Sodajerker On Songwriting

Ryan Tedder, songwriter to artists including Taylor Swift, Adele, and Beyoncé, and frontman of OneRepublic, talks to Sodajerker about tracking cultural shifts, writing at scale, and staying competitive in a saturated market. Drawing on his Nashville training and his apprenticeship with Timbaland, he breaks down his belief in craft, persistence, and instinct, and explains why writer's block only has power if you let it.

Jason Williamson and Andrew Fearn of Sleaford Mods talk to Sodajerker about their new album The Demise of Planet X. They discuss creating interplay between their words and music, making pop culture references work in songs, and integrating guest contributions from artists such as Aldous Harding and Gwendoline Christie.

Dave Bayley of Glass Animals joins Sodajerker in London for a live episode recorded in November 2025 at the UK debut of Anti Social Camp, the world's largest songwriting camp. The singer-songwriter and producer reflects on the highs and lows of music-making, the strange magic of late-night ideas, and why vulnerability still matters in pop music.

Snarky Puppy mastermind Michael League talks to Sodajerker about the band's new record, Somni, an exploration of the dream state through music. The decorated bassist, composer and producer discusses writing for a large ensemble, the balance between complexity and accessibility in his compositions, and his collaborations with legendary artists like David Crosby.

Madness frontman Suggs sits down with Simon and Brian to talk about the band's new Hit Parade compilation and the writing of their classic hits. From the whimsical charm of 'Baggy Trousers', to the poignant storytelling of 'Embarrassment', Suggs reflects on the balance of joy and pathos in songwriting, the influence of London's rich cultures, and the serendipitous moments that have shaped his artistic expression.

The Last Dinner Party's Abigail Morris chats with Sodajerker about the band's new record, From The Pyre, and their songwriting process. The dynamic frontwoman explores the challenges of songwriting on the road, the evolution of their sound, and the collaborative spirit that drives their creativity.

Australian music legend Paul Kelly talks to Simon and Brian about his latest record, Seventy, and his creative process. The decorated singer-songwriter discusses the role of boredom in songwriting, the interplay of joy and sorrow in his lyrics, and how he sets poetry to music.

Baxter Dury chats with Sodajerker about the writing of his latest record, Allbarone, produced by Paul Epworth. This in-depth conversation delves into the duality of Baxter's artistic persona, the spontaneity of his lyric writing, and the playful approach to language that defines his work.

The enchanting Sigrid sits down in London with Simon and Brian to talk about the writing of her latest album There's Always More That I Could Say. The Norwegian powerhouse shares insights on crafting memorable hooks, overcoming writer's block, and her collaboration with creative partner Askjell. This episode is also available in video form on Sigrid's YouTube channel.

The fabulous Say She She (Piya Malik, Sabrina Cunningham, and Nya Gazelle Brown) join Sodajerker to talk about their new album Cut & Rewind. In this lively conversation about creativity, connection, and the power of making music together, the trio describe how they've built a supportive space where ideas can thrive, enabling them to explore everything from personal experiences to pressing social themes.

To celebrate our 300th episode, Rebecca Lucy Taylor, aka Self Esteem, joins us for a candid conversation about her multifaceted career as a singer, songwriter, and actor. With her trademark honesty, the acclaimed artist reflects on the creative process behind her latest album, A Complicated Woman, the pressures of songwriting, and the challenges of navigating the music industries.

Labi Siffre talks with Sodajerker about his career in music and his songwriting process. The celebrated singer-songwriter reflects on his love of blues, jazz, and the Great American Songbook, shares the stories behind beloved hits like '(Something Inside) So Strong' and 'It Must Be Love', and explains why, after many years away from music, he still has an enduring passion for writing meaningful songs.

In a landmark third appearance, the incomparable Mike Viola joins Simon and Brian in Liverpool for an in-depth conversation and live performance showcasing his distinctive guitar style and melodic craft. The episode explores Mike's songwriting process, the emotional weight of his lyrics, and the role of personal experience in shaping his music.

As he embarks on his 'More Evenings of Songs and Stories' tour, Graham Nash joins Simon and Brian for a fascinating discussion about his illustrious career. The legendary British musician reflects on his journey from The Hollies to forming the iconic Crosby, Stills & Nash, sharing insights into his songwriting process and the art of capturing everyday moments in music.

Mac DeMarco talks with Sodajerker about his songwriting process and his latest record, Guitar. The Canadian singer-songwriter reflects on his lo-fi, DIY approach to music-making, how personal themes of identity and home permeate his work, and why he definitely doesn't want to guest on your track.

John Fogerty sits down in London with Simon and Brian for a captivating conversation about his songwriting process and his new release Legacy: The Creedence Clearwater Revival Years. The legendary singer-songwriter reflects on regaining control of his publishing rights, the writing of classics such as 'Proud Mary', and the creative techniques that shaped his enduring catalogue.

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.