Songcraft: Spotlight on Songwriters
Songcraft is a bi-weekly podcast featuring in-depth conversations with songwriters about their lives and careers. Each episode explores the stories behind well-known songs and the creative process of writing lyrics and music. Hosts Scott B. Bomar and Paul Duncan talk with the creators of enduring songs, offering insights into the art of songwriting.
Episodes
Ep. 288 - EDIE BRICKELL & MATT CHAMBERLAIN of World Famous Pets
Former New Bohemians bandmates Edie Brickell and Matt Chamberlain talk about their songwriting processes and their new group, World Famous Pets.PART ONEPaul talks about his encounter with Prince!PART TWOOur in-depth conversation with Edie Brickell and Matt ChamberlainABOUT EDIE BRICKELL AND MATT CHAMBERLAINSinger-songwriter Edie Brickell and drummer-composer Matt Chamberlain comprise one half of t
Ep. 287 - BUDDY MILLER (Does My Ring Burn Your Finger?)
Grammy winner and Americana Lifetime Achievement Award honoree Buddy Miller chats about everything from his signature guitar licks, to finding the right ramp for Solomon Burke, to the theme of sadness that runs through his joyful-sounding new solo album - his first in 22 years! PART ONE:Paul and Scott reflect on the songwriting, life, and loss of the incomparable Dolly PartonPART TWO:Scott's
Ep. 286 - LUKAS GRAHAM ("7 Years")
Multi-Grammy-nominated and international multi-platinum artist Lukas Graham chats about his evolution as a writer, from his breakthrough with "7 Years" up through his latest album, Good Times. PART ONE
The latest chapter in Paul and Scott's fierce disagreement over perfect rhyme versus slant rhyme in lyrics
PART TWO
Our in-depth conversation with Lukas Graham
ABOUT LUKAS GRAHAM
The multi-G
Ep. 285 - MAGGIE ROSE ("Red Shoes")
Two-time GRAMMY nominee and Americana Music Association Award nominee Maggie Rose joins us to chat about the development of her creative voice and her excellent new album, Half Moon.
PART ONE
Paul and Scott discuss Brandie Carlile's recent live cover of Alanis Morissette's "Uninvited," which leads to a conversation about cover songs before spiraling out of control into despair about aging. PART
Ep. 284 - PAUL OVERSTREET (Forever and Ever, Amen)
Country Music Hall of Famer, Nashville Songwriters Hall of Famer, 2-time Country Song of the Year GRAMMY winner, and 5-time BMI Country Songwriter of the Year Paul Overstreet gives us a peek behind the curtain of his legendary career. PART ONE:
Scott does his best not to throw a certain individual under the bus with a very funny story involving Paul Overstreet. Plus, the guys pay tribute to the l
Ep. 283 - SWAMP DOGG ("She's All I Got")
The legendary Swamp Dogg returns to Songcraft after more than a decade to talk about, well, whatever he wants. And we're here for it! PART ONE
Paul and Scott contemplate their second visit with Swamp DoggPART TWO
Our in-depth interview with the original D-O-double G!
ABOUT SWAMP DOGG
R&B cult favorite Jerry “Swamp Dogg” Williams is best known as the co-writer, with Gary U.S. Bonds, of the cross
Ep. 282 - BRIAN DUNNE ("New Tattoo")
Indie troubadour and Rolling Stone darling Brian Dunne gets real about his work as a songwriter who take the craft seriously. PART ONE:
Paul and Scott talk about the Earth, Wind & Fire documentary, musical gibberish, Michael Jackson's lyrical theft, Scott's Cameroonian music phase, and perhaps the most irritating song mashup of all time. PART TWO:
Our in-depth conversation with Brian DunneABOUT
Ep. 281 - STEVE POLTZ ("You Were Meant For Me")
Known for co-writing Jewel's "You Were Meant For Me," Steve Poltz has spent more than three decades as a singer-songwriter-performer of the first order, earning international applause and fans worldwide with his inspired brand of rock-influenced countrified folk Americana. This incredibly witty and insightful conversation is a true inspiration.PART ONE
Paul and Scott chat about supergroups. What
Ep. 280 - CAMERON McCLOUD of Cure for Paranoia ("No Brainer")
Rising hip hop influencer Cameron McCloud lets us in on his journey and his processPART ONE:
Paul and Scott chat about a song that's getting a lot of hate online and consider how the internet has redefined how we hear music. PART TWO:
Our in-depth conversation with Cameron McCloudABOUT CAMERON McCLOUD
Cure for Paranoia is the Dallas-based alternative hip hop collective fronted by Cameron McClo
Ep. 279 - MOLLY TUTTLE ("Crooked Tree")
Singer/songwriter, virtuoso guitarist, and multiple Grammy winner Molly Tuttle chats about her wide-ranging musical personality that encompasses bluegrass, folk, Americana, and rock.
