The Track Star Podcast
The internet’s favorite music show, now in podcast form! Each episode explores a theme through 10 songs, taking listeners on a deep dive into a specific artist, genre, or era of music through the perspectives of musicians, historians, journalists and fans. Also available in video on YouTube! Hosted by Jack Coyne.
Episodes
Is Gen Z the Best Music Generation?
Ahead of Breakaway Carolina, Jack sits down with Sean and Alex, two local Gen Z music fans, at Applebee’s in Charlotte for a special episode of the Track Star Podcast, made possible by @bacardi. Over Bacardi cocktails, they explore how their generation discovers, shares, and experiences music: from first iPods and TikTok discoveries to the artists they feel understand them best.
The conversation
Testing Daniel Kaluuya's Music Knowledge
Daniel Kaluuya joins Jack on Track Star to put his music knowledge to the test, with a playlist spanning American hip-hop, soul, UK garage, grime, and rap. From Jay-Z, Lauryn Hill to Skepta and Little Simz, the episode brings together classics from both sides of the Atlantic.
The music moves from soul and R&B into the energy of UK club music, with Jorja Smith, Giggs, Jme, and D Double E.
Why Paul Simon’s “Graceland” Made Music History
Music historian Ashley Kahn and bassist Bakithi Kumalo join Jack on the Track Star Podcast to explore the music, people, and stories behind Paul Simon’s Graceland. Drawing on Kahn’s new book, Days of Miracle and Wonder: Paul Simon and the Trials and Triumphs of Graceland, the conversation traces the album’s South African roots and the collaborations that helped shape its unmistakable sound.
Bak
Testing Elvis Costello's Music Knowledge
Elvis Costello joins Jack on the Track Star Podcast to explore the music that has stayed with him throughout his life. From the sharp pop instincts of Nick Lowe and the blues-rooted rock of Fleetwood Mac to Randy Newman’s storytelling, Stevie Wonder’s soul and reggae grooves, and Bruce Springsteen’s rock anthems, the conversation spans generations, genres, and approaches to songwriting.
T
Sheryl Crow Teaches Us About Her Top Music Influences
On today’s episode of the Track Star Podcast, we are honored to be joined by a once-in-a-generation, 9-time Grammy-winning artist, singer, and performer. Jack is joined by Sheryl Crow, who launched herself into the forefront of the music world with her hit single, “All I Wanna Do”, and quickly cemented her superstar status by winning the Grammys for ‘Best New Artist,’ ‘Record of the Year’ and ‘Bes
Testing Queen Latifah's Music Knowledge
Today on Track Star*, we are quizzing the legendary ‘90s rapper/singer Queen Latifah on some hip hop and soul tracks. As a New Jersey native, Queen Latifah has plenty of stories about her hometown classics. And through each song, she takes us down her musical journey while shocking us with her effortless music knowledge.
With each track Jack plays, Queen Latifah has an intriguing behind-the-sc
Grandmaster Flash Explains How Rap First Started
On today’s episode of the Track Star Podcast, we are joined by a guest who pioneered Hip-Hop and DJing as the lead of the legendary group Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five, as well as through his groundbreaking dual-turntable techniques.
Jack is joined by Grandmaster Flash, who revolutionized turntablism through various cutting, scratching, and backspinning methods, as well as the quick mix
Ravi Coltrane Teaches Us How to Listen to his Father’s Catalog
This week on the Track Star* Jack is joined by Ravi Coltrane, Grammy nominated saxophonist, bandleader and composer, as well as the son of the legendary John Coltrane and co-owner of the RKM Music record label. Together Ravi and Jack reminisce about the golden age of jazz and one of jazz’s most influential figures through his most iconic tracks.The soundtrack of this episode takes us through John
Testing this Legendary Punk Journalist’s Music Knowledge
On today’s episode of the Track Star Podcast, we are joined by a guest who, in his new book, Resident Punk, shares memories from living with some of punk’s most recognizable names. Jack is joined by Legs McNeil, the
journalist known as one of the three founders of the legendary Punk magazine, as well as the author of Please Kill Me: The Uncensored Oral History of Punk and Resident Punk: How I Smok
Ryan Reynolds and Kenneth Branagh Go Head-to-Head | Track Star Versus
Today on Track Star Versus*, Apple TV's MAYDAY stars Ryan Reynolds and Kenneth Branagh go head-to-head in a battle of music knowledge. The pair test their expertise across ’80s rock, new wave, and pop classics from artists including Queen, David Bowie, Cyndi Lauper and more!
