Chris Molanphy

Chris Molanphy, a renowned music critic and chart expert, joins the hosts for an upbeat discussion about the Summer Strut tradition. They sift through listener-submitted songs, uncovering hidden gems and personal favorites. The conversation dives into the evolution of popular music, highlighting new artists vying for recognition amid chart-topping hits. Listeners will appreciate insights on emotional summer anthems, sampling in music, and the cultural significance behind tracks like 'Mr. Dabalina'. It's a vibrant celebration of music that encapsulates the summer spirit!

Chris Molanphy, a chart historian and producer of the Hit Parade podcast, dives deep into Stevie Wonder's iconic album, exploring its unprecedented success. He illustrates how it produced four major hit singles and even influenced later tracks by Coolio and Will Smith. The conversation highlights the album's lush LA sound, infectious grooves, and musical complexities that resonate with jazz musicians. From the joyful notes of "Sir Duke" to the Latin vibes of "Another Star," this discussion unveils the genius behind its chart history and lasting impact.

Join Chris Molanphy, a Slate writer and host of Hit Parade, as he dives into the cultural phenomena of Netflix’s 'Adolescence,' unpacking its exploration of how incel culture seeps into youth. The discussion highlights the tragic narrative of a young boy facing dire consequences and the role of social media in radicalization. Molanphy also shares insights on Lady Gaga’s acclaimed new album 'MAYHEM,' examining her artistic evolution, musical influences, and thematic explorations that showcase her unique pop sensibilities.

Chris Molanphy, host of Slate's Hit Parade, shares his musical expertise in this festive guide to gifts for culture lovers. He highlights the Beatles’ remastered Revolver box set, discussing its invaluable content. Additionally, Chris pitches the Mad Men Blu-ray collection, perfect for rewatching and understanding 1960s culture. The trio dives into the history of holiday gift guides, reflecting on their evolving nature from 1910 to the present, blending nostalgia with modern trends. It's a joyful exploration of unique gifts to celebrate this season.

In this conversation, Chris Molanphy, a Slate writer and host of the Hit Parade podcast, shares his insights on Lady Gaga's latest album, 'Mayhem,' exploring her musical evolution and powerful comeback. The discussion also dives into Netflix's 'Adolescence,' addressing its unsettling portrayal of incel culture and the societal pressures that lead to youth violence. Additionally, they touch on the political challenges facing higher education under the Trump administration, emphasizing the importance of academic independence amidst external pressures.

Chris Molanphy, a PopChart analyst and host of Hit Parade, dives into the vibrant music scene of 1984, claimed by many as 'Pop’s Greatest Year.' He discusses how the return of dance music and the rise of MTV transformed pop culture. Discover the genre-blending magic of iconic hits like Tina Turner's 'What's Love Got to Do With It' and Prince's 'When Doves Cry.' Molanphy also explores the British Invasion's impact and the emergence of hip-hop, showcasing how these elements defined a pivotal moment in music history.

Chris Molanphy, a renowned chart analyst and the voice behind the Hit Parade podcast, dives into the unexpected success of Shaboozey’s country hit "A Bar Song (Tipsy)." The discussion explores how this hip-hop-inflected track tied the record on the Billboard Hot 100, drawing parallels with Lil Nas X's "Old Town Road." Listeners will be intrigued by the cultural significance of Black artists in country music, the genre's evolving landscape, and Shaboozey's unique journey bridging hip-hop and country, all infused with humor and insightful commentary.

Chris Molanphy, a chart analyst and pop critic known for his insightful writings and his podcast Hit Parade, discusses Shaboozey's unprecedented rise in the country music scene. They explore how Shaboozey’s hit "A Bar Song (Tipsy)" has matched Lil Nas X’s record on the charts. The conversation delves into the cultural significance of blending hip-hop with country, Shaboozey’s bold identity, and the historical challenges faced by Black artists in the genre. They also reflect on humor and acceptance in the industry, showcasing Shaboozey's unique contributions.

Joining the discussion is Chris Molanphy, a pop music critic and chart analyst known for his insightful work on music podcasts. The conversation kicks off with a lively debate over the 'Song of the Summer,' featuring tracks from artists like Sabrina Carpenter and Morgan Wallen. They dissect the evolving music landscape, highlight the unique dynamics for women in the industry, and explore intriguing indie sounds, including the mystery of S-J's 'Seventeen.' Expect a nostalgic journey filled with playlists, personal connections, and cultural reflections.

Music critic and pop chart analyst Chris Molanphy counts down the hits of 1988, discussing OJ Simpson's film debut, the legacy of UNRWA, and the transformative music scene of the late 80s. The podcast also explores cover songs, cold-blooded murders, and the complexities of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.