Best Modern Jazz Interviews Podcasts (2025)

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Ep. 229: Zedd | Inside the Mind Behind a Decade of Anthems 1:08:32

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25m ago1:08:32

1:08:32

Today's guest went from making songs on a floppy-disk keyboard, sampling off a Kellogg’s cereal box DAW, and sending blind MySpace messages… to producing the some of the biggest crossover dance anthems of the last decade. And The Writer Is... Zedd! What makes this conversation special isn’t just the hits — it’s how brutally honest he is about the c…

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Baritone Saxophonist, Andrew Hadro; Sculpting the Sound, Ep 256 1:30:17

6h ago1:30:17

1:30:17

In Episode 256 of the Everything Saxophone Podcast, Donna Schwartz sits down with the brilliantly innovative Andrew Hadro, whose approach to sound, texture, and baritone sax will leave you thinking long after the episode ends. Below is a detailed timestamp guide to help you navigate the key highlights of our conversation with Andrew Hadro: 00:00 In…

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Ep. 228: Hit-Boy | Success, Betrayal, & The Stories Behind Hip-Hop’s Biggest Anthems 1:09:11

1d ago1:09:11

1:09:11

Today’s guest has rewired modern hip-hop. His fingerprints live all over the last decade but the real story behind that success is far more human, painful, and transformative than the headlines ever show. In this conversation, he opens up about the highs and lows of being a producer in hip-hop: the pressure, the politics, the contracts, the moments…

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Antonio Sánchez (Pat Metheny, Birdman, Chick Corea) Live Interview: Jazz Improv, Apple TV's The Studio, Scoring Birdman 38:27

10h ago38:27

38:27

Renowned drummer and composer Antonio Sanchez (Birdman, Pat Metheny Group) joins us to discuss his latest projects, including the original soundtrack for the Apple TV+ series The Studio and his unique trio album featuring harp and banjo. In this interview, Antonio breaks down his transition from touring drummer to film composer, sharing stories abo…

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Dee Lucas: Sax, Soul & the Vegas Groove - Birthday Bash w/ Serente Jazz & Wine Escapes 3:35

11d ago3:35

3:35

In this episode of Artists to Watch Las Vegas, host Carlaya sits down with acclaimed contemporary jazz saxophonist Dee Lucas for an intimate, inspiring, and soulful conversation. Known for his smooth tone, emotional phrasing, and chart-topping success, Dee opens up about his creative process, his evolution as a self-made independent artist, and the…

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Saxophonist & Repair Technician, Paul Maslin; How PM Woodwinds creates a saxophone community, Ep. 255 1:17:21

14d ago1:17:21

1:17:21

This week, Donna sits down with Paul Maslin, founder of PM Woodwind Repair and one of the most trusted names in the saxophone world. Paul's shop has been a go-to spot for pros and enthusiasts alike for over 30 years, and in this episode, he shares how he built a community around quality, craftsmanship, and love for the instrument. ⬇️ You'll hear: 0…

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Ep. 227: Ryan Tedder pt.4 | The Modern Music Economy, A.I. and The Future, and How to Win 1:59:11

7d ago1:59:11

1:59:11

Today's guest is a familiar face... A friend to the podcast and one of the most successful and influential creators in music history. He isn’t just a hitmaker. He's perhaps one of the few people in the history of music to have hits as a songwriter, artist, and producer... completely aside from one another across genres. And The Writer Is... Ryan Te…

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Ep. 226: Olivia Dean | The Art of Loving (and Finding Yourself) 1:26:40

28d ago1:26:40

1:26:40

Today's guest is an international soul sensation...From writing “The Hardest Part” on Zoom to conquering imposter syndrome, crafting hits like "Dive" and "Man I Need," and creating her acclaimed album The Art of Loving.. She is on a meteoric rise in music. We discuss raw stories of heartbreak, growth, the magic of songwriting.. and how she learned …

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Ep. 225: Julia Michaels pt.2 | The Woman Who Changed Pop 1:18:37

17d ago1:18:37

1:18:37

Julia Michaels has quietly rewritten the emotional DNA of pop music. From Selena Gomez to Justin Bieber to Sabrina Carpenter — her pen reshaped how vulnerability sounds on the radio. In this episode, Julia sits down with Ross to unpack the craft behind her catalog: the psychology of honest writing, the architecture of a hit, and the years she spent…