Between competitive guesses, needle drops, and plenty of singing along, Ryan and Kenneth bring their quic
Testing Juanes' Music Knowledge
Today on Track Star*, Jack chats with legendary Colombian musician and singer-songwriter Juanes. Juanes shows us how his music taste grew alongside him, from Latin folk in his younger years to hard rock and metal, both in English and Spanish.
His deep love for all kinds of music shines as he speaks about the iconic artists and songs that shaped him, especially the sounds of his hometown of Medel
Testing Andrew Garfield's Music Knowledge
Today on Track Star*, we are quizzing Oscar-nominated actor Andrew Garfield on funk, soul as well as some vocal jazz. In this episode, Andrew shares how different styles of music affect his interpretations of the characters he plays, as well as sharing stories about the obscure French Hip-Hop group he was a member of and his life-changing concert experiences.
Watch as he breaks down the
Testing an NYC Librarian's Music Knowledge
Today on Track Star*, we are quizzing a local librarian from the NY Public Library, Dan, and his encyclopedic knowledge of 70s/80s rock. While regaling us with fascinating anecdotes surrounding a range of his favorite artists, his deep passion for music is obvious and infectious. Dan has a remarkable knack for expressing exactly what he loves about each and every track Jack throws at him, creating
Testing Dakota Fanning's Music Knowledge
Today on Track Star*, we’re putting Emmy-nominated actress Dakota Fanning’s music knowledge to the test with a mix of Southern classics, childhood favorites, and songs that shaped her along the way.
Ahead of her new film The Sun Never Sets, Dakota reflects on growing up between Hollywood film sets and a traditional Southern upbringing, sharing stories from her childhood, career, and the mu
Testing Whitmer Thomas’ Music Knowledge
Today on Track Star*, we are quizzing Alabama’s very own Whitmer Thomas on home-state classic hits and punk-driven 2000s tracks. Showcasing his own musical influence and childhood upbringing, Whitmer Thomas takes us on a tour through his journey as a singer and stand-up comedian and how they intertwined, with anecdotes that shaped his career along the way.
From stories of van tours as a teenage
Testing Troye Sivan's Music Knowledge
Today on Track Star*, we are quizzing the iconic Australian pop star Troye Sivan on Y2K euphoria and melancholy R&B classics. Revealing the extent of his own musical influence and knowledge, Troye Sivan gives us the opportunity to learn about his journey as a singer and performing artist and his recent experience touring with legendary genre-bending musician Charli XCX.
With personal sto
Testing Too $hort's Music Knowledge
Today on Track Star*, we are quizzing legendary rapper Too $hort on Funk deep-cuts and influential Hip-Hop classics. Revealing the extent of his music knowledge, Too $hort gives us the opportunity to learn about and appreciate the overlapping worlds and influences of Motown, Funk, and Hip-Hop.
Too $hort takes the time today to show us some of the music he was raised on, breaking down how his fath
Testing Brandon Flowers’ Music Knowledge
Today on Track Star*, we are joined by Brandon Flowers to talk about some of the songs and artists that have inspired his work, both as a solo artist and frontman of The Killers.
Listening to some classic songs and sharing personal stories of bleached hair, Strokes-induced depression, and playing with Bruce Springsteen, Brandon breaks down how artists like Bruce, The Strokes, and others b
Testing Brittany Howard’s Music Knowledge
Brittany Howard, acclaimed solo artist and lead singer of band Alabama Shakes, joins us today on Track Star* to listen to a few classic Funk, Rock, and Doo-Wop songs and discuss their personal and historical importance.
