David Metzer

Coleman Spilde, a senior culture writer at Salon.com, discusses Lily Allen's revealing breakup album, 'West End Girl,' focusing on its narrative of love and loss. David Metzer, a music historian from UBC, provides context on the evolution of breakup albums and their ties to social media. They explore the public's reaction and how online buzz influences artists' narratives. The conversation also touches on trends like both exes releasing albums and what makes a breakup album resonate with listeners, blending catchy tunes with personal drama.

Power ballads used to top the charts regularly, from 80s rock to 90s R&B. But then in the 2000s, the formula of constant escalation gradually fell off the Billboard. Now, seemingly out of nowhere, Olivia Rodrigo’s single “Drivers License” is breaking streaming records as listeners yearn for the emotional catharsis from this contemporary power ballad. With the help of David Metzer, professor of music history at the University of British Columbia, we break down how “Drivers License” sticks to an age-old formula, and how it deviates from a well worn musical path.  SONGS DISCUSSED Olivia Rodrigo - Drivers License Barry Manilow - Mandy Roy Orbison - It’s Over Clyde McPhatter - Without Love There Is Nothing  Etta James - I’d Rather Go Blind  Journey - Open Arms  Mariah Carey & Boyz II Men - One Sweet Day  Seal - Kiss From A Rose Hootie & The Blowfish - Only Wanna Be with You  Led Zeppelin - Stairway To Heaven  MOREProfessor David Metzer’s The Ballad in American Popular Music: From Elvis to BeyoncéAiyana Ishmael for Teen Vogue “Olivia Rodrigo Song "Drivers License" Sparks Fan-Made TikTok POV Covers”Olivia Rodrigo’s Instagram demoRichard S. He Twitter thread  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices