Broken Record with Rick Rubin, Malcolm Gladwell, Bruce Headlam and Justin Richmond
Pushkin Loves Love Songs: Babyface, Broken Hearts, and the Best Genre for Love
Feb 14, 2025
In this Valentine’s special, legendary songwriter Babyface dives into how his early love experiences shaped heartfelt ballads, while Malcolm Gladwell argues that country music is the ultimate genre for love songs. Pushkin producer Ben Naddaff-Hafrey shares his personal journey of writing a love song that helped him find his partner. Together, they explore whether sad songs hold more romance and debate the emotive powers of R&B compared to other genres. It's a delightful mix of music, love, and memories!
36:07
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Quick takeaways
- R&B is highlighted as the quintessential genre for love songs, rooted in gospel music's emotional depth and romantic themes.
- Folk and country music excel in conveying heartbreak, emphasizing community through shared sorrow and personal narratives in their lyrics.
Deep dives
R&B as the Genre of Love
R&B is characterized as the quintessential genre for love songs due to its historical roots in gospel music, which focuses on love and devotion. The discussion highlights how artists transition from gospel to R&B, using emotional elements tied to both romantic and spiritual love. An example is Sam Cooke, who adapted gospel themes into secular love songs, illustrating the versatility of R&B in expressing deep emotional connections. This genre is perceived as the go-to soundtrack for romantic moments, such as weddings and first dances, underscoring its powerful influence in the realm of love music.
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