Niela Orr
Culture writer and critic who contributed to the episode as a guest to discuss Bruno Mars and questions of race, authenticity, and pop performance.
Best podcasts with Niela Orr
Ranked by the Snipd community
Sep 4, 2025 • 1h
The V.M.A.s Are This Weekend. Does Anybody Care?
Niela Orr, a culture critic, joins to dissect what truly makes a music video unforgettable. They discuss the evolution of music videos from MTV to YouTube, highlighting the cultural shifts and enduring significance of the VMAs. Orr and the host share insights on effective storytelling, the impact of feminist themes in visuals, and the nostalgia versus innovation in iconic music videos. They also critique this year’s nominees, evaluating who deserves to take home the coveted moon men.
Jun 26, 2025 • 50min
Me and Bruno Mars — a Love Story
Niela Orr, a culture writer and critic, joins Wesley Morris to explore the complexities of loving Bruno Mars. They dive deep into his Grammy moments and the showmanship showcased during his Super Bowl performance. Orr dissects Mars’ evolving personas, especially in tracks like "Uptown Funk" and his homage in "24K Magic." The duo debates the authenticity of his art, questioning if it leans toward imitation, and ponder the implications of his appeal to diverse audiences. Their conversation illuminates the intricate dance between race, performance, and pop culture.
