Billy Strings | This Past Weekend w/ Theo Von

Billy Strings is a Grammy award-winning musician, songwriter and guitar player. His latest album “Me / And / Dad” is out now and you can catch him on tour now through the rest of the year.
Billy Strings joins Theo to chat about his life in music, growing up in a tough environment in Michigan, bad trips, the time he played guitar for 48 hours straight, tweakers mining for gold, and how Bluegrass can save the world.
Billy Strings: / billystrings
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Music: "Shine" by Bishop Gunn • Bishop Gunn - Shine
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This Past Weekend
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Find Theo:
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Producer: Zach / zachdpowers
Producer: Nick / realnickdavis
Producer: Colin / colin_reiner
Producer: Ben / benbeckermusic

[@guillermovellasquez333]

I relapsed this weekend after a year sober broke my girls heart, luckily my daughter isn't old enough to understand what happened. It's weird because I'd listen to billy alot when I was using, today I was able to force myself to go to work today and this was the first thing I listened to and everything came full circle I cried listening to this podcast because its helped me get through day one. I'm going to a meeting tonight. All that to say thank you Billy and theo you've helped me more today than you will ever know ❤ Edit: thank you everyone for the support and love I've been sober since, even stop vaping and smoking pot. Started going to meetings twice a week again. I'm starting my own meeting for younger people like me with my bestfriend. Thank you everyone I'd read all your comments every morning before work and it's been a huge inspiration. And my wife and daughter are both doing great now that dad is 100% available. Love all of you

[@zowzgraal]

Shit happens partner. You are so loved by all of us and we all have 100% confidence in you. In some years you’ll be looking back on yourself quite like theo and billy in this podcast with nothing to worry about except paying the bills and a happy daughter. Keep it up!

[@guillermovellasquez333]

@@zowzgraal thank you!! I really appreciate that the positivity of others burns into your mind more than you know and I'll seriously remember this comment for years to come. Have a great week freind!

[@guillermovellasquez333]

@@justotalkalottashit8392 Its not about having a plug if I want it I'll get it. I just had a moment of weakness and was alone for a week, just the perfect storm of bs

[@gorliagirp7274]

Ups and downs my friend, dont get hung up on the mistakes

[@crono3339]

I feel ya homie, been there too. Someone told me look how good you've done, and you fucked up one day, that's good work. But you personally know how fooling yourself and convincing yourself of excuses can turn into months, years, so there's a balance. But you know you have it inside you brother because look how long you made it sober! That's willpower!

[@ZIGGYMIDWEST]

I’m a black dude from flint,Michigan I seen him perform at the Pine knob. sht changed my perspective, I don’t listen to Bluegrass at all. but he has a Song called “Home” that captivated me and I play it regularly now 💪🏾 me and the homies call it the “Players Anthem” lol

[@amacgregor92]

Was that this last summer? I was there it was awesome

[@ZIGGYMIDWEST]

@@amacgregor92 it actually was bro 💪🏾

[@0NoOne1nParticular]

80 iq ape

[@heathwest3718]

Check out "this old world" and/or away from the mire.

[@Stickyherbs]

Players anthem !! Hahah so rad

[@dustindellinger9785]

Billy went from i ain’t slept in seven days to I haven’t drank in 7 years.

[@MrBings714]

California Sober as they say.

[@JSandifer]

FOR real!

[@jordanhyman9877]

"It must be seven years now, since they turned that life around."

[@ChristopherGonzalez-zj5mr]

😊😊😊😊😅

[@davidaldridge5716]

Is that true? If so that pumps me up…..just cause he’s already so great while so young and touring so hard The only thing that could derail his beautiful path or shorten his life is vices. And I want to see longevity so I hope he likes being clean and healthy

[@PatiFerguson-xo7vo]

I saw Billy play in Syracuse 12/16/23 . My son took me for Christmas. I am 72yrs old and have been into bluegrass for over 50 yrs, having gone to many festivals . I swear he is the best performer I have ever seen. I hope I will see him again before I die. Thank you Billy!

[@crocodilegrundee4514]

His flat picking is incredible. At 55 y/o I’ve been into bluegrass for many decades. I’ve known a number of people who can pick a guitar real good, but I’ve never seen anyone who can flat pick like him. He’s incredible!

[@michaeljohnson7276]

Cool , new take on country/bluegrass music. He's like a Ricky Scaggs meets David Alan coe. Vibe! Verry cool and innovative. All his own style! So laid back personality wise, but a monster musician/ songwriter! Thanks Theo as well. Your a great interviewer and have the coolest show out there. Thanks Gentlemen. !The stories and interview were awesome!!

[@papa_pt]

plenty of flatpickers just as good or better but Billy branches out into other genres more than them and puts on one of the absolute best live shows ​@@crocodilegrundee4514

[@sukaenacornelius9285]

Im 33. My husband is American. He showed my blur grass. The tyler childers. Also, ralph stanley, that mountain doo song, but also muddy waters by molly tuttle I think. Super beautiful to me. I use vpn to get pandora. I use blue grass station frequently. Anything guitar is awesome to me. Arab, spaniard, country, or jazz. I like. Even irish shanties. But blue grass is awesome. At our wedding, my husband and I had our favorite song, peaceful easy feeling by the Eagles played by my husband’s friends who did live band for us. The did the blue grass version. I don’t even listen to that song because its sacred to me.

