Shows
Professor of RockHow .38 Special Quietly Became One of the Biggest Hitmakers of the ’80sComing up next… sometimes you have to ask, is there any justice in the world? Today I’ve got an interview with Don Barnes, one of the coolest singers of the 80s. He’s a guy who doesn’t get the credit he deserves. He fronted the band 38 Special, which started out as a southern rock band, but by the early 80s, they’d transformed into a leading arena rock group. And they released some of the most memorable hits of the decade, including today’s classic Caught Up in You. It was actually a co-write between this band’s guitarist an...
2025-12-0119 min
Hitmakers PodcastTrey Campbell: A Masterclass In VulnerabilityIn this heartfelt and unfiltered episode, we sit down with the lovable Trey Campbell as he takes us through his inspiring journey, from Southern roots to Grammy-winning success. From singing in church, to joining an iconic a cappella group, to even performing on a cruise liner, we learn how these early experiences laid the groundwork for the soulful, emotionally rich songwriting style he's known for today. We dive deep into Trey’s personal story, including the powerful influence of his mother. He opens up about the nurturing values she instilled in him and how embracing vulnerability has become not ju...
2025-09-1652 minHitmakers PodcastFerras: A Star Is BornIn this episode, we sit down with a hitmaker whose story is as powerful as his talent—a writer who seems to carry magic with him wherever he goes: Ferras. Born in Jordan and raised between cultures, Ferras shares how early childhood turbulence shaped his fearless approach to life and music. Escaping into his imagination, he built a world of his own—one where a star was born.From cold-calling record execs and confronting industry giants to rising above bullying tied to his identity, Ferras turned every hardship into art. He opens up about the transformative friendship with...
2025-09-091h 01Professor of RockHold Me Now: How a Breakup Sparked the Thompson Twins’ Most Iconic SongThe Thompson Twins, an up-and-coming band, were trying to finish their second album and needed one more song to fill it out. They had a tight deadline and were running out of time. So that night, frontman Tom Bailey wrote one in a jiffy called Hold Me Now. He knew it was filler, but he could tack it on the end of the album and their record would finally be finished. Hold Me Now ended up being a #1 smash, and it turned the band inside out. It actually ended up changing their musical direction as they put their guitars...
2025-08-3121 minHitmakers PodcastBen Johnson: The BiggestIn this episode, we sit down with our co-host, Ben Johnson—one of today’s most dominant pens in country music and a standout cross-genre songwriter. A small-town guy with big ambition, Ben shares the courageous journey that led him to Nashville, following the advice of his first mentor, Rivers Rutherford, in search of where great ideas come from.We dive into how years of grinding in Music City shaped his relentless work ethic and ignited the competitive edge that fuels his success today. In some hilarious and insightful recaps, Ben reveals how humility—on the basketball court...
2025-08-2852 minHitmakers PodcastHarv: The Confidence CodeFrom church pews to global stages, HARV’s story is all about supernatural musicianship, unbounded confidence, and purpose. He shares how the environments he was raised in shaped his confidence as a man and creator—whether being the point guard on his basketball team or part of the most prestigious frat on campus. In this episode, we thread the needle from him laying down the bassline on Gucci Mane’s Lemonade to touring the world with Justin Bieber and producing one of his biggest hits, Peaches. HARV talks about what it feels like to create music when you hear in color...
2025-08-2342 minHitmakers PodcastWhitney Phillips: Earned, Not GivenShe’s not just our cohost—she’s a creative and intellectual force. In this episode, we sit down with Whitney Phillips to explore how grit and tenacity turned a series of bold leaps of faith into a career paved with platinum. From waiting tables to Lil Wayne, to accidentally hanging up on Christina Aguilera’s manager as an intern before earning her first Grammy nomination alongside the icon herself, Whitney’s story is one of resilience and relentless drive. Whether it was being the odd man out at an A-list writing camp and coming out the other side with a Cel...
