Best Songwriting Podcasts (2025)

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138 - Songs of Adoration

Play Pause

16h ago

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Sam takes the chair, welcoming Andrew, Emma and first-time-guest James to reflect back on July's Remakes, Spinoffs and Sequels, and set a new challenge for August.

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Throwback Thursday: A discussion on Tony Sly and No Use For A Name’s “International You Day” 1:03:17

1d ago1:03:17

1:03:17

It’s July 31st, and fans around the world are observing Tony Sly Day in remembrance of the late Tony Sly, beloved frontman of No Use for a Name, who passed away in 2012. This year marks the first official Tony Sly Day, and to honor the occasion, this Throwback Thursday episode revisits Episode 144, originally released on August 1st, 2022, which tak…

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Ep. 261 - PATTY GRIFFIN ("Heavenly Day") 1:15:23

3d ago1:15:23

1:15:23

Two-time Grammy winner and songwriting superhero Patty Griffin joins us for a wide-ranging discussion about her craft PART ONE Reflecting on the lives of recently-departed songwriters Alan Bergman and Ozzy Osbourne, which might be the only time those two were discussed in the same conversation! PART TWO Our in-depth conversation with Patty Griffin …

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Key Moment: Ryan Tedder | How to Be Irreplaceable 6:37

4d ago6:37

6:37

What does it really take to become irreplaceable in music? This is more than a lesson in music. It’s a masterclass in how to make yourself essential in any room you enter. In this episode, Ryan Tedder shares a raw, unfiltered blueprint for building a career that stands the test of time. From mastering guitar, piano, and production to writing two so…

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Key Moment: Ryan Tedder | How to Be Irreplaceable 6:37

4d ago6:37

6:37

What does it really take to become irreplaceable in music? This is more than a lesson in music. It’s a masterclass in how to make yourself essential in any room you enter. In this episode, Ryan Tedder shares a raw, unfiltered blueprint for building a career that stands the test of time. From mastering guitar, piano, and production to writing two so…

1
Key Moment: Ryan Tedder | How to Be Irreplaceable 6:37

4d ago6:37

6:37

What does it really take to become irreplaceable in music? This is more than a lesson in music. It’s a masterclass in how to make yourself essential in any room you enter. In this episode, Ryan Tedder shares a raw, unfiltered blueprint for building a career that stands the test of time. From mastering guitar, piano, and production to writing two so…

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Ep. 268: Jason McMaster discusses Dangerous Toys “Scared” 1:25:59

4d ago1:25:59

1:25:59

On this episode, Jason McMaster of Dangerous Toys takes us behind the scenes of the band’s 1989 hit “Scared,” a track born from fear, adrenaline, and a deep love for theatrical rock. Inspired by Alice Cooper and crafted in a quirky home studio setting, “Scared” blends personal storytelling with pounding percussion and a structure that wastes no tim…

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Breaking the rules with intention with Zoe Theissen 32:12

5d ago32:12

32:12

Zoe Thiessen is a singer/songwriter, guitarist and violinist now based in Toronto after years of living abroad. Her finely crafted songs always have a hint of the fairy tale about them, and she delivers them with a warm alto that has a timbre all its own. She released her first album ‘The Lives of Saints ……

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Carlie Hansen 45:33

7d ago45:33

45:33

This up and coming songwriter has toured with Troye Sivan and Yungblud, along with recording for Warner Brothers and Fearless Records.

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5 tips that will make your band sound better today 12:15

8d ago12:15

12:15

In this short show, Phil talks about 5 of the most effective tips he has learned from a lifetime of playing in bands to get everyone sounding better together. Take a listen and let us know the tips you’ve learned.

