Trillbilly Worker's Party Bonus: What Do You Do When You're Lonesome (w/ Special Guest: Jonathan Bernstein)
Mar 18, 2026
Jonathan Bernstein, journalist and author known for Rolling Stone and Oxford American, discusses his biography of Justin Townes Earle. He talks about the book’s origins, research process, and why Justin’s music and life mattered. Conversations cover Justin’s upbringing, struggles with addiction, musical influences, and how Nashville’s scene shaped his sound.
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Live Nation Emails Reveal Systemic Price Gouging
- Live Nation internal messages revealed explicit fee-gouging, ableist language, and contempt for fans, underscoring the company's monopolistic behavior.
- Bernstein recommends reading John Blistein's reporting and expects prolonged legal battles with only modest penalties likely.
Merch Cuts Became A Post-Pandemic Flashpoint
- Merch cuts became a major flashpoint after the pandemic as artists were desperate to tour and venues demanded percentages of merchandise revenue.
- Bernstein notes artists continue to speak out against venues taking nightly merch percentages.
Why Bernstein Wrote Justin Townes Earle's Biography
- Jonathan Bernstein chose Justin Townes Earle because a 2020 Rolling Stone piece left him feeling he barely knew Justin and saw far more complexity worth exploring.
- Bernstein began reporting after Justin's 2020 death and realized a book could reveal the fuller life and art behind the headlines.
