Acclaimed American singer-songwriter Bill Callahan is set to engage directly with his audience in a unique forum. The Guardian has announced a reader interview with the artist, inviting questions ahead of the release of his forthcoming solo record, My Days of 58.
A prolific creative period
Callahan, whose career has been marked by consistent critical praise, is currently enjoying a particularly fertile creative phase. Since his 2019 double album Shepherd in a Sheepskin Vest, the Maryland-born musician has delivered profound reflections on the transformative experiences of parenthood and marriage. His sound has simultaneously evolved, becoming more expansive and fluid.
This musical growth is partly attributed to the exceptional rapport he has developed with his live band, featuring guitarist Matt Kinsey, saxophonist Dustin Laurenzi, and drummer Jim White of Dirty Three fame. Their collective energy and improvisational skill were captured on the celebrated 2024 live album Resuscitate! and now fuel the upcoming studio work.
What can readers ask?
The Guardian is opening the floor for questions on a wide range of topics related to Callahan's life and work. Readers can inquire about the inspiration behind My Days of 58, including tracks like 'Lonely City', which Callahan described as an unusual focus on urban landscapes rather than people directly.
Potential topics are broad. Fans might ask about his ever-eclectic music taste, the recent reissue of his classic 2001 Peel Session recorded under his former moniker Smog, or his childhood memories of living in Knaresborough, North Yorkshire. Other intriguing subjects include his collaboration with Noah Cyrus and his covers project with Bonnie 'Prince' Billy.
How to participate
To submit a question for Bill Callahan, readers must post their queries in the comments section of the original article on the Guardian's website. The deadline for submissions is noon GMT on 5 January. The most compelling questions will be selected for the interview, which will be published in the Film & Music section in early January.
This initiative offers a rare opportunity for fans to gain deeper insight into the mind of one of contemporary music's most distinctive and revered lyricists as he prepares to unveil his latest chapter.