[@bryj22]

Bruh I remember watching Billy sing Dust in a Baggy in a basement. Look at him now, so inspirational.

[@kennyshewbridge8526]

Bro what a video that was. Helllll yeaahhhh lol

[@jokoboarder]

Oh you mean that video that got posted after he was already famous lol very old school bro

[@bavariantrawler]

@@jokoboarder that vids pre-covid. bascially BC.

[@jordanzwick8088]

I hope people get this reference

[@hankowitz]

That’s sick. I saw him open up for Cabinet in a hotel lobby like 9 years ago.

[@KarltonFranz]

If this man comes to your town, do whatever you can to see him live. I guarantee it will be one of the best concerts you will ever experience

[@yvonnegivens2941]

Absolutely! BMFS!

[@reillypolinek804]

@@ptaylor3304oh boy just you wait for the next uk/eu tour

[@jimbobsluggins]

🐐

[@irockuroll60]

I robbed 7 ppl to get money to buy tickets. Got arrested. Thanks

[@rudyallen4]

Agree 100% brother

[@GreenManGrowing]

Billy Strings the type of guy Theo says "we had this one guy" about.

[@Jasonyohon]

"I knew this one guy who smoked some meth and played guitar for 3 days straight and ended up being really successful." (In Theo Von voice)

[@DavidDossantos-s7k]

​​@@Jasonyohon...and ending up all greenfaced by his guitar! ❤

[@catchinfishies5765]

This comment and the 2 first replies made me roar laughing. So true

[@cartiernt1981]

"Billy Strings, they called 'im"

[@arlen1630]

Loving this convo

[@offshores7]

And this interview is exactly why so many people have such a deep love for Billy. He's the real deal. Humble, down to earth, intelligent and just mind-blowingly cool.

[@jakeburkhart7862]

Was gifted Billy Strings tickets by a friend, only knowing of Dust in a Baggie video, and was absolutely blown away by the performance. He barely spoke, just played for nearly 3 hours straight and absolutely destroyed. It was a life changing experience for me and have been following him since, so cool to be able to hear him speak so openly and honestly on such a big platform.

[@cliftonbrown4051]

Great 👍

[@buckybland901]

If you think he barely speaks you should see phish or panic. He looks like a chomper compared to them😂

[@jcims]

Same homie. Went to the halloween Away from the Shire show in 2022 in Asheville. It was *IN*credible. I was instantly hooked.

[@Charlie-yd4kl]

Glad you got to enjoy some actual music!

[@Mahwahjoe]

​@@buckybland901- chomper.. lmao.. I cant stand it when I'm near a group of chompers at a phish show

[@xXxRAPIDxXx]

I have played guitar my whole life, Billy is an absolute god. For him to be so modest really shows his personality

[@lindataylor9683]

An absolute God…. Without an ego! Incredible!

[@MtnMichael88]

And Jack Pearson is BETTER he thinks???

[@TheGhostOfFredZeppelin]

The best at their craft are usually modest about their abilities and have a hunger to know more, Randy Rhoads used to look up local teachers and take lessons in a lot of the cities he went to when on tour with Ozzy!

[@rudyallen4]

I thought the same thing

[@schwa5238]

he doesnt give himself enough credit, he is around legends because he is one.

[@naomacurtis4803]

There’s a reason everyone goes back to Billy’s concerts. Every concert is a unique experience, I’ve taken my daughter to one concert and plan on another one in April. She’s almost 3 and is autistic… it’s beautiful seeing her get lost in his music. Thank you Billy 💕

[@chimricholds5503]

I have an 8 year old autistic daughter. We took her to New Years in New Orleans😊

[@thellama3239]

My Bipoc Trans Autistic 4 year old also loves billy strings music 🙏

[@ryanb3329]

​@@thellama3239 wtf

[@gdt19871]

​@thellama3239 LOL

[@tannert.2296]

@@chimricholds5503I was at that show!

[@andycaylor12]

"Ionia, and that was probably a slave town by the name of it" was one of the most underrated things ive ever heard come out of theos mouth 😭

[@ok_naw]

Randomly saw Billy two summers ago, it was 1 month, 1 week, and 1 day after I quit drinking. He played through set break, mowed me down, changed my life. Tomorrow is 20 months of no drinking. Away from the mire!

[@anxietyonline1947]

Congrats brother, I'm only 16 days clean but I have no desire to ever look back!

[@haydenday9396]

@@anxietyonline1947yessir

[@slack3000]

keep slaying brother!!! LETS GO

[@slack3000]

@@anxietyonline1947 those are the toughest days keep going!!!

[@Mazzy774i]

Congrats

[@ryanangell5395]

Brain cancer the last 2 years. Youre music has saved my sanity . Thank you Billy

[@jeremymsmith7843]

Sending healing vibes and best wishes!

[@lindataylor9683]

Incredible!

[@bigtuna9969]

Preach brother! 5 years in remission from brain cancer and Billy has been with me the whole journey!

