

Song Exploder
Hrishikesh Hirway
Song Exploder is a podcast where musicians take apart their songs, and piece by piece, tell the story of how they were made. Each episode features an artist discussing a song of theirs, breaking down the sounds and ideas that went into the writing and recording. Hosted and produced by Hrishikesh Hirway.
Episodes
Mentioned books

20 snips
Jul 23, 2025 • 25min
Gigi Perez - Sailor Song
Gigi Perez, a 25-year-old singer-songwriter from Florida, shares her remarkable journey from viral TikTok sensation to major label artist. She dives into the evolution of her hit 'Sailor Song,' revealing how it encapsulates her struggles with faith, grief, and identity. Gigi discusses the transformative power of songwriting and the deep emotional connections it fosters with her audience. Tune in as she reflects on blending personal experiences with technical artistry, all while creating a masterpiece from her childhood bedroom.

16 snips
Jul 16, 2025 • 23min
Key Change: Jason Schwartzman on the ‘Rushmore’ soundtrack
In this conversation, Jason Schwartzman, an actor, writer, and musician, reflects on his journey from a music-centered upbringing to acting stardom. He shares the transformative experience of auditioning for 'Rushmore' and how music shaped his role. Additionally, Jason discusses the emotional weight of soundtracks in film, highlighting their power to enhance storytelling and character depth. He also reminisces about musical discoveries made while collaborating with filmmakers, revealing how these experiences continue to influence his artistic path.

60 snips
Jul 9, 2025 • 27min
Goo Goo Dolls - Iris
Join John Rzeznik, the talented guitarist and vocalist of the Goo Goo Dolls, as he reveals the deep emotional journey behind their iconic song 'Iris.' He shares how personal struggles shaped the lyrics and how a Grammy-winning producer expanded their vision. Discover the creative evolution from punk rock roots to a rich, melodic sound, and the surprising integration of strings that transformed the final composition. Rzeznik also reflects on the song's unexpected popularity and its powerful connection with listeners.

22 snips
Jun 25, 2025 • 27min
Little Simz - Free
Little Simz, a celebrated English rapper and actress known for her impactful work and recent album 'Lotus,' discusses her track 'Free' with Miles Clinton-James, an accomplished North London producer. They dive into the creative journey behind the song, touching on themes of love, self-forgiveness, and authenticity. Simz shares personal reflections on overcoming emotional challenges, while Clinton-James emphasizes the unique spontaneity of their collaboration. The conversation beautifully bridges nostalgic recording techniques with deep emotional narratives.

12 snips
Jun 18, 2025 • 24min
Key Change: Shirley Manson on Siouxsie and the Banshees
Shirley Manson, the iconic lead singer of Garbage, dives into the transformative power of Siouxsie and the Banshees' 'Drop Dead's Celebration.' She reflects on her teenage years in Scotland, where the band's post-punk sound shaped her identity. Manson shares her journey from aspiring ballerina to rock star and the significant moments that defined her career. Her encounter with musical legends showcases deep admiration and personal growth, while discussing how music empowered her through challenges and resilience in her artistic path.

6 snips
Jun 11, 2025 • 24min
Anohni - 4 Degrees
Anohni, an acclaimed singer and songwriter from England, explores her impactful song '4 Degrees.' She describes how the track serves as an urgent anthem for climate change, emphasizing the emotional weight it carries in today's world. The conversation dives into the collaborative creative process with electronic musicians Daniel Lopatin and Ross Birchard, highlighting innovative techniques that enhance the song’s message. Anohni also reflects on feelings of guilt and personal responsibility in combating environmental destruction, underscoring the emotional urgency that amplifies the song’s significance.

41 snips
May 28, 2025 • 44min
Jeff Tweedy - How to Write One Song
In this engaging conversation, Jeff Tweedy, the lead singer of Wilco and author of 'How to Write One Song,' shares his wisdom on creativity and songwriting. He discusses overcoming creative blocks and the therapeutic aspects of writing, emphasizing the importance of self-acceptance and living in the present. Tweedy dives into how constraints can spark inspiration and the parallels between songwriting and humor writing. The dialogue reflects on personal challenges and the joy of authentic expression in music and storytelling.

44 snips
May 21, 2025 • 20min
Lorde - Sober
In this engaging conversation, Grammy Award-winning artist Lorde shares her creative journey behind the song 'Sober.' She discusses how her personal heartbreak inspired its evolution from intimate demos with Jack Antonoff to a vibrant anthem of resilience. Lorde delves into the intricacies of vocal production, emotional storytelling, and the importance of collaboration in crafting a song's essence. She reflects on the balance between fleeting intimacy and the stark returns to reality, making for a compelling exploration of connection in music.

146 snips
May 7, 2025 • 28min
Tears for Fears - Everybody Wants to Rule the World
Roland Orzabal and Curt Smith, the legendary duo behind Tears for Fears, share their journey from the formation of the band in 1981 to their iconic status. They dive into the creative process behind their colossal hit 'Everybody Wants to Rule the World,' revealing the evolving title and its powerful themes of ambition. The duo reflects on their contrasting personalities, industry challenges, and the collaborative spirit that shaped their sound. Their candid stories illustrate how personal experiences influenced the song's emotional depth and enduring legacy.

49 snips
Apr 23, 2025 • 29min
Lizzo - Still Bad
Grammy-and-Emmy-winning artist Lizzo shares her creative journey behind 'Still Bad,' detailing the emotional rollercoaster from struggle to empowerment. Collaborating with Grammy-winning producer Ricky Reed, she reveals the numerous demos crafted before landing on the final version. The song encapsulates joy amid personal challenges, celebrating resilience and identity. Lizzo's insights into vulnerability and artistic collaboration illustrate the transformative power of music, culminating in a powerful discussion that resonates with her fans.