Discussing artists from Pink Floyd to Sly Stone, Brittany explains how the music she grew up with influenced the music she makes today, and how some art and artists can challenge
Testing Travis Barker’s Music Knowledge
Travis Barker, best known for his work as drummer in the band Blink-182, joins us today on Track Star* to listen to some iconic rap, rock, punk, and hardcore, and break down some of his earliest and most important influences, explaining how the music they made, from Led Zeppelin to the Muppets, changed his life.
Revealing his favorite punk and metal bands, as well as the drummers that inspi
Listening to the Genius of Oscar Peterson (ft. Christian McBride & Kelly Peterson)
On today’s episode of the Track Star Podcast, we’re celebrating the centennial of Oscar Peterson with two guests who have helped preserve and carry forward his extraordinary legacy.
Jack is joined by Kelly Peterson, Oscar’s wife and the head of his estate and legendary bassist Christian McBride, who reflects on Peterson’s unmatched artistry and influence on generations of jazz musicians
Testing Questlove's Music Knowledge
Questlove, the multi-dimensional musician, filmmaker, and artist, joins us today on Track Star* to show us his deep and profound appreciation for music, and to teach us about the role music has played throughout his life.
Originally gaining notoriety as drummer and co-frontman of the Roots, Questlove became a core member of the Soulquarian collective. Today, Questlove gives us a peek into t
Testing Warren Haynes’ Music Knowledge
In today’s episode of Track Star* Warren Haynes, best known for his work as a member of the Allman Brothers Band, joins us to listen to some iconic, genre-defining Blues and Rock songs, and to discuss the influence they had on the development of Rock.
Haynes takes the time today to give us an important lesson on the history of the guitar and how it defined Blues and Rock and Roll music. Diving
Testing This Punk Legend's Music Knowledge
Lenny Kaye is an icon of the punk rock scene. As a member of the Patti Smith Group, as well as in his work as a solo artist and rock critic, Kaye joins us today on Track Star* to listen to a few songs and break down some important Punk history.
Beginning with a discussion of the songs and movements that influenced Kaye himself as a child, the conversation soon shifts to a broader discussion of wh
Swamp Dogg Teaches Us About Country and R&B
Today on Track Star* we are joined by legendary singer, songwriter, and producer Swamp Dogg to cover some of the songs that defined his career and discuss the complicated and somewhat blurred relationship between country and R&B.
Swamp Dogg takes some time today to break down a few classic country and R&B songs, giving us an insider perspective on the hit-making process and a unique view of
KISS's Gene Simmons & Paul Stanley Unpack the Importance of Songwriting
Today on the Track Star Podcast, we are joined by Paul Stanley and Gene Simmons of KISS to talk about rock and roll songwriting, the New York City music scene, and what it really takes to make a song, or a band, truly great.
With a collection of songs spanning American and English rock, punk, Motown, and more, Paul and Gene share their thoughts on how different artists and movements engage
The Governor of Maryland was Built on Hip Hop Influences
This week on the Track Star Podcast, Jack is joined by Maryland Governor and Music-Obsessed Wes Moore. In this episode, he sits down with Jack to unpack the songs that have shaped his life, from the music that soundtracked his childhood and helped form his identity to those that continue to inspire his work today.
He reflects on his childhood, the influence of hip-hop, and how music became such a
Song Exploder’s Host Hrishikesh Hirway Plays Track Star
Today we are joined by Hrishikesh Hirway, musician and host of the hit podcast Song Exploder, to listen to and discuss some of the songs that have influenced and defined his work, both in his music and his show.
In this episode, Jack chooses a few songs to play for us, and Hrishikesh explains the personal and professional significance they have had on his life and career. Hrishikesh talks about
David Porter Recounts the Hits He Made At Stax Records
David Porter, one of the key figures behind Stax Records, joins us today on the Track Star Podcast to discuss his role as one of the primary songwriters, hitmakers, and creative forces behind the Memphis soul movement.