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Throwback Thursday: Josh Caterer discusses Smoking Popes “Megan” 1:26:36

8d ago1:26:36

1:26:36

On this Throwback Thursday episode, originally released as Episode 150 on April 10th, 2023, Josh Caterer of Smoking Popes joins the show to discuss “Megan,” a fan-favorite deep cut from the band’s 1997 major label debut Destination Failure. Though tucked near the end of the album, the song found a lasting connection with listeners thanks to its ten…

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Songcraft Classic: ROBERT DE LEO of Stone Temple Pilots ("Interstate Love Song") 1:09:03

9d ago1:09:03

1:09:03

We're celebrating our 10th anniversary all year by digging in the vaults to re-present classic episodes with fresh commentary. Today, we're revisiting our 2023 conversation with Robert De Leo of Stone Temple Pilots. ABOUT ROBERT DE LEO Robert De Leo is best known for his work in Stone Temple Pilots. Collaborating with lyricist and vocalist Scott We…

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Gigi Perez - Sailor Song 24:55

9d ago24:55

24:55

Gigi Perez is a singer and songwriter from Florida, and at 25 years old, she’s already had so many ups and downs in her music career. She started sharing her songs on TikTok, where they got enough attention that she got signed to a major label deal, but that ultimately didn’t pan out. Soon after that, as an independent artist again, she had her big…

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Ep. 267: Nick Wheeler discusses The All-American Rejects “Gives You Hell” 1:44:25

11d ago1:44:25

1:44:25

In this week’s episode, Nick Wheeler of The All-American Rejects joins Chris to unpack the wild and rewarding process behind their 2008 chart-topper “Gives You Hell.” From its uncertain beginnings to becoming the band’s biggest hit, Nick shares how quirky chords, a tongue-in-cheek lyrical edge, and a shift from punk roots to pop polish shaped the t…

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Throwback Thursday: Brett Gurewitz discusses Bad Religon’s “Stranger Than Fiction” 1:16:45

15d ago1:16:45

1:16:45

This week, Chris DeMakes A Podcast is throwing it back to Episode 104 from May 23rd, 2022, when Brett Gurewitz of Bad Religion joined the show to talk about the writing, recording, and legacy of their 1994 single "Stranger Than Fiction." Taken from the album of the same name, the song showcases Brett’s sharp lyrical voice and knack for melody, and …

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Key Change: Jason Schwartzman on the ‘Rushmore’ soundtrack 22:31

16d ago22:31

22:31

Jason Schwartzman, actor, songwriter, and musician, talks about how the soundtrack to 'Rushmore'—his first film—changed his life. I met Jason briefly in 2017, as he was leaving the room where I was supposed to interview the band Phoenix. I was shocked when he stopped on his way out to tell me he loved Song Exploder. Eight years later, I reached out…

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Ep. 260 - DAVE MASON ("Feelin' Alright?") 1:04:17

17d ago1:04:17

1:04:17

Rock & Roll Hall of Famer Dave Mason chats about his early days in Traffic, writing the classic "Feelin' Alright?", working with Delaney & Bonnie, and so much more. PART ONE Scott and Paul chat about Dave Mason's unique role in the rock & roll pantheon. PART TWO Our in-depth conversation with Dave Mason. ABOUT DAVE MASON After recording background …

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Ep. 266: Fred LeBlanc discusses Cowboy Mouth’s “Jenny Says” 1:05:21

18d ago1:05:21

1:05:21

In this episode, Chris is joined by Fred LeBlanc, the high-energy frontman and drummer of Cowboy Mouth, to break down the story behind their signature song “Jenny Says.” Originally written during Fred’s stint in Dash Rip Rock, the song went through several incarnations before becoming a crowd-commanding anthem and a staple of Cowboy Mouth’s famousl…

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Murder by Death 51:27

20d ago51:27

51:27

Adam Turla is the creative force behind this beloved band from Bloomington, IN who have been touring their distinctive blend of gothic Americana for over two decades.

