Sodajerker On Songwriting

The phenomenal Madison Cunningham speaks with Sodajerker about her new record Revealer, sincerity versus technicality in music making, and why songs are sometimes smarter than you. The singer-songwriter also discusses her distinctive approach to the guitar and the influence of church music in her development.

Julian Lennon joins Simon and Brian for a chat about his new record Jude, the importance of emotion in songwriting, dealing with anxiety, and the trials of relearning his old material. The multi-faceted singer-songwriter also discusses his work as a photographer, filmmaker and author, and reflects on how his creativity is powered by his relentless work ethic.

Singer-songwriter Martha Wainwright discusses her recent memoir Stories I Might Regret Telling You, how she approaches writing both songs and prose, and being done with old narratives. The critically lauded artist also shares her thoughts on using open tunings, why she found acting wasn’t compatible with songwriting, and her plans for the future.

Canadian treasure Steven Page sits down with Simon and Brian to discuss his songwriting process, his work with Barenaked Ladies, and songs from his forthcoming solo album. The beloved singer-songwriter shares his thoughts on the joy of choir singing, the place of humour in songwriting, and what he's learned from long-time collaborators like Stephen 'Tin Tin' Duffy.

The charismatic Bruce Hornsby joins us to talk about the writing of his superb new album 'Flicted and the art of living a life of creativity. In this in-depth conversation, the singer-songwriter and pianist describes how he gets inspired by reading literary fiction, his work on music for Spike Lee joints, what he means when he describes his sound as 'Bill Evans meets the hymnbook', and why 'The Way It Is' was one of the most unlikely hits ever.

Singer-songwriter and violin virtuoso Andrew Bird discusses the writing of his captivating new record Inside Problems. In this detailed chat, the seasoned artist explains his approach to confessional songwriting, using archaic language, and how he has been inspired by everything from insomnia to the air freshener used in New York taxicabs.

Beloved Scouse singer-songwriter Michael Head (The Pale Fountains, Shack) talks about his fantastic new record Dear Scott and his approach to songwriting. In this detailed conversation, Mick reflects on his relationship with poetry, his Liverpool roots, and how he imbues his songs with stories, characters and imagination.

Norah Jones talks about the 20th anniversary edition of her Grammy award-winning record Come Away With Me and how her songwriting has developed over the past two decades. The singer, songwriter and pianist also discusses her past collaborations with Danger Mouse and Jeff Tweedy, and explains why the bathtub is the best place to write songs.

Grammy-winning singer-songwriter PJ Morton talks about the writing of his latest record Watch The Sun and his collaborations with the likes of Stevie Wonder, Jill Scott and El DeBarge. The versatile musician and producer also reflects on the importance of being himself, the inspiration he takes from his hometown of New Orleans, and his work as the keyboard player for Maroon 5.

Singer-songwriter Jewel discusses her new record Freewheelin' Woman and how she has used the songwriting process as a way to deal with anxiety. The musician and author also remembers lessons learned from time spent with Bob Dylan and Neil Young, and explains why singing in the studio is a little bit like porn.