PART ONE:
Paul and Scott wade into the controversy to share their opinions about the New York Times' recent list of the 30 Best Living American Songwriters. Listen at your own risk!PART TWO:
Our in-depth conversatio
Ep. 278 - PYNK BEARD ("Scars to Your Beautiful")
Grammy nominated songwriter Pynk Beard (aka Sebastian Kole) chats about his extensive work as a behind-the-scenes pop creator and gives us insight into his latest country-flavored album project.
PART ONE
Scott and Paul chat about their recent travels and how they find ways to make music tourism a part of any trip.
PART TWO
Our in-depth conversation with Pynk BeardABOUT PYNK BEARD:
Pynk Beard i
Ep. 277 - LOU GRAMM of Foreigner ("Juke Box Hero")
Rock & Roll Hall of Famer and Songwriters Hall of Famer Lou Gramm shares stories about his career, from his pre-Foreigner days all the way to his latest album, Released.
PART ONE
Scott and Paul chat about Scott's solemn vow to Lou Gramm, the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, and how multi-national bands just might be a model for social healing.
PART TWO
Our in-depth conversation with Lou Gramm
ABOUT L
Ep. 276 - JENNA ANDREWS & STEPHEN KIRK ("Butter")
GRAMMY-nominated songwriting and production team Jenna Andrews and Stephen Kirk chat about their contributions to the KPop Demon Hunters soundtrack, their success with the huge BTS hit "Butter," and balancing their professional and personal lives as partners.
PART ONE
Lest you think it a dead subgenre, Paul and Scott revisit their examination of the "stutter rock" phenomenon with a modern day tw
Ep. 275 - RICH ROBINSON of The Black Crowes
Two-time GRAMMY and Rock & Roll Hall of Fame nominee Rich Robinson joins us to chat about his songwriting with The Black Crowes. PART ONE
Paul and Scott talk about their deep Black Crowes history that goes all the way back to high school. Then they revert to their high school selves and try to make each other laugh by proposing ridiculous imaginary partnerships between artists and restaurant chai
Ep. 274 - JEFF BARRY ("Be My Baby")
A legend to the legends! Jeff Barry was named one of Rolling Stone's 100 Greatest Songwriters of All Time and is inducted into both the Songwriters Hall of Fame and the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. "Tell Laura I Love Her." "Da Doo Ron Ron," "Then He Kissed Me," "Be My Baby," "(Christmas) Baby Please Come Home," "Chapel of Love," "River Deep - Mountain High," "Doo Wah Diddy," "Leader of the Pack," "Ha
Ep. 273 - JAY BUCHANAN (of Rival Sons)
Rival Sons front man Jay Buchanan takes us deep into the writing process for his fantastic debut solo album, Weapons of BeautyPART ONE:Scott and Paul talk about Scott's experiences at the GRAMMY AwardsPART TWOOur in depth conversation with Jay BuchananABOUT JAY BUCHANANJay Buchanan is best known as the front man of the rock band Rival Sons whose catalog includes the landmark albums Pressure & Time
Ep. 272 - Alexa Ray Joel ("Heavy Eyes")
Alexa Ray Joel, the daughter of legendary singer/songwriter Billy Joel and supermodel/actress Christie Brinkley, talks about her own experiences as a songwriter and performer who draws from a deep well of personal experiences. PART ONEPaul and Scott talk about...(gasp!) NEW music! PART TWOOur in-depth conversation with Alexa Ray JoelABOUT ALEXA RAY JOELSinger, songwriter, and pianist Alexa Ray Joe
Ep. 271 - TAJ MAHAL ("She Caught the Katy")
18-time Grammy nominee and American musical legend Taj Mahal goes deep on his influences and his approach to the craft. PART ONEPaul and Scott kick off the new year with a discussion about the nominees for the upcoming Grammy Awards. And more! PART TWOOur in-depth conversation with Taj MahalABOUT TAJ MAHALSinger, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist Taj Mahal has mastered the blues form and has f
Songcraft Classic: WALTER AFANASIEFF ("All I Want for Christmas Is You")
We've been celebrating our 10th anniversary all year by digging in the vaults to re-present classic episodes with fresh commentary. Today, for our final "classic episode" of 2025, we're revisiting our 2020 conversation with "All I Want for Christmas" co-writer Walter Afanasieff. Happy holidays and thanks for a great year of looking back together as we continue to look toward the future!ABOUT WALTE
Ep. 270 - MIKE REID ("I Can't Make You Love Me")
GRAMMY winner and Nashville Songwriters Hall of Famer Mike Reid chats about his remarkable musical life. PART ONEScott and Paul talk about the sports games and so much morePART TWOOur in depth conversation with Mike ReidABOUT MIKE REIDNashville Songwriters Hall of Famer Mike Reid has written twelve #1 country songs and has had his work recorded by Bonnie Raitt, Anita Baker, Bette Midler, Prince, G