2025-08-1952 minProfessor of RockHow “Love Is a Battlefield” Was Rewritten and Became an ’80s AnthemComing up, an interview with Neil Giraldo, one of the best guitarists and producers of the 80s, on a true classic from the decade. Here's how it went... Two of the best hitmakers of the time, Mike Chapman and Holly Knight, wrote a song they knew would be a smash: Love Is a Battlefield. They knew the perfect person to record it would be a legendary female rocker, Pat Benatar, who was married to Neil Giraldo, who produced and co-wrote her biggest hits. It was supposed to be the slow, methodical ballad. Neil listened to the song and, of...
2025-08-1422 minHitmakers PodcastJHart: A Multi-Genre MasterFrom Atlanta to LA, and from pop to country, JHart is a man of many territories, genres, and even accents. In this episode, we Postmate some good old Chipotle and talk about his early days working with TLC’s T-Boz, the hustle of cold-emailing his way into a pub deal, and the leap of faith that brought him to LA. He spills on battling imposter syndrome after his first big cut with Justin Bieber, why personal growth is the secret weapon for real success, and how he went from pop hooks to a country #1 with Keith Urban. Whatever the ge...
2025-08-1354 minHitmakers PodcastTommy Brown: The Man In Every RoomTommy Brown—aka TBHits—has always been that guy. From beat making in the cafeteria to producing chart-toppers for Ariana Grande, he’s the man in every room for a reason. He breaks down his transition from songwriter to executive, the importance of visibility, and what it really takes to curate a cultural moment. When you move like Tommy, there’s only one motto that makes sense: Always up, never down—spread the money all around.
2025-08-071h 11Hitmakers PodcastSevyn Streeter: Simply, THAT girl.From singing at the Apollo to her dad filming her every move, she’s been a star since day one. She talks girl group lessons, learning to ditch ego for teamwork, and earning her spot in rooms full of men—once skipping the club to pen a killer verse that changed everything. With a voice as strong as her opinions and a goddess glow to match, Sevyn proves she doesn’t just shine—she leads the way.
2025-08-021h 12Hitmakers PodcastNova Wav: Finding the Perfect WavFrom church to SoFi stadium... in this episode we talk about anxieties around Hitmakers , how to find the perfect melody, and what kind of cowriter thrives best with this outer worldly duo . Speaking of, wait til you hear the cosmic meaning behind their name, and the alias that didn’t quite make the cut . Talented, tenacious, and undoubtedly anointed. This is NovaWav.
2025-07-3051 minHitmakers PodcastHitmakers Podcast: Get to know the humans behind the hitsGet to know the humans behind the hits!Step inside the world of Hitmakers, the Netflix series where songwriting takes center stage. This podcast brings you candid, one-on-one conversations with the artists, producers, and creatives who shaped the music—plus unfiltered stories from behind the scenes, including what you didn’t see (or hear) on screen.
2025-07-3000 min
HERE AND BACK AGAIN167: Marvel’s Fittest Family: It’s All in the HipsA strong week at the Box Office while streaming also has one or two big hits worthy of your time!CINEMA: The Fantastic Four: First StepsThe Bad Guys 2Bring Her Back STREAMING: Happy Gilmore 2 (Netflix)Washington Black (Disney+)The Assassin (Prime Video)Tin Soldier (Prime Video)Shiny Happy People: A Teenage HolyWar (Prime Video)Trainwreck: P.I. Moms (Netflix)Critical: Between Life and Death(Netflix)
2025-07-2437 min
Made It In Music: Interviews With Artists, Songwriters, And Music Industry ProsAnalyzing Hitmakers: What Makes the Greats GreatIn this episode of the Made It In Music Podcast, Seth Mosley and X O’Connor sit down to explore what truly separates good from legendary in the world of songwriting and production. They break down the core traits of hitmakers, the secrets behind unforgettable hooks, and the habits that help creators stay relevant across decades. You'll hear insights on how the greats continue to evolve with the industry, plus practical takeaways you can apply to your own music journey today. Whether you’re just starting out or aiming to write your next big hit, this episode is packed with wisdo...
