And The Writer Is...with Ross Golan
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Ep. 246: Dermot Kennedy | How an Irish Busker Became a Worldwide Phenomenon
7 april 2026 · 1 uur 21 min
Today's guest is the Irish troubadour who sold out arenas across the world and built one of the most durable careers in modern music, entirely on his own terms. Lees meer
From Dublin street corners and busking for strangers to headlining Madison Square Garden, this conversation is about what that actually costs to build the slow, deliberate construction of a career that answers to no one, yet resonates with millions around the world.
He carries three things simultaneously that most artists never figure out how to hold at once: the ambition of someone who was never going to settle for Ireland only, the sensitivity of a songwriter who writes for his whole community, and the creative instincts of a kid who grew up on hip hop and folk and refused to let either one fully win.
This is one of the more honest conversations about what a creative life actually looks like from the inside — not the version that gets posted, the version that gets lived.
And The Writer Is... Dermot Kennedy!
In this episode of And The Writer Is...
We go deep on:
• His whole journey
• The moment he realized the audience could feel how hard he was trying — and why that was the problem • How to carry ambition, sensitivity, and creative instinct in the same body without one of them destroying the other
• Building an international career without a viral hit — and what that reveals about how the industry actually works
• The busking years, and the secrets for how he survived
• Why he deliberately toured smaller venues on his last run — and what that decision says about success
• Imposter syndrome, insecurity, and the reality of growing a career from 0-100.
And much more...
Hit subscribe and turn on notifications.
Every week, we go deep with the most interesting creatives in music.
Follow us on socials: @andthewriteris
A special thank you to our sponsors...
Our lead sponsor, NMPA — the National Music Publishing Association. Your support means the world to us.
And @splice — the best sample libra…
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Ep. 245: Madison Beer | Becoming Yourself with the World Watching
31 maart 2026 · 1 uur 22 min
Today’s guest is one of the most quietly enduring artists in modern pop — a songwriter and performer who’s spent over a decade growing up in public, learning how to separate perception from identity. Lees meer
She was discovered online as a teenager and quickly thrust into an industry that had already decided who she was.
But behind the headlines, she was doing the real work — writing, refining her sound, and slowly building a career on her own terms.
This is a conversation about perception vs reality, creative control, and what it actually takes to become yourself in an industry that benefits from misunderstanding you.
And The Writer Is… Madison Beer!
What you'll learn:
• What it actually feels like to grow up in the public eye
• The gap between how artists are perceived vs who they really are
• Why longevity in music requires emotional resilience
• How Madison developed her sound and creative identity over time
• The pressure of early success — and rebuilding from it
• Why being misunderstood can either break you or sharpen you
This episode is brought to you by the NMPA — supporting songwriters and protecting the value of music.
And by Splice — the world’s largest library of sounds and samples, built for creators.
Chapters:
0:00 Intro
1:42 Madison’s favorite songs of hers
3:00 Lyrics or melody first?
4:30 Ross meeting Madison at 13
6:00 Madison’s childhood, early memories
7:00 Going through parent’s divorce in early childhood
9:45 Why singing the national anthem is hard
10:00 Her family’s early encouragement
11:00 Madison’s first song
13:00 Starting her career at 10
18:40 Getting discovered overnight from a Justin Bieber tweet.
19:11 Contracts in music industry
19:58 Meeting Justin Bieber
21:46 Why getting dropped is a blessing
24:00 Struggling with early music identity
26:00 Why she felt she couldn’t fight back on creative control early on
28:00 finding her power through social media
31:55 Reclaiming creative control
33:50 writing reckless…
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Ep. 244: Melanie Martinez | How to Protect Your Creative Spirit in a Commercial World
24 maart 2026 · 1 uur 13 min
Today’s world builder builds worlds worldwide to make her own universe! Dark and whimsical meets bubblegum grunge when this artist broke out on the scene to create her own cult following. Lees meer
When doors didn’t open, she built her own.
And The Writer Is……Melanie Martinez!
In this episode, Melanie opens up about:
• Materializing ideas and her entire creative process
• Why she never approached music as a game
• The reality behind shows like The Voice
• How she built her identity before the industry caught up
• Her philosophy on songwriting and the importance of your truth
• Protecting your creative voice in a commercial system
• Why being yourself is still the most important advantage
• And much more…
Hit the subscribe button and turn on notifications.
Every week, we go deep with the most interesting creatives in music.
Follow us on socials: @andthewriteris
A special thank you to our sponsors…
Our lead sponsor, NMPA — the National Music Publishing Association. Your support means the world to us.
And @splice — the best sample library on the market. Period.
Chapters:
0:00 Intro
2:00 The Real Meaning Behind “Disney Princess”
4:30 Introversion vs Performance
6:00 The Magic of Creating and Materializing Ideas
7:45 Her Creative Process — Titles, Concepts, and Staying Inspired
12:00 The Songs That Defined Her Early Career
12:48 Growing Up Writing — Her First Songs and Backstory
16:45 World-Building and Creating a True Artistic Identity
18:30 Rejection, Independence, and Dollhouse
20:00 “Blind Dating” in the Music Industry
24:00 Stage Fright and Early Creative Influences
26:00 What She’d Tell Her Younger Self
26:45 Advice for Artists Trying to Break Through
27:30 Hitchhiking to The Voice — And What It Really Was
30:00 The Reality of Music Competition Shows
31:42 NMPA — Our Lead Sponsor This Season
32:23 Splice
33:00 Ross on Music Competition TV
34:00 Performing Live and Managing Nerves
36:00 Finding Herself Through Dollhouse
37:20 The Story …
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Ep. 243: Charlie Puth Pt. 2| The Long Road to Becoming Yourself
17 maart 2026 · 1 uur 32 min
Today’s guest is one of the defining voices in modern pop — a songwriter, producer, and artist behind some of the biggest records of the last decade. Lees meer
His songs have been streamed billions of times worldwide.
He came to Los Angeles to write for others.
Instead, he became a globally identifiable artist — before fully becoming himself.
Now, he’s building something that’s truly his.
And The Writer Is… Charlie Puth!
In this episode, Charlie opens up about:
• His early journey
• The moment “See You Again” came together, and why it still feels unexplainable
• How early success shaped his career before his identity caught up
• Why the best songs often come from discomfort, not control
• The role of collaboration in pushing him beyond his instincts
• Sessions with legendary artists — and what those moments actually feel like
• The importance of staying human in an increasingly synthetic world
• And much more…
Hit the subscribe button and follow us on socials @andthewriteris
Every week, we go deep with the most interesting creatives in music.
A special thank you to our sponsors…
Our lead sponsor, NMPA — the National Music Publishing Association. Your support means the world to us.
And @splice — the best sample library on the market. Period.
Chapters:
0:00 Intro
2:46 Charlie Demos the Theme Song
5:00 The “Mouth Phone” Trick
7:00 His Secret Involvement in Dangerous Woman
9:00 “Stay” — The Power of Collaboration (Justin Bieber, Kid Laroi)
13:00 “Are You Where You Want to Be?”
16:00 Where His Best Work Comes From
16:53 The Story of See You Again
20:43 Wiz Khalifa’s Defining 'See You Again' Moment
23:02 When the Industry Didn’t Know What to Do With Him
27:22 The Song No One Believed In (We Don’t Talk Anymore)
29:52 Ross’s Philosophy on Sending Music
31:04 The Song That Changed Everything
34:09 Authenticity, Vulnerability, and Letting People In
39:00 Why It’s More Important to Be Human Than Ever
45:05 NMPA — Our Lead Sponsor This Season
45:56 S…
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Ep. 242: Megan Moroney | The Unlikely Road of a Country Superstar
10 maart 2026 · 1 uur 22 min
Today’s guest is one of the fastest-rising voices in modern country — a songwriter whose honesty, wit, and emotional precision have turned deeply personal stories into songs heard everywhere. She just became the 10th woman of the century to top the Billboard 200. Lees meer
Before the sold-out shows and chart-topping records, she was a college student playing small gigs with her dad and brother, trying to figure out where music might fit into her life.
One honest song at a time, she began building a catalog that feels both timeless and unmistakably her own.
Now, with a growing fanbase and a string of hits helping shape the sound of modern country, she’s writing the next chapter of her career in real time.
And The Writer Is… Megan Moroney!
In this episode of And The Writer Is… Megan opens up about:
• The unexpected moment that pushed her toward learning guitar
• Growing up around music and playing early shows with her family
• The traumatic accident that jumpstarted her music career
• Finding her voice in the Nashville songwriting community
• Why honesty and humor are essential to her writing
• How she stood out in early co-writes
• And much more…
Hit subscribe and turn on notifications.Every week, we go deep with the most interesting creatives in music.
Follow us on socials: @andthewriteris
A special thank you to our sponsors…
Our lead sponsor, NMPA — the National Music Publishing Association. Your support means the world to us.And @splice — the best sample library on the market. Period.
Chapters
0:00 Intro
5:00 Moving to Nashville: The First Steps
6:00 Working in the Music Industry Before Releasing Music
7:00 The Advice That Started Her Career
10:00 Growing Up Around Music in Georgia
13:50 “I Went to School to Be an Accountant”
16:30 Musical Theatre and Feeling Out of Place
18:56 The Accident That Started Everything
24:01 The Sorority Event That Led to Georgia Theatre
32:25 Learning the Business of Music in School
33:00 The Internship That Changed…
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Ep. 241: Jesse Rutherford (The Neighbourhood) | How an Unlikely Band Became Inevitable
3 maart 2026 · 1 uur 40 min
Today’s guest is the frontman of one of the most defining bands of the 2010s — a songwriter whose voice helped shape an era of alternative pop that still echoes today. Lees meer
Before arenas. Before permanence. Before “Sweater Weather” became cultural shorthand.
Now, after over a decade of hits, reinvention, and evolution, he looks back on the long arc of The Neighbourhood with clarity — and with honesty about what success did and didn’t solve.
And The Writer Is… Jesse Rutherford of The Neighbourhood!
