3 Questions with Bill Frisell – An Xperience Interview

3 Questions with Bill Frisell – An Xperience Interview – by Rob Skane.

You must listen to Bill Frisell play the guitar – I mean it. Pick any of his records, he’s been making them since 1983, and listen. Because when you do, you’ll find that few people play with more emotion, creativity, and depth.

His most recent album, “In My Dreams,” will be released on February 27, 2026. That evening, Bill will be performing at the Bearsville Theater, along with Larry Campbell. You should go – I mean it.

Please visit billfrisell.com or bluenote.com to learn more.

RRX: What was the moment that made you pick up a guitar and never put it down?

BF: For as long as I can remember, I’ve been in love with the guitar. At first, maybe it was simply the object itself. I just thought it looked cool. Like a hot rod or a rocket ship. And cowboys played them. That was cool, too. But then. The way a guitar can bring folks together. Let’s start a band! Let’s LISTEN to each other. I fell in love with the SOUND.  I fell in love with the MUSIC. Harmony. The guitar is a magic wand. A key. A key to unlock our imaginations.

RRX: If you could go back and tell your younger self one thing about playing guitar, what would you say?

BF: I guess  I would tell my younger self to not worry. Don’t be afraid. Don’t try to be hip or cool. Don’t worry about what you think other people might be thinking. Always trust the music. The music has the answer. The music will tell you what to do next. Music will never let you down. Music is good.

RRX: When you’re not onstage or recording, what kind of stuff do you play when no one’s listening?

BF: Whether I’m alone, when no one is listening, or when I’m recording, or in front of people, nothing really changes. I just play. One thing leads to another. One note leads to the next. Music is good.

More from Rob Skane…