[@JP-dv7rf]

Stay strong brother

[@reedquackenbush9347]

Love u dude keep going

[@alejandrojaramillo5825]

I'm a Chicano from SouthEast LA, and I had never heard of bluegrass but when the PNW homies put me on Billy Strings, shit I was blown away! Keep up the amazing work Billy, you the best!

[@rod8796]

I’m a chicano from the south side of Chicago bro and when this man performed at lolla I started listening to Blue grass almost instantly! Lmao so I feel you homie

[@LIFESSHORTTAKEARISK]

Gay af lol

[@JM-ri1em]

Amen we are all brothers in music 🤝

[@jackmistiff5300]

Shoutout to those PNW bros 🤝

[@LIFESSHORTTAKEARISK]

@@jackmistiff5300 he sucks

[@dgayle17]

Billy is a real one. He deserves all the good things happening for him.

[@roylott4351]

This interview right here is why Theo Von is at the top of his craft. You can just see how at ease he made Billy feel. The two of them just hanging out and talking. Both admiring each others talent without being sycophantic. Keep bringing us this kind of content Theo.

[@joshuaphillips9810]

so right

[@JamesRincon-th4sg]

Billy was on Marc Maron recently. I suggest listening to that to see a real quality interview.

[@luiscorea6196]

SHIIIINE THAT LIGHT ON MEEE

[@nose_fart]

ive only actually listened to the song once or twice. I like saving it for when Theo uploads it makes it hit way harder

[@Tier2powergod]

Thank you for the jack pearson rec.

[@jacemiddleton3053]

This legit made me smile 😂

[@danfontaine8179]

@@sanic1085yes so excited for AGI. The miracles will be incredible!

[@heelmoxley365]

Different kinda vibe

[@nocturnalferalguitarist]

Billy is a real one probably my favorite guest so far that Theo has had on . Billy has been there and done that.

[@Kacey90]

It was so fun once they found their chemistry. I’d listen to so many more hours of these two.

[@nocturnalferalguitarist]

​@@Kacey90I agree , you're right on. I admit I watched this several times now and I catch more that I missed the first time(s). I would have liked this to be another hour or two longer.

[@JonahsWail]

@@Kacey90yea it was cool when Theo got warmed up. Seems like early on he was content to just listen to Billy. Awesome awesome conversation.

[@JAY.ARE47]

Thanks for being honest about being in recovery it's an inspiration to hear a fellow addicted not ashamed about who they are. I have over 5 years myself.

[@jellyrollfan93]

Lmao Billy saying he’s smoked crack, Theo getting excited to segueing into an ad to help people stop vaping was comedic timing at its finest 💀

[@soyroos626]

Billy: “I was 16 when I first smoked crack” Theo: “I want that” 😂😂😂😂

[@boscorner]

"I smoked crack" "You ever had a hard time breaking a bad habbit?" Lmao

[@cleverlydevisedmyth]

im drunk and high watching this and that had me questioning reality for a second! I was like "damn, subconscious, giving me another ironic dream..."

[@the.deadpoet]

😂😂😂

[@drewstock4]

This made me realize ive never seen segue typed out in this context

[@ThePulleys]

Billy is the most humble Jedi I’ve ever seen!! No mistake he is a master at his class.

[@BulldoggerJK]

Take his word for it. He’s not even close to being one of the best flatpickers. He’s not being humble. He’s stating facts. I’m happy to hear him say it because his fans definitely don’t know it.

[@disco9500]

@@BulldoggerJK maybe true but there ain't a flatpicker in the world that can do what Billy does

[@BulldoggerJK]

@@disco9500 that is true. He can fill venues. It’s why the best play with him. Trying to get a piece of that audience.

[@michelehiggins2643]

Billy is an old soul. Really honest and insightful. I'm in my 60s and was no angel , but like Billy I never fell off the slope but watched friends lose it all or even die. His stories are great because he's owning his past , present and future.

[@austenrobinson2747]

Dude is as down to earth a musician or star as I have ever heard.

[@lowgun1390]

I’ve been a recovering alcoholic and this podcast helped me get through a really hard day, cheers to 4 months sober!

[@lindajackson6033]

Sweet buddy keep on going♡ Stay strong

[@nturn89]

The lyric "I have the strength and I will learn how to fly on broken wings!" Has helped me get through this past year after my mother passed away. Today makes one year to the date and then I get this gift?! This is awesome!

[@coltonwilson9638]

That's beautiful! What song is that line from? I'm sorry for your loss ❤

[@Spazz-z]

Sorry for your loss. And I couldn't agree more with the strength that lyric gives.. it does wonders for grieving for me. Thanks for this comment

[@A_Bone1972]

personally i feel that the universe is a system designed to spread love. synchronicity is the universe reminding a person that it has unconditional love for that person always. so we all should know that it's okay to love ourselves, no matter how difficult we make that to do. spreading love, i find, makes loving oneself a little bit easier. for me, it's in those effortless moments being free from negativity, stress, and hate because that energy isn't in your thoughts & you're not focused on trying not to have those thoughts, that we are open to have experiences of synchronicity. thank you for sharing one of your moments of your experiences! ✌️🐝➕

[@mattycola03]

Godspeed

[@smwrbd]

Turmoil And Tinfoil ​@coltonwilson9638

[@333TFRENCHY]

Theo you outdone yourself with this one.. billy strings is undeniably a national treasure!! Thank you for this !!