In this episode of And The Writer Is…, Jesse opens up about:
• Growing up in the industry before he understood it
• The unlikely formation and endurance of The Neighbourhood
• His journey through childhood acting, getting discovered, + losing his dad on the brink of success
• The advice he’d give himself before it worked
• And much more…
Hit subscribe and turn on notifications.
Every week, we go deep with the most interesting creatives in music.
Follow us on socials: @andthewriteris
A special thank you to our sponsors…
Our lead sponsor, NMPA — the National Music Publishing Association. Your support means the world to us.
And @splice — the best sample library on the market. Period.
Chapters:
0:00 Intro
2:09 I Never Wanted To Be Alternative
4:02 Why Thousand Oaks Produces Massive Bands
7:39 Becoming a Child Actor at 6
8:35 “My Self-Worth Is Tied to Entertaining”
9:55 Discovered in a Movie Theater at 5
14:16 Reconnecting With His Dad Before He Passed
17:28 Success Without the Fame He Expected
27:10 High School Metalcore Bands
33:17 How The Neighbourhood Formed
36:06 The First Riff of “Sweater Weather”
40:00 Getting Discovered Online by Their Manager
44:23 His Manager’s Warning…
47:20 Writing the Lyrics to “Sweater Weather”
48:42 Pop Writing Rules
55:23 Learning to Let Go of Instant Validation
59:32 Daddy Issues
1:02:30Watching Your Own Lyrics Affect Relationships
1:10:01 Why He Needs Alone Time
1:10:23 Feeling Invisible, the “Chip Chrome” Era
…
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Ep. 240: EJAE | A Career Built Slowly and Heard All at Once
25 februari 2026 · 1 uur 36 min
Today’s guest is a Grammy-winning songwriter, global pop architect, and one of the most quietly influential voices shaping modern music across borders. Lees meer
Before the world heard her voice, she spent years training inside the K-pop system — learning discipline, structure, and endurance long before recognition ever arrived. When the system didn’t know what to do with her, she pivoted. Slowly. Intentionally. And built a career that would eventually be heard everywhere.
Now, as a songwriter whose work spans K-pop, pop, animation, and beyond — and as an artist stepping into her own voice — she represents a different kind of success: one built patiently, shaped by pressure, and defined by longevity rather than speed.
And The Writer Is… Ejae!
In this episode of And The Writer Is…, Ejae opens up about:
The reality of the K-pop training system and what it actually teaches you about discipline and survival
Rejection and why her voice didn’t fit the moment — and how that shaped her writing
Learning to work alone after years inside a rigid system
How songwriting became a safer, more powerful entry point than performing
The pivot that reframed her career and led to global success
And much more…
Hit the subscribe button and turn on notifications.
Every week, we go deep with the most interesting creatives in music.
Follow us on socials: @andthewriteris
A special thank you to our sponsors…
Our lead sponsor, NMPA — the National Music Publishing Association. Your support means the world to us.
And @splice — the best sample library on the market. Period.
Chapters:
0:00 Intro
1:30 Early life & finding music
6:10 Inside K-Pop training
9:00 Ejae's writing process...
28:00 Rejection from auditioning to be a K-Pop Idol... and $5 Karaoke training to pass.
41:00 Ejae sings her first song
41:37 Sponsor Spotlight: NMPA
42:18 Sponsor Spotlight: Splice
14:45 Discipline, pressure, and identity
23:20 Being let go by the system
26:19 The truth about the K-Pop system
30:40…
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Ep. 239: Marcus Mumford (of Mumford & Sons) | 'Catching' Songs + Avoiding Self-Sabotage
17 februari 2026 · 1 uur 14 min
Today's guest is a festival headliner, Grammy-winning songwriter, and the architect of a sound that accidentally changed the course of folk, country, and alternative music forever. Lees meer
From singing as a family around a kitchen table to headlining arenas with banjos and mandolins, Marcus Mumford built something no one saw coming — and has spent years learning not to get in his own way once the stakes got real.
Now, as a solo artist and band leader, he's as honest about the creative process as he is about the pitfalls of ego, overthinking, and the quiet ways success can sabotage itself.
And The Writer Is... Marcus Mumford of Mumford & Sons!
In this episode of And The Writer Is…, Marcus opens up about:
His theory of "catching" songs rather than forcing them
How Mumford & Sons structured equal ownership to stay together
What Bob Dylan said to him that he wants tattooed on his body
The Pharrell moment that reframed his entire relationship to success
Why showing up — again and again — is the only way judgment is earned
And much more...
Hit the subscribe button and turn on notifications...
Every week we go deep with the most interesting creatives in music.
Follow us on socials at @andthewriteris
A special thank you to our sponsors…
Our lead sponsor, NMPA — the National Music Publishing Association. Your support means the world to us.
And @splice — the best sample library on the market. Period.
Chapters:
0:00 Intro
1:00 Desert Island Mix: Radiohead
3:00 The Greatest Band of All Time?
7:00 A Hilarious Story About Bob Dylan — His Songwriting Grandfather
11:00 How Mumford & Sons Structured Equal Ownership
13:35 How Mumford & Sons Writes Music
17:00 Where Great Music Comes From
18:35 His Songwriting Ethos: "Catching Fairies"
22:00 Favorite Poetry and Getting Lost in Words Before Writing
23:46 Childhood
25:00 Growing Up in Church
33:50 Why Drummers Make the Best Producers
50:00 Testing Demos on the Road
52:00 Working on His Solo Record
58:00 The Empo…
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Ep. 238: Illenium | Addiction Almost Killed Him. Music Saved Him.
10 februari 2026 · 1 uur 21 min
Today's guest is a multi-platinum DJ, producer, and songwriter who turned personal devastation into one of electronic music's most emotionally resonant careers. Lees meer
From opioid addiction in high school to wilderness therapy at rock bottom, he rebuilt his entire life in Denver—sober, alone, and teaching himself music theory from scratch.
Now 13 years clean, he's become a voice for mental health in a scene built on excess, collaborating with Jon Bellion, Halsey, Teddy Swims, and countless others to create music that connects survivors.
His latest album, Odyssey, is a cinematic journey through heartbreak, recovery, and the sessions that saved his life.
And The Writer Is... Illenium!
In this episode of And The Writer Is…, Nick Miller (Illenium) opens up about:
* Moving every two years as a kid and never having roots
* Falling into opiates at 15 and hitting bottom by 2011
* Moving to Denver alone and getting sober at 21
* The Good Things Fall Apart session (and demo)
* How music saved his life entirely
and much more...
Hit the subscribe button and turn on notifications...
Every week we go deep with the most interesting creatives in music.
Follow us on socials at @andthewriteris
A special thank you to our sponsors…
Our lead Sponsor, NMPA— the National Music Publishing Association. Your support means the world to us.
And @splice — the best sample library on the market. Period.
Chapters:
0:00 Intro
1:00 Childhood and Moving Every Two Years
5:00 Getting Into Music Through Tiesto's Album
6:30 The Electronic Artist That Inspires Industry Musicians
9:00 Getting Sober—His Rough Patch in 2011
10:00 Escapism and Addiction
12:30 The Wilderness Program That Saved His Life
16:30 Getting Lost in Music and How He Learned to Create
17:30 Illenium's Roots
18:00 Learning From Other Producers and YouTube
20:00 Thinking of Sound as a Picture
21:00 World Building and Finding His Brand… and His Purpose
23:00 Ross Opens Up on How Music Saved Him
24:00 The Personali…
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Ep. 237: Philip Lawrence | How a $5 Bus Pass Created Bruno Mars
28 januari 2026 · 1 uur 59 min
Today's guest is a Grammy-winning songwriter, producer, and performer, best known as one-third of The Smeezingtons and a foundational creative force behind Bruno Mars’ career. He has co-written and helped shape some of the most influential pop songs of the last two decades, including Just the Way You Are, Billionaire, Locked Out of Heaven, When I Was Your Man, 24K Magic, Nothin’ on You, and many more... Lees meer
And The Writer Is... Bruno Mars!
In this episode of And The Writer Is…, Philip Lawrence tells his story in full—for the first time
- How a $5 bus pass led to Bruno Mars
- The hidden cost of early success
- Real stories behind pop’s biggest records
- The pivot that made everything 'click'
- A breakdown at the peak—and the call that brought him back
and much more...
A special thank you to our sponsors…
Our lead Sponsor, NMPA— the National Music Publishing Association. Your support means the world to us.
And @splice — the best sample library on the market. Period.
Chapters:
0:00 Intro
4:00 “I Just Might” and Bruno Mars
10:31 Childhood and Not Feeling Good Enough
14:00 Early Career
20:00 Leaving School and Auditioning for Disney
26:00 The Disney Break Room: The Beginning of His Journey
27:00 His First Session
30:00 Meeting Steven Seagal
34:00 Moving to LA
37:09 Losing Everything He Had So Far
39:00 Finding His Manager
43:00 Finding His Way Through the Industry
44:42 His Ego Death
45:50 The Pivot That Really Started His Career
46:50 Be Friends With All the Assistants
47:20 NMPA and Splice
48:45 How to Write for Radio
49:30 Developing His Songwriting Ethos
50:29 Spending His Last $5 to Meet Bruno Mars (Before He Was Bruno Mars)
1:05:09 How Bruno Stayed on His Early Hook Placements
1:07:28 The Story of Nothin’ on You
1:09:20 Billionaire
1:11:50 Just the Way You Are
1:19:15 Talking to the Moon
1:20:49 Ross’s CeeLo Story
1:23:00 “F*** You” Was Not Supposed to Happen
1:28:00 How Locked Out of Heaven Happened
1:33:22 When I Was Your Man …
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Ep. 236: John Ryan | The Playbook of a World-Class Songwriter
21 januari 2026 · 1 uur 31 min
Today's guest has quietly shaped the sound of a generation. Lees meer
He has written and produced some of the biggest songs of the last 15 years—from One Direction's "Story of My Life" to Niall Horan's "Slow Hands," Sabrina Carpenter's "Taste", Teddy Swims' "Lose Control," and Olivia Dean's "So Easy to Fall in Love."