Starting with his youth in Memphis, Porter brings us along for a trip through his life, exploring the complex influences that came together in Memphis in the early 60s to define
Testing Jack Johnson's Music Knowledge
Jack Johnson joins Track Star* today to listen to a few songs and chat about the impact they had on his life, personally and professionally, and how those songs and artists continue to inform the work he does today.
In this episode, Jack Johnson gets into the role music played in his childhood, his falling in love, and his life as a surfer, a filmmaker, and finally a musician. Exploring the power
The Perfect Song Challenge ft. Este Haim
Today on the Track Star Podcast, Este Haim joins Jack to talk about a few perfect songs. Este and Jack each brought 3 (ish) songs to the table to discuss what makes them perfect, the influences they have had, and the personal significances they carry.
Taking us on a journey through time and genre, Este and Jack cover everything from transcendental meditation to Britney Spears’ Pop perfection. As
Testing Johnny Knoxville's Music Knowledge
Johnny Knoxville, the acclaimed stuntman, actor, comedian, and producer known best for his role as co-creator and star of Jackass, joins us today to listen to a few songs and share stories of how the show came to be and what it means to him.
Covering a few classic Outlaw Country songs as well as some iconic Jackass songs, Johnny explains the influence of music on him personally, as well as the ro
Jeff Ament Unpacks The Artists that Influenced Pearl Jam
Today on Track Star*, Jack is joined by legendary Pearl Jam bassist Jeff Ament to discuss his life and work, and the wide variety of music that inspired it.
In this episode, Jeff and Jack have a conversation about music, community, and the glue that binds us together as they talk about the moments and memories that made Jeff Ament.
Covering everything from his early childhood in rural Montana
Testing John Leguizamo's Latin Music Knowledge
This week on Track Star* Jack is joined by comedian, actor, and producer, John Leguizamo to cover some iconic Latin artists and discuss how Latin music speaks for and resonates with populations around the world.
Along the way, John and Jack consider how Bad Bunny became the #1 artist in the world, how salsa in the 70s created a space for Latin people in New York, and the cultural significan
Finneas O’Connell Reacts to These 10 Weird Production Choices
Finneas O’Connell joins The Track Star Podcast to explore some of the most fascinating and unconventional production choices behind iconic songs and compositions.
Armed with five song picks each, Finneas and Jack take turns sharing tracks that span everything from film scores to classic records. Along the way, they break down the creative techniques that make each piece unique, uncovering what it
Testing Glen Hansard’s Music Knowledge
Today on Track Star*, Jack is joined by Glen Hansard, the acclaimed singer-songwriter, musician, and actor known for his work as a founding member of the band the Frames, as well as his prolific solo musical and acting careers.
In this episode, we take a musical journey through his multi-dimensional career, discussing the songs that defined his artistic development from busking on the streets o
A U.S. Senator Stops by Track Star HQ to Talk Music
Today on the Track Star Podcast, Jack is joined by Connecticut Senator Chris Murphy for a conversation about everything from touching grass to the pursuit of happiness, discussing how community engagement and human connection have the power to uplift and heal.
With a carefully curated playlist, Jack walks Senator Murphy through different times and different lives, and facilitates a convers
Questlove Teaches Us How to Listen to Earth, Wind & Fire
This week on the Track Star Podcast, Jack is joined by six-time Grammy-winning drummer and record producer Questlove. The genre-defining drummer and co-founder and co-frontman of The Roots as well as an acclaimed director and filmmaker, is the director and producer of the new documentary: Earth, Wind & Fire (To Be Celestial vs. That's the Weight of the World).
In this episode, Jack and Ques
Andrew Watt Teaches Us How to Produce a Hit Song
This week on the Track Star Podcast, we’re joined by Grammy Award-winning producer, songwriter, and musician Andrew Watt, one of the defining hitmakers in modern music. From pop stars to rock legends, Andrew has worked with some of the biggest artists in the world, including Paul McCartney, Mick Jagger, Ozzy Osbourne, Justin Bieber, and Lady Gaga.
