

27:40 is when Justin talks about Holocene

[@goodafternoonplanetearthtv5556]

This was surprisingly very enriching- thank you!!! Cheers to more men being open about their feelings.

[@wrenpyle7098]

this was beautiful and so wonderful. thank you gq for making this happen!

[@joeyfaleni6911]

I had no idea I needed 42 minutes of Aaron Rodgers and Justin Vernon chatting in my life

[@manimavuso]

Never knew how much I needed to see these two together

[@qbfilmroom7202]

you can tell rodgers is truly glad to be doing this it's like he is talking to someone who can stimulate him and vice versa

[@cgomc323]

As a Wisconsinite, this is the most Wisconsin thing I have ever seen.

[@ArmandoGarciaJr.]

I’ll always come back to this interview

[@tomtimelord7876]

Eagerly awaiting the 2024 Aaron Rodgers/Bon Iver collaboration album

[@amschmidlkofer]

Eau Claire, Pickle and the Joynt reference 26:46

[@rororo2547]

i just realized how much justin reminds me of rick rubin!?

[@kenyandrama]

Even the cadence is the exact same

[@spitsumnwatkins5421]

I met him at the Pickle!!.been telling people for years, noone believed me..probably bcuz I'm a Bears Fan.

[@langdonogeay1141]

Pickle legendary

[@vincentsheridan284]

How could Justin not know fi he visited new Zealand?? I know when your on the road tour its hectic.... but " come on man " ,, its New Zealand , its one of the most unique topology and people and vibe you will find on planet earth.

[@Jenny-iz1oq]

This is beautiful. Two of my favorite people, talking about important stuff. Thank you!

[@shurupack]

Fascinating interview!

[@jmiogo]

Great stuff. Thank you for putting this together.

[@smuella6454]

Thank you GQ for letting people everyone looks up to be themselves. This might be good for your numbers, but it’s even better for the people.

[@TheRhudest]

This is great. Tad bit disappointed Justin thought the Pickle was closed down, I can safely say that it is still going strong, somehow lol. I wish the Joint would open back up though. Eau Claire is an incredible city.

[@keystoneguardian7543]

Two of most favorite people in one interview. Live and respect both of these men. 22

[@Ucbmiller]

What a great meeting of the minds. As a Colts fan, I have a huge respect for Aaron Rodgers after this. Wisconsin is very lucky to enjoy this bridge.

[@edtapia8580]

OMG this is epic. I´m a Packers fan and a Bon Iver fan, I am so glad for this conversation between the two. Thank you so much!

[@devincheatham166]

One super star looks like he's ready to play in Sunday and the other Superstar looks like he just rolled out of bed.

[@alexfreese8100]

Great vid! Love the open vibe discussing mental health