A true songwriter's songwriter, John Ryan doesn't just chase hits—he shapes careers, defines sounds, and knows exactly when inspiration is knocking.
In this episode, John breaks down what it really takes to stay relevant across multiple eras, why authenticity always wins, and how he went from a Berklee kid living in his manager's parents' house to becoming one of the most trusted voices in pop music.
We talk about:
- The hardest years of his career
- The real batting rate of the best songwriters
- Meeting Sabrina Carpenter and Teddy Swims
- Working with One Direction and losing Liam
- Gems upon GEMS for up and coming musicians, songwriters, and producers
and a special live performance of some of his biggest hits.
A special thank you to our sponsors…
Our lead Sponsor, NMPA— the National Music Publishing Association. Your support means the world to us.
And @splice — the best sample library on the market. Period.
Chapters:
00:00 Intro: John Ryan
02:30 How John Got Into the Music Industry
06:30 Songs from Eighth Grade & Writing Early
10:30 Writing Like a Kid Again (The Picasso Effect)
13:00 Berklee, Pro Tools & Learning the Craft
17:00 How Many Songs Actually Make It Out?
19:30 Maroon 5’s “Cold”
21:30 Niall Horan: From One Direction to Solo Artist
24:15 The Lowest Point of His Career
26:00 The Realization That Saved Him
28:00 Meeting Teddy Swims & Sabrina Carpenter
31:00 Social Media, Virality & “I Don’t Have That on My Phone”
33:30 Writing “Heaven” with Niall Horan
34:00 Sabrina Carpenter’s “Feather”
36:00 Stop Chasing Numbers. Start Betting on People
38:00 Co-Writing with Amy Allen
41:56 How John Ryan Produces Songs
44:50 Country Mu…
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Ep.235: David Foster | What It Takes to Last in the Music Business
14 januari 2026 · 1 uur 45 min
Today’s guest isn’t just a living legend. Lees meer
He’s one of the architects of modern music.
As a songwriter and producer, he’s discovered artists, shaped careers, and defined entire eras.
This one is required listening.
A once-in-a-generation legendary hybrid of songwriting and production,
And The Writer Is... David Foster!
In this episode, David breaks down what actually makes music last, the cost of greatness, and what it really takes to survive and stay relevant in the music business over decades, not moments.
Not to mention his best advice for people in the business right now...
We talk songwriting vs. production, discovering artists like Céline Dion and Michael Bublé, working with legends like Whitney Houston and Paul McCartney, the mistakes artists make chasing hits, and why longevity matters more than hype.
Oh, and the only artist who could pull him out of retirement...
A special thank you to our sponsors…
Our lead Sponsor, NMPA— the National Music Publishing Association.
Your support means the world to us.
And @splice — the best sample library on the market. Period.
Chapters:
00:00 Mount Rushmore of Producers
02:00 Canadians
03:42 David Foster’s Parents
05:23 Discovering Perfect Pitch
07:03 Musical Roots and Learning Jazz
07:40 Jazz Voicings Explained
10:24 “Leave Songwriters Alone” – Publishing Talk
11:20 Writing His First Songs
12:21 Advice He’d Give His Younger Self
17:00 David Foster’s Trick for Reading People
17:58 Surviving a Plane Crash
20:22 The Start of His Early Career
22:00 Is “Africa” by Toto a Perfect Song?
27:20 The Greatest Songwriters Ever
30:25 Kanye West’s “Through the Wire” Sample Story
32:27 Songwriting vs Sampling (Blurred Lines Case)
34:21 His Documentary, Workflow, and Band Relationships
38:53 How David Foster Writes Songs
42:42 How Seven People Write One Song
43:39 Presented by NMPA & Splice
48:19 The Critical Mistake in “Uptown Funk”
49:49 “Unforgettable” with Nat King Cole
51:08 Paul McCartney
55:17 …
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Ep. 234: Diplo | Branding Decides Who Wins
6 januari 2026 · 1 uur 14 min
And The Writer Is... Diplo! Lees meer
This episode isn’t about hits. It’s about how culture actually gets made.
Taste, burnout, and building culture without permission.
From growing up in Florida crate-digging scenes no one cared about, to turning underground instincts into global movements, Diplo breaks down the uncomfortable truth behind longevity in music: following your taste when everyone else wants safety.
We get into:
The real physical and mental toll of nonstop touring in a world that never shuts off
The power of branding and how he did it (and why you have to, to)
Breaking scenes before they’re acceptable
Burning out, disappearing, and rebuilding without chasing relevance
Why instinct beats public approval every single time
And the reality of turning risk into influence and underground energy into global impact This episode is for anyone building anything.
Thank you for listening
A special thank you to our sponsors…
Our lead Sponsor, NMPA— the National Music Publishing Association.
Your support means the world to us.
And @splice — the best sample library on the market. Period.
Chapters
00:00 – Diplo Is Here
01:02 – Episode Intro
01:45 – AI, Sora, and the Future
03:18 – How Diplo Uses AI in Music
06:15 – Using Prompts to Produce
07:44 – How Diplo Got Into Music
10:32 – How Ross and Diplo Met
14:05 – Life as a World-Touring DJ
16:04 – Dr. Luke Signed Me to Steal My Drums
16:36 – Diplo’s Origin Story
17:13 – Riff Raff, Culture, and Being Hated
18:43 – Making “Where Are Ü Now”
20:04 – Creating Jack Ü with Skrillex
21:37 – Orlando DJ Gigs to Philadelphia
24:33 – First Session with Vybz Kartel
27:23 – Branding, the Internet, and Selling Mixtapes
35:01 – The Story of “Paper Planes” (M.I.A.)
36:44 – How to Find Success in Music
37:57 – NMPA + Splice (Sponsors)
39:25 – “Climax” and Finding His Strengths
43:54 – Why He Started Mad Decent
46:41 – Learning Music and the Birth of Major Lazer
49:30 – The Story of “Lean On”
53:04 – Diplo’s C…
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Ep. 233: Alex Warren | Surviving on Delusional Self-Belief
24 december 2025 · 1 uur 34 min
And The Writer Is… Alex Warren. Lees meer
Alex joins the podcast to talk openly about resilience, finding his voice, and what it actually takes to turn pain into songs that connect.
In this episode, he breaks down:
Overcoming homelessness and instability while chasing music
Earning credibility in an industry that didn’t immediately take him seriously
How vulnerability became his songwriting superpower
What his writing process looks like when the emotions are real — not manufactured
The difference between being seen and being heard
And the single most powerful way to get your music heard against all odds..
This ones about humble beginnings, trusting your voice when no one will listen, and learning how to write your way out of survival mode.
A special thank you to our sponsors…
Our lead sponsor, NMPA — the National Music Publishers’ Association.
Your support means the world to us.
And @splice — the best sample library on the market. Period.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Ep. 232: FINNEAS | The Long Game of a Music Career
16 december 2025 · 1 uur 54 min
Today’s guest didn’t just enter the music industry — he grew up inside it. He isn’t just a Grammy-winning producer or a respected solo artist. He’s one of the rare creatives who’s built a career rooted in loyalty, advocacy, and taste — while learning in public and evolving in real time. Lees meer
And The Writer Is… FINNEAS!
In this episode, he breaks down:
Growing up in the industry without losing your footing
The quiet flaw baked into today’s music industry — and the one trait he’s seen in every truly exceptional artist
Loyalty over leverage — and why relationships still matter
Advocating for artists when you already have a seat at the table
Learning as you go without pretending you have it all figured out
This one is grounded and essential for anyone trying to build something that actually lasts.
A special thank you to our sponsors... Our lead sponsor, NMPA aka the National Music Publisher's Association. Your support means the world to us!
And @splice the best sample library on the market, period.
Chapters
0:00:00 Teaser
0:02:37 What FINNEAS Would Change About the Music Industr
0:07:40 “What Do You Do?” Identity & Being Multihyphenate
0:08:54 Why taste beats momentum
0:10:51 FINNEAS & Ashe
0:12:51 From Workaholism to Efficiency
0:14:17 Tools, Shortcuts & Speed in the Studio
0:16:13 Him and Billie and Their Creative Differences
0:20:11 Stage Fright, SNL & Performing Under Pressure
0:24:23 Writing Songs for Film vs Albums
0:27:49 Writing “What Was I Made For?
0:30:46 Writing Honest Lyrics in LA:
0:32:48 Parenting, Legacy & Keeping Ego Out of the House
0:36:42 Creativity and Parenting
0:38:47 Homeschooling, Childhood & Creative Freedom
0:41:46 Make your kids work with adults
0:44:42 When You're Inspired... Collaborate With Your Influences
0:46:30 Artists FINNEAS Would Love to Work With
0:48:46 How Not to Chase Trends: Why reference points should be old, weird, and far away
0:50:02 NMPA Ad
0:50:42 Splice Ad
0:51:30 Favorite Albums to Listen to …
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Ep. 231: Seth MacFarlane | The Discipline and Craft Behind a Creative Legacy
10 december 2025 · 1 uur 18 min
Today’s guest has carved out one of the most improbable creative legacies of his generation — commanding animation, comedy, film, and orchestral music with the same relentless discipline and near-obsessive craft. What began as a kid sketching characters in his bedroom grew into a fight to build Family Guy on his own terms… and eventually into Grammy-nominated big-band records that honor the very foundations of American music. Lees meer
And The Writer Is... Seth MacFarlane!
On this episode, Seth breaks down the discipline, taste, and obsessive craft that shaped his creative life… and the standards he refuses to compromise, no matter the project.
Dive deep into his roots, heroes, influences, and biggest challenges building his creative legacy.
A special thank you to our sponsors...
Our lead sponsor, NMPA, aka the National Music Publisher’s Association.
Your support means the world to us!
And @splice — the best sample library on the market, period.