[@nicholasrosebush6182]

Billy Strings is one of the few real musicians out currently that have broke through to the mainstream. Dude is one of the most talented guitar players in the history of the instrument.

[@trevnico]

you couldnt be more right with that statement

[@rhondanolen2223]

Him and upchurch

[@aaronacapella]

Him, Molly Tuttle, and Sierra Ferrell are all killing it

[@moo-snuckle]

@@rhondanolen2223 hes certainly made a mark hasnt he. i keep hearing his stuff played from my friends and being like "damn! who sings this shit?!" and it be upchurch like 10 times. i live in missouri and its cool to hear someone be so cold on the mic that actually sounds like i do.

[@Lo-Fi.Lunchbox]

". . . Shit's got so much Sherwin Williams back-end on it . . . " That kicked the coffee right out the front of my face, Theo. I laughed so hard that I was crying. I hope you're aware of how much of a blessing and a privilege it is to have the opportunity to listen to your show and Billy. Your genuine authenticity, humility, honesty, and willingness to be vulnerable with yourself and others sets your show apart and leagues above the rest. Thank you.

[@jessefillmore]

This is def one of Theo's best interviews . I like how Billy opened up and told his truth . Great conversation . IMO it takes certain people to interview folks to make a great interview . Theo does great when he interviews working class folks who are just trying to find their way through life .

[@paparussell9309]

Billy Strings is the man

[@OgMudbone-u2m]

Met him a few times and got to play with him at a few music fest jams. Good kid

[@user-dl9bg4tj7u]

@@OgMudbone-u2mHe is. I got the honor as well, very humble and had a normal conversation asked us where we were from and my little dog was yapping at him and he made a funny comment about that

[@Theredtruck]

Going to my 29th show this weekend 30th and 31st in Asheville. Listen to Theo's podcast every single week. He just let out a solo episode. Never would I have thought we were going to get a bonus episode with literally my favorite musician in the world. These are literally my two favorite people Theo and Billy. Thank both of you for doing this. Proud of both of you for staying sober.

[@krutman101]

Have fun brotha!

[@Theredtruck]

​@@krutman101will do man !!

[@danparts9333]

same here

[@cmillivol98]

See you there! Gonna be shows 24-26 for me

[@leekyoverhere]

Wow. What a week you're having lol gang gang

[@Munchable420]

Man Billy doing that old blaze Foley Is a full circle moment for me. After beating methamphetamine addiction 2 years ago after 8 long years of that bullshit. Listening to Billy while getting sober in the last few years of my adiction and then later on Finding out about blaze and to hear him sing his stuff wow y'all are my heroes today this show is my hero today Thank you theo and billy

[@magrobertson8488]

Isn't it the best when someone you look up to is even better a person than you could have imagined? Yo Billy, I'm a commercial fisherman and fish 18-hour trips for swordfish. It's pretty brutal work, but your music makes the time fly by. I relate to a lot of it as a former h user who's lost friends to drugs. You're an inspiration. Keep pushing. You deserve all the success.

[@heidilanew]

Wtf is this?? Christmas??? Best gift ever. Love you❤

[@heidilanew]

@@taranfam 🚪

[@Mothafukka8]

@@taranfamJust like how your family will skip your funeral when you die

[@ineedafernbackhere]

I mean idk how it’s going to beat magnet love but…I am SO EXCITED and here for it!!

[@bartiglicks]

Right!

[@SadisticKid.]

And I you

[@huskertoker]

Holy shit, so when Theo said “yeah I love Billy Strings” to Tucker Carlson he wasn’t bullshitting. Right before tour starts too??! Cmon!!!! ❤️🤘

[@maushardt13]

I remember that I was hoping he would have him on

[@user-dl9bg4tj7u]

@@maushardt13Me too. Can’t believe it! Christmas came late… Or early?

[@MessyLio10]

Hell yeah this is dope.

[@gabemoore3189]

Cmmmmooonnnn

[@ETAisNOW]

Emojis are gay

[@andrew4life362]

Alright. Theo Von described hiking as getting lost but organizing it. What a legend.

[@FriendlyAssassinVids]

"I feel like people's souls are sick, and we're out here having to take care of them." My favorite serious Theo quote of 2024 so far

[@pez_the_person]

A guitar in Billy’s hands never fails to plant a smile right on my face. Damn that man can play

[@JoeShiesty99]

Billy strings saved my life ❤ , I was at rock bottom in my life and didn’t want to be alive.. I started binge listening to Billy and it did something to me. This man makes beautiful , amazing music. Thank you for everything Billy Strings!!

[@WhoDeyWorld]

Stay positive! You are headed in the right direction!

[@zowzgraal]

just found billy strings and honestly it feels like i’m hearing music for the first time in my life again. really crazy feeling.

[@kennywoolley4379]

Thank you for sharing that...what a beauriful testament to the power of music...both its therapeutic quality and its ability to elevate the human spirit. Very wise choice. ❤

[@andrewohandley338]

I like how this was a good balance of comedy and seriousness. Theo has some very serious thoughts that are sometimes overlooked by his clearly hilarious takes on certain topics.

