Songfacts Podcast - podcast cover

Songfacts Podcast

Songfactswww.songfacts.com
Songfacts, which has been bringing you the stories behind the songs since 1999, now has a podcast. On the Songfacts Podcast, host Stephanie R. Myers speaks with songwriters and other music makers to learn about their own songs (which they often perform on the show) and explore the music that influenced them. On this fun and enlightening musical journey, you'll discover new songs across a range of genres and take a deep dive into some you know - how they're structured, what they mean, how they make us feel. Proud part of Pantheon - the podcast network for music lovers.
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Episodes

Eric Bass of Shinedown | Interview

Eric Bass has spent the last 15 years shaping the sound of Shinedown, not just as their bassist, but as the producer behind their albums Attention Attention and Planet Zero. Now with his solo album I Had a Name, he brings us a sprawling, cinematic solo debut that marks a major shift. Written, performed, and produced entirely by Eric, the album is a dystopian concept record that plays like a rock opera, charting the story of a nameless hero on a surreal journey of identity and resistance. It’s al...

Jun 25, 202534 min

A.J. Croce | Interview

In this episode, we're speaking with an artist whose musical journey is as compelling as his sound: A.J. Croce. While many recognize the name Croce from his father, the legendary singer/songwriter Jim Croce (who wrote classics like "Operator," "Time in a Bottle," "Bad Bad Leroy Brown," and many more), A.J. has carved out his own distinct path in the music world. With a career spanning over three decades, he's been a working musician since he was 15 years old, releasing more than 10 albums and co...

May 28, 202537 min

Steve Bardwil | Interview

In this episode of the Songfacts Podcast, we interview Steve Bardwil, who’s releasing his debut album Nothing But Time - a soulful, genre-blending record produced by 11-time Grammy winner Joe Chiccarelli. With tracks like “Wonder of It All,” Bardwil brings a reflective, heartfelt sound that’s clearly rooted in real experience. What makes his journey even more compelling is the path he took to get here. Before stepping into the studio, Steve spent over 20 years as chief counsel for Disney films, ...

Apr 30, 202533 min

Fifth Annual Holiday Songs Special

For our 5th Annual Holiday Episode, we’re keeping the festive spirit alive with a special treat for you. We’ve invited some of our friends from across the Pantheon Network to join the celebration and share their favorite holiday songs. From deep dives into rock history to quirky musical explorations, these podcasts each bring a unique perspective to the songs we love. You’ll hear from: Play That Rock n’ Roll What Difference Does It Make The Barenaked ABCs Podcast I’m in Love with That Song Priso...

Dec 18, 202424 min

Noel Paul Stookey of Peter, Paul and Mary | Interview

Noel Paul Stookey is a legendary figure in American folk music. As one-third of the iconic trio Peter, Paul, and Mary, Noel helped shape the soundtrack of the 1960s, delivering timeless hits like "Puff, the Magic Dragon" and "If I Had a Hammer." Beyond the trio, his solo career has been equally impactful, notably with "The Wedding Song (There Is Love)," a piece that has become a staple at countless ceremonies worldwide. In recent years, Noel has continued to innovate. His latest projects include...

Nov 20, 202434 min

Debora Iyall of Romeo Void | Interview

Debora Iyall burst onto the post-punk music scene with her band Romeo Void's seminal hit, "Never Say Never," with her infectious and magnetic frontwoman energy. Debora’s powerful lyrics and distinct vocal style challenged conventions and gave voice to those who often went unheard in the post-punk scene of the early '80s. But Debora’s journey as an artist didn’t stop with Romeo Void. She’s continued to create compelling work as a solo artist, blending her poetic roots and fearless authenticity in...

Oct 17, 202437 min

Danielia Cotton | Singer/Songwriter Interview

Singer/songwriter Danielia Cotton's new album Charley's Pride: A Tribute to Black Country Music, showcases her take on Charley Pride's songs as well as original material. Danielia is an acclaimed singer-songwriter whose music is a powerful blend of rock, blues, country, and soul. She was raised in the small town of Hopewell, N.J., and her journey as a musician began at an early age, heavily influenced by her jazz singer mother and the rich tapestry of gospel music that surrounded her. Danielia h...