Chapter list:
0:00:00 – Teaser
0:01:06 – Welcome & Episode Intro
0:03:12 – Seth’s Early Creative Roots: Drawing, Music & Comedy
0:08:40 – Developing Discipline as a Young Artist
0:12:55 – The First Breakthroughs in Animation
0:16:33 – Fighting for Family Guy and Holding the Vision
0:18:15 – The Influence of 80s TV Scores and John Williams
0:21:48 – How Taste Shapes Every Creative Decision
0:25:30 – The Craft Behind Writing Comedy That Lasts
0:30:02 – Why Orchestration Matters So Deeply to Him
0:34:44 – Recording His Sinatra Albums & The Pursuit of Precision
0:38:55 – Balancing Film, TV & Music at a High Level
0:43:22 – Obsession, Work Ethic & Sustaining a Long Creative Career
0:45:45 – Diving into the Rat Pack Era and Vocal Legends
0:47:14 – Collaboration, Standards & Protecting the Work
0:52:33 – What He’s Learned About Longevity in Entertainment
0:56:26 – The Role of Curiosity in Every Chapter of His Career
1:00:08 – The Mindset Behind Creative Risk
1:03:03 – His Advice for Multi-Hyphenate Creators
1:05:…
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Ep. 230: Cirkut | The Secrets of a Pop Super Producer
3 december 2025 · 1 uur 49 min
Today’s guest is the producer behind some of the biggest songs of the last 15 years — from “Wrecking Ball,” “Timber,” and “Dark Horse” to early records with The Weeknd and Britney Spears. Lees meer
From teaching himself production on cracked software and vinyl turntables… to going on a run of genre-defining hits.
And the writer is… Cirkut!
In this episode, he opens up about his early grind, the moment Britney cut his beat, his first sessions in LA, working alongside Max Martin and Dr. Luke, and the mindset that helped him go from unknown kid with an MPC to one of the most important producers in modern pop.
A special thank you to our sponsors...
Our lead sponsor, NMPA aka the National Music Publisher's Association.
Your support means the world to us!
And @splice -- the best sample library on the market, period.
00:00 — Intro: Who is Cirkut?
00:04:37 — Early music influences: hip-hop, DJ culture
00:05:49 — Discovering DJ gear & beat manipulation
00:07:55 — First exposure to FruityLoops & early production
00:10:24 — DJ’ing pep rallies with vinyl
00:12:36 — Applying early skills later for Lady Gaga
00:14:14 — Skipping audio classes to make beats
00:16:46 — Early Drake encounter in Toronto
00:18:40 — How the name “Cirkut” was born
00:21:35 — How a CD of his beats got to Britney Spears
00:22:10 — First big cut: Britney’s “Papi”
00:23:01 — Discovering electronic music & the blog era
00:23:49 — Learning from Masterkraft (the MySpace era)
00:33:00 — Working with The Weeknd on “High For This”
00:33:57 — Recognizing Abel’s early greatness
00:35:06 — Moving to LA & hustling through the rat race
00:38:49 — What finally got him out of the rat race
00:39:33 — The call from Dr. Luke
00:41:11 — The Flo Rida / Levels / Good Feeling near-miss
00:42:37 — Losing a big cut overnight
00:43:19 — When the hits start stacking: “Where Have You Been,” “Wrecking Ball,” “Timber”
00:44:48 — The thing he brought that cut through the noise
00:47:18 — What it’s like creating wit…
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Ep. 229: Zedd | Inside the Mind Behind a Decade of Anthems
24 november 2025 · 1 uur 9 min
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! Lees meer
What makes this conversation special isn’t just the hits — it’s how brutally honest he is about the craft, the obsession, and the unexpected moments that built his career.
A special thank you to our sponsors...
Our lead sponsor, NMPA aka the National Music Publisher's Association.
Your support means the world to us!
And @splice -- the best sample library on the market, period.
Chapters:
0:00:00 – Teaser
0:01:06 – Welcome & Episode Intro
35:58 – Zedd on Never Thinking He’d Be Successful
25:41 – Growing Up Poor & Studying One Album a Month
18:01 – The Kellogg’s DAW That Started Everything
15:33 – Learning Music on a 16-Track Floppy-Disk Keyboard
30:44 – Why He Thought EDM Was a Joke at First
38:12 – The Skrillex MySpace Story That Changed His Life
31:25 – Finding His Sound Through Curiosity & Obsession
47:14 – The “Lightning Moment” Behind Clarity
59:34 – Being Wrong More Often Than Right
1:03:03 – Why Most Music Feels the Same Today
1:03:37 – Extraordinary vs. Average: What Listeners Actually Feel
1:00:08 – “All I’m Doing Is Chasing a Feeling”
56:26 – The Chaos Behind Making The Middle
1:00:47 – Realizing the Scale of His Own Success
28:23 – What It Takes to Stay Inspired
6:48 – The Creative Principles He Still Lives By
41:22 – The Fastest Way for Artists to Get Noticed
1:05:23 – Zedd’s Final Advice for Musicians
1:07:19 – Closing Thoughts
Hosted by Ross Golan
Produced by Joe London and Jad Saad
Watercolor by Michael White
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Ep. 228: Hit-Boy | Success, Betrayal, & The Stories Behind Hip-Hop’s Biggest Anthems
17 november 2025 · 1 uur 9 min
Today’s guest has rewired modern hip-hop. His fingerprints live all over the last decade Lees meer
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 that nearly broke him, and the breakthroughs that almost didn’t happen.
He also shares the lessons shaped by fatherhood, betrayal, and real perseverance — all while creating some of the most important and culture-defining music of our time. And The Writer Is... Hitboy!
A special thank you to our sponsors...
Our lead sponsor, NMPA aka the National Music Publisher's Association. Your support means the world to us!
And @splice -- the best sample library on the market, period.
Chapter list
0:00 TEASER
1:20 Ross’ Intro
2:02 Fatherhood and Being a Full-Time Dad
5:12 Parenting, Hoops, and What His Son Really Loves
6:29 The Humbling Reality Check: Kids Don’t Care About Your Hits
7:29 Growing Up Between Pasadena & San Bernardino
8:34 Seeing His Uncle’s Success & Wanting to Be on TV
9:35 Falling in Love With Beat Programming
10:12 Learning to Write & Rap at 13
11:23 Selling His First Beat for $20 at 16
12:24 MySpace Era: The Birth of “Hit-Boy”
13:09 First Major Betrayal: Partner Gets Signed Behind His Back
15:01 Advice to His Younger Self: Patience & Self-Belief
15:23 Building Early Industry Relationships Through MySpace
16:13 First Time Inside a Real Studio (The Underdogs)
17:39 The Underworld of LA Sessions & A Young Hit-Boy Watching Greats
18:44 First Major Placement: Jennifer Lopez
19:06 Providing for His Mom With His First Checks
19:27 Growing Up Without a Present Father
20:22 His Dad’s Return & Going on a Run Together
22:04 How Fatherhood Changed His Time, Focus & Creativity
23:27 Recording Nas: The Hidden Role People Don’t See
24:57 Getting His First Publishing Deal (And the 18-Year Lock-In)
2…
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Ep. 227: Ryan Tedder pt.4 | The Modern Music Economy, A.I. and The Future, and How to Win
4 november 2025 · 1 uur 59 min
Today's guest is a familiar face... A friend to the podcast and one of the most successful and influential creators in music history. Lees meer
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 Tedder!
In this episode, he breaks down:
🎯 Why the middle class of music is disappearing
🎯 How splits, streaming, and AI are reshaping the game
🎯 The mindset you need to survive as an artist today
🎯 What real creative value looks like in 2025 and beyond
This one isn’t just inspiring — It’s essential listening for anyone who wants to last in music..
A special thank you to our sponsors... O
ur lead sponsor, NMPA, the National Music Publisher's Association.
Your support means the world to us!
And Splice -- the best sample library on the market.
Hosted by Ross Golan Produced by Joe London and Jad Saad
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Ep. 226: Olivia Dean | The Art of Loving (and Finding Yourself)
27 oktober 2025 · 1 uur 27 min
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. Lees meer
We discuss raw stories of heartbreak, growth, the magic of songwriting.. and how she learned to protect her voice in a room and write music that actually feels like her.
And The Writer Is...Olivia Dean!
Whether you're a songwriter, fan, or music lover, this episode is packed with inspiration, laughs, and behind-the-scenes gems.
Presented by NMPA..
The National Music Publisher's Association. Championing songwriters everywhere.
Thank you to our sponsors!
Co-presented by Splice.
The best music sample library in music.
CHAPTERS:
00:00 – Welcome to the Soul
01:50 – “I Still Feel So British”
03:00 – First Trip to L.A. (With No GPS or Plan)
04:00 – Learning to Trust Her Own Taste
07:40 – When Artists Had Time to Be Bad
08:30 – Making Meaningful Music in a Chart World
09:20 – “I Don’t Write Every Day”
13:35 – Disney, West Side Story, and Other Early Teachers
15:50 – The First Song: “Mean Boy”
17:05 – Parents Who Said Yes
17:20 – The BRIT School Plan
20:05 – Busking, Best Friends, and the Birth of a Band
22:15 – The First Show: 70 Tickets, 10 People on Stage
23:40 – Signing Her First Deal
25:00 – The Studio Explosion (Her Worst Song Story)
27:00 – Surviving the Rooms
29:15 – How the Best Songs Are Written
30:45 – The Yellow Van Tour (COVID-Era Reinvention)
31:30 – “OK Love You Bye” — The First Song That Felt Free
34:00 – From 70 Fans to 100 Million Streams
36:00 – It Takes a Village (and a Lot of Gratitude)
39:00 – “The Hardest Part” — The Song She Hated (That Changed Everything)
40:00 – The Take That Hurts Is the Take That Wins
43:20 – NMPA Ad Read
44:05 – Splice Ad Read
47:45 – Crying on the Studio Floor
48:00 – “Dive” — When the World Started Singing Back
51:40 – Being a Woman Who W…
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Ep. 225: Julia Michaels pt.2 | The Woman Who Changed Pop
20 oktober 2025 · 1 uur 19 min
Julia Michaels has quietly rewritten the emotional DNA of pop music. Lees meer
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 changing pop from behind the glass.
They dive into the writing of hits, the evolution of her artistry, and what it means to sustain creative integrity in a fast-changing industry.
