Switched on Pop

Zara Larsson, a Swedish pop sensation known for her catchy hits and powerful vocals, dives into the world of Swedish pop music. She discusses her recent album, 'Midnight Sun,' and how the phenomenon of 'Swedish pop' has captivated global audiences. Zara reveals the magic behind Sweden's unique sound, blending melancholy with euphoria, influenced by the extremes of nature. The conversation also touches on the artistry of song production, the significance of writing in her native tongue, and the undeniable impact of legends like ABBA and Max Martin.

Dive into the fascinating world of K-Pop as the hosts unravel the musical secrets behind the genre’s iconic hits. They explore unconventional song structures and emotional narratives that captivate listeners. From the cultural influences of West Side Story to the haunting melodies of Gregorian chant, each track reveals deeper themes and complexities. Discover how the dualities in melodies enhance storytelling and how the vibrant allure of K-Pop often masks darker emotional truths, shedding light on the genre's broad appeal.

Joe Keery, famed for his role in Stranger Things, brings his musical prowess to the forefront with his project, Djo. He discusses the creative evolution of his album, The Crux, sharing how personal experiences and practical constraints shaped its unique sound. The conversation dives into themes of authenticity and emotional depth, particularly in tracks like 'Lonesome' and 'Charlie's Garden.' Keery reveals the album's hotel metaphor, representing a search for stability amid life’s displacements, all while engaging listeners with eclectic influences and heartfelt storytelling.

Finneas, a Grammy-winning producer and musician known for his work with Billie Eilish, teams up with Ashe, a rising singer-songwriter famous for her raw lyrics. They discuss their new band, The Favors, and the joys of collaborative music-making. Topics include how shifting away from confessional songwriting sparked their creativity, the emotional dynamics of friendship in collaboration, and their nostalgic inspirations from the 1970s that shaped their upcoming album, 'The Dream'.

Andrew Bird, a virtuosic multi-instrumentalist known for his unique violin playing and emotive voice, joins the show alongside Madison Cunningham. They discuss the resurgence of Fleetwood Mac, particularly the iconic album Buckingham Nicks and its reissue after 50 years. The duo dives into the emotional depth in Fleetwood Mac's music, examining how personal experiences influence songwriting. Bird also shares insights on their reinterpretation of classic tracks, balancing nostalgia with modernity while reflecting on the band’s lasting legacy.

Rob Moose, a prolific violinist and multi-instrumentalist, has lent his talent to nearly 1,000 albums, creating those enchanting string arrangements you've heard in hits by Miley Cyrus and Taylor Swift. He shares his unique approach to blending classical training with modern pop, discussing how he crafts emotionally resonant arrangements. Moose reveals insights on his creative process, the transformation of songs like 'Chinese Satellite,' and the emotional weight that strings bring to contemporary music, ultimately shaping listener experiences in unexpected ways.

The hosts dive into the summer's hip-hop scene, revealing Pharrell's undeniable influence on artists like Tyler and Clipse. They celebrate Tyler's vibrant new album, contrasting it with his earlier work, and discuss the lyrical ingenuity of current hits. The emotional depth in Clipse's 'The Birds Don't Sing' is explored, alongside the evolving sound of trap music. Fun and nostalgia are key themes, as they highlight the energetic joy that hip-hop brings to listeners, even amid a slow Billboard top 10.

Join Sam Sanders, host of The Sam Sanders Show and co-host of Vibe Check, as he delves into the bizarre world of terrible lyrics in popular music. They explore the absurdity of lines like 'suckin' on a chili dog' and question whether today's lyrics truly represent a decline in artistry. From analyzing the confusion in songs like 'Muskrat Love' to celebrating the charm of poetic faux pas, the conversation balances humor and critique. Tune in for a journey that transforms lyrical blunders into delightful discussions.

Elamin Abdelmahmoud, host of CBC’s culture podcast Commotion, joins the conversation to dissect the peculiar absence of a definitive summer hit in 2025. They explore the disconnect between popular tracks and listeners, highlighting sleeper songs like Raven Lenae's 'Love Me Not.' Elamin suggests fresh contenders, including tracks from the anime KPop Demon Hunters, while also reflecting on the nostalgia of classic sounds. The discussion emphasizes the importance of music that fosters connection during the summer, challenging listeners to find their perfect anthem.

Dive into Justin Bieber's latest album, revealing his introspective side and a shift to a lo-fi, 90's R&B sound. The hosts discuss his artistic evolution and the significance of personal narratives in his music. They explore his transformation from a pop sensation to a deeper, more complex artist! Listen as they dissect collaborations and explore how his journey reflects broader changes in pop culture. Plus, a timely look at the fading concept of summer anthems in today's music landscape adds another layer to the conversation!