In this episode, Jack plays through a list of son
Testing Death Cab for Cutie's Music Knowledge
On this episode of Track Star*, we're joined by Ben Gibbard and Dave Depper of Death Cab for Cutie. Known for their thoughtful songwriting and influence on indie rock, the two bring decades of musical curiosity to a conversation filled with the records and artists that have stayed with them over the years.
Ben, Dave, and Jack dive into the songs that helped shape their tastes, from alt rock, indi
NY Times Critics Unpack Their Controversial Songwriters List
This week on the Track Star Podcast, we’re joined by New York Times music reporters Jon Caramanica and Joe Coscarelli following the publication of the NYT’s “The 30 Greatest Living American Songwriters.”
As the hosts of the popular music podcast “Popcast,” Jon and Joe are no strangers to passionate debate. Their work often explores contemporary music through both a critical and historical lens, h
Testing Eric André's Music Knowledge
Comedian, actor, and musician Eric André joins Jack for a conversation packed with punk legends, underground hip-hop, and some amazing music stories and further proves his musical knowledge runs just as deep as his comedy.
A lifelong musician who started on piano at age five before moving through tuba, cello, and upright bass, Jack and André trace the artists, records, and experiences that shaped
Testing Taj Mahal's Music Knowledge
This week on the Track Star Podcast, we're joined by blues legend Taj Mahal. He spent over six decades expanding what the blues can be, weaving in Caribbean rhythms, folk, soul, and world music along the way. We got to discuss the artists and traditions that shaped both his career and the genre itself.
This playlist spans from Elvis Presley to Harry Belafonte to Miriam Makeba, and Taj Mahal has a
Testing Shania Twain's Music Knowledge
Today, the always iconic Shania Twain is putting her music knowledge to the test. We met Shania on the streets of New York City and had a great conversation about country music, pop icons, the recording process, and her first big hit, "Whose Bed Have Your Boots Been Under?" Showcasing her broad music knowledge, Shania shared stories about Carole King, Def Leppard, Tanya Tucker, Minnie Riperton, Th
Ziggy Marley Teaches Us How to Listen to Reggae
This week on the Track Star Podcast, Ziggy Marley joins us to talk about his passion for reggae, the musical inspirations that shaped him, and the legacy he carries as part of reggae’s most influential family. Jack guides Ziggy through a conversation about the genre’s legends, and together they explore some of the artists who helped define reggae from its earliest days.
The discussion begins with
Testing Kareem Rahma's Music Knowledge
You may know Kareem Rahma from Subway Takes, Keep The Meter Running, or his band Tiny Gun, but today he joins Jack for a wild conversation full of hilarious tangents and Minnesota singer-songwriters.
In this episode Jack and Kareem rock out to some iconic bands including blink-182, The Replacements, The Strokes, Semisonic, and many more. Other topics include the Minnesota State Fair, avoiding obs
Listening to Miles Davis with His Former Bandmates
On today’s episode of the Track Star podcast, we’re celebrating the centennial of Miles Davis with three musicians who share personal connections to the legendary bandleader.
First, we’re joined by Erin Davis, Miles’ youngest son, who had a firsthand look into his life as a musician, including the year he toured with his father as a percussionist in 1990. Next is Vince Wilburn Jr., Miles’ neph
Testing Foo Fighters' Music Knowledge
On this episode of Track Star* we're joined by rock legends Foo Fighters. Known for their anthemic sound and larger-than-life energy, they bring us through some incredible stories, touching on the songs and artists that shaped them — from punk pioneers to alternative icons that laid the groundwork for their own explosive career.
The band dives deep into the records that defined their taste, spann
LIVE: Track Star Presents The Black Keys
The legendary rock duo The Black Keys blew the roof off our New York studio. These guys have been playing together for over a quarter century, and it shows. The 5-time Grammy winners are back with a new album that nods to their blues roots and reimagines some under-appreciated tracks—and it all started as a casual jam session. You don't want to miss it.
Tracklist:
You Got To Lose
Where There'
Testing Elle Fanning's Music Knowledge
Elle Fanning has spent her life on screen, evolving into one of the most versatile and adventurous leads in cinema today. Known for her wide ranging performances in everything from period dramas to surreal indie films, Elle brings that adventurous curiosity to her taste in music.