Chapters
0:00 Intro: The Woman Who Reshaped Pop Music
0:59 Welcome Back: Reflecting on 8 Years in the Industry
2:13 Music Industry Evolution: Then vs. Now
3:00 Adapting Songwriting to Social Media and Trends
4:32 Early Career Advice: Mental Health and Boundaries
6:03 Panic Attacks and Performance Anxiety
9:25 From Songwriter to Artist: Reluctance and Breakthrough
11:23 Influence on Songwriting: Changing Pop's Sound
15:06 Hit Runs, Burnout, and Creative Pauses
17:55 Writing for Disney's Wish: Behind the Scenes
19:42 Future Plans: Musicals, Retirement, and Balance
21:05 Artistry and Collaborations
23:00 Inside the Sabrina Carpenter Camp
29:01 Breaking Down Hits: Taste, Bed Chem, and Coincidence
30:50 Joining Tate McRae: From 17 to Global Hits
33:39 Favorite Producers: Ryan Tedder, Stargate, and More
36:04 Working with Ed Sheeran: Panic, Brotherhood, and Hits
39:30 Crafting Lose You To Love Me with Selena Gomez
43:24 Longtime Bond with Selena: Firsts and Milestones
45:50 Celebrating Wins in a Changing Industry
47:19 Songwriter Struggles: Pay, Radio, and Streaming
50:26 Fair Splits and Standing Up for Writers
55:09 Gender Challenges: Overworking Female Writers
1:00:06 Regimented Life: Balance and Boundaries
1:02:40 Running Her Own Label: Freedom and Control
1:04:15 Career Lows and Highs
1:06:10 Perfect Studio Moment: Working with Britney Spears
1:07:34 Reflections: Where She Thought She'd Be
1:08:45 Uncut Demos and …
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Ep. 224: HAIM | Do It Your Way. (“I quit", + more)
13 oktober 2025 · 59 min
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. Lees meer
And the writer(s) are... HAIM!
In this episode, we dive into a decade-long journey of grit, growth, and creative conviction — from rejection to recognition. The sisters open up about the early years, the family dynamics, and the lessons that shaped their songwriting and success.
In this episode:
• How HAIM built success on their own terms after years of “no’s”
• The real stories behind their biggest records
• What they’ve learned about songwriting, collaboration, and creative control
Chapters
0:00 Intro Teaser – HAIM’s Gritty Start Against All Odds
0:30 Nobody Wanted to Sign Us – Early rejections that almost stopped HAIM
1:10 The Sister Dynamic – Therapy, tension, and love between bandmates
2:30 Strict Parents, Rebellion & First Gigs
5:00 Leaving for Tour at 19 – Danielle’s leap of faith
7:30 Almost Famous IRL – Touring with Jenny Lewis & Julian Casablancas
9:15 Skipping College & Faking Dentist Notes
12:30 Oldest Sibling Pressure & UCLA Lessons
15:00 Nobody Wanted Rock Music – Breaking through rejection
16:00 Meeting Ludwig Göransson – The producer who changed everything
18:30 2 AM Sessions & the “Forever” EP
20:00 SXSW Madness – 14 shows in 5 days
22:00 The UK Breakthrough – Why British fans got it first
25:10 How They Learned to Write Songs – Lessons from “Rockin’ Haim”
27:00 Recording Songs from the Radio – Childhood obsession that sparked their craft
31:10 The First HAIM Song Ever – From bad demos to “The Wire”
34:10 The 10,000 Hours – Becoming one of LA’s best live bands
35:45 Days Are Gone – Finding their sound amid chaos
38:30 Working with James Ford & Ariel Rechtshaid
40:50 Balancing Chaos and Craft – The HAIM recording process
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Ep. 223: sombr | How a 100% Writer-Producer Took Over Pop
6 oktober 2025 · 1 uur
Today’s guest is one of the most exciting young artists in the world right now. Lees meer
A once-in-a-generation artist writing and producing every record himself — and turning that independence into global hits.
His records aren’t just topping charts — many of them are 100%ers.
Self-written, self-produced, and streamed hundreds of millions of times.
He’s building a world entirely his own...
In this episode of And The Writer Is, Ross Golan sits down with Sombr to unpack how he:
- Writes and produces 100% of his music
- Went from viral moments to global success
- Deals with pressure, purpose, and proving himself
Presented by our friends at @NMPA @splice
A huge thank you to our sponsors.
Chapter list
0:00 The Rise of Sombr: Bedroom Producer to Global Prodigy
0:01:02;15 [NMPA] - Fighting for Songwriters (Season Sponsor)
0:01:51 Early Discovery: Why Warner Music Bet on a 16-Year-Old
0:03:38 My First Song Blew Up: Waking Up to 200K Likes & Columbia Records
0:06:00;14 From NYC Roots to Proving Haters Wrong
0:08:16 From Charlie Puth to Operatic Arias: My Secret Classical Music Training
00:11:04 How I Dropped Out of LaGuardia to Get Signed (TikTok Made Me Quit)
00:13:39 Opening for The Strokes at SXSW
00:14:41 The Imposter Syndrome of a Global Superstar
00:15:36 From GarageBand to Global Hits: My FLOPS & Early Projects (Cherry Valley)
00:17:50 Who is Sombr? Shane vs. The Artist & Why New York Makes Anything Possible
00:21:02 The TRUTH About "Caroline": She's Everyone... She's You.
00:22:13 The $0 Photo Shoot That Became My Global Album Cover
00:24:28 Advice to My 16-Year-Old Self
00:26:18 My Secret Writing Method: Saving Choruses & How I Made the Album in 1 Month
00:28:14 [NMPA] - The Power of Music Publishers (Sponsor Segment)
00:28:56 [SPLICE] - Using AI Ethically & Protecting Creators (Sponsor Segment)
00:30:42 "Back to Friends": Writing a Global Hit from a Career Low
00:36:44 Working with Tony Berg: A Mentor and Real Instruments
00:40:54 "Undress":…
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Ep. 222: Ed Sheeran | Inside The Craft of a Songwriter’s Songwriter
29 september 2025 · 1 uur 24 min
Today's guest is quite literally one of the greatest songwriters of all time. Lees meer
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 protection.
Check them out at NMPA.org and follow them on social media at @NMPAorg
Splice is the industry’s top sample library—royalty-free for all. It empowers creators with its incredible library and ethical AI tools, supporting original artists every step of the way.
Download Splice today and follow them on social media at @splice
Chapters:
00:00:00 - Intro
00:02:05 - Ed and Ross Reconnect
00:04:41 - From Rap Battles to Shaping His Songwriting
00:07:07 - Painting as Creative Outlet
00:09:13 - Emotional Ties to Songs, Writing Honest Songs for Himself and Others
00:12:05 - Childhood Music: Beatles, Dylan, and Irish Trad Influences
00:15:07 - Fatherhood’s Impact: Balancing Music and Family
00:16:26 - Ed Sings His First Song!
00:18:30 - Ed Sings, Ross Tests His Song Memory
00:20:27 - The Key to Confidence Starts With....
00:22:10 - Advice: Navigating the Music Industry’s Challenges
00:24:20 - Where Ed Gets His 'Buzz' From Music
00:25:50 - The Thing That Made His Songwriting 'Stick'
00:28:35 - No Plan B: Why He Never Gave Up
00:30:04 - Discovery by Jamie Foxx: Breaking into the Scene
00:36:14 - Mid-Roll Ad: NMPA Fighting for Songwriters
00:36:52 - Mid-Roll Ad: Splice Supporting Creators with AI
00:44:11 - First Cuts: Writing for Olly Murs and One Direction
00:46:58 - Creative Process
00:52:12 - The Lawsuit That Changed Everything
00:55:49 - Protecting Songwriters: Why No Union Exists
01:05:57 - Making "Perfect" to Prove Himself After the Lawsuit
01:12:49 - Advice to Young Songwriters...
01:14:03 - Legacy Songs: What Ed Wants His Grandkids to Hear
01:15:23 - Family Over Fame: Being a P…
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Ep. 221: Andrew Watt | How He Became the Go-To Producer for the World’s Biggest Artists
15 september 2025 · 1 uur 22 min
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 — earning The Recording Academy’s Producer of the Year award and cementing his status as one of the most in-demand hitmakers on the planet. Lees meer
And the writer is... Andrew Watt!
In this episode, Watt opens up to Ross about the relentless drive, bold creative leaps, and collaborative ethos that fueled his journey from bar gigs and $100-a-week tours to producing global anthems.
Listeners will learn:
How to build trust and chemistry in the studio
Why great producers prioritize vibe and artist comfort over gear
How to manage egos, collaboration splits, and team dynamics at the top level
The real stories behind hits like Let Me Love You, Havana, Señorita, Stay, and Peaches
How to survive imposter syndrome and stay creatively free under pressure
Chapters
0:00 - Andrew Watt: The Hitmaking Legend
1:12 - From Bieber to Ozzy: Watt’s Epic Journey
2:20 - Studio Sparks: Watt’s Energy vs. Cirkut’s Chill
4:47 - Rock Gods: Producing Pearl Jam & Stones
8:02 - Post Malone Meets Ozzy: A Game-Changer
9:31 - Rainbow Bar Magic: Ozzy & Post’s Collab
14:54 - Greece Hustle: $100/Week Tour Life
19:14 - Why Watt Never Quit Music
24:44 - Guitar to Glory: Cody Simpson to Bieber
27:01 - Music Truth: Results Are Everything
28:52 - “Let Me Love You”: Bieber’s Wild Ride
39:52 - Pop Hits: “Havana” & “Wolves” Secrets
42:02 - Dream Team: Ali, Brian & Pop Gold
46:21 - “Havana” Moment: Camila’s Mic Drop
48:27 - Post Malone: Instant Bond & Real Talk
50:06 - Imposter Syndrome: Honesty in the Studio
51:17 - “Stay”: Post’s Non-Pop Masterpiece
56:22 - “Peaches”: Justin’s Jam with Shawn & Hailey
58:38 - Demos That Hit Hard: Watt’s Emotions
1:0…
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Ep. 220: Tayla Parx | Longevity & Building a Lasting Career
8 september 2025 · 1 uur 19 min
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, resilience, and longevity. Lees meer
And the writer is… Tayla Parx!
