Switched on Pop

Despite TikTok defining this decade's music landscape, the app hasn't spawned a bonafide pop superstar – yet. 24-year-old Addison Rae is trying to be the first. She's already had cosigns from Arca, Charli XCX, and Benny Blanco; critical acclaim from outlets like Pitchfork, Rolling Stone, and Elle; and is cultivating a fervent fanbase with a slew of breathy, ethereal, and inspiration-laden singles. But how does one translate TikTok celebrity into pop success? On this episode of Switched On Pop, Reanna, Nate, and Charlie put their "Headphones On" to understand how one of the biggest Gen-Z celebrities is trying to parlay her allure into pop princess-dom. MORE Subscribe to our newsletter to receive your own bingo card! SONGS DISCUSSED Addison Rae – Diet Pepsi Addison Rae – Aquamarine Addison Rae – High Fashion Addison Rae – Headphones On Addison Rae – Obsessed Charlie Puth – The Way I Am Michael Jackson – Smooth Criminal Addison Rae – I got it bad Addison Rae – Nothing On (But The Radio) Addison Rae – it could've been u Addison Rae – 2 die 4 (feat. Charli XCX) Charli XCX, Addison Rae, A. G. Cook – Von dutch a. g. remix Lana Del Rey – Blue Jeans Lana Del Rey – Cherry Lana Del Rey – Diet Mountain Dew Lana Del Rey – Bartender Lana Del Rey – Cola Madonna – Nothing Really Matters Selena Gomez, A$AP Rocky – Good For You Edie Brickell & New Bohemians – What I Am Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this engaging discussion, singer-songwriter Jensen McRae, known for her albums 'Are You Happy Now?' and 'I Don't Know How But They Found Me,' shares insights on Taylor Swift's massive influence on a new generation of artists. They delve into the unique songwriting styles of Gracie Abrams, Maisie Peters, and Phoebe Bridgers, all inspired by Swift's specific lyrics and emotional storytelling. The conversation also explores the significance of bridges in songwriting and how Swift's authenticity resonates profoundly with emerging musicians, including McRae herself.

LP Giobbi, a jazz-trained pianist and activist, Nabil Ayers, president of Beggars Group, and Dani Deahl, a DJ and creator insights leader at BandLab, discuss the evolution of the music industry towards niche markets. They explore how artists are building dedicated fanbases outside of mainstream hits, the rise of diverse sounds within the dance music scene, and the vital role of indie stores in community engagement. The conversation highlights the importance of authenticity, representation, and the supportive environment fostered by movements like FemHouse.

Miley Cyrus is pushing artistic boundaries with her latest project, completely redefining her sound. Inspired by Pink Floyd, she’s exploring deeply existential themes in a concept album aimed at healing culture through music. The conversation touches on her jazz influences and surprising collaborations, showcasing a blend of shoegaze and minimalism. There’s also a deep dive into her evolution from pop sensation to avant-garde artist, with a focus on the emotional weight of her lyrics, particularly in tracks like 'End of the World' and 'Prelude.'

Chappell Roan’s Grammy performance reveals unexpected ties between country and 80s hair metal. Discover how glam rock aesthetics shape her country hit "The Giver." Intrigue unfolds as connections to AC/DC’s producer and Shania Twain illuminate the evolution of sound and identity within the genres. The discussion dives into how lyrical humor blends small-town life with contemporary themes, and examines the dazzling gender expressions rooted in both country and hair metal styles. A bold fusion emerges from this musical detective story!

Pete Townshend, the legendary guitarist and songwriter for The Who, shares the fascinating backstory of their iconic anthem 'My Generation.' Commissioned by six fans, the track captures the rebellious spirit of 1960s youth. Townshend reflects on the song's spontaneous lyrics, musical influences, and the societal pressures that shaped its creation. He also discusses its controversial reception, including the BBC ban, and how its message resonates in today's generational landscape, proving its legacy transcends time.

Lady Gaga's latest album captures her gothic essence while paying homage to her musical influences like Prince and Bowie. The conversation dives into the chaotic layers of tracks like 'Killa,' spotlighting falsetto and industrial sounds. The intriguing parallels between Gaga and Taylor Swift's works ignite discussions on potential collaborations. As they explore her evolution, listeners are treated to a celebration of Gaga's contributions to pop, alongside musings on the evolving landscape of music and the emergence of 'oligarch pop.'

When the song “Get Ur Freak On” hit radio in 2001, it set the world of popular music on fire. Missy Elliott and Timbaland’s first crossover hit sounded nothing like the chart-topping bluesy rock of Aerosmith or Lenny Kravitz, or the smooth R&B of Joe or Jagged Edge. It was a song that compelled you to dance - literally, with Missy issuing repeat commands to “get ur freak on” and encouraging crowds to gather ‘round in what we’ve only ever experienced as a hot slick mess of bodies, cheering and vibing as one pretzeling mass. But this song was years in the making. Timbaland and Missy had been hard at work on the sound for nearly a decade before “Get Ur Freak On” was heard by anyone.This week, in yet another segment of our Modern Classics miniseries, our guest host and former producer Megan Lubin shares the story of the sound that made “Get Ur Freak On” a pop music phenomenon, and transformed Timbaland into one of the most ubiquitous producers of the aughts.  Songs DiscussedMissy Elliott - Get Ur Freak OnTweet - Oops (Oh My)Jay-Z - Dirt off Your ShoulderJustin Timberlake - What Goes Around... Comes Around2Pac - Me Against The WorldTLC - CreepGinuwine - Pony Aaliyah - One in a MillionJay-Z ft. UGK - Big Pimpin’Jay-Z - Hard Knock Life (Ghetto Anthem)Justin Timberlake - Cry Me a RiverNelly Furtado - PromiscuousJustin Timberlake ft. T.I. - My LoveTimbaland ft. One Republic - ApologizeSports Car - Tate McRae Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dive into the fascinating world of Imogen Heap as the hosts explore her groundbreaking track 'Hide and Seek.' Discover how a technical glitch led to a sonic breakthrough that shaped modern pop music. From the whimsical journey of the vocoder to the unexpected inspiration found in late-night sessions, the conversation highlights music's spontaneous artistry. Plus, see how the song's influence endures, from iconic samples to its vibrant presence in today's soundscape. A blend of nostalgia and innovation awaits!

Dive into the groundbreaking journey of Rihanna's iconic hit, 'Umbrella,' and discover how it altered the landscape of pop music. Explore the innovative production techniques and emotional depth that defined the track. Learn about the intense competition for the song and the key collaborations that brought it to life. Unpack the significance of GarageBand in modern music, showing how accessible technology reshapes creativity. This riveting story unveils how one song can change an artist's fate and influence an entire genre.