Songcraft Classic: ELVIS COSTELLO ("Pump It Up")
We're celebrating our 10th anniversary all year by digging in the vaults to re-present classic episodes with fresh commentary. Today, we're revisiting our 2020 conversation with Elvis Costello. ABOUT ELVIS COSTELLOReleased between 1977 and 1979, Elvis Costello’s first three albums—My Aim is True, This Year’s Model, and Armed Forces—were all included in Rolling Stone magazine’s list of the 500 Grea
Ep. 269 - JOE HENRY ("Don't Tell Me")
Grammy-winning producer and singer-songwriter Joe Henry gives us insight into his multi-faceted careerPART ONEPaul and Scott chat about their music-themed road trip and say R.I.P. to MTV. PART TWOOur in-depth conversation with Joe HenryABOUT JOE HENRYJoe Henry is a singer-songwriter who became a record producer as a protege of T Bone Burnett. He went on to win Grammy awards for his work with Solom
Songcraft Classic: TODD SNIDER ("Alright Guy")
We're celebrating our 10th anniversary all year by digging in the vaults to re-present classic episodes with fresh commentary. Today, we're revisiting our 2021 conversation with the late Todd Snider. ABOUT TODD SNIDERCelebrated singer-songwriter Todd Snider has continued the troubadour legacy of mentors like John Prine, Jerry Jeff Walker, and Ramblin’ Jack Elliott, while putting his uniquely cleve
Ep. 268 - BOOTSY COLLINS ("Flash Light")
Number one Funkateer Bootsy Collins takes us to Funk University! From his days in James Brown's group, to his work with Parliament/Funkadelic and Booty's Rubber Band, to his recent single that raises awareness about domestic violence, "the world's only rhinestone rock-star doll" tears the roof off the sucker and breaks it all down for us. Songcraft wants the funk! PART ONE:Paul and Scott discuss
Songcraft Classic: RICHARD MARX ("Right Here Waiting")
We're celebrating our 10th anniversary all year by digging in the vaults to re-present classic episodes with fresh commentary. Today, we're revisiting our 2021 conversation with Richard Marx. ABOUT RICHARD MARX:Grammy-winning performer Richard Marx has sold more than 30 million albums as an artist, but if you only know him from late 1980s ballads such as “Hold on to the Nights” and “Right Here Wai
Ep. 267 - STEVE MARTIN & ALISON BROWN ("Foggy Mountain Breaking")
From "King Tut" to the top of the bluegrass charts! Grammy and IBMA award-winning banjoists and songwriters Steve Martin and Alison Brown join us to chat about their respective careers and their first full-length collaborative album, Safe, Sensible and Sane. PART ONEPaul and Scott chat about how impressed they are with all the various hats Alison Brown and Steve Martin wear, while also trying to w
Songcraft Classic: DAVID PORTER ("Soul Man")
We're celebrating our 10th anniversary all year by digging in the vaults to re-present classic episodes with fresh commentary. Today, we're revisiting our 2020 conversation with Stax legend David Porter.ABOUT DAVID PORTER Named one of Rolling Stone magazine’s “100 Greatest Songwriters of All Time,” Porter is best known for his songwriting partnership with Isaac Hayes that helped define the sound o
Ep. 266 - SHAWN CAMP ("Two Pina Coladas")
Grammy-winning singer/songwriter Shawn Camp pulls back the curtain on his varied career, including his latest album of songs that were composed with the legendary Guy Clark.PART ONEScott and Paul talk about how technology is changing the songwriting game, and other old man complaints. PART TWOOur in-depth conversation with Shawn Camp ABOUT SHAWN CAMPSinger/songwriter Shawn Camp has written chart-
Songcraft Classic: EMILY SALIERS of Indigo Girls
We're celebrating our 10th anniversary all year by digging in the vaults to re-present classic episodes with fresh commentary. Today, we're revisiting our 2019 conversation with Emily Saliers of Indigo Girls. ABOUT EMILY SALIERSSinger-songwriter Emily Saliers is best known as one half of Indigo Girls, which NPR called “one of the finest folk duos of all time.” The Georgia-raised musical icon is t
Ep. 265 - Whitney Phillips ("Stuck with U")
Whitney Phillips, Grammy-nominated songwriter and member of the ensemble cast of the Netflix show Hitmakers, talks about life as a modern-day pop writerPART ONEPaul and Scott dive into the idea of a "perfect song" and discuss some examples of songs they think just might fit into that elusive category.PART TWOOur in-depth conversation with Whitney PhillipsABOUT WHITNEY PHILLIPSWhitney Phillips is a
Songcraft Classic: ROLAND ORAZBAL of Tears for Fears ("Shout!")
