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Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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 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 Writes (and Plays)
53:10 – The Anatomy of a Song
56:25 – “I Don’t Write Lies”
57:35 – “The Art of Loving” — How the Album Was Born
1:00:15 – What Love Actually Taught Her
1:01:35 – Making Time for Love Anyway
1:02:55 – Ross’s Mirror Moment
1:04:30 – Learning to Sit in Silence
1:05:45 – The Weight of Words
1:06:30 – Being Heard
And The Writer Is...
Hosted by Ross Golan
Produced by Joe London and Jad Saad
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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 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 Sacred Songs
1:11:27 Wrapping with Selena, Benny, and Unlikely Stars
1:15:55 Ego-Free Sessions and Lifelong Roots
1:18:22 Outro and Credits
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
And The Writer Is...
Hosted by Ross Golan
Executive produced by Joe London and Jad Saad
Follow us on socials at @andthewriteris
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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 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
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
42:10 Collaborating with Kid Cudi – Their first big studio moment
43:10 Touring Exhaustion & Finding Their Groove
45:15 Shutting Down Ventura Blvd – The iconic “Want You Back” video
47:39 Women in Music Pt. III – Growth & vulnerability
48:30 GarageBand & Songwriting – Danielle’s creative superstition
49:30 The Making of “I Quit” – A new era of HAIM
50:00 Creative Control & Saying No to Labels
52:00 Lessons from Paul Thomas Anderson – Vision & long-take storytelling
@NMPA | @nmpaorg – Fighting for songwriters’ rights and fair pay.
Learn more at NMPA.org.
@Splice – The industry’s top royalty-free sample library and creator platform, supporting original artists with world-class sounds and ethical AI tools.
Download Splice and start creating today.
And The Writer Is...
Hosted by Ross Golan
Executive Produced by Joe London & Jad Saad
Follow us everywhere → @andthewriteris
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Today’s guest is one of the most exciting young artists in the world right now.
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": Building Confidence After a Breakthrough
00:43:40 Sacrifices of Fame: Losing My Social Life
00:45:30 Anxiety and Expectations: Navigating Global Success
00:51:23 Critics vs. Appreciation: Why Art Shouldn’t Be Rated
00:058:09 The Final Word: Why the Haters Say I'm Not "Serious" (A Joke)
00:58:50 The Beatles & The Muse: The Real Secret to Timeless Art
00:59:11 Thank You & Outro
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
And The Writer Is...
Hosted by Ross Golan
Executive produced by Joe London and Jad Saad
Follow us on socials at @andthewriteris
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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 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 Present Dad
01:20:38 - Songs Ed’s Jealous Of
01:23:46 - Closing: Ed’s Gratitude and Future Plans
And The Writer Is...
Hosted by Ross Golan
Executive produced by Joe London and Jad Saad
Follow us on socials at @andthewriteris
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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.
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:
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
1:00:36 - Lady Gaga: Crafting a Visual Epic
1:02:15 - Bruno & D’Mile: “Die with a Smile” Magic
1:06:34 - Prank Call Chaos
1:12:11 - Prank Aftermath
1:19:17 - Heartfelt Loss: Watt’s Tribute to a Friend
1:20:16 - Ozzy’s Advice: Be Kind on the Way Up
This season of And The Writer Is… is presented by the National Music Publishers’ Association (NMPA) — the voice of American songwriters, composers, and music publishers.
And The Writer Is...
Hosted by Ross Golan
Executive Produced by Joe London and Jad Saad
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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.
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:
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 Dynamics
1:03:41 Why Collaboration Matters (and When to Write Alone)
1:11:38 The Secret to Longevity & Reinvention
1:16:25 Closing Reflections & Legacy
And The Writer Is… is presented by The National Music Publishers’ Association (NMPA) — advocating for songwriters, music publishers, and their essential rights.
Learn more at NMPA.org
Hosted by Ross Golan
Executive Produced by Joe London and Jad Saad
Watercolor by Michael White
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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 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.
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 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 Isn’t Just Music
56:00 – The Three Songs That Define His New Era
01:03:15 – What He’d Tell 12-Year-Old Conan
01:07:00 – Ross: “You Wrote a Song I Wish Was Mine”
Hosted by Ross Golan
Executive Produced by Joe London and Jad Saad
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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 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:
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.
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 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.
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 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 Ethic & Success
01:25:00 Final Words: Advice to Creators
01:29:00 Outro
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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 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
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.
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!
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
01:05:43 – Why Being Vulnerable is Jessie’s Greatest Superpower
01:06:20 – Jessie on Drake, Bieber, The Weeknd & Canadian Greatness
01:07:14 – Why So Many GOATs Come Out of Canada
01:08:11 – From Open Mics to Eminem: The Legacy She’s Building
01:18:14 – The Insane Calvin Harris Story (You Won’t Believe This One)
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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!
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
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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 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!
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
67:52 – Being Your Own Engine (and Breaking Down)
69:25 – The Hidden Prison of Fame
70:38 – Panic Attacks, Depression & Healing
72:01 – Therapy, Faith & Finding Balance
75:17 – Music as Medicine (and a Mental Trap)
78:42 – Dopamine Detox & Spiritual Warfare
81:11 – Why He Hates LA
82:22 – “I Can Make a Hit in 20 Minutes”—But Should I?
83:33 – Escaping the Productivity Hamster Wheel
84:38 – A $25M Lesson Every Artist Should Hear
86:51 – Love, Identity, and the Power of a Creative Partner
89:09 – Real Talk on Timing, Trust, and Tension
90:54 – What Actually Grounds Russ (That You Don’t See Online)
92:33 – What He Hopes to Be Remembered For
94:10 – For the Dreamer Who’s Almost Out of Gas
96:22 – Why Gratitude Isn’t Optional
97:47 – Ego vs. Purpose: The Shift That Saved His Career
99:21 – Navigating Hate, Criticism & Longevity
102:06 – Owning Your Story Without Needing a Comeback
104:33 – Faith, Flow & Letting Go
107:18 – Redefining Wealth: What Energy Are You Leaving Behind?
109:55 – Art as Therapy: Why He’ll Never Stop Writing
112:11 – Leaving a Legacy Without Forcing It
115:03 – What He Still Doesn’t Feel Comfortable Sharing
117:12 – A Final Message to Artists Who Feel Alone
120:10 – Outro: What Russ Hopes You Take From This Episode
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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 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 Everyone’s Selling Their Catalogs
54:37 – Final Word: Gratitude, Hope & the Fight Ahead
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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!
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
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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!
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
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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 racked up billions of streams, topping global charts and earning him a fiercely loyal fanbase. But beyond the numbers, he’s an artist who leads with vulnerability, reshaping how young creators think about art, success, and authenticity. He’s not just making songs—he’s shifting culture, and sharing how at the same time.
And the writer is… D4vd!
0:00 Trailer Hook — Billion Streams Surprise
1:32 Intro — From Phone to Playlist
3:15 Growing Up — Early Life and Music Influences
8:45 First Uploads — BandLab, YouTube, and Finding His Sound
13:20 Going Viral — The Moment Everything Changed
17:50 Pressure and Expectations — How He Handled the Blow-Up
20:42 My Process — How I Make Music on a Phone
23:10 Behind the Hits — How ‘Here With Me’ + ‘Romantic Homicide’ Happened
26:17 What SZA Told Me That Changed Everything
34:08 Advice for Young Artists — Make Music Nobody Wants
36:09 Beyond Music — Directing, Acting, Manga Dreams
43:35 Disrupting the Industry — Freaking Out the Business
44:40 Validation Moment — Sitting Where Legends Sit
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