2025-06-1147 min
Hitmaker ChroniclesArctic Monkeys -"505"This episode explores Arctic Monkeys' "Five-oh-five," a track from their 2007 album Favourite Worst Nightmare that evolved from album cut to cultural touchstone. We trace the Sheffield quartet's extraordinary journey from teenage garage band to global rock phenomenon, examining how their authentic storytelling and sonic evolution redefined British indie music. While initially overshadowed by radio singles, "Five-oh-five" gradually became the band's emotional centerpiece, finding renewed relevance with new generations through social media. With its cinematic structure, narrative tension, and Alex Turner's poetic lyricism, "Five-oh-five" represents the perfect distillation of Arctic Monkeys' ability to transform intimate emotions into universal anthems across decades.
2025-04-1315 minHitmaker ChroniclesZach Bryan - "I Remember Everything"This episode explores Zach Bryan's "I Remember Everything," a soulful collaboration with Kacey Musgraves that became an unexpected chart-topper in 2023. We trace Bryan's remarkable journey from Navy veteran recording songs in airbnbs to becoming country music's most authentic new voice, examining how his unfiltered songwriting and grassroots success challenged Nashville's traditional star-making machinery. Through its sparse production, poetic imagery, and heart-wrenching vocal performances, "I Remember Everything" epitomizes Bryan's ability to resurrect the raw emotional honesty that defined country's greatest storytellers. We also examine how his meteoric rise represents a significant shift in the genre's landscape toward lyrical substance and artistic...
2025-04-0616 minHitmaker ChroniclesMorgan Wallen - "Whisky Glasses"This episode explores Morgan Wallen's 2018 breakout hit "Whiskey Glasses," a song that catapulted him from reality TV contestant to country music superstar with its perfect blend of traditional country themes and contemporary production. We trace Wallen's journey from small-town Tennessee baseball player to reluctant vocalist to genre-defining artist, examining how his distinctive voice and everyman authenticity connected with millions.From its clever wordplay to its arena-ready chorus, "Whiskey Glasses" revitalized country music's time-honored tradition of drinking songs while introducing a fresh sound that would help blur the boundaries between country, pop, and hip-hop in the years to come.
2025-03-3015 minHitmaker ChroniclesArianna Grande - "7 Rings"This episode explores Ariana Grande's 2019 smash hit "7 rings," a bold reimagining of "My Favorite Things" that transformed a classic show tune into a trap-pop anthem of female empowerment and luxurious self-indulgence. We trace Grande's journey from Nickelodeon child star to pop music powerhouse, examining how personal tragedy and public scrutiny forged her most creatively daring era. Through its innovative production, controversial cultural references, and unapologetic celebration of financial independence, "7 rings" became more than a #1 hit—it established Grande as an artist willing to transform pain into power, controversy into conversation, and personal evolution into musical revolution.Unlock an...
2025-03-2317 min
The Morning Hustle PodcastFULL EP | Rapper Young M.A. Ex-Girlfriend Exposes Medical Issues Online; Teyana Taylor and Iman Shumpert Still Going Back and Forth; Tina Knowles Throws Shade at Kanye West; and MOREOn this episode of The Morning Hustle Podcast with Lore’l and Kyle Santillian along with Alton Walker, the crew have a lot of tea to spill. Rapper Young M.A. is getting sympathy from fans after her ex-girlfriend violated all of the “Ouuuu” hitmakers private life. The ex-girlfriend took to social media to talk about her grievances of Young M.A. but she also released pictures of her while she was sick and, in the hospital, dealing with severe medical issues. When we thought the divorce was final between Teyana Taylor and Iman Shumpert, more is coming out online...