We're celebrating our 10th anniversary all year by digging in the vaults to re-present classic episodes with fresh commentary. Today, we're revisiting our 2022 conversation with Roland Orzabal. ABOUT ROLAND ORZABAL AND TEARS FOR FEARS:Roland Orzabal and Curt Smith formed Tears for Fears in Bath, England, in 1981 and have gone on to sell 30 million albums worldwide. Their major breakthrough in the
Songcraft Classic: CROSBY & NASH
We're celebrating our 10th anniversary all year by digging in the vaults to re-present classic episodes with fresh commentary. Today, we're revisiting our 2020 conversation with David Crosby and our 2023 conversation with Graham Nash. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep. 264 - HAYES CARLL ("The Love That We Need")
Americana Award winner and Grammy nominee Hayes Carll chats about the development of his songwriting and the highly personal nature of his latest album, We're Only Human. PART ONEPaul and Scott talk about the unfortunate history of songs about rock & roll.PART TWOScott's in-depth conversation with Hayes CarllABOUT HAYES CARLLSinger, songwriter, and Americana mainstay Hayes Carll hit the scene in
Songcraft Classic: DAN WILSON ("Someone Like You")
We're celebrating our 10th anniversary all year by digging in the vaults to re-present classic episodes with fresh commentary. Today, we're revisiting our 2021 conversation with Dan Wilson. ABOUT DAN WILSONSongwriter, singer, musician, producer and acclaimed visual artist Dan Wilson is a Minnesota native and Harvard graduate who launched his music career with the band Trip Shakespeare, which was s
Ep. 263 - MARY CHAPIN CARPENTER ("Down at the Twist and Shout")
Five-time Grammy winner, ACM Poet's Award honoree, and Nashville Songwriters Hall of Famer Mary Chapin Carpenter opens up about her process and reflects on her approach to the craft. PART ONE:Paul and Scott geek out hard on Elvis and legendary songwriter Doc Pomus. PART TWO:Our in-depth conversation with Mary Chapin CarpenterABOUT MARY CHAPIN CARPENTERMary Chapin Carpenter is a five-time Grammy aw
Songcraft Classic: VINCE GILL ("Go Rest High on That Mountain")
We're celebrating our 10th anniversary all year by digging in the vaults to re-present classic episodes with fresh commentary. Today, we're revisiting our 2017 conversation with Vince Gill. ABOUT VINCE GILLMulti-instrumentalist, singer, and songwriter Vince Gill launched his solo career in the mid-1980s, hitting the Top 10 on Billboard’s country singles chart a remarkable 25 times. All but one of
Ep. 262 - TYSON RITTER of The All-American Rejects ("Dirty Little Secret")
The All-American Rejects frontman discusses the evolution of his songwriting process and what it means for him to embrace his art. PART ONEPaul and Scott talk about their upcoming music-themed road trip.PART TWOOur in-depth interview with Tyson Ritter of The All-American RejectsABOUT TYSON RITTERTyson Ritter is best known as the lead vocalist, bassist, and primary lyricist of The All-American Rej
Songcraft Classic: VALERIE SIMPSON ("I'm Every Woman")
We're celebrating our 10th anniversary all year by digging in the vaults to re-present classic episodes with fresh commentary. Today, we're revisiting our 2019 conversation with Valerie Simpson of Ashford & Simpson. ABOUT VALERIE SIMPSONSix-time Grammy nominee Valerie Simpson is best known as one half of the songwriting, production and performing duo of Ashford and Simpson, which she formed with m
Ep. 261 - PATTY GRIFFIN ("Heavenly Day")
Two-time Grammy winner and songwriting superhero Patty Griffin joins us for a wide-ranging discussion about her craftPART ONEReflecting on the lives of recently-departed songwriters Alan Bergman and Ozzy Osbourne, which might be the only time those two were discussed in the same conversation! PART TWOOur in-depth conversation with Patty GriffinABOUT PATTY GRIFFINPatty Griffin is a singer’s singer
Songcraft Classic: ROBERT DE LEO of Stone Temple Pilots ("Interstate Love Song")
We're celebrating our 10th anniversary all year by digging in the vaults to re-present classic episodes with fresh commentary. Today, we're revisiting our 2023 conversation with Robert De Leo of Stone Temple Pilots. ABOUT ROBERT DE LEORobert De Leo is best known for his work in Stone Temple Pilots. Collaborating with lyricist and vocalist Scott Weiland, Robert wrote or co-wrote the music for many
Ep. 260 - DAVE MASON ("Feelin' Alright?")
