David Paich, prolific songwriter and co-producer of Toto's 'Africa,' shares crazy stories about working with Michael Jackson and Quincy Jones on 'Thriller.' He also discusses his early career, playing and touring with Sonny & Cher, and co-writing hits like 'Rosanna' and 'Hold The Line.'

Susanna Hoffs, founding member of The Bangles, talks about Bruce Springsteen helping them get a record deal and listening to Prince's demo of 'Manic Monday.' They also discuss her diverse creative pursuits, including music, acting, and writing. They explore the concept of using fiction as a coping mechanism and the potential feminist meaning of 'Under My Thumb.' They delve into the band's early days, recording process, and unexpected success of 'Walk Like an Egyptian.'

Marty Stuart, an artist dedicated to preserving old country music, shares stories about touring with Johnny Cash, studio sessions with Roy Orbison, and his journey to pursue a solo career. They also discuss the Beatles' influence, playing with Jerry Lee Lewis, and the vibrant creative scene in Nashville in the 1970s.

Lol Tolhurst, drummer and co-founder of The Cure, discusses the band's 'goth period' and making their albums. He also talks about his recently released book on goth genre history and his new album with Budgie featuring guest appearances by The Edge and James Murphy. They explore the impact of songs, authenticity, self-discovery, the sound evolution in 'Faith', misinterpretation of The Cure's music, recording 'Pornography', and band dynamics.

Mark Mothersbaugh, the lead singer and keyboardist for Devo, is an avant-garde, new wave pioneer. The podcast explores his upbringing in a chaotic household with exotic animals, his quirky sensibility, and the DIY ethos of Devo. They also discuss his successful career scoring for TV and film, including collaborations with Wes Anderson. Mark shares a story about Richard Branson suggesting that Johnny Rotten join Devo after the Sex Pistols broke up.

24-year-old multi-instrumentalist and singer/songwriter Laufey discusses her rise to fame during the pandemic, blending classical, pop and jazz in her music. She talks about her start in singing jazz standards online, the sacrifices her Chinese family made during the Cultural Revolution, and performs two original songs, including her single 'From The Start'.

Swiss-Ecuadorian brothers, Hermanos Gutiérrez, take a minimalist approach to instrumental guitar. They discuss their recent album and collaboration with Dan Auerbach. They also share stories of brotherly spats, performing during a volcanic eruption, and Auerbach's immediate desire to work with them. They play live from Auerbach's studio in Nashville.

Pete Townshend, legendary guitarist and songwriter for The Who, discusses his innovative music, from rock operas to synthesizers. He shares his thoughts on technology, targeting a male audience, and the Grateful Dead. The podcast explores his failed project, Lifehouse, and the influence of Leslie West. Pete also talks about his radical approach to music and his relationship with the speaker's father.

Paul McCartney and Irish poet Paul Muldoon have in-depth conversations about McCartney's lyrics and songwriting process, revealing personal details about his life. They discuss topics such as the success and breakup of the Beatles, Wings, family life in Liverpool, and the inspiration behind the song 'Back in the USSR'. They also explore censorship in Russia and the power of music as a beacon of freedom. Subscribe to Pushkin+ for the entire first season on Apple Podcasts.

Texas-born singer/songwriter Amanda Shires joins the podcast to discuss her collaboration with Bobbie Nelson, her comfort singing about societal issues with The Highwomen, and her wild experience gambling in Vegas.