2025-03-2142 minHitmaker ChroniclesGracie Abrams - "I Love You, I'm Sorry"This episode explores Gracie Abrams' breakthrough 2020 single "I love you, I'm sorry," a song that captures the painful contradictions of a relationship's end with devastating intimacy. We trace Abrams' journey from SoundCloud bedroom recordings to becoming a voice for Gen Z's emotional introspection, examining how her privileged Hollywood upbringing contrasts with her disarmingly honest songwriting. From its minimalist piano to its whispered confessions, "I love you, I'm sorry" showcases Abrams' gift for transforming deeply personal moments into universal emotional experiences. We also follow her rapid evolution into a Taylor Swift-endorsed songwriter whose quiet vulnerability resonates across generations....
2025-03-1615 minHitmaker ChroniclesKelly Clarkson - "Since U Been Gone"This episode explores Kelly Clarkson's 2004 breakthrough hit "Since U Been Gone," a song that redefined pop-rock with its explosive chorus and raw emotional power. We dive into how the track transformed Clarkson from American Idol winner to critically respected artist, blending pop accessibility with rock edge. From its origins as a rejected Pink demo to its status as a cultural touchstone, "Since U Been Gone" resonated across genres and generations. We trace how the song's message of post-breakup liberation, combined with Clarkson's powerhouse vocals, created one of the most cathartic sing-along anthems of the 2000s and cemented her legacy as...
2025-03-0916 minHitmaker ChroniclesCarrie Underwood - "Jesus Take The Wheel"This episode dives into Carrie Underwood’s 2005 debut smash hit “Jesus, Take the Wheel,” a song that redefined modern country music with its powerful storytelling and heartfelt message of faith. We explore how the track, inspired by a true story, became an instant classic, earning Underwood her first Grammy and solidifying her as a country music icon. From its emotional lyrics to its soaring vocals, “Jesus, Take the Wheel” resonated with listeners across genres, offering a message of hope and surrender. We also trace its impact on Underwood’s career and its enduring legacy as a modern country standard.
2025-03-0209 min
The Creative MindsetBonus Track: Lightning Questions with Angela Onuoha - E53Alternative career choices? Next travel destinations? Favorite food? We welcome back Angela Onuoha for a fun round of lightning questions.Angela is the most established and well-known trichologist and Cosmetic Chemist within the creator space. Her advocation for diversity has made her a true force for good within the beauty industry.Angela isn’t just an influencer, she is an educator who is leading input into efficacious formulations and the importance of ingredients. She is working with the globe’s leading hair care brands, advising on product diversity and laun...
2025-02-2708 minHitmaker ChroniclesDua Lipa - "New Rules"This episode explores Dua Lipa’s 2017 breakout hit “New Rules,” a song that redefined modern pop with its infectious beats, empowering lyrics, and bold visual storytelling. We delve into how the track became a global phenomenon, offering a fresh take on heartbreak and self-respect.Tracing Dua Lipa’s rise from London newcomer to pop powerhouse, we examine how “New Rules” cemented her as a voice for a generation. With its catchy hooks and relatable message, the song not only topped charts worldwide but also became an anthem of independence, proving that sometimes the best revenge is moving on.
2025-02-2309 minHitmaker ChroniclesAdam Sandler - "50 Years" - Saturday NIght Live 50th Anniversary SpecialThis episode explores Adam Sandler's heartfelt performance of "50 Years" at the "Saturday Night Live" 50th anniversary special, a song that encapsulates the show's rich history and emotional impact. We delve into how Sandler, an SNL alum, crafted this acoustic tribute to celebrate five decades of laughter, innovation, and camaraderie. From its nostalgic lyrics to its candid references to beloved cast members, "50 Years" serves as both a personal reflection and a universal homage to the cultural phenomenon that is SNL. We examine the song's significance in Sandler's career and its resonance among fans and former cast members alike....