Rock & Roll Hall of Famer Dave Mason chats about his early days in Traffic, writing the classic "Feelin' Alright?", working with Delaney & Bonnie, and so much more. PART ONEScott and Paul chat about Dave Mason's unique role in the rock & roll pantheon.PART TWOOur in-depth conversation with Dave Mason.ABOUT DAVE MASONAfter recording background vocals with The Spencer Davis Group on such hits as "Gi
Songcraft Classic: MIKE STOLLER ("Hound Dog")
We're celebrating our 10th anniversary all year by digging in the vaults to re-present classic episodes with fresh commentary. Today, we're revisiting our 2016 conversation with Mike Stoller. ABOUT MIKE STOLLERMike Stoller has written more than 60 songs that have appeared on the Billboard charts, including the #1 hits “Hound Dog,” “Kansas City,” “Yakety Yak,” “Searchin’,” “Jailhouse Rock,” “Poiso
Ep. 259 - NORMAN GREENBAUM ("Spirit in the Sky")
Norman Greenbaum gave the world "Spirit in the Sky," one of the greatest records ever made. He chats with us about his iconic classic, as well as other musical adventures and misadventures over the last few decades. PART ONE: Paul and Scott chat about Instagram, artist accessibility, and what the heck Norman Greenbaum looks like. PART TWO:Our in-depth conversation with Norman GreenbaumABOUT NORMAN
Songcraft Classic: ANI DIFRANCO ("32 Flavors")
We're celebrating our 10th anniversary all year by digging in the vaults to re-present classic episodes with fresh commentary. Today, we're revisiting our 2021 conversation with Ani DiFranco. ABOUT ANI DIFRANCOSinger, songwriter, musician, producer, poet, author, spoken-word artist, activist and entrepreneur Ani DiFranco has released more than 20 independent studio albums on her own label, Righteo
Ep. 258 - WESLEY SCHULTZ of The Lumineers ("Ho Hey")
Lumineers front man and two-time Grammy nominee Wesley Schultz goes deep on his passion for songwriting. PART ONE:Paul and Scott tell the harrowing tale of the Wesley Schultz interview that almost didn't happen. Plus, do you have a question for Patty Griffin, Dave Mason, or Mary Chapin Carpenter? Share it with us and you just might hear your name on an upcoming episode! PART TWO:Our in-depth conve
Songcraft Classic: JIMMY WEBB ("Wichita Lineman")
We're celebrating our 10th anniversary all year by digging in the vaults to re-present classic episodes with fresh commentary. Today, we're revisiting our 2017 conversation with Jimmy Webb. ABOUT JIMMY WEBBJimmy Webb emerged as a superstar songwriter and arranger in 1967 when two of his songs – The 5th Dimension’s “Up, Up and Away” and Glen Campbell’s “By the Time I Get to Phoenix” - were among th
Ep. 257 - DAVE PIRNER of Soul Asylum ("Runaway Train")
Grammy-winning songwriter and Soul Asylum frontman Dave Pirner chats about his process, from the earliest days of the band to to the most recent album, Slowly But Shirley PART ONE:Paul and Scott talk about movie soundtracks, music discovery, and how technology changes but the power of music endures.PART TWO:Our in-depth conversation with Dave Pirner of Soul Asylum.ABOUT DAVE PIRNERDave Pirner is b
Songcraft Classic: STEVE PERRY ("Don't Stop Believing")
We're celebrating our 10th anniversary all year by digging in the vaults to re-present classic episodes with fresh commentary. Today, we're revisiting our 2021 conversation with Steve Perry. ABOUT STEVE PERRYOne of the most iconic voices in rock music history, Steve Perry is best known as the lead singer of the band Journey during the group’s most successful period. His first Top 20 pop hit as eit
Ep. 256 - SUZANNE VEGA ("Luka")
GRAMMY winner Suzanne Vega talks "Luka," "Tom's Diner," her first studio album in more than a decade, and much more! PART ONEPaul and Scott talk about the pop culture museum in Seattle, as well as Nirvana, Soundgarden, the diner in Seinfeld, canned green beans, and other important stuff. PART TWOScott's in-depth conversation with Suzanne VegaABOUT SUZANNE VEGAGRAMMY winner Suzanne Vega is best kno
Songcraft Classic: JIMMY JAM & TERRY LEWIS ("Rhythm Nation")
We're celebrating our 10th anniversary all year by digging in the vaults to re-present classic episodes with fresh commentary. Today, we're revisiting our 2021 conversation with Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis. ABOUT JIMMY JAM & TERRY LEWISWith 26 Billboard #1 R&B hits and 16 Billboard #1 pop hits to their credit, Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis are perhaps the most influential and successful songwriting and pr
Ep. 255 - ADAM DURITZ of Counting Crows ("Mr. Jones")
Counting Crows frontman Adam Duritz explains how his songwriting process has changed over the years, and offers insights into some of his songs, from early classics to recent compositions. PART ONE:Paul and Scott discuss judging a book by its cover and their possible status as idiots. PART TWO:Our in-depth conversation with Adam DuritzABOUT ADAM DURITZ:Songwriter Adam Duritz is best known as the l
Songcraft Classic: Peter Frampton ("Do You Feel Like We Do?")