On this episode of Track Star, Elle joins us to walk through a playlist as eclectic as her filmography. She dives int
Testing ERNEST's Country Music Knowledge
This week on the Track Star Podcast, we’re joined by country singer-songwriter Ernest. Having collaborated with some of the biggest names in modern country music, including Lainey Wilson, Jelly Roll, and Morgan Wallen, Ernest sits down with Jack to discuss the legendary artists who have helped shape both his career and the genre itself.
Ernest walks us through what it takes to produce a hit recor
Testing Dermot Kennedy's Music Knowledge
Today on Track Star*, we are joined by Irish singer-songwriter Dermot Kennedy. Known for his passionate live performances and poetic lyrics, Kennedy often draws inspiration from folk traditions, hip-hop rhythms, and heartfelt narratives.
In this episode, Jack and Dermot talk about Dermot’s music influences citing hip hop legends such as 50 Cent and J. Cole, as well as the introspective songwritin
Testing Flea's Music Knowledge
Today’s episode of Track Star* brought us face to face with one of the most singular musicians of the past 40 years, Flea. Flea met us outside on a cool day in March and was nothing short of excited to talk about some of the legends whose music he covered on his debut solo album, Honora. Sharing his thoughts on Charlie Parker, Art Tatum, Jimmy Webb, Glen Campbell, Eddie Hazel, George Clinton, and
Testing Sam Fender's Music Knowledge
Sam Fender has quickly become one of the defining voices of modern British rock, earning BRIT Awards and critical acclaim for his anthemic lyricism, powerful vocals, and sharp storytelling about working-class life.
This week on Track Star, he showcases the musical influences who helped shape his sound through tracks by Steely Dan, Olivia Dean, Kings of Leon, and Tom Petty. We also dive into some
Testing Fab 5 Freddy's Music Knowledge
This week on the Track Star Podcast, we’re joined by hip-hop ambassador, Fab 5 Freddy. Freddy reflects on the relationships and experiences that shaped his creative journey—starting with his early love of graffiti and expanding into music, dance, film, and beyond.
He shares stories about the artists who left a lasting mark on him, including Blondie, N.W.A., Nas, Talking Heads and Q-Tip, while als
Testing Susan Tedeschi and Derek Trucks' Music Knowledge
On today’s episode we have two legends facing off in a battle to name some classic rock icons. Susan Tedeschi and Derek Trucks of the eponymously named Tedeschi Trucks Band were naming each artist in a matter of seconds, a true testament to their encyclopedia like knowledge of music. Sharing stories about Jimmy Hendrix, Bonnie Raitt, Carlos Santana, The Allman Brother's Band, John Coltrane, and ev
Testing Sofia Coppola and Marc Jacobs' Music Knowledge
On this episode of Track Star* we have a competitive battle between fashion designer, Marc Jacobs and filmmaker, Sofia Coppola. The duo met up with Jack on a sunny spring day in New York to talk about their film "Marc by Sofia." During their conversation, Jack got to know more about their friendship and creative collaboration, and he put their music knowledge to the test. Naming hits from Pharrell
Testing LeBron James' Music Knowledge
LeBron James is one of the defining figures in modern sport, with a career that has shaped not just basketball but music, fashion, business, and popular culture more broadly. Across more than twenty years at the top, he’s become as recognizable for his longevity and influence off the court as for everything he’s achieved on it.
On this episode of Track Star, LeBron talks through the songs that sh
8 Artists That Are Better Than The Beatles
On this week’s episode of The Track Star Podcast we have rock writer, NPR critic, and journalism professor Tim Riley who will help answer the deceptively complex question: is there any artist truly better than the Beatles?
We’ll discuss the musicians that inspired the Beatles themselves, and who left a historical and cultural mark similar to the legendary four. From the Rolling Stones to Miles D
Testing Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s Music Knowledge
Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer joins The Track Star Podcast for a conversation that moves from Motown to modern Detroit, using music as a way into the state she represents.