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RuPaul’s Drag Race - Asia O’Hara: Drag, Dazzle, and the Power of Representation 3:38

1M ago3:38

3:38

In this vibrant episode of Artists to Watch Las Vegas, host Carlaya sits down with Asia O’Hara, the celebrated star of RuPaul’s Drag Race and the dazzling emcee of RuPaul’s Drag Race Live! at the Flamingo Las Vegas. Asia opens up about her journey from Texas stages to the Las Vegas Strip, reflecting on how the hit show transformed her craft, expand…

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Saxophone Sextet The Moanin' Frogs; Making Saxophone Chamber Music Fun and Unique, Ep 254 1:37:49

21d ago1:37:49

1:37:49

Meet The Moanin' Frogs, a dynamic saxophone sextet blending classical, jazz, ragtime, and pop with unmatched energy and creativity. In this episode, they share their journey, the story behind their name, their new album One Giant Leap, and what makes chamber music so fun and expressive. Below is a detailed timestamp to help you navigate the key hig…

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Ep. 224: HAIM | Do It Your Way. (“I quit", + more) 58:51

1M ago58:51

58:51

Today’s guests are HAIM — one of the most unique voices in modern music, known for blending rock, pop, and soul into a sound that defined a generation. From garage band beginnings to Grammy nominations, they’ve collaborated with some of the biggest names in music while staying fiercely true to themselves. And the writer(s) are... HAIM! In this epis…

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Ep. 223: sombr | How a 100% Writer-Producer Took Over Pop 59:43

2M ago59:43

59:43

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Saxophonist Harben Kay; How to self-manage your albums, Ep 253 1:25:31

1M ago1:25:31

1:25:31

From being afraid of improvisation to becoming one of the UK's most innovative saxophonists, Harben Kay takes us through their journey in music — mentors, heroes, practice routines, composing, and the inspiration behind their brand-new album The World I Live In (out Oct 3, 2025). Below is a detailed timestamp guide to help you navigate the key high…

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Lenny Williams - Still Loving You even after 50 Years of Music 3:17

2M ago3:17

3:17

Carlaya give us an unforgettable conversation with Lenny Williams, the legendary R&B and soul icon known for timeless hits like Cause I Love You and So Very Hard to Go. Ahead of his highly anticipated appearance on The Blues Is Alright Tour at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas, Lenny opens up about his decades-long career, performing with Tower of Power, and…

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Ep. 222: Ed Sheeran | Inside The Craft of a Songwriter’s Songwriter 1:24:14

2M ago1:24:14

1:24:14

Today's guest is quite literally one of the greatest songwriters of all time. He also happens to be one of the biggest artists of all time. Imagine that. This legend needs no introduction... And the writer is... Ed Sheeran! Presented by our friends at NMPA. A huge thank you to our sponsors. NMPA fights for songwriters' rights, ensuring fair pay and…

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Dr David Culter; Amplifying Income, Impact & Innovation for Saxophonists, Ep 252 1:42:03

2M ago1:42:03

1:42:03

In this episode of the Everything Saxophone Podcast, host Donna Schwartz sits down with Dr. David Cutler, author, musician, educator, and creative entrepreneur, to talk about music, innovation, and the entrepreneurial mindset musicians need today. Find exactly what you're looking for in the episode by using the timestamps below ⬇️ 00:00 His musical…

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Ep. 221: Andrew Watt | How He Became the Go-To Producer for the World’s Biggest Artists 1:21:54

2M ago1:21:54

1:21:54

Today's guest is one of the most sought-after hitmakers of the last decade. A Grammy-winning producer, songwriter, and guitarist whose genre-bending work has shaped the sound of modern music. From rock legends to pop superstars, he’s collaborated with Justin Bieber, Post Malone, Ozzy Osbourne, The Rolling Stones, Dua Lipa, Miley Cyrus, and more — e…

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Ep. 220: Tayla Parx | Longevity & Building a Lasting Career 1:18:58

