About the Artist
John Driskell Hopkins is a Grammy Award-winning musician and founding member of the Zac Brown Band. As a versatile multi-instrumentalist, he has contributed vocals, bass, guitar, and banjo to major hits like "Toes" and "Chicken Fried." Beyond his group success, Hopkins leads the rock band Brighter Shade and has released solo projects, including holiday albums and Lonesome High. In 2022, following an ALS diagnosis, he launched the Hop On A Cure foundation to fund research.
John Driskell Hopkins
About the Episode (Episode 53)
John Driskell Hopkins: A Defiant Song and a Middle Finger to ALS
John Driskell Hopkins, a founding member of the Grammy-winning Zac Brown Band, joined The Curious Goldfish for a conversation that balances the weight of a terminal diagnosis with a stubborn, inspiring optimism. Known for his deep baritone and multi-instrumental prowess on multi-platinum hits like "Toes" and "Colder Weather," Hopkins—affectionately known as "Hop"—is currently navigating life with ALS.
Since his diagnosis in 2021, the three-time Grammy winner hasn't retreated. Instead, he’s leaning into curiosity and his foundation, Hop On A Cure, which funds research to prevent and reverse the disease. In this episode, Hop discusses the "Ted Lasso" approach to positivity, though his perspective is far more gritty and grounded. As he puts it: "I’m trying to respect the ALS while giving it the middle finger behind my back."
Three Key Takeaways:
Defiance Over Retirement: Hop talks candidly about the uncertainty of a progressive neurodegenerative disease. While he isn't interested in retiring, he’s focused on the next decade with a mix of curiosity and grit. He notes that while some are forced into retirement, he fully intends to be here for whatever comes next.
The Digital Lifeline: Hop reflects on how technology allows him to remain present for his family while on the road. Despite joking that devices are "melting our brains," he treasures the ability to see his daughters and wife, Jen, who he credits as the engine behind both their family and the foundation.
The Ultimate Question: A poignant moment arises when Hop is asked what he is most curious about. His answer is stark and honest: "I'd like to know when I'm gonna die." It’s this level of vulnerability that defines the episode.
Hop’s story isn’t just about a medical battle; it’s about a musician choosing to stay vocal. His journey reminds us that even when the body falters, the curiosity to see what the next ten years bring remains a powerful fuel.