Through artists like Madonna, Aretha Franklin, and Eminem, Whitmer reflects on growing up in Michigan, the state’s deep musical lineage, and how Detroit became a global center for sound, from the Motown assembly line to ro
10 Songs that Explain Elvis Presley’s Genius ft. Baz Luhrmann
Filmmaker Baz Luhrmann joins The Track Star Podcast to talk about Elvis Presley and what made his music and live performances so powerful. Using songs from the new concert film Elvis: The King in Concert, Baz and Jack explore what made Elvis a singular entertainer, from the raw power of “Polk Salad Annie” to the emotional weight of songs like “In the Ghetto.”
The conversation traces Elvis’s upb
10 Songs That Explain Paul McCartney After The Beatles
Academy Award–winning filmmaker Morgan Neville joins The Track Star Podcast for a deep dive into Paul McCartney’s most misunderstood era: the decade after the Beatles’ breakup.
Centered around McCartney, Ram, and the rise of Wings, the conversation traces how Paul rebuilt his identity after the collapse of the biggest band in history, examining the backlash he faced in the early ’70s, Linda’s rol
Is Gen-X The Greatest Music Generation?
Two of the best-performing Track Star contestants of all time return to settle a big question: Is Gen X the greatest music generation ever? Writer, comedian, and self-described “man about town” Robert George and New York City SoulCycle instructor Sue Molnar join Jack for a wide-ranging conversation about growing up with radio, MTV, and a musical landscape that fractured into punk, new wave, hip-ho
Testing This Legendary Choreographer’s Music Knowledge
Justin Peck joins The Track Star Podcast to talk about how music turns into movement. From the stage at Lincoln Center, the New York City Ballet choreographer in residence explains why a ballet begins with a score, how melody guides the body, and how choreography is shaped by collaboration with real dancers.
Through a playlist curated by Jack, Peck reflects on the classical canon, including Tchai
Testing Gov. Josh Shapiro's Music Knowledge
Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro joins The Track Star Podcast for a conversation that uses music to get somewhere politics usually can’t.
Through a playlist curated by Jack, Shapiro reflects on how music has followed him from growing up in suburban Philadelphia to knocking 18,000 doors on his first campaign, and into the moments that have defined his time as governor. He talks about the changin
Testing Lucinda Williams’ Music Knowledge
Lucinda Williams joins The Track Star Podcast for a conversation about the music that shaped her, from Highway 61 and Delta blues to Muscle Shoals soul and Brill Building pop.
Through voices like Bob Dylan, Howlin’ Wolf, and Aretha Franklin, Lucinda reflects on discovering songwriting as a teenager, the artists that taught her what honesty sounds like, and how instinct and feeling have guided her
A History of MTV in 10 Songs | The Track Star Podcast
Tom Freston, one of the founding executives behind MTV, joins The Track Star Podcast to talk through how the channel was built and what it became. Through a chronological run of songs and moments, he traces MTV’s evolution from a small startup into a platform that transformed how music was presented and discovered.
Along the way, he explains why Live Aid marked a turning point for the network, ho
CBGB Part 2: The Rise of New York Hardcore | The Track Star Podcast
The Track Star Podcast continues our CBGB series with hardcore historian Steven Blush, tracing how the club transformed in the early 1980s from punk’s downtown art scene into the chaotic, all-ages world of New York hardcore. Blush breaks down the rise of the matinees, the birth of slam dancing and stage-diving, and the anti-fashion ethos that defined the scene, while connecting CBGB’s hardcore exp
A History of CBGB in 10 Songs | The Track Star Podcast
Iconic photographer Roberta Bayley breaks down how the CBGB scene formed in the mid-1970s, before anyone agreed on the word “punk,” and the room was still mostly bands, friends, and a $2 cover.
Through songs by the Ramones, Television, Patti Smith, Blondie, and more, Bayley walks through the early CBGB ecosystem: what the club felt like night to night, how Punk magazine helped give the scene a na
Testing Ethan Hawke's Music Knowledge | The Track Star Podcast
Actor and director Ethan Hawke joins The Track Star Podcast for a conversation centered on Americana, outlaw country, and songwriting.