[@DoubledayOfficial]

When Billy mentioned Speeve, Theo knew he had finally met his match

[@paullorenz8602]

Haha he almost got mad after "I knew this one guy.."

[@zimmcal]

This comment is cracking me up

[@jmg78]

@@paullorenz8602😂

[@Lowenthal_]

Lmaoooo 😂

[@DoubledayOfficial]

@@paullorenz8602 you could totally see it on his face!

[@howlinhog]

I am soooooooo happy to have personally experienced watching Billy play over the years. From sitting around camp jams here in Michigan on the festival trail to seeing Billy on stage so many times I can't count them. I have an awesome collection of hand held digital recorder recordings. Billy if you read this, we really miss seeing you at the Bluegrass festival in Lowell, but most of all we're really proud of you.

[@TheLECH]

Oh man. I bet those recordings are awesome to look back on!!

[@grbggaming6885]

I used to go to that as a kid with my friends family. It would have been killer to see him play there! A lot of good memories in Lowell

[@howlinhog]

@@TheLECH The recordings with Billy and Don Julin seriously kick ass.

[@fuzzybutkus8970]

Mark Farner of Grand Funk said it best “Michigan people do two things extremely well,build cars and play guitars” we definitely produce killer bands and guitar players. Greta Van Fleet like them or not are from about 60 miles away from Muir where he’s from. Alice Cooper,Ted Nugent Bob Seger. And that whole Motown thing.

[@TheLECH]

@@howlinhog is there anywhere we might be able to find these recordings?

[@enidsnarb]

I dig Billy’s straight forward ness and his humbleness for his playing . Having worked in a village music store for the last 22 years I have learned that the modest musicians are always the best !!!

[@jaymatthews9324]

I love how Theo instantly became the barefoot guy in the original Dust in a Baggie video, as soon as Billie started playing music 😂.

[@adamw4469]

The real ones know. Hahahaha.

[@drasticbread249]

All he needs is a green shirt, unlit cigarette, and to behave like an NPC who has a side quest...

[@laneh2000]

Haleeee yeaaaaa

[@adamw4469]

@@laneh2000 there’s always that guy who ruins every song.

[@laneh2000]

@@adamw4469 idk about ruin, dude made that video even better lol

[@tat-2-71]

Birth control in White Claw is a fucking stroke of genius! 😂

[@MrDCRex1988]

I was dyin 🤣

[@OneBigArtStory]

Addiction and the nuance that goes along with the conversation about it is always simultaneously fragile and fascinating and Theo balances it in a really honest, beautiful way. It's always helpful when he's really on and fully present and I know those are hard things to be in 2024, but you can tell as a viewer that he's trying to be engaged and it makes for a great chat between two people doin' their best. Shout out to Billy Strings. I had never heard your name before this and it's great learning more about you, too. Congratulations on the grammy nominations and win and thanks for inspiring me to make sure I make art with people while I still can.

[@baitball4665]

Billy is the man. Listen to some live shows. Unreal flat picker

[@illfather7066]

Yeah they really did that in a pretty wholesome kinda way which is pretty wild considering the topic and or delicate or dangerous topic....agree with ya all the way my brother

[@illfather7066]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/nHvQq4aVh8qXnposi=tgx7Ku40_Q6I_oYj

[@prajnabala]

I am an old grandma, a tango dancer, married to jazz musician, Tisziji Munoz. I just discovered Billy Strings. I absolutely love him. I loved this conversation.

[@Billystrings-]

Thanks for your continuous love and support towards me ❤️ How long have you been a fan of mine?

[@ccarter_46]

One of many great parts to this interview, when Billy starts talking about “survivor’s guilt” and “playing for his life”. Really cool, lots of stuff I didn’t know.

[@JosephVaughan-f9h]

I met Billy in Nashville TN. He was sitting in a stairway in an alley behind Tootsies. (Now that I think of it it was the RYMAN!!) My friend first noticed him and I went over and said hi. We were obviously intoxicated but he still took the time to chat with us and take a picture. Such a genuinely good person & happy to see him getting the attention & respect deserves.

[@rickcase13]

Billy's tribute to his father is truly remarkable and a testament to the special bond they shared. His father must have been a wonderful influence to have raised such a cool, blessed son. It's heartening to see such rare opportunities of showing gratitude and affection being taken full advantage of.

[@markroanoke3125]

The number of podcasts that I have listened to in their entirety is a few more than zero. I am on my third listen of this one. I have gained an incredible amount of respect for both of these guys. Where they came from and where they are is more than inspiring. There were a few moments I had tears in my eyes.

[@taterthotz]

This is one of those podcasts I didn’t want to end. Love these two

[@rudyallen4]

I was thinking the same thing homey

[@vladibarraza]

Same, brother.

[@ICee712]

Yeah, I said the same thing. I honestly very rarely actually finish any podcast all the way through. This one couldn’t be long enough. Was such a relatable, real conversation.

[@shiftedtwistie]

It warmed my heart Billy mentioned Doc Watson. I grew up listening to Doc with my Dad living real life in the middle of Missouri.

