In this episode, Adrianne Lenker, the lead singer of Big Thief and acclaimed solo artist, shares her journey through heartbreak and creativity. She discusses how sadness can transform into a beautiful artistic expression in her song 'Sadness As a Gift.' Lenker and co-producer Phil Weinrobe reveal the intimate and boundary-pushing recording techniques they used to capture raw emotion. They also reflect on the evolution of the song's lyrics, emphasizing the deep connections formed during collaboration and the profound complexities of love.

Sabrina Carpenter, a dynamic singer and actress recently celebrated for her album Short N Sweet, teams up with Grammy-winning producer Jack Antonoff to delve into the making of her hit song "Please Please Please." They discuss the emotional themes of young womanhood, their first collaboration and the nervous excitement of studio work. The duo explores blending classic and modern sounds, the quest for artistic authenticity, and the unique vulnerability involved in live performances. Their candid insights reveal a delightful journey of creativity and musical exploration.

Gracie Abrams, a Los Angeles singer-songwriter known for her poignant lyrics, dives deep into her song "I Love You, I'm Sorry." She shares personal reflections on relationships, recounting her reconnection with an ex while collaborating with friend Audrey Hobert. Utilizing voice memos and studio recordings, Gracie reveals the emotional nuances of their songwriting process. She highlights the delicate balance of humor and vulnerability in their creative partnership, showcasing how these dynamics shape their music and the stories behind their songs.

Katie Crutchfield, the talented singer-songwriter behind Waxahatchee, shares her creative journey and the making of her song 'Fire.' She dives into the emotional themes of longing and love, recounting personal anecdotes about overcoming writer's block. Katie discusses her significant journey toward sobriety and how it shaped her music. The collaborative nature of the recording process reveals spontaneous moments that enriched the final sound, emphasizing the balance between self-acceptance and vulnerability in her heartfelt songwriting.

Kathleen Hanna, the lead singer of iconic bands Bikini Kill and Le Tigre, discusses the vibrant origins of Le Tigre and their innovative approach to music. She reflects on the evolution of their sound from punk to experimental, particularly focusing on the creation of 'Deceptacon.' The conversation highlights the integration of unconventional sounds and authenticity in songwriting, as well as the cultural impact of the song, especially its connection to a new generation through viral dances. Hanna shares personal anecdotes about the challenges and excitement of their creative journey.

In this conversation, Graham Nash, the legendary singer-songwriter from The Hollies and Crosby, Stills & Nash, shares his memories behind the iconic song 'Our House.' He recounts a charming morning spent with Joni Mitchell, the inspiration for the lyrics, and reflects on the band's creative process. Nash reveals how personal moments shaped the song, along with serendipitous musical choices that added depth to their sound. He emphasizes the themes of love and tranquility that define 'Our House,' celebrating the joyful simplicity of shared memories.

Pharrell Williams, the iconic singer-songwriter and producer behind hits like "Happy," dives into the creation of the title track from his animated film, "Piece by Piece." He shares the journey from initial self-doubt to creative triumph, revealing a first draft that never made it. Pharrell emphasizes the nostalgic influence of his high school marching band and the importance of collaboration in his artistic process. With a focus on emotional expression, he celebrates creative freedom and the joy of musical creation.

Jon Batiste, an acclaimed musician and Grammy winner, chats with his wife, author Suleika Jaouad, about the creative journey behind his powerful album, 'We Are'. They discuss the profound personal and cultural influences that shaped the title track. The conversation dives into themes of resilience and community, illustrating how music can unite diverse experiences. Batiste shares stories from his collaborative process and the impact of his cultural heritage on his artistry, celebrating creativity as a source of hope and empowerment.

Troye Sivan, an award-winning Australian singer-songwriter, shares the creative journey behind his hit, "One of Your Girls." He delves into the complexities of modern relationships and the influences of queerness and identity in his music. With candid reflections on songwriting struggles and triumphs, Troye discusses collaborating with Leland and Oscar Görres while infusing personal anecdotes. He also highlights the emotional depths explored in the song, making it a relatable anthem for many.

Beabadoobee, an award-winning singer-songwriter from England, shares insights about her third album, 'This Is How Tomorrow Moves,' which topped the UK charts. She reflects on the loneliness of touring and how homesickness fueled her creativity. The conversation dives into the personal stories behind her song 'Coming Home,' emphasizing emotional themes of longing and connection. Beabadoobee discusses the influence of natural sounds in her music and the importance of being present in relationships, showcasing the depth of her songwriting journey.