In this episode, Tayla sits down with Ross to unpack how she’s navigated more than a decade at the top of the music industry — from her start in Hairspray to writing with Babyface, to becoming one of the few Black women with a #1 country song. She opens up about:
Surviving the pressures of back-to-back sessions and industry burnout
Turning setbacks into fuel for her artistry and business ventures
Why branding yourself as a songwriter matters as much as the songs
The art of staying relevant without chasing trends
How to keep building a catalog that pays you for decades to come
For every songwriter, artist, or creative grinding to build a career that lasts — this is the blueprint.
🎧 Listen now and learn how Tayla Parx keeps writing hits… again and again.
Chapters
0:00 Teaser – Why Longevity Matters in Music
1:37 Intro: And The Writer Is… Tayla Parx!
8:33 From Dallas Kid to Hairspray & Nickelodeon Star
12:49 Finding Songwriting & Learning From Babyface
14:07 Leaving Acting Behind to Chase Music Full-Time
24:53 The Warner Chappell Era: Building a Writer Community
27:15 Breakthrough Hits: “Thank U, Next” & “High Hopes”
31:38 NMPA Ad – Fighting for Songwriter Rights
32:45 Inside the Story of “Thank U, Next”
39:37 How to Build a Catalog That Pays for Decades
40:55 “Love Lies” & Crossing Genres as a Hitmaker
50:34 Advocating for Women, Black Creatives & LGBTQ+ Voices
52:00 Why Tayla Still Releases Her Own Music
53:20 From Bieber to John Legend to Country #1
55:32 Exploring Jazz, R&B, and Children’s Music
59:34 Song Splits, Collaboration & Session …
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Ep. 219: Laufey | Redefining Jazz for a New Generation
2 september 2025 · 1 uur 8 min
Today’s guest is nothing short of a phenomenon. Lees meer
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 millions around the world. From posting standards online during college to headlining the Hollywood Bowl, she’s built a movement — proving that jazz not only lives, but thrives in the hands of a new generation.
Her Grammy-winning sophomore album, Bewitched, cemented her as an international force. And now with her brand-new release, A Matter of Time, she dives deeper into emotional vulnerability and sonic ambition — pushing jazz, classical, and folk influences into a sound that feels both cinematic and intimate.
Named one of Time’s Women of the Year, celebrated by critics and adored by fans, she is redefining what it means to be an artist in the modern age.
And The Writer Is… Laufey!
And The Writer Is… is hosted by Ross Golan and executive produced by Joe London and Jad Saad.
As always, we’d like to thank our friends at the National Music Publishers’ Association. The NMPA is dedicated to protecting the rights of songwriters and music publishers, ensuring that the creators behind the songs we love are fairly represented and compensated. We’re grateful for their continued support of this show and our community of writers.
Learn more at NMPA.org
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Ep. 218: Conan Gray | From Bedroom to Global Sensation
25 augustus 2025 · 1 uur 8 min
Today’s guest began on YouTube — a teenager posting bedroom covers to a handful of viewers. Lees meer
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 Martin, while never losing the raw honesty that made his music essential in the first place.
He’s not just a rising star — he’s already one of pop’s defining voices.
And with his new album, he proves that even at the biggest scale, vulnerability is still his superpower.
And the writer is… Conan Gray!
Follow us on socials! @andthewriteris
Thank you to NMPA for sponsoring this season, and fighting for songwriters as well as this podcast.
00:00 – This Is Conan Gray (teaser)
01:00 – Singing Disney With Ross 🎶
02:00 – From Bedroom Dreams to Billions
02:59 – Growing Up Lonely, Writing to Survive
04:45 – The Music Video That Rewired His Brain
06:30 – When Adele Proved Bedroom Songs Were Possible
07:30 – Uploading at Age 9 (Before He Knew the Internet)
14:15 – “Nothing Sounded Like Me”
15:45 – Panic Attacks → Falling in Love With Touring
21:15 – Dropping Out & Betting Everything on Music
23:20 – The Moment His Sister Realized He Was Famous
24:30 – Turning Heartbreak Into Healing on Stage
26:00 – The Nightmare of Empty Venues
28:30 – Dan Nigro: The Producer Who Changed Everything
30:15 – Why Conan Refuses to Believe He’s ‘Made It’
33:22 – Ad Break – Support Songwriters (NMPA)
34:00 – ‘Maniac’: The Shower Song That Hit a Billion 🚿
35:45 – Heather: The Song Everyone Slept On… Until They Didn’t
40:32 – Found Heaven: His Public Bootcamp
43:23 – Max Martin’s Biggest Lesson (That Changed His Writing)
47:00 – Rediscovering Himself on Wishbone
50:05 – The Falsetto High Note That Almost Broke Him
52:07 – Cornell: The Song Too Honest to Ignore
53:00 – Why Radical Honesty Is His Only Rule
55:00 – Why His Art …
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Ep. 217: Rodney Jerkins (pt.2) | The Alchemy of Greatness
6 augustus 2025 · 1 uur 11 min
He believed before anyone else did. Lees meer
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 basement studio to shaping the sound of a generation. From Michael Jackson to Beyoncé, Lady Gaga, and Sam Smith, Rodney opens up about the mindset behind the music — and why belief is still the most powerful tool a creator has.
You’ll hear about the reset that saved his career, the changing landscape of songwriting in the AI era, and the stories behind some of the most iconic records of the last 25 years.
And The Writer Is... Rodney Jerkins.
Topics:
The real story behind Say My Name
Working with Michael Jackson, Beyoncé, and Gaga
Why belief matters more than talent
How to stay inspired (even after burnout)
AI, music tech, and what’s missing from today's process
What every songwriter needs to know about their value
Sponsored by:
SONA, DIMA, Amazon Music, and YouTube Songwriters.
Thank you for supporting us and protecting the future of songwriting!
Produced by Ross Golan, Joe London, and Jad Saad
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Key Moment: Ryan Tedder | How to Be Irreplaceable
28 juli 2025 · 7 min
What does it really take to become irreplaceable in music? Lees meer
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 songs a day, Ryan unpacks why versatility, humility, and relentless work ethic are the hidden currencies of longevity. He breaks down the mindset shifts that separate fleeting success from lasting impact, and why assuming everyone is more talented than you might just be your greatest advantage.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Ep. 216: Ryan Tedder (pt.3) | How to Win in Music and Life
7 juli 2025 · 1 uur 27 min
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. Lees meer
In this conversation, Ryan Tedder rips the veil off fame and fortune, revealing the hidden costs of success, the brutal truths no one talks about, and his unfiltered blueprint for building wealth, longevity, and creative mastery in a world obsessed with trends. He dives deep into why most artists fail, how boredom became his superpower, and what it actually takes to build a legacy that lasts.
This isn’t an interview. It’s a wake-up call for every creator chasing relevance in 2025 and beyond.
And The Writer Is… Ryan Tedder! (Part 3)
Produced by Joe London, Ross Golan, & Jad Saad
Chapters:
00:00 Intro
00:52 His Morning Routine That Changed Everything
02:06 How Boredom Made Him Creative
03:40 The Hidden Dark Side of Fame
05:50 Justin Timberlake’s Brutal Warning
10:15 Fame is a Prison: Stories from the Top
14:14 Why He Hid His Singing Talent as a Kid
17:25 Lady Gaga’s Secret Ambition Revealed
20:55 Money Makes You a Target
23:02 His Dream: Rich But Unknown
25:26 Investing Millions Outside Music
27:05 Why Famous Artists Go Broke
31:02 Getting Dropped Saved His Career
36:13 What $50 Million a Year Really Means
39:22 NMPA Sponsor Break
41:01 Labels Want You Wild & Broke
44:40 Can You Win Without Flexing?
47:12 Managers Who Destroy Artists’ Careers
50:52 Why Tate McRae Is Built Different
53:37 OneRepublic’s Secret to Longevity
57:12 Sync Deals vs Streaming: Where Money Really Is
01:00:52 His Songwriting Secrets & ‘God Moments’
01:05:00 How He Stays Creative After 20+ Years
01:09:00 The Role of Trust in Hit-Making
01:13:00 Stories of Working With DJs & Pop Stars
01:17:00 The Future of Music & AI’s Impact
01:21:00 His Philosophy on Work Ethi…
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Key Moment: Russ | What Every Artist Needs to Know (10-Minute Blueprint)
30 juni 2025 · 10 min
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. Lees meer
Subscribe for more industry insight and give us a rating if you enjoyed this! It helps us keep this show free forever, which is our commitment to the industry and our audience.
Presented by NMPA
https://www.nmpa.org/
Chapters:
0:00 Why Songs Don’t Blow Up
0:15 Is Inspiration Overrated?
0:33 Writing Big Songs While Uninspired
1:05 How Russ Would Start From Zero Today
1:24 Stockpiling Songs & Posting Strategy
1:57 Do You Want Success Bad Enough?
2:01 Russ’ Duality: Confidence vs. Doubt
2:21 The Power of Delusional Self-Belief
3:02 Why Songwriters Should Stop Giving Songs Away
3:51 Why Most Artists Stay Broke
5:06 Taking Control of Your Music Business
6:38 The Purity of Creating Without an Audience
7:04 The Audience Picks The Hits
8:07 Russ’ Song-a-Week Strategy Explained
8:39 When a Song Flops: Russ on Bankrupt
9:13 Why It’s Okay If It’s Not The One
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Ep. 215: Jessie Reyez | The Story of Betting On Herself (For Anyone Starting Over)
23 juni 2025 · 1 uur 30 min
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 Eminem and Beyoncé, her work is grounded in authenticity and fire. She’s busked, she’s bartended, she’s broken through. And now, with her third studio album, she continues to push boundaries—proving that vulnerability, grit, and honesty never go out of style. From Toronto to the world… And the writer is… Jessie Reyez! Lees meer
Produced by Joe London, Ross Golan, and Jad Saad
Special thank you to our season sponsor NMPA!