We're celebrating our 10th anniversary all year by digging in the vaults to re-present classic episodes with fresh commentary. Today, we're revisiting our 2020 conversation with Peter Frampton. ABOUT THIS BONUS EPISODEThe exceedingly generous and gentlemanly Peter Frampton talks about David Bowie giving him his very first job; Bill Wyman of the Rolling Stones getting him into a recording studio fo
Ep. 254 - PATTERSON HOOD of Drive-By Truckers
Drive-By Truckers co-founder Patterson Hood chats about his band, the evolution of his songwriting process, and his most recent solo album.PART ONEWater. Bed. Rock!!!PART TWOOur in-depth conversation with Patterson HoodABOUT PATTERSON HOODMuscle Shoals, Alabama, native Patterson Hood is best known, along with Mike Cooley, as the co-founder of the band Drive-By Truckers. Drawing from a range of roc
Songcraft Classic: SWAMP DOGG ("She's All I Got")
We're celebrating our 10th anniversary all year by digging in the vaults to re-present classic episodes with fresh commentary. Today, we're revisiting our 2015 conversation with Swamp Dogg. ABOUT SWAMP DOGGR&B cult favorite Jerry “Swamp Dogg” Williams is best known as the co-writer, with Gary U.S. Bonds, of the cross-genre classic, “She’s All I Got,” which became a Top 10 R&B single for Freddie N
Ep. 253 - DAVID PAICH of Toto ("Africa")
Six-time Grammy winner and Toto co-founder David Paich joins us to talk about his life as a hit songwriter for his own band and others.PART ONE:Scott and Paul talk about their visit with David Paich and other bits of tomfoolery.PART TWO: Our in-depth conversation with David PaichABOUT DAVID PAICH:David Paich is best known as one of the founding members of Toto, and the writer of some the group’s c
Songcraft Classic: LINDA PERRY ("Beautiful")
We're celebrating our 10th anniversary all year by digging in the vaults to re-present classic episodes with fresh commentary. Today, we're revisiting our 2020 conversation with Linda Perry. ABOUT LINDA PERRYSinger, songwriter, musician, producer, and Songwriters Hall of Fame inductee Linda Perry first made her mark as an artist, serving as lead vocalist and primary songwriter of the group 4 Non
Ep. 252 - JIM JAMES of My Morning Jacket
Three-time Grammy nominee and My Morning Jacket frontman Jim James joins us to talk about the evolution of his songwriting and the band's new album, Is. PART ONE:Paul and Scott chat about ideal song length and extend an invitation to Taylor Swift PART TWO:Our in-depth conversation with Jim JamesABOUT JIM JAMES:Jim James is best known as the frontman of the band My Morning Jacket, which he formed i
Songcraft Classic: BILL WITHERS ("Lean on Me")
We're celebrating our 10th anniversary all year by digging in the vaults to re-present classic episodes with fresh commentary. Today, we're revisiting our 2015 conversation with Bill Withers. ABOUT BILL WITHERSPop and R&B legend Bill Withers released nine albums between 1971 and 1985 that included such classic songs as “Lean on Me,” “Ain’t No Sunshine,” “Grandma’s Hands,” “Use Me,” “Lovely Day,”
Ep. 251 - RYAN MILLER of Guster
Guster's Ryan Miller discusses his songwriting process before Scott, Paul, and Ryan go totally off the rails on 80s pop songs, Sebastian Bach, and other random stuff. One of the most fun interviews we've had in a while! PART ONE:Paul and Scott chat about the time Paul opened for Guster, their friend who met his wife thanks to Guster fandom, and the phenomenon of social cultures forming around cert
Songcraft Classic: DAN NIGRO ("drivers license")
We're celebrating our 10th anniversary all year by digging in the vaults to re-present classic episodes with fresh commentary. Today, we're revisiting our 2021 conversation with Dan Nigro. ABOUT DAN NIGRO:Dan Nigro is a record producer and songwriter who has produced and written songs for and with Olivia Rodrigo, Chappell Roan, Sky Ferreira, Joe Jonas, Kylie Minogue, Lewis Capaldi, Caroline Polach
Ep. 250 - BØRNS ("Electric Love")
