Switched on 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.

Tate McRae's music blends emotional depth with catchy beats, drawing on the nostalgia of 2000s pop. The conversation dissects her unique vocal style and strategic influences, with comparisons to pop legends like Britney Spears. She navigates themes of self-acceptance in her tracks, showcasing her growth as an artist. The hosts explore the significance of simplicity in pop, emphasizing the cultural implications of musical mimicry. As they delve into her journey from dancer to pop star, they highlight the importance of both refining and revolutionizing sound in today's music.

This discussion weaves through the nostalgic resurgence of trance music, examining its roots and impact on pop today. The team highlights FKA Twigs' innovative take on 'Eusexua,' exploring themes of love and consciousness. They delve into The Weeknd's 'Hurry Up Tomorrow,' unraveling its emotional journey through fame and isolation. Unique sounds and genre-blending techniques illustrate how both artists are reshaping the music landscape, making it an insightful exploration of contemporary pop and its connections to the past.

Liz Pelly, a music journalist and author of "Mood Machine," dives deep into Spotify's world. She reveals how the platform's algorithms and major label dominance shape the music we hear, often at the expense of artists' creativity. Pelly discusses Spotify’s evolution from a piracy response to a streaming giant, the illusion of endless choice, and the emotional impact of music in our lives. Through her insights, she challenges listeners to consider the personal cost of their perfect playlists.

The hosts predict a whirlwind 2025 for pop music, from the resurgence of boy bands to the oddball return of kazoos. They dive into the potential dominance of AI-generated songs on the charts and the future of long-form music videos. The Grammy race heats up as they debate standout albums from heavyweights like Billie Eilish and Beyoncé, while also spotlighting rising artists. Plus, they explore the cultural impact of themes like queerness in Chapel Roan's work, making for an engaging mix of humor and insight.

In this engaging discussion, journalist and translator Carina del Valle Schorske shares her insights on Bad Bunny's latest album, a vibrant homage to Puerto Rico. They delve into the cultural and political themes present in his music, including the impact of gentrification. The conversation highlights Bad Bunny's innovative blend of reggaeton and traditional sounds, illustrating how he honors his heritage while pushing artistic boundaries. They also speculate about his future musical direction, hinting at exciting fusions yet to come.

A podcast's theme music sparks a creative overhaul after it's likened to game show tunes. Hear music critics and creatives dissect its shortcomings while brainstorming a fresh, unique sound. Expert insights on sonic branding reveal the delicate art of balancing nostalgia and modernity. The hosts delve into collaborative music composition, drawing inspiration from iconic tracks and synthesizers to craft something timeless. Tune in for the evolution of a musical identity that resonates with listeners and reflects their journey!

Critics are skeptical about recent Disney sequels, labeling them as bland. The pressure on composers to replicate iconic previous hits like 'Circle of Life' is immense. An analysis of Moana highlights how Lin-Manuel Miranda infused modern themes into traditional storytelling. The emotional depth of songs like 'How Far I'll Go' showcases the struggle between nostalgia and innovation. The conversation also touches on the challenges and cultural significance of evolving Disney musicals in today’s entertainment landscape.