3M ago1:18:58

1:18:58

Today’s guest is more than a hitmaker — she’s a creative force who has shaped the sound of a generation. From penning chart-toppers like “Thank U, Next” (Ariana Grande), “High Hopes” (Panic! at the Disco), and “Love Lies” (Khalid & Normani) to building her own label, publishing company, and artist career, her story is a masterclass in reinvention, …

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Audrey Tait Interview (Franz Ferdinand, Hector Bizerk, Broken Chanter): Glastonbury, Authenticity, & Wellness 47:37

2M ago47:37

47:37

In this episode, we're joined by Audrey Tate, the incredibly talented drummer of the iconic band Franz Ferdinand. Recorded during their tour, Audrey shares fascinating stories from the road, including their recent high-energy performance at Glastonbury Festival. Audrey dives into the physical demands of drumming, discussing her pre-gig warm-up rout…

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Saxophonist, Educator, Composer, Woody Witt; Free Jazz Modernized, Ep 251 1:45:33

3M ago1:45:33

1:45:33

On this episode of the Everything Saxophone Podcast, Donna welcomes award-winning saxophonist and educator Dr. Woody Witt, fresh off the release of his latest album, Awakening. Here are the timestamps for your convenience; jump to the parts of our conversation with Dr. Woody Witt that interest you most! 00:00 What keeps Woody busy right now 05:27 H…

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Ep. 219: Laufey | Redefining Jazz for a New Generation 1:07:36

3M ago1:07:36

1:07:36

Today’s guest is nothing short of a phenomenon. With roots in Iceland and China, raised in a family of classical musicians, she grew up between symphony halls and jazz records — and has now become the defining voice of her generation. Her music is a breathtaking blend of timeless jazz, classical elegance, and modern storytelling that has captivated…

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Chieli Minucci & Special EFX All-Stars Live in Las Vegas 5:07

2M ago5:07

5:07

In this special Artists To Watch interview, we sit down with Grammy-nominated guitarist and Special EFX founder Chieli Minucci ahead of the band’s upcoming Special EFX All-Stars concert at the Aliante Casino’s Access Showroom on Saturday, November 15th. Chieli shares how his musical journey began with the piano before a love of the guitar—and its c…

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Ep. 218: Conan Gray | From Bedroom to Global Sensation 1:08:20

2M ago1:08:20

1:08:20

Today’s guest began on YouTube — a teenager posting bedroom covers to a handful of viewers. Now, his songs have been streamed billions of times across the globe. He’s headlined sold-out arenas on multiple continents, become a global fashion force, and built one of the most devoted fanbases of his generation. He’s collaborated with legends like Max …

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Saxophonist David Bixler; Pursuing Creative Conversations With Improvisation, Ep 250 1:19:59

4M ago1:19:59

1:19:59

Saxophonist and composer David Bixler joins host Donna Schwartz on the ep. 250 of the Everything Saxophone Podcast to share his musical journey, creative insights, and more! Below is a detailed timestamp guide to help you navigate the key highlights of our conversation with David Bixler: 00:00 How he got into music 06:17 Mentors and inspirations wh…

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Rob Brian Interview (Siouxsie and the Banshees, Simple Minds, Laura Pausini): For The Love of Music 1:07:24

3M ago1:07:24

1:07:24

In this episode, we're joined by Rob Brian, a veteran session drummer and honorary Drum Dog ambassador. Rob shares stories from his extensive career, from his musical upbringing to touring with iconic artists like Siouxsie Sioux and Simple Minds. Rob opens up about the intimidating experience of joining Siouxsie and the Banshees and the importance …

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Ep. 217: Rodney Jerkins (pt.2) | The Alchemy of Greatness 1:11:00

3M ago1:11:00

1:11:00

He believed before anyone else did. Before the Grammys. Before the 39 billion streams. Before Say My Name changed the sound of radio forever. He was just a kid on a New Jersey bus, chasing a dream no one else could see. In this episode, legendary producer Rodney “Darkchild” Jerkins shares how faith, fire, and pure conviction took him from a basemen…

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

4M 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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Saxophonist Jimmy Farace; Understanding The Past to Maximize His Growth, Ep 249 1:31:30