2025-02-1708 minHitmaker ChroniclesFoo Fighters - "Best Of You"This episode dives into Foo Fighters’ 2005 powerhouse hit “Best of You,” a song that channels raw emotion and unrelenting energy into a timeless rock anthem. Exploring the track’s origins during a period of personal and political turmoil, we unpack how Dave Grohl’s lyrics and the band’s explosive instrumentation turned pain into power.From its anthemic chorus to its searing guitar solos, “Best of You” became a rallying cry for resilience. We also trace its impact on Foo Fighters’ legacy, cementing their place as one of rock’s most enduring and emotionally charged acts. Unlock an ad-free p...
2025-02-1607 min
The Creative MindsetAlgorithms vs. Authenticity in Content Creation - E52The importance of personality and sharing well-researched knowledge outweighs the value of viral content. In this second part of Rei’s talk with trichologist and content creator Angela Onuoha, we hear about her daily routine, the strategic choices behind her content creation, and how she balances authenticity with platform algorithms. Angela breaks down her structured yet flexible schedule, emphasizing the importance of planning and adaptability in a fast-paced digital world. The conversation offers unique insights on maintaining authenticity, the challenges of content creation on platforms like Instagram and TikTok, and her aspirations for the future, using her expertise to de...
2025-02-1322 minHitmaker ChroniclesSelena Gomez - "Come And Get It"This episode explores Selena Gomez’s 2013 smash hit “Come & Get It,” a transformative anthem that marked her evolution from Disney starlet to global pop sensation. We delve into the song’s infectious blend of Bollywood-inspired beats, empowering lyrics, and Gomez’s newfound confidence as a solo artist.Tracing her journey from child star to chart-topping icon, we examine how “Come & Get It” became a declaration of independence and self-assurance. With its bold production and universal appeal, the track not only redefined Gomez’s career but also cemented her as a force in pop music. Unlock an ad-free podcas...
2025-02-0909 min
The Creative MindsetFrom Law School Dropout to Creative Hair Influencer - E51Perfect jobs are not something you find, but something you create for yourself. Rei talks with Angela Onuoha, a pioneering trichologist and content creator from Amsterdam, to unpack her unique journey into the creator economy. Angela shares how her cultural background and personal experiences with hair care led her to a path she never anticipated—becoming an influential voice in the trichology community. The conversation delves into the evolution of the creator economy and its substantial impact on culture and business today.Angela is the most established and well-known trichologist and Cosmetic Chemist within th...
2025-02-0635 minHitmaker ChroniclesCharlie XCX - "Brat" *Grammy Nominee*This episode dives into Charli XCX’s explosive debut album Brat, a genre-defying statement that cements her as pop’s newest provocateur. From its edgy soundscapes and irreverent lyrics to its bold exploration of fame, identity, and rebellion, Brat is a visceral celebration of unapologetic individuality. Tracing Charli’s rise from an internet-born DIY artist to a global sensation, we explore how her debut album captures the chaos and creativity of a generation redefining pop. With its mix of hyperpop innovation and raw emotional energy, Brat doesn’t just introduce Charli XCX—it declares her a force reshaping the future of music.
2025-02-0206 min
Honest & Unmerciful Record Review PodcastEp. 21 - Genesis: "A Trick of the Tail"Join Pete and Brian as they explore 1976's "A Trick of the Tail" album by Genesis, the band's first without Peter Gabriel on lead vocals, swapping in young drummer Phil Collins. While the loss of a distinct voice and visual identity could have ended the fledgling band, Genesis delivered a classic album full of progressive music, adventurous lyrics and a voice that began a new era of critical and popular acclaim. Does this record point the band in the direction of pop hitmakers, or represent the logical next step from their art-rock past? Tune in to find out! Episode...