Sep 11, 202445 min

Jumaane Smith: Trumpeter, Pianist, Vocalist | Interview

In this interview, we sit down with the immensely talented Jumaane Smith, a celebrated trumpeter, pianist, and vocalist, to discuss his remarkable musical journey and the inspirations behind his latest work. We delve into the creative process of his forthcoming LP, "Come on Home." Jumaane shares insights from his years as Michael Bublé's lead trumpeter and his experiences performing with legends like Harry Connick Jr., and how collaborating with icons like Quincy Jones, Aretha Franklin, and Stev...

Aug 14, 202431 minEp. 109

Tano Jones | Interview

Singer/songwriter Tano Jones has captivated audiences with his innovative blend of genres, and his journey in the music industry has been a fascinating one. In this interview, we delve into his latest ventures, including his exciting work with his new band, Tano Jones Revelry, and their critically acclaimed album album, "Spinning North." The band has captivated audiences with an innovative blend of genres and established themselves as a powerhouse of musical innovation and emotional depth. "Spin...

Jul 17, 202454 min

Jesse Colin Young of The Youngbloods | Interview

Jesse Colin Young is a revered figure in the American folk-rock scene. In The Youngbloods, which blended folk, rock, blues, and jazz elements, widespread acclaim came from their iconic 1967 hit single, "Get Together," a song that became an anthem for peace and brotherhood during the turbulent 1960s. The song's enduring message of unity and love continues to resonate with audiences today, cementing the band's legacy in American music history. But beyond his success with The Youngbloods, Jesse Col...

Jun 19, 202438 min

Erica Falls | Singer/Songwriter Interview

Singer/songwriter Erica Falls' incredible voice and electrifying stage presence have solidified her as a prominent figure in the music industry. Hailing from the vibrant musical landscape of New Orleans, Erica's journey in music began at an early age, shaped by the sounds of jazz, soul, and funk that permeate the city streets. With a career spanning over two decades, Erica has honed her craft, working with renowned artists including Trombone Shorty, John Fogerty, Sting, The Revivalists, and many...

May 15, 202429 min

José James | Interview

José James is a groundbreaking singer/songwriter known for seamlessly blending jazz, soul, hip-hop, and R&B into a distinctive and captivating musical style. José rose to prominence in the mid-2000s with the release of his debut album, "The Dreamer" (2008), which garnered widespread acclaim for its fusion of jazz improvisation with soulful melodies and hip-hop-inspired rhythms. Throughout his career, José has continued to push the boundaries of genre and style, collaborating with a diverse a...

Apr 17, 202433 min

Zada | Singer-Songwriter Interview

Singer/songwriter Zada is only 20 years old, but she has already carved out a name for herself in the music industry. Born in Ethiopia and based in Vancouver, Zada showcases a full range of influences in her singing and songwriting. She released her debut album, Water in the Desert, on March 1, and it's already gaining critical acclaim. We caught up with Zada and had a conversation about her approach to songwriting, her love of performing, and what's next for her musically. Enjoying the show? Pl...

Mar 20, 202424 min

Narada Michael Walden | Interview

Calling Narada Michael Walden a "musical powerhouse" would be a severe understatement. A former member of the legendary Mahavishnu Orchestra, he's also a prolific producer, has been the drummer for Journey, co-wrote the classic Aretha Franklin song "Freeway of Love," and now has a new album, "Euphoria," with the single "The More I Love My Life," featuring Carlos Santana, Sting, and Stevie Wonder. It was a joy to speak with Narada about everything ranging from the music that inspires him down thr...

