Song Exploder

Jessie Reyez, a Juno award-winning singer-songwriter from Toronto, shares her creative journey behind 'Goliath.' She reflects on an emotional call with her niece that inspired the chorus and details her trance-like writing method. Guitarist Jeff Gittleman discusses the unique one-take recording process and his melodic ideas, while Jordan Johnson from Monsters & Strangerz talks about transforming personal lyrics into universal themes. Together, they explore the magic of collaboration that birthed this powerful, memorable track.

Demi Adejuyigbe, a versatile stand-up comedian and writer, shares how Guitar Hero introduced him to The Strokes, igniting his passion for music. He reflects on the transformative experience of their song 'You Only Live Once' and reveals how Warren Fu's innovative CGI video not only inspired his interest in visual effects but also influenced his career path. Demi discusses the emotional connection he has to the song and its mathematical drum patterns, showcasing how a music video can deeply resonate with personal creativity.

In this insightful conversation, Pusha T and Malice, the dynamic duo behind Clipse, share the poignant backstory of their song 'The Birds Don't Sing.' They discuss the emotional weight of writing after losing both parents within months, revealing how grief fueled their creativity. Pusha T reflects on the spontaneity of their lyrics, while Malice describes the deep bond they share as brothers and collaborators. Pharrell's contributions also shine, including his choice of John Legend for the hook and Stevie Wonder's magical touch, deepening the song's emotional resonance.

Join Lindsey Buckingham, a guitarist and singer-songwriter famed for his work with Fleetwood Mac, and Stevie Nicks, the iconic voice behind many hits, as they delve into their song "Frozen Love". They share the backstory of how they met and began writing together, highlighting the unique roles they played in creating the music. Discover the inspirations behind the song's lyrics, Lindsey's intricate guitar work, and how this collaboration ultimately led to their journey with Fleetwood Mac, forever changing their lives and music history.

Join Lindsey Buckingham, the iconic singer-songwriter and guitarist of Fleetwood Mac, as he dives deep into the making of the hit 'Go Your Own Way.' He reveals how the breakup with Stevie Nicks fueled the song's creation and discusses the emotional tensions during recording. Buckingham shares insights on crafting intricate guitar layers, the evolution of the drum pattern, and the powerful backing vocals from Christine McVie and Stevie. With candid reflections on personal pain and musical genius, he highlights how their conflicts shaped an unforgettable classic.

In this engaging discussion, Paul Waaktaar-Savoy, guitarist and primary songwriter for A-ha, reveals the incredible journey of "Take On Me." He shares how a teenage idea morphed into an iconic hit, highlighting the multiple flops the song faced before its success in the US. Paul dives into the band's perseverance, the pivotal role of Morten Harket, and the innovative use of synths that shaped the track's sound. He also details the unforgettable music video that helped catapult them to fame. Tune in for a fascinating behind-the-scenes look!

Lady Gaga, an iconic singer and actress with 14 Grammys, dives deep into her latest track "Abracadabra" from her album *Mayhem*. She shares her journey of reclaiming her darker sound and the creative chaos that sparked the song's inception. Gaga explores the spellbinding imagery within the lyrics and her connection to party figures, influenced by New York's ballroom culture. She reveals her unique vocal approach, blending metal gravitas with pop, and emphasizes the significance of embracing her maximalist style and authentic self.

In this conversation, Chef David Chang shares how the song "I See a Darkness" profoundly impacts him. He recalls his first encounter with the haunting lyrics and their connection to his experiences with depression. Living in Japan opened him up to its emotional depth. Chang interprets the song as both a call for conversation and a plea for connection, especially after the loss of friends like Anthony Bourdain. He reflects on resilience, vulnerability, and how music can remind us to seek help in dark times.

In this engaging conversation, Hayden Anhedönia, known as Ethel Cain, dives deep into her creative process behind the song "Nettles." She reveals the emotional backdrop of writing it during a pivotal moment in her life. Hayden reflects on her journey from experimenting with a dreamy indie-rock sound to crafting a raw, heart-wrenching narrative. She discusses her recording experience in Muscle Shoals, the meaning behind poignant lyrics, and frames the song as a cautionary tale about love and expectations. It's a captivating peek into her artistic world!

Sam Fender opens up about the journey of creating his chart-topping album, 'People Watching.' He shares insights on collaborations, particularly with Adam Granduciel, and the emotional impact of personal loss on his songwriting. The discussion dives into the intersection of personal experiences and broader societal themes. With reflections on friendship and the creative process, Sam reveals how his deep connection to music transformed grief into catharsis, culminating in a heartfelt performance that captures profound emotions.