Best known for his song "Electric Love" (with nearly 2 BILLION streams on Spotify!), BØRNS took some time off and has now reinvented his sound with a fantastic new EP. PART ONE: Paul and Scott talk about Omnivore Recordings, a new Buck Owens LP, who they wouldn't want to invite over to Songcraft world headquarters, and other random stuff. PART TWO: Our in-depth conversation with BØRNSABOUT BØRNS:M
Songcraft Classic: LUCINDA WILLIAMS ("Passionate Kisses")
We're celebrating our 10th anniversary all year by digging in the vaults to re-present classic episodes with fresh commentary. Today, we're revisiting our 2020 conversation with Lucinda Williams. ABOUT LUCINDA WILLIAMSOne of the most revered songwriters on the face of the earth, Lucinda Williams was once crowned “America’s Best Songwriter” by People magazine. She first gained widespread attention
Ep. 249 - GLEN BALLARD ("Man in the Mirror")
Six-time Grammy winner, Academy Award nominee, and Songwriters Hall of Famer Glen Ballard joins us to talk about his work with Michael Jackson, Alanis Morrisette, Dave Matthews, and many others!PART ONEPaul and Scott talk about the awesomeness that is Omnivore Recordings, dig into the Fire Aid concert, and talk about their '90s music geekery. PART TWOOur in-depth conversation with Glen BallardABOU
Songcraft Classic: LAMONT DOZIER ("How Sweet It Is")
We're celebrating our 10th anniversary all year by digging in the vaults to re-present classic episodes with fresh commentary. Today, we're revisiting our milestone 100th episode with the legendary Lamont Dozier! ABOUT LAMONT DOZIERLamont Dozier, along with brothers Eddie and Brian Holland, wrote and produced more than 20 consecutive singles recorded by the Supremes, including ten #1 pop hits: “Wh
Ep. 248 - TAYLOR GOLDSMITH of Dawes
Taylor Goldsmith of Dawes joins us to talk about the evolution of humor in his songwriting, why he's transparent with his fans, and maybe the most Bob Dylan of Bob Dylan stories we've ever heard. PART ONE:Paul and Scott address the recent wildfires in the Los Angeles area, and encourage people to help make a difference by considering a donation through one of four organizations: Fire Aid (fireaidl
Songcraft Classic: JIM PETERIK ("Eye of the Tiger")
We're celebrating our 10th anniversary all year by digging in the vaults to re-present classic episodes with fresh commentary. What better way to kick things off than where it all began? Here's a look back at episode one and our conversation with Jim Peterik. ABOUT JIM PETERIKSinger, songwriter, guitarist, and keyboardist Jim Peterik is best known as a founding member of the band Survivor and the
Ep. 247 - 10TH ANNIVERSARY EPISODE!
Songcraft celebrates ten years with a look back at episode highlights and behind-the-scenes stories from our first decade! Plus, a few announcements about what's new in 2025. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep. 246 - AMY GRANT ("Tennessee Christmas")
Six-time Grammy winner, Nashville Songwriters Hall of Famer, and Kennedy Center honoree Amy Grant joins us to chat about the pursuit of honesty in songwriting, the stories behind some of her songs, and her catalog of modern day Christmas classics. PART ONEPaul and Scott chat about the idea of a "definitive" version of a Christmas song, discuss their favorites, debate about Christmas songs they lov
Ep. 245 - BONNIE McKEE ("California Gurls")
Bonnie McKee chats about co-writing hits with Katy Perry, including "California Gurls" and "Roar," as well as her own artist career that has resulted in successful singles such as "American Girl." PART ONE:Scott and Paul share a little preview of what's to come as they prepare to celebrate Songcraft's 10 anniversaryPART TWOOur in-depth conversation with Bonnie McKeeABOUT BONNIE McKEE:Bonnie McKee
Ep. 244 - JEREMY CAMP ("I Still Believe")
Grammy nominee and four-time ASCAP Christian Songwriter of the Year Jeremy Camp dives deep with Songcraft on creativity, loss, honesty, and following the right path. PART ONEPaul and Scott get in the weeds on Billboard magazine's recent "100 Greatest Country Artists of All Time" list. Plus, we preview the remaining episodes for 2024 and offer a sneak peek at what's ahead for our 10th anniversary y
Ep. 243 - JUSTIN TRANTER ("Good Luck, Babe!)