Feb 21, 202435 minEp. 103

Songwriter Mike Stoller of Leiber & Stoller | Interview

Legendary songwriter Mike Stoller, of the songwriting team Leiber and Stoller, is speaking with us in this episode. Together with Jerry Leiber, Mike Stoller wrote a breathtaking number of classics for Elvis Presley, The Coasters, The Drifters, Peggy Lee, LaVern Baker, Ben. E. King, and more, including "Jailhouse Rock," "Hound Dog," "Santa Claus Is Back in Town," "Stand By Me," "Love Potion #9," "Yakety Yak," "Kansas City," "Poison Ivy," "Along Came Jones," "Bossa Nova Baby," and so many more. Al...

Jan 24, 202427 minEp. 102

Fourth Annual Holiday Songs Special

Every year we ask the hosts at the Pantheon podcast network to tell us their holiday favorites and break down the songs. This year, we hear about Alanis Morissette's cover of "Last Christmas," Barbra Streisand's "Jingle Bells," and a few songs we've never heard before, from the likes of Charles Brown, Captain Sensible and the Fuzztones. Here's our list of Christmas songs on Songfacts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dec 16, 202326 minEp. 101

Oteil Burbridge

You won't find many bass players on the jam band scene more respected than Oteil Burbridge. He's best known for his time in The Allman Brothers Band, where he served from 1997 until the group ended their storied career in 2014. Before that, Burbridge was in the Aquarium Rescue Unit, a group founded by former wrestling manager Colonel Bruce Hampton that was known for blending top-tier musicianship with freewheeling fun. After The Allman Brothers, Burbridge formed Dead & Company with John Maye...

Sep 20, 202330 minEp. 100

The Metallica Episode with Renée and Steffan of Metallica's Official Podcast

In August 2023, Metallica launched an official podcast, The Metallica Report, hosted by two longtime members of their camp: Renée Richardson and Steffan Chirazi. Renée runs the band's All Within My Hands foundation and has been interviewing and covering the band since her days as a DJ in San Francisco; Steffan is a British journalist who started covering the band for Sounds in the '80s and was later poached by Metallica to run their official magazine, So What! (yeah, Metallica isn't just a band ...

Sep 06, 202350 minEp. 99

Julia Cannon

Aaron Lee Tasjan, a terrific singer-songwriter who was a guest on the Songfacts Podcast in 2021, turned me on to Julia Cannon, another very gifted songwriter who also produces, sings and plays multiple instruments. Cannon is highly introverted, so her promotion is mostly word-of-mouth. Once you hear what she has to offer, you'll probably spread the word too. "How many issues can I blame on my absentee dad?" That's one of many questions Cannon asks on her new album, How Many. We'll start with tha...

Aug 23, 202331 minEp. 98

Kelsey Warren - Blak Emoji

Kelsey Warren, who goes by the stage name Blak Emoji joins the pod to chat about his new album Eclectro, which is available anywhere you listen to music. Kelsey came into my world via my producer Carl who heard Simon Le Bon of Duran Duran raving about him on his Serius XM radio show. Kelsey is a passionate and talented man who not only writes his own tunes but also produces for others. He can be found playing a few shows this year and you can find that linked below! https://www.blakemoji.com/ ht...

Aug 09, 202333 minEp. 97

Cole Gallagher

Our guest today is Cole Gallagher, who has said, "They say that the only way to understand the world around you is by looking within." After our conversation talking about his new EP, The Confluence, set for releasing on Aug 4, I think it is clear that Cole considers his answers before responding and certainly takes the time to observe the world around him. At only 21 his voice sounds as if it's been around much longer. Cole is clearly a gifted songwriter, and for this record he was fortunate to...

Jul 26, 202336 minEp. 96

Raye Zaragoza

Raye Zaragoza is our guest today and we are chatting about her new album, Hold That Spirit, set for release on August 11. Listening to the album, I can tell this is an artist who is not afraid to get personal and bare her soul through her art. Beyond talking about these new songs, this episode goes into some of Ray's more personal moments, including breaking off a wedding engagement and using those funds to produce this album, as well as her battles with an eating disorder. I found Raye and her ...