4M ago1:31:30

1:31:30

In Episode 249 of the Everything Saxophone Podcast, hosted by Donna Schwartz, rising star, baritone saxophonist Jimmy Farace, joins us for a conversation about storytelling through music, his influences, and his newly released debut album. Below is a detailed timestamp guide to help you navigate the key highlights of our conversation with Jimmy Far…

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Saxophonist Dr. Randal Clark; Taking Action To Control Your Destiny, Ep. 248 1:54:22

5M ago1:54:22

1:54:22

In Episode 248 of the Everything Saxophone Podcast, host Donna Schwartz sits down with saxophonist, educator, and composer Dr. Randal Clark for an inspiring conversation about music, artistry, and education. Here's a guided timestamp to check out the highlights of this episode with Dr. Randal Clark —perfect if you want to jump straight to the parts…

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

5M 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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Ollie Usiskin Interview (Christopher Lee, Mike Stern, Jimmy Haslip): Tony, Clinics & NYC Drums 59:40

5M ago59:40

59:40

In this interview, we sit down with Ollie Usiskin, a well-regarded session drummer who's played across a huge range of genres. Ollie shares his experiences working on a wide variety of music projects, from a free-jazz duo with an electric cello player to a heavy metal album with actor Christopher Lee. Ollie discusses his career as a session musicia…

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

5M 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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Saxophonist Andy Sheppard; Pushing Sonic Boundaries, Ep. 247 1:33:04

5M ago1:33:04

1:33:04

In Episode 247 of the Everything Saxophone Podcast, Donna Schwartz sits down with internationally renowned saxophonist, composer, and ECM recording artist Andy Sheppard. Here's a guided timestamp to check out the highlights of the episode — perfect if you want to jump straight to the parts that resonate most with you. 00:00 - Leaving art school and…

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

5M 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…

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Ep. 214: Ian Fitchuk | Create For Yourself... 1:19:59

5M ago1:19:59

1:19:59

Today’s guest is a musical architect whose fingerprints are on some of the most emotionally resonant and sonically rich records of the last decade. He’s not the loudest in the room—but when he’s in the studio, every note, every tone, every beat matters. A multi-instrumentalist, songwriter, and producer with an unmatched intuition, he brings out the…

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The Women Behind Nevada’s Most Empowering Film Festival 10:38

5M ago10:38

10:38

In this episode of Artists to Watch – Las Vegas, host Carlaya welcomes the visionary team behind the 11th Annual Nevada Women’s Film Festival—Executive Director Nikki Corda, Events Director Hannah Utech, and Community Liaison Breanna Kennedy—for a live conversation from Carlaya’s Café on 91.5 Jazz and More. Together, they discuss how NWFFest champi…

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Ep. 212: Russ | Building An Indie Empire 2:12:55

6M ago2:12:55

2:12:55

This week’s guest is one of the most successful independent artists in modern music. He’s a rapper, singer, songwriter, and producer who built his career from the ground up. in this rare conversation, he opens up about the side of the journey we don’t usually hear: The emotional weight of ownership, the mental toll of doing it all alone, and the be…

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Ep. 213: David Israelite | How Songwriters Get Paid — And Why the System is Broken 55:47

6M ago55:47

55:47

In this special episode, Ross Golan sits down with David Israelite, the influential President and CEO of the National Music Publishers Association (NMPA). A fierce and tireless advocate for songwriters, David has spent nearly two decades fighting for the rights, recognition, and fair compensation of music creators in an ever-evolving industry. From…

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Ted Klum Saxophone Mouthpieces; The Secrets Behind His Success, Ep 246 1:44:50

6M ago1:44:50

1:44:50

In this episode we had the incredible honor of hosting Ted Klum himself alongside product manager Michael Howe from Ted Klum Mouthpieces! This episode is pure GOLD! Here's a guided timestamp to check out the highlights of the episode — perfect if you want to jump straight to the parts that resonate most with you. 00:00 - How Ted Klum started his co…

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Pete Griffin - Dethklok, Steve Vai, Zappa and... Hanson??! 59:27