2025-02-011h 10
Future CommerceThe Magic of Cultural Hitmaking With Ana Andjelic“There is nothing but micro trends these days. Sometimes, things bubble up, and they capture the imagination of pop culture…but then they last for a really short time. In that environment, how do you really set yourself up to influence culture?” In this week’s episode, Ana Andjelic graces our show with breakthrough advice from her latest book, Hitmakers: How Brands Influence Culture. Discover the secrets of updating heritage brands, keys to transporting customers into imaginative worlds, and how to amplify microtrends to position your brand within cornerstone cultural narratives. Architects of the Identity Economy
2025-01-2453 minHitmaker ChroniclesChappel Roan - "Good Luck Babe" *Grammy Nominee*This episode dives into Charli XCX’s explosive debut album Brat, a genre-defying statement that cements her as pop’s newest provocateur. From its edgy soundscapes and irreverent lyrics to its bold exploration of fame, identity, and rebellion, Brat is a visceral celebration of unapologetic individuality. Tracing Charli’s rise from an internet-born DIY artist to a global sensation, we explore how her debut album captures the chaos and creativity of a generation redefining pop. With its mix of hyperpop innovation and raw emotional energy, Brat doesn’t just introduce Charli XCX—it declares her a force reshaping the future of music.
2025-01-2405 minHitmaker ChroniclesShaboozey - "A Bar Song" *Grammy Nominee*This episode dives into Shaboozey's soulful and intoxicating anthem “A Bar Song,” exploring how its bittersweet melodies and clever lyricism evoke a timeless sense of nostalgia and escapism. Tracing the Nigerian-American artist’s journey from Virginia to the global stage, we deconstruct the track’s fusion of hip-hop storytelling, bluesy instrumentation, and cinematic imagery. Through its exploration of love, loss, and late-night solace, “A Bar Song” emerges as a modern hymn for those seeking refuge in the dimly lit corners of life. Ultimately, the episode celebrates Shaboozey’s ability to blend vivid storytelling with universal emotions, creating a song that feels both dee...
2025-01-1706 minHitmaker ChroniclesAmy Winehouse - "Rehab"This visceral narrative exhumes how Amy Winehouse's smash "Rehab" became a transcendent confessional exorcism about addiction's cycles. Deconstructing the snarling vocal deliveries and ominous jazz-soul grooves, it explores her uncompromising documentation of personal demons battling therapeutic interventions with unvarnished authenticity.The searing emotional specificity and existential reflections within her anarchic scat-tinged howls are examined as Winehouse's artistic statement reshaping pop's boundaries. Ultimately, despite her tragic demise, "Rehab's" bravery elevating harrowing truth over artifice is enshrined as a universal beacon illuminating creative resilience amidst self-destruction's maelstroms - a soulful requiem for weathering inner vortexes intact....
2025-01-1008 minHitmaker ChroniclesPrince - "Purple Rain"This cosmic narrative explores how Prince's multi-dimensional masterpiece "Purple Rain" became a transcendent cultural supernova. Tracing his humble Minneapolis roots catalyzing the avant-garde vision, it deconstructs the album/film's prismatic intermingling of spiritual awakenings and carnal ecstasies through a fictional lens. From the yearning title track's guitar raptures exorcising pain, to "When Doves Cry" ushering in the video revolution, each facet is examined as a portal into self-actualization through art. Ultimately, the boundary-obliterating creative statement's enduring legacy inspiring generations to fully embody their truths is enshrined as an immortal individuating force.Unlock an ad-free podcast experience with...
2025-01-0309 minHitmaker ChroniclesThe New Year's Eve Song: Auld Lang SyneThis nostalgic narrative explores how the timeless "Auld Lang Syne" became an immortal global New Year's ritual. Tracing its origins as an ancient Scottish folk song published by Robert Burns, it examines the poignant lyrics' universal appeal in prompting reflections on cherished friendships and life's cyclical transitions. Iconic interpretations by artists spanning Frank Sinatra to James Taylor are deconstructed, revealing how each refracts the hymn's profound existential themes of reminiscing while embracing new possibilities. Ultimately, "Auld Lang Syne's" ability to provide a transcendent communal pause for pondering our most sacred bonds solidifies its place as humanity's eternal year-ending ceremony.