[@RoryGFan-39]

The first time I saw Billy was at a venue only about 15 minutes from where I live and the first night was a Doc Watson tribute but I didn’t get to see him the next night doing his own music but I got to a few months later and he was incredible both times.

[@shiftedtwistie]

@@RoryGFan-39 that's awesome. Very talented.

[@alexsullivan2957]

I LOVE doc watson!

[@alexsullivan2957]

​@RoryGFan-39 I love rory Gallagher too

[@BrianMarcus-nz7cs]

I never had a dad,,,, in my world but I found wok dottson before the Uber tube , still can't play the guitar though, so I picked da banjo,one less string bro😎🌿👍

[@sunportred7921]

Saw Billy play 2 nights in a row last summer and it changed my life. Y’all have to go see Billy play him & his band are mind blowing it’s an absolute party

[@R.S.O.]

360$ for starting ticket prices? Never

[@graydendunham8152]

@@R.S.O.I just looked and tickets are $50?

[@R.S.O.]

@graydendunham8152 shit. That was a three day pass I was looking at... my bad... still though. Where did you find for 50$ ticket Master is sold out.. stub hub starts at 130 before fees. Just checked his web site and he has sold out on all three days so that also might be why

[@haydenfury8408]

@@R.S.O. face value tickets are 59$. youre getting scammed lmao

[@arlen1630]

​@@R.S.O.F that ,. I've got a ticket stub for $4.50 at the Capitol theater in New Jersey to see the grateful dead...... No offense to B.S.

[@James-p1i2r]

I've been raised with bluegrass my whole life I'm a huge fan of Billy for 9yrs or so, I've introduced him to my dad and my grandpa and he is an absolute genius that is brought bluegrass to a whole other level. I was a crystal meth addict for 6 years. I'm 3 years and 1 month sober and still going strong. And BILLY'S MUSIC AND HIM BEING LIVING PROOF THAT PEOPLE WITH SIMILAR CARDS DEALT IN LIFE CAN ACHIEVE SOMETHING GREATER THAN WHERE WE STARTED OR ROCK BOTTOM WE PUT OURSELVES IN. Keep doing you Billy and being a beast on that flat top.

[@alro11]

their conversation about drugs and crack being addictive is powerful - so glad these two are still with us - it’s heartbreaking to listen to -

[@Zombiisugar]

I've had so many friends die or end up in jail because of meth. They lost their souls.

[@kingultramaga5182]

I watched Billy 5 years ago play for a few hundred people. Now he is playing Arenas. Guy works hard and deserves it. The most entertaining show out there!

[@VitaKet]

Man I used to catch him at Capital Ale house in front of like 30 people, the stage was literally a step. I miss the small shows. I haven't even gone to a show in the last few years because they are all huge Arenas and those are not for me. He deserve all the success though.

[@TuckerJobs]

Agreed, his music mends my soul. Hard to come by, it’s pure as it gets.

[@paulhenry8586]

My buddies paid him to play at our local campground at a small bluegrass fest. He drove himself from Michigan and melted faces off with guitars

[@MessyLio10]

5? Man we used to see him play to 10 people some nights back in 2014. Just him and Don running around Michigan.

[@304bobgnarly]

Bluegrass. In arenas. Who woulda thought..

[@Hedro82]

I've never listened to Billy's music. This is the first I've ever heard of him. I'm halfway through this interview and I'm a big fan now. What a great down to earth man. I'm digging into his catalogue the second I finish this episode. Thanks Theo. Love both you guys!!!

[@KB_-_]

Dang, you’re in for a treat

[@granite793]

Get ready for a roller-coaster

[@yvonnegivens2941]

Pick any live video on KZbin and you will be blown away! He is as talented as he is humble!

[@fatknuckles9824]

Start with "away from the mire", and "meet me at the creek", your welcome lol

[@calebaker4430]

So how’d it go?

[@wyatthicks111]

I think Billy is the first guest Theo has talked to whose had crazier stories growing up

[@JonathonSins]

Billy just such a humble and grateful dude. Can really see he doesnt take his fame for granted, and its well deserved with the happiness he spreads. Go billy!

[@OneTonDolphin]

…ain’t no way. Theo really has the best guest!!! Never in a million years would I have imaged this interview!

[@vanbrown2131]

Currently battling my cocaine addiction. The nights are long and I’m ready for change. I’ve beaten in before I will do it again. I love being alive and this won’t be the end of me. Thank you Theo and Billy for sharing your stories. One day at a time!

[@rustyshackleford6348]

Best of luck brother

[@enzo6804]

i’ll remember your comment

[@jonnywestmoreland3230]

There is so much more light on the other side brother

[@John-xe5kr]

praise be brother, im two and a half months sober. I promise it is worth all. keep pushing please, for u, your loved ones, and me along with anyone and everyone that surrounds you. you will make it I have full faith as long as you have faith in YOURSELF. you got this brother

[@smelltheglove2038]

How the heck do you get addicted to coke? It was the easiest drug for me to put down. It’s really only addicting when you’re on it. Get yourself a nice opiate habit. That’s an addiction. Or booze. Good lord, that’s a rough one.

[@crocodilegrundee4514]

The way Billy flat picked that guitar is so unbelievable. I’ve known several people who can flat pick very well, but he is incredible!

