The Joe Rogan Experience #2438 · January 13, 2026 · 2h

John Mellencamp

John Mellencamp — rock legend (Jack & Diane, Small Town, Pink Houses). 40+ years of music, the death of the middle-class musician, and staying authentic in an industry that rewards conformity.

Highlights

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The death of the middle-class musician

Mellencamp: there used to be a middle class in music. Streaming killed it. You're either a superstar or you're broke — nothing in between.

Claude ChatGPT Gemini