2024-12-2707 minHitmaker ChroniclesA Christmas Song: Mariah Carey - "All I Want For Xmas Is You"This effervescent narrative unwraps how Mariah Carey's "All I Want for Christmas Is You" became a ubiquitous yuletide juggernaut. Tracing her humble beginnings and vocal prowess blossoming from a troubled childhood through record-breaking 90s pop domination, it explores the hit's sophisticated musical structure fusing nostalgic wonderment with grown-up romantic desire. Deconstructing Mariah's stratospheric vocals blending technical dexterity and gospel euphoria, the episode celebrates how the song's irresistible melodies and harmonies bottled Christmas' warmth. With stratospheric streaming stats and cherished annual traditions, "All I Want" stands as an eternal gift of holiday magic renewed each season.Unlock an...
2024-12-2008 minHitmaker ChroniclesA Christmas Song: The Pogues (feat. Kirsty MacColl) - "Fairytale of New York"This gritty narrative exhumes how The Pogues and Kirsty MacColl's "Fairytale of New York" became a profane yuletide epiphany. Tracing Shane MacGowan's punk poet roots in 70s East London birthing their anarchic Irish folk-rock, it explores the song's brutal vignettes of holiday squalor and romantic dysfunction heralding a season's redeeming grace. Deconstructing MacGowan and MacColl's combative gender roles battling towards the bridge's transcendent promise of rebirth, the episode consecrates "Fairytale" as the outcast's bacchanal exorcising yule malaise before sacred communion. For the faithful, MacGowan's howls remain eternal punk scripture for stumbling back towards divine Christmas illumination yearly....
2024-12-1306 minHitmaker ChroniclesA Christmas Song: Bing Crosby - "White Christmas"This heartwarming narrative unwraps how Bing Crosby's "White Christmas" became an immortal yuletide standard. Tracing his unique baritone's evolution from rowdy 1920s nightclubs to transporting WWII-era audiences with nostalgic seasonal solace, it explores the song's origins as an Irving Berlin tonic for troops abroad. Deconstructing Crosby's unmatched ability to vocally evoke the kaleidoscopic nostalgia, wonderment and familial warmth of idyllic Christmases past, the episode enshrines how his resonant croon transformed "White Christmas" into an eternal musical Christmas card rekindling our holiday's boundless magic each year. As new generations discover its timeless reverence, the serenade remains our yuletide hearth's illuminating lodestar.
2024-12-0607 min
Sappenin’ Podcast with Sean SmithEP. 315 - Story Of The Year (Dan Marsala & Josh Wills)Tear Me to Pieces. St. Louis scene staples, emo anthem hitmakers and stage diving maniacs, Story Of The Year, are our guests on Episode 315 of Sappenin' Podcast! Dan Marsala and Josh Wills take time out of the bands first UK tour since the 2010s, to expose secrets on the bands evolving legacy, untold rivalries and folklore party moments. In this conversation, Dan and Josh open up on their surprise European absence, package offers vs finance dynamics, unwritten rules, how it all almost ended, near break-up moments, real life jobs, cultural impact of Page Avenue, early day beef with Yellowcard...
2024-12-061h 07Hitmaker ChroniclesA Christmas Song: Wham! - "Last Christmas"This soulful narrative unwraps how Wham!'s 1984 smash "Last Christmas" became an immortal yuletide epiphany. Tracing George Michael and Andrew Ridgeley's unbreakable bond from working-class London youths experimenting with punk and ska to pop's cheekily subversive teen idols, it explores Michael's vocal genius elevating the song's nostalgic melancholy into profoundly relatable romantic lament. His exquisite vocals confronting past heartbreaks and yearning for new beginnings add gravitas missing from most holiday fare. Ultimately, Michael's boundless artistic evolution and tragic passing further enshrine "Last Christmas" as an eternal invitation to renew self-acceptance and loving all your truth each season....