Chapters:
00:01:36 – Start Here: Why This Episode Will Change You
00:02:37 – How Jessie Met Eminem and Earned His Respect
00:09:50 – What Jessie Learned Giving Back to Songwriters
00:16:52 – Jessie’s First Song Ever (It’s Cringey… and Brilliant)
00:18:28 – Jessie’s Crazy Lyric Memory & Why It Matters
00:18:51 – From Choir Rooms to Stadiums: Where It All Began
00:27:57 – The Moment She Gave Herself One Year
00:31:12 – How Her Mom’s Brutal English Drills Made Jessie a Genius
00:35:35 – What Happens After the Hit? Jessie Tells All
00:37:11 – The Exact Moment She Knew Her Life Was Changing
00:42:36 – The Video That Changed Everything (She Almost Didn't Post)
00:45:14 – How a $50 Bus Ride Got Her Into the Remix Project
00:48:18 – Why She Stayed Up 14 Hours Editing Her First Video
00:50:12 – The Brave Story Jessie Told That Changed Everything
00:51:17 – Writing 'Figures' — The Raw, Drunken, Real Truth
00:56:44 – The Writing Camp That Sparked Her Breakthrough Hit
00:57:11 – How 'Figures' Was Really Written (And Why It Still Hurts)
01:00:00 – Gatekeeper: Calling Out Sexism in the Music Industry
01:01:42 – What MeToo Missed — And What Jessie Risked to Say
01:02:58 – The Heavy Cost of Telling the Truth
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Ep. 214: Ian Fitchuk | Create For Yourself...
16 juni 2025 · 1 uur 20 min
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 soul in every song, guiding artists to their most authentic performances. From Grammy-winning collaborations with Kacey Musgraves to shaping records across indie, country, rock, and beyond, he’s the quiet force behind the soundtracks to our lives. All the way from Nashville, Tennessee, this master of nuance proves that subtlety can be a superpower. And the writer is… Ian Fitchuk! Lees meer
0:00 – Intro: Sobriety, Fear & Creativity
0:55 – NMPA Sponsor Message
3:25 – Growing Up in the Chicago Suburbs
6:15 – Musical Upbringing: Classical Roots & Church Influence
9:05 – Early Influences: CDs, Cassettes & Graceland
12:05 – Bear Killer, Drums & Songwriting Beginnings
17:30 – From Church Bands to Writing Real Songs
20:50 – Leaving Home & Moving to Nashville
27:30 – First Touring Gig & Life Lessons
30:50 – Discovering Production via the Christian Music Scene
35:50 – A Decade of Struggle Before the Breakthrough
40:50 – Why Ian Never Quit (Even With Kids)
45:00 – Golden Hour Era: Writing With Kacey
50:50 – Making Golden Hour Using Logic Stock Sounds
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Ep. 212: Russ | Building An Indie Empire
13 juni 2025 · 2 uur 13 min
This week’s guest is one of the most successful independent artists in modern music. Lees meer
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 belief system that kept him going when no one else did.
This is a blueprint for any creative who wants to build something real without losing their peace.
And The Writer Is... Russ!
Chapters
00:00 – Intro
02:14 – How Russ Beat the System Without Selling His Soul
04:16 – Childhood Chaos, Cop Cars & Creative Spark
07:06 – Soulja Boy, Pep Rallies & Atlanta Music Culture
08:19 – Rock Ballads & Soul Roots You Didn’t Expect
10:11 – The Guitar That Started It All
11:49 – GarageBand & Making Beats for Friends
12:41 – Wayne, Wiz & Folk Rock: A Weird Musical Diet
13:56 – Why Russ Doesn’t Sound Like Anyone Else
15:29 – Publishing Wars: Russ vs. Drum Programmers
26:18 – Why Songwriters Are Fighting for the Wrong Money
29:32 – The $850K Sample Mistake
30:21 – Power, Control & Protecting His Business
34:05 – Why He Still Handles His Own Deals
35:11 – A Wake-Up Call to Songwriters: Keep Your Records
39:03 – When a Song Hits Mid-Dinner, You Leave
41:44 – Burnout, Collaboration & Creative Revival
45:11 – The Line He’ll Never Cross in Rap
48:01 – Turning Fights Into Hits (Literally)
50:07 – Writing in the Shower & Whispering Hooks at 2AM
54:14 – Harmonizing with His Partner—In Music and Life
56:02 – When He Doesn’t Create, Everything Unravels
57:09 – The 20% Rule That Changed His Sanity
58:07 – How Columbia Let Him Stay Indie (Kind Of)
61:06 – Ownership, Spending, and Where the Real Money Is
63:56 – What Russ Would Do If He Had to Start Over
65:19 – Vulnerability vs. Confidence: The Real Inner Battle
66:07 – Why He Samples Even Though He Can Write Anything
66:38 – Burnout & Building a Life Outside of Music
…
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Ep. 213: David Israelite | How Songwriters Get Paid — And Why the System is Broken
12 juni 2025 · 56 min
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. Lees meer
From spearheading groundbreaking legislation like the Music Modernization Act to navigating complex battles over streaming royalties and copyright protections, David shares a behind-the-scenes look at the work that goes into defending the value of songwriting. With unique insights into policy, publishing, and the business of music, this candid conversation reveals why David is one of the most pivotal figures working on behalf of songwriters today.
If you care about music creators and the future of songwriting, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.
00:00 – Intro: Why This Episode Matters More Than Ever
03:40 – How Songwriters Get Paid (Explained Like You’re 15)
05:19 – The Truth About Songwriter Pay: 75% Controlled by the Government
07:28 – The Music Modernization Act: Progress or Political Cover-Up?
09:13 – The Broken System: Why Songwriters Can’t Say No
12:01 – Artists vs. Songwriters: The Industry's Unspoken Divide
13:50 – Ghostwriting, Publishing Abuse & The Elvis Tax Nobody Talks About
20:16 – Why Unionizing Won’t Save Songwriters (And What Might)
23:55 – What the CRB Is — And Why It Still Screws Creators
26:22 – Free Market vs. Rigged Game: Labels Win, Songwriters Lose
28:33 – Why Songwriters Have No Real Political Power
31:01 – Consent Decrees Explained: The 1940s Laws Holding Music Back
33:19 – Selective Withdrawals: A Strategy That Could Change Everything
39:10 – Are Big Publishers Quietly Crippling Independent Writers?
45:25 – The Power of ‘No’: The One Tool Songwriters Don’t Actually Have
46:25 – Are Labels and Publishers Working Against Each Other?
49:45 – The Billion-Dollar Boom: Why Everyo…
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Ep. 211: BANKS | The Key to Longevity (Building Your Fanbase)
27 mei 2025 · 56 min
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 staying rooted in undeniable emotion. From viral beginnings to critical acclaim, she’s stayed true to her vision, building an aesthetic that’s dark, empowering, and always evolving. All the way from Los Angeles, California—this is the sound of raw artistry at its finest. And the writer is… BANKS! Lees meer
00:00 - Intro
01:07 - Growing Up in L.A.
03:52 - Music as Math?
06:16 - 100% Songs, No Concept First
08:08 - First Song Became a Jack Collab
10:04 - Social Anxiety + Going Out Hard
12:06 - Fans, Fame & Divine Feminine Energy
15:41 - Jillian vs. BANKS
18:10 - Stage Fright to Frontwoman
21:13 - Regrets & Album Titles That Got Away
22:28 - Streaming Era Beginnings
27:02 - Indie Artist Real Talk
31:12 - Viral Hits vs. Tour Culture
34:09 - “Don’t Try To Write a Hit”
36:04 - Underrated BANKS Songs
38:05 - Why This Album, Why Now
39:28 - How “I Hate Your Ex” Happened
41:24 - Voice as a Shape-Shifter
42:02 - Collaboration Energy Shift
43:03 - Studio Magic Stories
44:14 - Writing for Other Artists?
46:18 - Why Artists Look to BANKS
48:06 - 3 Life-Changing Decisions
49:40 - Five-for-Five Lightning Round
53:08 - Music + Visuals Are One
54:16 - Ross on BANKS’ Legacy
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Ep. 210: Jon Bellion | Art Over Algorithm, Always
13 mei 2025 · 1 uur 47 min
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 line between the underground and the mainstream, with a resume that spans from crafting platinum hits for chart-toppers to delivering soul-baring solo projects that redefine authenticity. Now a father of three, his creativity has only deepened, as he balances vulnerability and virtuosity with relentless hustle. He’s not just a hitmaker—he’s a visionary, a builder, and a storyteller for a generation that craves depth. And the writer is… Jon Bellion! Lees meer
Episode Timestamps:
0:00 Bellion’s Return & Industry Fire
0:36 Ross ATWI Intro
2:05 Supporting Songwriters’ Rights
2:41 Jon Bellion Returns After 6 Years
3:56 Jon vs. the Algorithm
6:56 AI, Effort & Meaning
9:22 Craft Over Convenience
11:57 Identity, Process & Philosophy
18:21 Credit, Ego & Industry Power
25:32 Sponsor Message from NMPA
27:09 Staying Dangerous with Purpose
32:06 Becoming the Label
45:07 Removing Ego from the Process
50:41 Returning to Joy in Creation
54:58 Art vs. Math in Production
57:23 Hits Beyond the U.S.
1:05:16 On Raising Creative Kids
1:07:52 Jon's Words of Advice to His Younger Self
1:18:06 Grief, Healing & Writing Through Loss
1:22:32 What Success Really Means in 2025
1:25:00 Writing vs. Recognition
1:47:58 ATWI Credits & Closing Reflections
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Ep. 208: Edgar Barrera | The Max Martin of Latin Music
28 april 2025 · 1 uur 20 min
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. But beyond the accolades, he’s a true musical chameleon—effortlessly fusing cultural roots with modern sounds to create melodies that resonate worldwide. He brings heart, hustle, and authenticity to everything he touches. Lees meer
And the writer is… Edgar Barrera!