[@TheJohnReidMusic]

Billy Strings on Theo Vons podcast mentioning Tommy Emmanuel….what the fuck is happening?? Idk but I absolutely love it.

[@queenzbred]

Amen brother

[@Knowah42069]

I drive a semi and work 14 hour days and I listen to Billy strings and this past weekend. This is beautiful to me. I love you both

[@itzgarnet5050]

ty for ur work

[@adcreel9079]

14 hour window..... lol

[@user-eo6pk9zc8o]

I have 2 pairs of shoes and brown hair and I listen to this past weekend

[@sitindogmas]

it is so damn refreshing to hear honesty, I haven't heard someone speak that I could relate so much to in years! thanks Billy!!

[@johncranejr.5736]

Best Podcast of the year?! Great hearing the open ness between 2 men about there life.. Putting in the work does pay off..

[@brucecall1595]

Im 60 and my dad saw billy out at venture out in arizona. Dad died in 2020 but he always bragged he discovered billy.

[@SaucySauceSSS]

“For me, playing guitar is hard. I’m a player, but I’m not a master yet.” -Billy Strings, dropping the funniest line in podcast history on a comedy podcast LMAO. Anyway, I just threw all my guitars away

[@vineflower]

He is a great guitar player. But it isn't hard to understand what he means. Chris Thile who he was talking about, might be less popular, but he is a master. Billy is a solid guitar player, can play fast etc., but he pretty much plays the same scales and patterns, and moves the capo to shift scale. Chris Thile understands music theory completely, and can play with much more harmonic complexity.

[@DKArsk1]

Ikr? 🙃

[@GoinDownTheRoadFeelinBad]

He's being honest. He's actually taking guitar lessons. There's an interview with Billy and the teacher on KZbin. I highly recommend watching it

[@gabebrutal1874]

💀💀💀

[@alyssastock7320]

👀👀👀 hes not our master? BFMS 🤘🤘🤘😈

[@juliecooke6654]

Billy is to music as Theo is to Comedy. These two are kinda two peas in a pod and I’m so here for it!!

[@jarrett1000rr]

This is by far one of my favorite episodes. Hearing Billy's story and theo's past life is so real.

[@porkgyoza9961]

Billy is the man! Such a humble dude and an absolute monster musician, he deserves all the success

[@Luk4zguy97]

Had a couple beers and some weed last night, ended up jamming with the boys til almost midnight. Woke up today with the worst headache I've had in a while. I got to work 2hours late so now I'm at the end of my shift and I'm the only one here. This is exactly what I needed! I'm feeling like a king. Thank you, Theo and Billy❤️

[@travisschaefer5286]

Billy Strings positively saved the music scene, for me. About 5 years ago I found him and he gave me hope for the future of musical artists. I am so glad that Theo had him on. Truly two amazing humans coming together and shooting the shit… LOVE IT!!

[@David-u6r2f]

I have only been listening to Billy strings since a friend introduced him to me 2 months ago. It makes me mad that I've missed so many years but I'm happy that I get to backtrack and listen to everything that he's done. I'm 40 years old and I thought that there wasn't going to be another rock legend bluegrass legend however you want to say it. But there's just something very special about Billy strings his voice his attitude his Aura his shows everything about him is amazing to me and I am so thankful to Billy and everyone in his band for giving me hope for Billy's generation and the generations after his :-) 😎😎

[@surfin90]

DUDE YOUR A LEGEND FOR THIS THEO

[@SnakeSea]

I've seen Billy Strings 3 times, this dude is a legend. He makes me feel a special way about bluegrass music, this is a crossover I never thought I'd see! I love it!

[@d-fens5866]

Billy talking about how other people went to school to help and how that’s so cool. I think it’s the exact same reason why he’s been so successful. Most people don’t have time to get that good on guitar but boy do we wanna listen to someone who took the time. So thank you Billy. (And Theo too I don’t have the time or talent to put on a show like this every week)

[@roberthossler7282]

I am 51 and this entire thing sums up my 90's. I was into anything and everything but I am so glad I came through the other side alive.

[@21kinggary]

Man I saw him at Wheatland Music Festival in Michigan back in 2012 when he was jammin with a mandolin player. Everyone was just walking right by him in the camping section and I stopped and just watched this dude shreddddd sitting in front of his camp set up in the artist camping section. He had his eyes closed and I knew he was different. Everyone was like cmon let’s go and I said wait just a minute. I stood a couple feet away as he and the mando guy traded licks back n fourth while he was dressed in baby blue button up and dress slacks dripping sweat on the ground from his brow. So cool to see him blowin up and winning Grammies! Now on one of my favorite pods!!

[@zimmcal]

Happy Wheatland

[@alisoncole3211]

That was Don Julian, they toured a bunch when Billy was real young, love this comment ❤

[@artvandelay3252]

Ya first time I ran across him playing was with Don Julin in '15 at founders fest in GR and ever since I always try to see him when I get the chance. Thats cool you ran into him at wheatland

[@BexTDG]

Theo having flashbacks saying “God I want that” after Billy talked smoking crack at 16 😂😂

[@soyroos626]

Lol at that too!!!!