2024-11-2907 minHitmaker ChroniclesAdam Sandler - "The Thanksgiving Song"This hilarious narrative toasts Adam Sandler's beloved novelty "The Thanksgiving Song" and his iconoclastic comedy rise. Tracing his days doing grungy Boston comedy clubs to his big Saturday Night Live break unveiling his signature silly musical antics, it explores how Sandler's childlike reverence for the holiday's traditions birthed an enduring anthem. Deconstructing the song's celebration of turkey gluttony and family bonding, the episode salutes how Sandler smuggles profound gratitude within his refreshingly irreverent prism. As his blockbuster movie career soared, the way he channeled humble appreciation for life's simple pleasures only solidified "The Thanksgiving Song's" evergreen spirit....
2024-11-2206 minHitmaker ChroniclesLinkin Park - "In The End"This seismic narrative detonates how Linkin Park's 2000 smash "In the End" scorched youth consciousness through radical vulnerability. Tracing the nu-metal revolutionaries' molten forging within LA's 90s underground and Chester Bennington's spiritually-cleansing howls embodying trauma's darkest shades, it explores their unique sound merging genres into cathartic demoliton rituals. Deconstructing the song's harrowing exorcisms of pain's roots and creation of a mainstream portal for audacious emotional emancipation, the episode ultimately honors how Bennington's tragic passing only intensified their music's role as a lodestar guiding millions through authenticity's fires. For "In the End" remains a soul-shaking initiation to confront weakness through transcendent fortitude.
2024-11-1508 minHitmaker ChroniclesRadiohead - "Creep"This existential narrative deconstructs how Radiohead's breakthrough "Creep" became a seismic generational reckoning. Tracing the band's origins as alienated Oxfordshire youths finding transcendence through music's vulnerability, it explores Thom Yorke's anguished vocals and disillusionment-fueled lyrics delivering a countercultural meteor. Deconstructing the song's spiraling existential guitars and dynamics elevating self-loathing into metaphysical catharsis, the episode celebrates how "Creep" demolished rock theater's artifice. Ultimately, the anthem's awakening spirit of radical authenticity and impact sculpting Radiohead's boundless future path is enshrined as a seminal unveiling of rock's existential disruptors.Unlock an ad-free podcast experience with Caloroga Shark Media! Get all...
2024-11-0807 minHitmaker ChroniclesNirvana - "Smells Like Teen Spirit"This scorching audio narrative untangles how Nirvana's "Smells Like Teen Spirit" became a generational big bang of creative liberation. Deconstructing Kurt Cobain's abrasive howl channeling millions of disaffected souls into a molotov cocktail of working-class manifesto and melodic irreverence, it explores Dave Grohl's unparalleled drum bombardment as the true kinetic life force. The making of the anarchic music video crystalizing their cheerleader anti-iconography is revealed, as is the song's seismic impact torching hair metal banality to upend rock's very consciousness. Finally, Grohl's continuation as culture's most esteemed ambassador honoring that spirit through Foo Fighters and beyond solidifies "Teen Spirit's" immortality.
2024-11-0107 minHitmaker ChroniclesMichael Jackson - "Thriller"This chilling audio ritual conjures how Michael Jackson's "Thriller" became a seismic Halloween transmission summoning humanity's darkest energies. Tracing the song's infusion of ancient occult dread with MJ's euphoric funk exorcisms, it explores Quincy Jones manifesting a transcendent pop demon. The making of the iconic music video thriller transforming Michael into horror's ultimate pop revenant is dissected in ghoulish detail. The way "Thriller" codified an annual zombie ritual honoring Jackson's sacred duality as slick virtuoso and dark shaman is celebrated. Ultimately, the song's singular phantasmagorical vision fusing music, dance, and cinema into eternal Halloween possession is enshrined.
2024-10-2509 min