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Episode 292 - Black Country, New Road 41:14

21d ago41:14

41:14

Black Country, New Road's Tyler Hyde and Lewis Evans join Sodajerker for a conversation about the writing of their latest record Forever Howlong. The pair discuss the band's captivating lyrics, sophisticated arrangements, and how, with producer James Ford, they navigated the process of making something fresh after a period of change and instability…

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Episode 292 - Black Country, New Road 41:14

21d ago41:14

41:14

Black Country, New Road's Tyler Hyde and Lewis Evans join Sodajerker for a conversation about the writing of their latest record Forever Howlong. The pair discuss the band's captivating lyrics, sophisticated arrangements, and how, with producer James Ford, they navigated the process of making something fresh after a period of change and instability…

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Throwback Thursday: Milo Aukerman discusses Descendents “Hope” 1:21:40

22d ago1:21:40

1:21:40

For Throwback Thursday this week, we’re revisiting Episode 102—originally released on May 9, 2022—when Milo Aukerman sat in to share the story behind the 1982 Descendents fan favorite “Hope.” Milo talks about writing the song as a young, awkward romantic, how it found its way onto Milo Goes to College, and what it was like recording one of the most…

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Songcraft Classic: MIKE STOLLER ("Hound Dog") 1:31:39

22d ago1:31:39

1:31:39

We're celebrating our 10th anniversary all year by digging in the vaults to re-present classic episodes with fresh commentary. Today, we're revisiting our 2016 conversation with Mike Stoller. ABOUT MIKE STOLLER Mike Stoller has written more than 60 songs that have appeared on the Billboard charts, including the #1 hits “Hound Dog,” “Kansas City,” “…

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137 Interview: Breen Marie Sipes

23d ago

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In this episode, Sam talks to Breen Marie Sipes from Music That Makes Community about songs, singing and songwriting in the context of community-forming, covering the work of the organisation and Breen's own story. https://www.musicthatmakescommunity.org/

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Goo Goo Dolls - Iris 26:54

23d ago26:54

26:54

Goo Goo Dolls formed in 1986 in Buffalo, New York, and by the time 1998 rolled around, they’d already had a pretty successful career. They’d released five albums, and one of their songs, “Name,” from 1995, had become a Top 10 hit. But things really changed for them when they made the song “Iris.” It originally came out on the soundtrack for the mov…

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Ep. 216: Ryan Tedder (pt.3) | The Truth About Fame & How to Win in Music and Life 1:26:54

25d ago1:26:54

1:26:54

Today’s guest is the mastermind behind some of the biggest songs on earth – a creative force whose melodies have shaped generations. From crafting timeless anthems with Beyoncé, Adele, and Taylor Swift to leading OneRepublic to global dominance, he’s not just a hitmaker – he’s an architect of modern music. In this conversation, Ryan Tedder rips the…

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Ep. 216: Ryan Tedder (pt.3) | The Truth About Fame & How to Win in Music and Life 1:26:54

25d ago1:26:54

1:26:54

Today’s guest is the mastermind behind some of the biggest songs on earth – a creative force whose melodies have shaped generations. From crafting timeless anthems with Beyoncé, Adele, and Taylor Swift to leading OneRepublic to global dominance, he’s not just a hitmaker – he’s an architect of modern music. In this conversation, Ryan Tedder rips the…

1
Ep. 216: Ryan Tedder (pt.3) | The Truth About Fame & How to Win in Music and Life 1:26:54

25d ago1:26:54

1:26:54

Today’s guest is the mastermind behind some of the biggest songs on earth – a creative force whose melodies have shaped generations. From crafting timeless anthems with Beyoncé, Adele, and Taylor Swift to leading OneRepublic to global dominance, he’s not just a hitmaker – he’s an architect of modern music. In this conversation, Ryan Tedder rips the…

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Ep. 265: Tracy Bonham discusses her song “Mother Mother” 1:23:13

25d ago1:23:13

1:23:13

On this episode, Tracy Bonham sits in to break down her explosive 1996 single "Mother Mother." From her early days as a classical violinist to the raw vocal power that defined her biggest hit, Tracy shares how the song evolved both lyrically and emotionally. She opens up about the recording of her debut album, navigating sudden success in the '90s …

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Heather Feather: Children’s songs with a message 37:51

26d ago37:51

37:51

Canadian children’s artist, Heather Feather, is pleased to announce her second studio album, Together, out on June 27, 2025. The 2025 ECMA “Children’s Artist of the Year,” award recipient holds a PhD in Music Theory from McGill, a Bachelor of Music from Memorial University, and is a fearless disability advocate, recently partnering with internation…