Jun 28, 202338 minEp. 95

TikTok sensation ROSIE

On the show today we have one of the most fascinating success stories I have heard in a long time! ROSIE (Rosaileen Scher) is a 23-year-old singer/songwriter who got her big break from a viral TikTok post of her song "Never The 1." She gives us the inside look at the days and moments surrounding that event, and it is incredible! ROSIE has a new EP dropping on June 23 called 5 Songs For Healing. Before our interview it was easy to tell that Rosie is a great songwriter, but after speaking with her...

Jun 14, 202337 minEp. 94

Devon Portielje of Half Moon Run

Maybe you are getting tired of me saying this, but I am so excited to bring you this episode and this amazing new music from the Montreal band Half Moon Run. Our guest is Devon Portielje, one of the three band members, all of whom sing and play multiple instruments. Their new album, Salt, drops June 2. This album caught my ear and engaged me front to back, so I really enjoyed speaking with Devon to find out how some of these tracks came together. Whether it's strumming a ukulele on the beaches o...

May 31, 202328 minEp. 93

American Idol winner Phillip Phillips

It's kinda crazy that Phillip Phillips is just 32. He was 21 when he won American Idol back in 2012 and released his coronation single, "Home," which played during the Olympics that year. Phillips didn't write that song but has written or co-written most of his songs since, including all the tracks on his latest album, Drift Back, set for release on June 9. It's his first album since becoming a dad in 2019. Phillip tells us his son is both strong-willed and amazing, and he's up for the challenge...

May 17, 202338 minEp. 92

Harpist Brandee Younger

You probably don't think about the harp very often, but Brandee Younger is here to change that. She's part of a new generation of harpists, bringing the instrument to contemporary music while also honoring the heritage of harpists of the past, particularly Dorothy Ashby, who elevated the form from the '50s through the '80s. Younger's harp can be heard on tracks by Alessia Cara, Pete Rock, Jane Monheit, Ravi Coltrane, and a mix of other artists across the musical spectrum. She's also an artist in...

May 03, 202320 minEp. 91

The Strip Club Songs Episode

This episode is a little different - it really comes from my endlessly curious brain. Now, I am not a regular attendee of strip clubs. Honestly, they really aren't my thing. But, they are a place where music is played, heard, and completely controls the vibe, so I wanted to talk to some experts and ask them the question that was running through my head. Why, when I think of music played in strip clubs, do I only think of two eras: the 1980s and early 2000s hip-hop? Danny Meyers and Ilan Fong are...

Apr 19, 202351 minEp. 90

The Alice Cooper Episode

Today's guest is Gary Graff, author of Alice Cooper @75. Gary's book goes in-depth to explore 75 key moments in the history of Alice Cooper - the man and the band. It covers his early beginnings, time spent in LA in the 1960s, skyrocket successes in the early '70s, and the enduring career that followed. Gary discuss some of these moments and also go over a few songs, including "I'm Eighteen" and "No More Mr. Nice Guy." The book is a must-read for anyone interested in Alice Cooper. The "Dying To ...

Apr 05, 202343 minEp. 89

Vashti Bunyan

Vashti Bunyan didn't know her 1970 debut album Just Another Diamond Day had reached cult status until the '90s, when she first typed her name into a search engine. In those 20+ years, many listeners had not only discovered the album, but found it quite profound. In 2000, it was re-issued on CD. The album is a signpost on the road to "alternative folk" - think Joanna Newsom, Animal Collective, and Devendra Banhart, all of whom have cited her as an influence and collaborated with her. Bunyan grabb...

Mar 22, 202339 minEp. 88

Adele Bertei

When New York City was its seediest - the late '70s - it was also home to burgeoning artistic scene that would bring some life back into the city that never sleeps. Our guest today is Adele Bertei, who was part of the action with The Bloods, the first all-female openly lesbian band on the scene. Adele later became a songwriter, with songs recorded by Sheena Easton and Thomas Dolby. Here, we discuss her remarkable life and her new book, Twist: An American Girl. Here is a link to Adele's YouTube. ...

Mar 07, 202354 minEp. 87
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