Switched on Pop's Charlie Harding and Rolling Stone's Brittany Spanos debate whether the concept of the 'song of the summer' is fading. They discuss the history of this idea, the evolution of music trends, and the challenges faced by artists in the current industry landscape.

Join music writer Rob Sheffield, author of 'Heartbreak Is the National Anthem,' and Rolling Stone contributor Brittany Spanos as they dive into Taylor Swift's monumental influence on pop. They explore her journey from teenage songwriter to cultural icon, discussing how her guitar symbolizes empowerment. The duo also highlights Swift's unique approach to songwriting, the impactful release strategies behind her albums, and her ability to redefine female representation in the music industry, drawing parallels to legends like Bob Dylan.

Brittany Spanos, a Senior writer at Rolling Stone, joins Chris Stedman, a writer and host known for his insights on music, to dissect the concept of a 'flop' in pop music. They dive into Katy Perry's underwhelming '143', exploring how audience expectations and commercial performance affect reputations. The duo discusses how flops can lead to artistic growth, the shifting definitions shaped by digital culture, and how fans, particularly in the queer community, embrace these 'failures' with a sense of affection.

Brittany Spanos, a Rolling Stone writer known for her insightful music industry coverage, discusses the remarkable rise of pop star Chappell Roan. They explore Roan's journey from the Ozarks to stardom, highlighting her bold identity and unique sound. Spanos emphasizes why current controversies won't define Roan's career, mentioning the impact of her personal struggles and the evolving landscape of queer representation in music. The duo also dives into the challenges of sudden fame and the importance of authentic communication in today's media.

Two guests, Charlie Harding and Brittany Spanos, debate the existence of the song of the summer. They explore the evolution of the concept, summer music trends, and changing dynamics in the music industry. The podcast challenges the idea of a definitive 'Song of the Summer' in today's diverse music landscape.

Two Swifties, Brittany Spanos and Dr. Elly McCausland, discuss their college courses on Taylor Swift, diving into her music, business savvy, and the misconceptions surrounding her. They explore the parallels between Taylor's lyrics and literature, challenging stereotypes and reflecting on her impact. Tune in to hear about the backlash and culture surrounding Taylor Swift's work.

While music streaming platforms have exploded, many critics argue the status quo isn't working for artists. We're taking a deep dive into the music industry, exploring the relationship between artists, labels, fans and the internet. On this episode, we're joined by music journalists Brittany Spanos, senior staff writer at Rolling Stone, and Naima Cochrane, a music and culture journalist and a former record label executive at some of the industry’s biggest outlets.Binge all episodes early and ad-free with Wondery+. Join Wondery+ for exclusives, binges, early access, and ad free listening. Available in the Wondery App https://wondery.app.link/businesswars.Support us by supporting our sponsor!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Join music journalist Tomás Mier, writer Brittany Spanos, and cultural critic Rob Sheffield as they dissect some of the most criticized songs, including 'Twinkle Twinkle Little Bitch.' They debate whether the 'worst songs' label still holds weight in a world dominated by TikTok's viral pressures. The trio also explores how live concert behavior has shifted post-pandemic and reflects on the evolving perception of music, revealing how once-derided tracks can transform into beloved favorites over time.

Join music journalist Brittany Spanos, cultural critic Rob Sheffield, and Rolling Stone's Andy Greene as they celebrate the theatrical genius of Jim Steinman. They dive into his iconic works like ‘Bat Out of Hell’ and ‘Total Eclipse of the Heart,’ discussing his dramatic songwriting style and the emotional depth of his music. The trio explores Steinman's tumultuous partnership with Meat Loaf, unpacking their creative struggles and the lasting impact of their epic collaborations. Get ready for a wild ride through the rich legacy of rock!

Rob Sheffield, a savvy music critic and author, teams up with Brittany Spanos, a vibrant journalist covering pop culture, to unpack Taylor Swift's surprise album, 'Evermore'. They delve into the album's seasonal themes and artistic evolution, comparing it to 'Folklore'. Their discussion reveals Swift's growth as a songwriter, highlighting emotional narratives of relationships and nostalgia. Expect humorous moments inspired by Taylor and Bruce Springsteen, alongside insights on the potential for cinematic adaptations of her intricate storytelling.