Sodajerker On Songwriting

Finn Wolfhard joins Simon and Brian for a discussion about his debut solo album, Happy Birthday, recorded in Chicago and co-produced by Kai Slater. The versatile actor and musician reflects on the lo-fi production techniques employed on the album, how themes of youthful identity and anxiety permeate his songs, and his love for The Beatles.

Sharon Van Etten chats with Simon and Brian about the collaborative spirit behind her latest album, Sharon Van Etten & the Attachment Theory, recorded with producer Marta Salogni at The Church Studios in London. The singer-songwriter and actress delves into themes of mortality and ageing, as well as the creative dynamics of working closely with her bandmates in the writing process for the first time.

Black Country, New Road's Tyler Hyde and Lewis Evans join Sodajerker for a conversation about the writing of their latest record Forever Howlong. The pair discuss the band's captivating lyrics, sophisticated arrangements, and how, with producer James Ford, they navigated the process of making something fresh after a period of change and instability.

My Morning Jacket's Jim James chats with Simon and Brian about the creation of their latest record, is. The celebrated vocalist and guitarist discusses the band's collaboration with producer Brendan O'Brien, letting go of ego, and the role of dreams in songwriting.

Peter Doherty sits down with Simon and Brian to talk about his latest solo record, Felt Better Alive. From tales of rural French life to reflections on identity and memory, the ex-Libertines and Babyshambles figurehead discusses the balance of humour and melancholy in his work and the playful storytelling woven throughout his songs.

Scissor Sisters' own Jake Shears and Scott Hoffman (aka Babydaddy) join Simon and Brian to celebrate the 20th anniversary of their self-titled debut album. In this vibrant conversation, the pair reveal the surprisingly homespun creative process behind the hits, the magic that comes from embracing imperfections, and the importance of storytelling in their songs.

Will Oldham, aka Bonnie "Prince" Billy, joins Sodajerker for an enlightening discussion about his latest album, The Purple Bird. With a career that spans over three decades, the beloved singer-songwriter and actor reflects on working with Nashville veteran David 'Ferg' Ferguson, rediscovering meaning in his extensive catalogue, and the art of putting secret passageways and trapdoors in his songs.

Take That's Gary Barlow welcomes Simon and Brian to his London studio for a fun conversation about songwriting, performance, and the creative process. The celebrated artist discusses the authentic sound of his Songbook tour, how he cultivates studio collaboration, and the amazing songwriting advice he received from Swedish hitmaker Max Martin. Gary was also previously the guest for episode 180 of this podcast.

The remarkable Brandi Carlile joins Simon and Brian for an in-depth conversation about writing with Elton John on their new album, Who Believes In Angels? The Grammy and Emmy-winning singer-songwriter discusses the profound connection she feels with both Elton and Bernie Taupin, and the challenges and triumphs of bringing her childhood dream to life.

The excellent Djo, aka musician and actor Joe Keery, sits down in London with Simon and Brian to discuss his terrific new record The Crux. During the conversation, the Stranger Things star explains his songwriting process, how he enriches his songs with personal stories and references to the music he loves, and the value of collaborating with his friend Adam Thein.

Mike Hadreas, aka Perfume Genius, takes us inside the creative process behind his new record, Glory, produced by Blake Mills. During the conversation, Mike describes how he balances spontaneity with structure, the art of becoming a song detective, and why he writes his best work in 'goblin mode'.

Tom Walker shares his songwriting story so far and the challenges of making his recent second album I AM. The popular singer-songwriter also reflects on the importance of striving to realise a creative vision, his time spent studying songwriting at university, and the influence of his music-loving father.

Inhaler's Elijah Hewson and Josh Jenkinson discuss the writing of their new record Open Wide and how the band collaborates creatively. Among other insights into their process, the Dublin-born musicians share their thoughts on the importance of finishing songs, working with producer Kid Harpoon, and why they're always thinking ‘hook, hook, hook’.

Franz Ferdinand's Alex Kapranos and Julian Corrie talk about the writing of the band's sixth studio album The Human Fear and their creative process. During the conversation, the pair explore themes of fear and spontaneity in their work, not being too precious about ideas, and why songs are like friends.

Bastille's Dan Smith talks with Sodajerker about his new concept album, Ampersand. The conversation delves into the fascinating stories of historical figures and fictional characters that influenced his writing, as well as the personal connections that shape his music.

U2's The Edge joins Simon and Brian to discuss the 20th anniversary reissue of the band's acclaimed record How to Dismantle an Atomic Bomb, and its new ‘shadow album’ How to Re-Assemble an Atomic Bomb. The celebrated guitarist and sonic architect offers deep insights into the band's dynamic and their dedication to collaboration.

Graham Coxon and Rose Elinor Dougall of The WAEVE delve into the creation of their sophomore album City Lights, a listening experience filled with sharp musical edges and a deep sense of urgency. The conversation explores their collaboration with producer James Ford, and the thematic undercurrents of their work, from the city's dark underbelly to the intimacy of family life.

Boy George, the charismatic frontman of Culture Club, meets Simon and Brian in London to discuss his prolific songwriting and creative life. In this vibrant conversation, George talks about his recent collaborations with Peter Murphy and Dark Globe, his diverse influences, and the creative freedom he's found in reimagining his classic hits.