Bill Steber Returns From Japan Tour to Talk Blues, Photography & Preservation of Southern Culture

In this special return episode of Two Beers With The Band, I sit down once again with the legendary Bill Steber—who was the second-ever guest on this show. Now, after an inspiring tour through Japan, Bill’s back with a fresh perspective, deeper stories, and even more powerful insights on preserving the soul of the American South through blues music and visual art.

We get into everything from his latest performances with The Jake Leg Stompers to how Japanese audiences deeply connect with Mississippi hill country blues. Bill shares his thoughts on cultural preservation, his philosophy behind using tintype and wet plate photography, and the responsibility he feels as both an artist and documentarian.

This episode isn’t just about music—it’s about capturing spirit. Whether he’s performing as Hambone Willie or photographing fading juke joints, Bill’s work is about keeping memory alive. We talk about the spiritual side of blues, the ritual of performance, and how honoring the ancestors of the genre is just as important as pushing it forward.

If you're an artist, photographer, music historian, or just someone who cares about culture with depth and soul—this one’s for you.

🎧 Connect with Bill Steber: 🌐 steberphoto.com 📺 YouTube: @hambonewillie 📸 Instagram: @stonesinmypathway