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SNEAK PREVIEW of The After Party “The Most Romantic After Party Ever” episode 46:04

28d ago46:04

46:04

After Party Week wraps up in heartfelt fashion here at Chris DeMakes A Podcast with a lovingly selected gem from the archives. Originally released on February 13th, 2023, Episode 91 of The After Party brings the romance with a celebration of love songs—those perfect tracks that make you swoon, cry, or sing your heart out. It’s the kind of episode t…

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SNEAK PREVIEW of The After Party “Album Tracks That Should’ve Been Singles” episode 44:06

29d ago44:06

44:06

After Party Week keeps rolling here at Chris DeMakes A Podcast, and today’s spotlight is on a more recent fan-favorite episode of The After Party. Originally released on November 11th, 2024, Episode 183 features a special guest appearance by One Hit Thunder’s Matt Kelly, as he joins Chris and producer Chris Fafalios to dig into a fun and often-deba…

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Ep. 259 - NORMAN GREENBAUM ("Spirit in the Sky") 1:10:29

1M ago1:10:29

1:10:29

Norman Greenbaum gave the world "Spirit in the Sky," one of the greatest records ever made. He chats with us about his iconic classic, as well as other musical adventures and misadventures over the last few decades. PART ONE: Paul and Scott chat about Instagram, artist accessibility, and what the heck Norman Greenbaum looks like. PART TWO: Our in-d…

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SNEAK PREVIEW of The After Party “Classic Albums Revisited: Nevermind” episode 45:11

1M ago45:11

45:11

After Party Week rolls on at Chris DeMakes A Podcast, and today’s episode takes it all the way back to one of the earliest installments of The After Party! Originally released on October 11th, 2021, Episode 21 is a deep dive into the album that redefined rock music in the early '90s—Nirvana’s Nevermind. Chris and producer Chris Fafalios revisit thi…

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Country-pop songwriting with Cam Brown 29:55

1M ago29:55

29:55

Joining us today is rising Canadian country artist Cam Brown, hailing from Barrie, Ontario. Fresh off opening for Dean Brody at this year’s Troubadour Festival in his hometown, Cam is making waves with his original music. His debut single Pretty Lime Margarita recently climbed to #1 on the Canadian Indie Country Countdown and is now ……

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Episode 291 - Jim James 55:19

1M ago55:19

55:19

My Morning Jacket's Jim James chats with Simon and Brian about the creation of their latest record, is. The celebrated vocalist and guitarist discusses the band's collaboration with producer Brendan O'Brien, letting go of ego, and the role of dreams in songwriting.By Sodajerker

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Episode 291 - Jim James 55:19

1M ago55:19

55:19

My Morning Jacket's Jim James chats with Simon and Brian about the creation of their latest record, is. The celebrated vocalist and guitarist discusses the band's collaboration with producer Brendan O'Brien, letting go of ego, and the role of dreams in songwriting.By Sodajerker

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SNEAK PREVIEW of The After Party “80s Lyrics Trivia” episode 32:26

1M ago32:26

32:26

It’s Tuesday, and After Party week continues with another gem from the Patreon archives! Originally released on March 11th, 2024, “80s Lyrics Trivia” features producer Chris Fafalios putting Chris DeMakes’ knowledge of 1980s lyrics to the test with a custom-made quiz that covers everything from pop anthems to deep cuts. Listeners can play along and…

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136 - Remakes, Spinoffs & Sequels

1M ago

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Joel is joined on this episode by Chris and Peter to look back on a wonderful retreat at Wydale Hall, review June's 'Community Songs' challenge and set a new challenge for July.