Through songs by Bob Dylan, Merle Haggard, Blaze Foley, and others, Hawke connects music to places he’s lived, films he’s made, and relationships from different stages of his life.
Listen to our extended playlist for this episode: Spotify | Apple Music | YouTube
Testing Maya Rudolph's Music Knowledge | The Track Star Podcast
Maya Rudolph joins The Track Star Podcast to talk through the music that shaped her, from classic pop and soul to rock, funk, and film soundtracks.
Through songs tied to childhood memories, Boogie Nights, and her years at Saturday Night Live, Maya reflects on discovering artists through family, the emotional pull of live performance, and how music marks moments across a life.
Listen to this epis
Testing Billy Corgan's Music Knowledge | The Track Star Podcast
Billy Corgan joins The Track Star Podcast for a wide-ranging conversation about the music that shaped him, from classic rock and post-punk to jazz and country.
Across artists like David Bowie, Joy Division, and Howlin’ Wolf, Corgan reflects on influence, longevity, and the tension between art and commerce. He also talks about wrestling, rock mythology, the role of fandom, and why certain bands en
Testing Lily Allen's Music Knowledge | The Track Star Podcast
Lily Allen joins The Track Star Podcast for a wide-ranging conversation about the music that shaped her and the instincts that guide her songwriting.
Across British punk, ska, and pop, Lily reflects on the Blur vs. Oasis divide, the influence of The Clash and The Specials, working with Mark Ronson, and her admiration for writers like Randy Newman. She also talks about making her new album, how qu
Ranking The 10 GREATEST Christmas Songs of All Time
This week on The Track Star Podcast, Jack takes on a familiar holiday challenge: ranking the greatest Christmas songs of all time. He is joined by his wife, Ali, a self-described Christmas obsessive, to build and debate a definitive top-10 list.
Through songs by Nat King Cole, The Ronettes, the Eagles, and more, the episode explores why certain Christmas records return every December, how heartbr
Testing Ken Burns’ Music Knowledge
Filmmaker and historian Ken Burns joins The Track Star Podcast for a conversation about music, storytelling, and the American experience. Burns reflects on his landmark series Jazz and Country Music, and explains how the two traditions evolved side by side, shaped by shared histories and ongoing musical exchange. He also discusses his approach to filmmaking, why he resists “careerism,” and how mus
A History of Chess Records in 10 Songs ft. Steve Jordan, John Fogerty, David Remnick & Maya Rudolph
This week on The Track Star Podcast, Jack explores the legacy of Chess Records with drummer, producer, and musical historian Steve Jordan. Steve breaks down the innovations of Muddy Waters, Howlin’ Wolf, Chuck Berry, Bo Diddley, Willie Dixon, Etta James and more, explaining how Chicago reshaped the blues, how amplification transformed the guitar, why the Bo Diddley beat terrified the establishment
A History of Pop Songwriting in 10 Songs ft. Amy Allen and Charlie Puth
This week we explore the craft of songwriting with Grammy-winning writer Amy Allen and global hitmaker Charlie Puth. Through songs from ABBA, The Beatles, Sheryl Crow, Dolly Parton, Britney Spears, and more, Amy breaks down how great melodies work while Charlie opens up about the accidents and instincts behind some of his biggest hits.
Listen to our extended songwriting playlist: Spotify | Apple
Testing Cameron Crowe’s Music Knowledge | The Track Star Podcast
Cameron Crowe joins us for a wide-ranging conversation about his life as a rock journalist and filmmaker. From getting his first Rolling Stone cover at 16 to going on the road with Led Zeppelin, the Allman Brothers, and the Eagles, Crowe reflects on the artists who shaped his worldview and the relationships that inspired Almost Famous and helped shape his filmmaking career.
He also shares a rare
Common Breaks Down the 6 Songs That Shaped His Career
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Through 10 songs, this episode tells the story of a band that set the standard for what live rock music could be. Along the way, we look at how the Dea
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