Timestamp | Chapter Title
00:00 | Intro and Sponsor
00:45 | Meet Your Host: Ross Golan
01:08 | Follow @AndTheWriterIs
01:17 | Presented by NMPA
02:09 | Guest Introduction: Edgar Barrera
03:00 | How Edgar Became a Hitmaker
06:30 | Global Success and Crossover Hits
10:00 | Writing for Regional Mexican Artists
15:00 | Secrets Behind Chart-Topping Songs
19:00 | Challenges and Pressure of Success
23:00 | Building a Cross-Cultural Career
28:00 | The Power of Simplicity in Songwriting
32:00 | Lessons from Collaborating with Legends
37:00 | How Edgar Approaches Artist Development
42:00 | Staying Grounded Amid Global Fame
47:00 | Behind The Scenes of Major Hits
52:00 | Edgar’s Advice to the Next Generation
57:00 | Wrapping Up: Gratitude and Staying Inspired
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Ep. 207: D'Mile | From a Crammed Apartment to The Sound of a Generation, Silk Sonic, and more
21 april 2025 · 1 uur 3 min
Today’s guest is the mastermind behind some of the most captivating sounds in modern R&B and pop. With an ear for creating melodies that feel as intimate as they do expansive, he’s responsible for shaping hits that make you feel everything from joy to heartbreak. Whether he's behind the boards or penning the perfect lyrics, his ability to blend vulnerability with irresistible hooks has made him a go-to collaborator for some of the biggest names in music. From soulful ballads to undeniable bangers, his tracks are the ones that never leave your head—and always leave you wanting more. Lees meer
And the producer and songwriter is...Dernst "D'Mile" Emile II!
00:00 - Cold Open: Gaga, Bruno & a Midnight Session
00:28 - Intro: Welcome to And The Writer Is
01:22 - How D’Mile Got His Name
05:10 - Growing Up with Jazz, Gospel & Biggie
10:30 - Producing His First Song at Age 6
12:15 - Almost Signed to Universal at 19
16:45 - Rodney Jerkins & Darkchild Studio Era
21:05 - 9 Creatives in a 3-Bedroom Apartment
25:30 - Inspiration vs. Competition in the Come-Up
27:20 - D’Mile Nearly Quit Music in 2017
34:17 - The Comeback: Lucky Daye & Victoria Monét
38:16 - How Silk Sonic Started from One Song
46:44 - Making “Leave the Door Open”
50:18 - “Die With A Smile” feat. Gaga & Bruno
51:58 - Producing the Artist’s Soul
59:00 - Copy-Paste Industry vs. Timeless Records
01:01:08 - Final Thoughts: Doing It His Way
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Ep. 206: Teddy Swims | The Power of Self Belief
7 april 2025 · 1 uur 15 min
Today’s guest is a genre-defying vocal powerhouse who’s been taking the music world by storm. Raised in the South with a love for soul, country, R&B, and rock, he blended these influences into an unmistakable style that’s all his own. With a voice that’s as powerful as it is emotive, he doesn’t just sing—he connects, turning raw, soulful covers into hits and proving he’s more than just a voice. He’s a true artist and songwriter who’s crafted songs about love, loss, and everything in between, resonating with millions around the world. Oh, and did we mention he’s one of the nicest guys you’ll ever meet? If you haven’t heard his music yet, trust us, you’ll want to. Lees meer
And the writer is... Teddy Swims
Timestamp | Chapter Title
00:00 | Quick Message from Our Sponsor
01:43 | Meet Your Host: Ross Golan
02:39 | Teddy Swims: From Georgia to Global
03:30 | Leaving Football Behind for Music
08:00 | Finding His Voice Through Theater
12:30 | Tattoos, Identity, and Early Reinvention
17:00 | First Bands, Bad Songs, and Growing Up
21:50 | Sponsor Break
22:00 | The Dark Side of Touring and Mental Health
26:30 | Why Teddy Started Therapy (and How It Changed Him)
31:00 | Songwriting Camps, Magic, and the "Elf Theory"
35:30 | How Teddy Learned to Choose Songs Like a Pro
40:00 | The Origin of "Teddy Swims" (and a Crazy Early Tour)
44:00 | How Covers Blew Up Teddy’s Career During the Pandemic
47:00 | Signing with Warner: Building a Real Career
50:00 | Losing Faith, Rebuilding, and Finding His Sound
53:00 | Breaking Out with "Lose Control"
56:00 | What It Takes to Really Make It (Lessons Learned)
58:00 | 5 for 5: Teddy Swims Rapid Fire Q&A
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Ep. 205: Sung Cho of Chartmetric
21 maart 2025 · 16 min
We’re excited to announce a special bonus interview with Sung Cho, the CEO & Founder of our incredible sponsor, Chartmetric. Ross recently sat down with Sung to discuss how his company is building the world’s best analytics team in the music industry. Read below to find out more about Chartmetric and listen to this conversation on any platform you find your podcasts! Lees meer
Chartmetric is the all-in-one platform for artists and music industry professionals, providing comprehensive streaming, social, and audience data. Since 2016, Chartmetric has strived to ensure everyone can have a successful career in music. Their easy-to-understand and powerful analytics on over 10 million artists and 100 million tracks will help answer all of your questions, from tracking your stats to discovering new talents. From playlist placements to stream counts to follower demographics and much more, it’s never been easier to understand how your artists fit in the music industry, and how they can grow. What’s even better is that Chartmetric does the work for you, providing actionable insights and beautiful visuals on their up-to-date global data from over 15 different social and streaming platforms. Find out more at chartmetric.com!
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Ep. 204: Wiz Khalifa
21 januari 2025 · 1 uur 2 min
Today’s guest is a true jack-of-all-trades—part artist, part entrepreneur, and full-on icon. From nurturing a die-hard fanbase to dominating the charts across genres, he’s built an empire over the course of his incredible career. This diamond certified superstar is the pride of Pittsburgh and has proven time and time again that you can do it all—and do it well. Lees meer
And The Writer Is…Wiz Khalifa!
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Ep. 203: Ashley Gorley pt.3
13 januari 2025 · 1 uur 12 min
Today’s guest is the definition of a songwriting legend! With a record-breaking 76 #1 hits (and counting), 10 ASCAP Songwriter of the Year awards, and the title of NSAI Songwriter of the Decade for 2010-2019, he’s set a standard that’s hard to match. His songs have dominated the charts and sound-tracked lives, earning him Grammy, CMA, and ACM nominations and wins along the way. But behind the stats is a humble, hardworking collaborator whose passion for music and dedication to the songwriting community make him one of the most respected names in the game. He’s the guy behind the hits and the inspiration behind the hustle. Lees meer
And The Writer Is…Ashley Gorley!
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Ep. 202: Steph Jones
6 januari 2025 · 1 uur 18 min
Today’s guest is a lyrical powerhouse who’s been shaping the sound of pop, country, indie, and electronic music with her signature style. She started her songwriting journey in church before taking a leap of faith to Nashville, where she quickly became the go-to writer for heartfelt, unforgettable lyrics. From crafting hits for the biggest names in music to lighting up every room she enters, her talent and spirit are unmatched. Hailing from the Show Me State, she’s shown us how to turn a dream into a career. With her one-of-a-kind voice (on and off the page), this songwriter proves that faith, passion, and a little bit of Missouri grit can take you anywhere. Lees meer
And The Writer Is…Steph Jones!
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Ep. 201: apg live event (Grizz,London Jae,Kevin White,Lowell)
30 december 2024 · 47 min
This week, we highlight a live panel for APG’s 20th anniversary, hosted by Ross Golan. The event honors not just a company, but a community of artists, songwriters, producers, and all those who believe in the power of music to inspire, challenge, and connect us. Lees meer
Twenty years ago, APG set out with a bold vision: to be an independent powerhouse for both music publishing and artist development. Founded by Mike Caren, APG has grown into a unique space where creativity thrives and where artists can build their brands and realize their visions on their own terms. It’s been a launchpad for incredible talent like Charlie Puth, Kehlani, Kevin Gates, Ava Max, and so many others. But more than that, it’s been a platform where music creators are empowered to succeed on every level—whether it’s securing partnerships across film, TV, and advertising, or finding the best possible collaborations with writers and producers who help bring their music to life.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Ep. 200: Jack Antonoff Pt.2
16 december 2024 · 1 uur 22 min
Today’s guest is the ultimate overachiever in pop music—producer, songwriter, artist, and, let’s face it, the reason half your favorite albums sound the way they do. From crafting massive hits with Taylor Swift, Lorde, and Lana Del Rey to fronting his own band, Bleachers, he’s a master at blending raw emotion with anthemic hooks that stick. Whether he’s digging into suburban nostalgia or redefining modern pop, his fingerprints are all over the sound of the last decade. Oh, and did we mention he’s a three-time Producer of the Year Grammy winner? No big deal. And as if that’s not enough, we couldn’t think of a better guest to celebrate our 200th episode. He’s the heart, the brain, and the relentless energy behind it all. Lees meer
And The Writer Is…Jack Antonoff!
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Ep. 199: Amy Allen Pt.2
9 december 2024 · 1 uur 14 min
This week’s guest is one of the biggest names in the songwriting world. Her hard work, perseverance and reverence for songwriting have taken her from all an all-star to superstar. From nominations including Songwriter of the Year to multiple #1 songs with multiple artists, this writer’s current run is something few writers in the history of music have done. Not only that, this writer is also back to releasing her brilliant music as an artist. Inspiring songwriters everywhere, this guest is someone we all want to root for. Lees meer
And The Writer Is…Amy Allen!
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Ep. 198: Stephan Moccio
2 december 2024 · 1 uur 22 min
This week’s guest is a prolific pianist, composer, songwriter, and producer. Hailing from Canada, this writer began his piano studies at the ripe age of three years old. Raised by an Italian-Canadian father and a French-Canadian mother, our guest grew up with various musical influences. After studying performance and classical piano and completing a Bachelor of Arts degree in composition and piano performance, our guest began his career as a session musician, in-house producer, arranger, and composer. Known for his captivating piano skills, this writer is a sought-after collaborator who has worked with stars such as Celine Dion, Sarah Brightman, Josh Groban, and Miley Cyrus. Lees meer
And The Writer Is…Stephan Moccio!
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.