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Key Moment: Russ | What Every Artist Needs to Know (10-Minute Blueprint) 9:48

1M ago9:48

9:48

In this powerful 10-minute blueprint, Russ breaks down what every artist needs to know to build a real career in today’s music industry. From his mindset of delusional self-belief to strategic release plans and business truths, this clip will change the way you approach your music journey forever. Subscribe for more industry insight and give us a r…

1
Key Moment: Russ | What Every Artist Needs to Know (10-Minute Blueprint) 9:48

1M ago9:48

9:48

In this powerful 10-minute blueprint, Russ breaks down what every artist needs to know to build a real career in today’s music industry. From his mindset of delusional self-belief to strategic release plans and business truths, this clip will change the way you approach your music journey forever. Subscribe for more industry insight and give us a r…

1
Key Moment: Russ | What Every Artist Needs to Know (10-Minute Blueprint) 9:48

1M ago9:48

9:48

In this powerful 10-minute blueprint, Russ breaks down what every artist needs to know to build a real career in today’s music industry. From his mindset of delusional self-belief to strategic release plans and business truths, this clip will change the way you approach your music journey forever. Subscribe for more industry insight and give us a r…

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SNEAK PREVIEW of The After Party “Hits and Misses of the Summer of ’83” episode 44:48

1M ago44:48

44:48

To kick off a full week of After Party episodes on the main feed, here's a sneak peek at one of the fan favorites from the Patreon archive! Originally released on July 17th, 2023, “Hits and Misses of the Summer of ’83” finds Chris and Chris diving into one of the most unforgettable seasons in pop music history. From the undeniable chart-toppers to …

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Tim Kasher 48:27

1M ago48:27

48:27

This songwriter has been at the vanguard of indie rock for three decades, best known for his projects Cursive and The Good Life.

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Throwback Thursday: A discussion on Freddie Mercury and Queen’s “Bohemian Rhapsody” 1:10:58

1M ago1:10:58

1:10:58

“Bohemian Rhapsody” is widely regarded as one of rock’s all-time greatest songs, despite breaking just about every rule of what a hit single is supposed to be. In this Throwback Thursday episode (originally aired August 15th, 2022), Chris and Chris dive deep into Freddie Mercury’s six-minute masterpiece—dissecting the song’s bold arrangement, ambit…

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Little Simz - Free 26:45

1M ago26:45

26:45

Little Simz is a rapper from England who put out her first album in 2015. She’s won the Mercury Prize, a Brit Award, and three MOBO awards. She also starred in the Netflix series Top Boy. Her most recent album is called Lotus. It came out in June 2025, and it followed a pretty tumultuous time in her career. For this episode, I got to talk to Little…

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Songcraft Classic: ANI DIFRANCO ("32 Flavors") 1:30:32

1M ago1:30:32

1:30:32

We're celebrating our 10th anniversary all year by digging in the vaults to re-present classic episodes with fresh commentary. Today, we're revisiting our 2021 conversation with Ani DiFranco. ABOUT ANI DIFRANCO Singer, songwriter, musician, producer, poet, author, spoken-word artist, activist and entrepreneur Ani DiFranco has released more than 20 …

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Intentional songwriting with Natalie Reis 35:18

1M ago35:18

35:18

Natalie Reis is an independent folk singer/songwriter whose music is caught between bittersweet narratives and soaring melodies. Following her debut EP ‘Bones on Fire’ in 2020, Natalie has released six singles that have evolved her storytelling-lyricism and solidified her sound as a distinctive emerging artist. In the past year, she has had the opp…

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Ep. 215: Jessie Reyez | The Story of Betting On Herself (For Anyone Starting Over) 1:29:45

1M ago1:29:45

1:29:45

Today’s guest is a fearless storyteller whose voice is as raw as her lyrics—bold, emotional, and unapologetically real. A first-generation Colombian-Canadian, she turned hustle into art, weaving her experiences into songs that hit like truth bombs. Whether she’s penning heart-wrenching ballads or delivering razor-sharp verses alongside icons like E…

1
Ep. 215: Jessie Reyez | The Story of Betting On Herself (For Anyone Starting Over) 1:29:45

1M ago1:29:45

1:29:45

Today’s guest is a fearless storyteller whose voice is as raw as her lyrics—bold, emotional, and unapologetically real. A first-generation Colombian-Canadian, she turned hustle into art, weaving her experiences into songs that hit like truth bombs. Whether she’s penning heart-wrenching ballads or delivering razor-sharp verses alongside icons like E…