

Switched on Pop
Vulture
A podcast all about the making and meaning of popular music. Musicologist Nate Sloan & songwriter Charlie Harding pull back the curtain on how pop hits work magic on our ears & our culture. From Vulture and the Vox Media Podcast Network.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Apr 2, 2024 • 39min
Cowboy Carter: This Ain't Country
Beyoncé delves into a genre-bending country music album blending blues, gospel, R&B, soul, house, hip-hop, and country. The podcast discusses the controversy and complexity of the album, its diverse musical influences, collaborations with other artists, historical evocations, and cultural significance. It praises the artist for challenging traditional music boundaries and creating a versatile, genre-defying record.

11 snips
Mar 26, 2024 • 43min
Hip-hop's Sea Change at Rolling Loud
Exploring the decline of hip-hop's dominance in charts, the Rolling Loud festival in California showcases diverse talents and cultural fusion. Female rappers like Ken the Man shine on stage, hinting at a future of experimental sounds reshaping the genre post-trap era.

Mar 22, 2024 • 30min
Rhapsody in Blue, Reimagined
From Duke Ellington to K Pop, delve into the evolution and reinterpretation of Gershwin's iconic 'Rhapsody in Blue'. Discover the innovative fusion of musical traditions, societal activism, and emotional depth behind this timeless piece. Uncover the surprising family connection to Gershwin's world in a modern twist on a classical favorite.

Mar 19, 2024 • 45min
Eternal Sunshine of Ariana Grande's Mind
Dive into Ariana Grande's album 'Eternal Sunshine' and its nostalgic music elements blending 70s Disco, 90s R&B, and 00s pop. Explore how her lyrics interweave with melodies revealing past relationships. Unravel harmonic intricacies and thematic connections within the songs, referencing influences like Britney Spears and producer styles. Analyze relationship themes through harmonic complexity and musical evolution in Grande's music.

Mar 15, 2024 • 37min
How to DIY a Music Career (with Amelia Meath and David Gray at SXSW)
Amelia Meath discusses challenges in the music industry, David Gray's grassroots success with 'Babylon', independent musician strategies, Sandy's innovative tour setup, defying genre expectations, and the importance of self-care post-touring.

Mar 12, 2024 • 45min
Is Beyoncé's music #sponcon? And other mysteries LIVE in Brooklyn
From investigating Beyoncé's potential product placement to exploring the controversy of tuning music to 432 Hertz, this live podcast episode in Brooklyn covers a wide range of intriguing musical topics with twists, turns, and even a live parody performance.

Mar 5, 2024 • 1h
Jacob Collier unites the world
Discover the musical genius of Jacob Collier, from his Grammy wins to his diverse collaborations. Dive into his latest album Djesse 4, featuring a fusion of styles like Indian sitar and Colombian reggaeton. Explore his unique approach to music and collaborations with artists like Michael McDonald and T-Pain.

Feb 27, 2024 • 44min
Beyoncé's Country
Discussing Beyoncé's venture into country music with new singles 'TEXAS HOLD 'EM' and '16 CARRIAGES', exploring their structures and inspirations. Producer Reanna Cruz interviews music journalist Taylor Crumpton about Beyoncé's cultural impact. Analyzing the blend of blues, early country music elements in the songs, and Beyoncé's representation in the country music genre.

Feb 20, 2024 • 30min
Adult Contemporary, but make it cool (with CHROMEO)
CHROMEO, the Canadian Electro-Funk duo, challenges adult contemporary music norms with their latest album. The podcast discusses themes of maturity, sexiness, and insomnia coping mechanisms in their funky tunes. Explore the influence of Steely Dan on music and the importance of trust in relationships for longevity.

Feb 13, 2024 • 53min
The Star Spangled Banger!
Listen as the hosts discuss the evolution of the U.S. National Anthem and how pop divas have put their own unique spin on it in iconic performances. Data journalists analyze pitch fluctuations and create a 'diva score' to quantify the extra-ness. They explore embellishments, text painting, surprising reinterpretations, and individualistic ethos in national anthem performances.