[@jimmystooreal-5896]

I am absolutely stoked this interview happened. Unbelievable back stories. you could understand his stories and the songs they attach too. The whole segment about DMT is literally the song "Spinning" off of Turmoil. I am so fortunate to know that someone doing it like this is doing it. The Billy strings nerds thank you for this one! New album! Woooooooo 😎

[@johnpaul2021]

What tipped you off on the DMT trip about spinning worlds being the inspiration for Spinning?

[@carynmartin6053]

Billy is a gift to this world, a truly enlightened soul at such a young age; to have such a wisdom and an open heart with empathy for his fellow man!🎉❤😊

[@sleepyheadbeats4352]

If you’ve never seen billy strings play live, it’ll literally take your breathe away.

[@jefflaumann5602]

Something exploded in my brain when I saw him. Life Changing

[@Ganjacurry]

I’ve been to 16 shows each one was mind boggling

[@MrBings714]

Originally saw him as a lower level act at a small festival then opening for Greensky (stole the show). I just saw him at an arena and holy shit, could have been the extracurricular activities but the sound and light show has me questioning my existence.

[@jamesamerman2772]

Seeing him in Nashville next weekend! Can't fuggin wait!

[@sleepyheadbeats4352]

@@jamesamerman2772damn I didn’t know he was playing, is it at Bridgestone or something ?

[@johnhenry4]

Billy Strings is one of the greatest guitar pickers ever

[@OgMudbone-u2m]

Got to play with him years ago at a Jam at a music fest good time

[@randall7853]

One of the best blues grass players of all time for sure

[@duncanmusic5559]

@@OgMudbone-u2m That's so badass!!!!

[@jaymatthews9324]

Could easily be called the best flat-picker to ever do it.

[@N8Dulcimer]

His style is pretty typical. If you look at basically any high level bluegrass guitar players they all play extremely similarly, some quite a bit faster.

[@JayWallEnt]

That might have been one of the most accurate and in depth recalls of a DMT trip I’ve ever heard. But I love how simple the lesson he got from it was lmao just “Don’t be a dick.” Great episode

[@alkhaleel9239]

He made a song about it. Called spinning

[@blondiez1981]

This is absolutely one of my favorite Theo interviews of all time. So real. So HONEST. Funny and charming. Thank you ❤

[@benstephens1972]

Something about seeing Theo singing along with Billy is so wholesome. Love it

[@kimr2352]

So glad my grandma raised me on bluegrass. It’s an incredible foundation for the love of all music. Bill Monroe was her fave.

[@AntoninoParino]

One of the best podcasts I’ve listened to for a while… not because it was inherently amazing but because these are two guys that are nothing but authenticity

[@Nonameforyoudangit]

Theo has great taste in music. He's said that he doesn't know that much about it, but the man knows what he likes, and what he likes is the good stuff. So glad to see Strings here - thanks, Theo!

[@Top88attack]

God damn dude! I remember watching Dust in a baggy for the first time years back. I've been playing guitar my entire life and what an honor it would be to speak with Billy. One of the best Theo Von episodes to this day.

[@AO-ec6xj]

“You went to more school so you could help people?!” I love Billy

[@CoogTruckin]

As a trucker from Texas that travels across the country your music keeps me regular on the road Billy. Keep on keeping on brother! I'm so glad to see your success and you speak for a lot of us folk. As for Theo thank you for being a good strong southern voice to us out here. A lot of us came up like yall and its inspiring

[@lex8723]

He is so impressively humble, wow.

[@devinshook3289]

I admittedly didn't know much about him. But he grew up pretty close to me in Michigan and talks a lot about places/locations I know. But what shocked me is just how down to earth this guy is. Instant fan

[@googleboy7530]

When Billy pulled out the guitar, Theo became Barefoot Ben in spirit.

[@granite793]

The green shirt lives on...

[@mumblez7712]

Please tell me Barefoot Ben is the stoner dude in the Dust in a Baggie vid! Him trying to knee-slap along at the start and losing the beat in two claps is one of my fav bits of the video

[@googleboy7530]

@@mumblez7712 yess, him!

[@adspur]

Barefoot Ben is just happy be being.In the moment doing his thing.

[@Wayzor_]

I hear he's still trying to light that cig.

[@rileyharriman345]

This is so insane to see Billy on one of my favorite podcasts. I live in Traverse City, MI. Billy used to live and play here when he was starting to get a name for himself in northern Michigan. He played anywhere with a microphone and blew people away. I remember seeing him playing to this tiny crowd (mostly older people, some with children) in the basement of this bookstore in town..chatting with the audience, taking requests. Never thought he was ’too good’ for anywhere. this dude just loves to play.

[@Billystrings-]

Thanks for your continuous love and support towards me ❤️ How long have you been a fan of mine?

[@chimricholds5503]

The resurrection of real music. Thank you Billy. You arrived just in time.

[@BufordT-ji6zg]

Billy really is the GOAT. It's not the albums. It's the live performances where he really shines. He has the perfect amount of talent while still having spontaneity and connection with the crowd. It doesn't hurt that Jarod, Billy, Royal, and Alex share his creativity. Treat yourself to a special experience and go see Billy live.