6M ago59:27

59:27

You may know Pete Griffin as the bass player for 'real life cartoon band' Dethklok, but that is just one of the many musical hats Pete dons on a regular basis. From touring with pop megastars Hanson to Zappa Plays Zappa and Generation Axe, Griffin is not only capable in these different acts and genres but authentic, not an easy feat! Pete WEB: http…

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Jessy J Returns to Las Vegas – Terra Nova, and Jazz in the Park 2025 4:29

6M ago4:29

4:29

In this special episode of Artists To Watch, saxophonista Jessy J joins us ahead of her headlining performance at the 35th Annual Jazz in the Park in Las Vegas. She shares the unexpected story of how she fell in love with the saxophone, opens up about her latest album Terra Nova—a reunion project with producer Paul Brown—and reflects on the deeper …

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Kirk Whalum: Epic Cool and the Sound of Legacy 5:13

6M ago5:13

5:13

Grammy-winning saxophonist Kirk Whalum joins 91.5 Jazz & More ahead of his performance at Jazz in the Park to talk about his brand-new album Epic Cool, a celebration of seasoned artistry and timeless groove. In this candid and joyful conversation, Kirk shares stories from touring with Whitney Houston, reflects on performing during historic moments …

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Ep. 211: BANKS | The Key to Longevity (Building Your Fanbase) 55:52

6M ago55:52

55:52

Today’s guest is an artist whose voice cuts through like a blade—sharp, emotional, and unforgettable. Emerging from the shadows of alternative R&B and electro-pop, she’s crafted a sonic identity that’s both intimate and cinematic. Her lyrics are deeply confessional, fearless in their vulnerability, and her production choices push boundaries while s…

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Saxophonist Dan White; Using the 'Yes' Mentality to Embrace Challenges, Ep 245 1:54:23

6M ago1:54:23

1:54:23

In this conversation, saxophonist Dan White reflects on his journey from a young student learning 50 tunes by ear to earning a music degree at Ohio State and touring professionally. Here's a guided timestamp to check out the highlights of the episode — perfect if you want to jump straight to the parts that resonate most with you. 00:00 - His first …

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Ep. 210: Jon Bellion | Art Over Algorithm, Always 1:46:57

7M ago1:46:57

1:46:57

Today’s guest is one of the most original minds in modern music—a genre-defying powerhouse who returns to this podcast six years after his first unforgettable visit. Hailing from Long Island, this producer, performer, and lyrical architect has built a sonic universe entirely his own. He’s the mastermind behind cinematic pop records that blur the li…

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Saxophonist Leah Concialdi; How to Authentically Pitch Yourself, Ep 244 1:59:49

7M ago1:59:49

1:59:49

Everything Saxophone Podcast Host, Donna Schwartz, spoke with Leah Concialdi, Saxophonist, about how to authentically pitch yourself. Leah opens up about playing bari sax at massive pop gigs, wireless mic tips for saxophonists, Fela Kuti's influence on her music and many more! ✨ Here's what we've talked about: 🎷 Musical beginning 🎷 Pop gig preparat…

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Ep. 209: d4vd | The Kid Hacking Pop Music From His Phone 45:26

7M ago45:26

45:26

Today’s guest is a genre-shifting phenomenon who’s redefining what it means to break through in music today. With a sound that fuses indie, alt-pop, R&B, and emo influences, he’s crafted a raw, emotionally charged catalog that’s connected with a generation—and he did it all from his sister’s closet on a phone. In just a few years, his music has rac…

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Travis Dykes - Modern Gospel Bass and Social Media Success 1:20:56

6M ago1:20:56

1:20:56

If you've ever searched for bass related topics on YouTube or Instagram (which if you're watching this then the answer is probably yes) then I'm sure you will have come across some of Travis Dykes' fantastic content. It was great to chat with Travis about his musical journey both in the gospel scene and online, his perspectives on gear and even get…

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Ep. 208: Edgar Barrera | The Max Martin of Latin Music 1:19:37

7M ago1:19:37

1:19:37

Today’s guest is a Latin music powerhouse whose pen has changed the game globally. With a genre-defying catalog that spans regional Mexican, reggaeton, pop, and bachata, he’s crafted chart-topping hits that cross borders and break records. His work has earned him 26 Grammy wins, making him one of the most decorated writers in the industry today. Bu…