Three-time Grammy nominee and pop songwriting powerhouse Justin Tranter joins us to talk about his process and his remarkable lists of hits for Chappell Roan, Fall Out Boy, Imagine Dragons, Selena Gomez, Justin Bieber, and many others.PART ONE:Scott and Paul nerd out on this year's Grammy nominationsPART TWO:Our in-depth interview with Justin TranterABOUT JUSTIN TRANTER:Nominated for Songwriter of
Ep. 242 - LARKIN POE ("Bluephoria")
Grammy-winning Southern roots rock duo Larkin Poe (sisters Rebecca and Megan Lovell) join us to chat about their creative process and their exciting forthcoming album, Bloom. PART ONE:'Tis the season! Scott and Paul chat about the classic Halloween songs. Is it time for a modern day resurgence of spooky music?PART TWO:Our in-depth conversation with sisters Rebecca and Megan Lovell, known to the wo
Ep. 241 - DAVID WILCOX ("Eye of the Hurricane")
Storytelling folk troubadour and songwriter's songwriter David Wilcox dives deep on his creative process.PART ONE:Paul and Scott pay tribute to the late Kris Kristofferson and Hugh Prestwood before diving in to a cringey lyrical trend that they're happy to see fade into history. PART TWO:Our in-depth conversation with David WilcoxABOUT DAVID WILCOX:Emerging from the Asheville, North Carolina progr
Ep. 240 - STEPHAN MOCCIO ("Wrecking Ball")
From Miley's "Wrecking Ball" to The Weeknd's "Earned It" to his own successful instrumental albums, Oscar and Grammy nominated songwriter, composer and producer Stephan Moccio gives opens up on his creative process. PART ONEPaul and Scott share some of your submissions for favorite lyric lines, as well as lyrics that bug you from songs you otherwise love. In addition, they pay tribute to past Song
Ep. 239 - HOWARD JONES ("No One is to Blame"
Electronic music pioneer Howard Jones joins us to talk about everything from classic hits such as "Things Can Only Get Better" and "No One is to Blame" to his recent live album, Live at the O2. PART ONEPaul and Scott remind our listeners to send in their favorite lyric line, as well as their least favorite lines from songs they otherwise love. Then Richard Evans joins us to talk about his book Lis
Ep. 238 - SHELBY LYNNE ("Killin' Kind")
Shelby Lynne is celebrating the 25th anniversary of her landmark classic album I Am Shelby Lynne, which won her a Grammy award for Best New Artist. We recently sat down with Shelby to discuss the evolution of her songwriting, from her early days in Nashville to her recent genre-defying "comeback" album Consequences of the Crown. PART ONEScott and Paul talk about their favorite single lyrical lines
Ep. 237 - TAYLA PARX ("thank u, next")
Three-time Grammy nominee Tayla Parx talks about her artist career and her role as a behind-the-scenes songwriter who has crafted huge hits for Ariana Grande, Panic! At the Disco, Dan + Shay, and many others. PART ONE:Is Dave Grohl this generation's Phil Collins? PART TWO:Our in-depth interview with Tayla ParxABOUT TAYLA PARX:Three-time Grammy nominee Tayla Parx is both a highly regarded artist an
Ep. 236 - THE SECRET SISTERS ("All the Ways")
Two-time Grammy nominated duo The Secret Sisters (Laura Rogers and Lydia Slagle) join us to chat about their development as songwriters and reaching new creative heights with their latest album. PART ONE:Scott and Paul chat about Scott's recent trip to see Norah Jones and Lake Street Dive perform at Red Rocks and discuss the ways concerts have changed in recent years. Plus, they take an opportunit
Ep. 235 - CHARLIE PEACOCK ("Every Heartbeat")
GRAMMY-winning producer, artist, and songwriter Charlie Peacock defies categorization. Paul chats with him about everything from his early days on the Norther California jazz scene, to writing hits for the Christian music world, to producing everyone from the Civil Wars to Switchfoot. PART ONE:Scott and Paul talk about aging, the Rolling Stones concert Scott just saw, the centrality of energetic d
Ep. 234 - MADELEINE PEYROUX ("Don't Wait Too Long")
Acclaimed genre-crossing songwriter and interpreter Madeleine Peyroux takes stock of her songwriting over the years and shares insights into the creation of her latest album. PART ONEPaul and Scott talk music books, the value of recording, and whether or not performers should stick to a strict or loose interpretation of a song when performing live. PART TWOOur in-depth conversation with Madeleine
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