David Paich sits down with Simon and Brian to talk about his songwriting process, his recent solo debut Forgotten Toys, and his classic hits with Toto. The legendary songwriter, keyboardist and session musician discusses his early musical life, the influence of his father, and collaborations with Boz Scaggs, David Foster and more.

The delightful Tim Burgess joins us to discuss his songwriting process, both solo and with The Charlatans. The singer-songwriter, author, and Twitter legend talks about writing in white rooms, hitting hot streaks, and the joy of sharing music through his listening parties.

Triple diamond pop megastar Shania Twain joins us to discuss her captivating new record Queen Of Me and her colossal hits from the past. The Canadian singer-songwriter talks about how she felt going into writing rooms for the first time, her love for strong choruses and bridges, and why she’s always looking to be envious of something someone else wrote.

This gem from the archives was thought lost forever, but thanks to the wonders of technology we've been able to recover our chat with the great Boz Scaggs. It was recorded around the time of Boz's last album, Out of the Blues, and highlights his contemporary approach to music making, as well as the creative process behind timeless classics like 'Lowdown' and 'Hollywood'. The singer-songwriter and guitarist also speaks about gaining vocal confidence, collaborating with David Paich, David Foster and Marcus Miller, and finding your passion when it's gone.

Composer and songwriter Michael Penn talks with Sodajerker about his "former career" in songwriting, meeting Bob Dylan as a kid, and why he doesn't co-write with his partner, the equally brilliant Aimee Mann. The acclaimed film/TV composer also reflects on his relationship with performing, his approach to melody writing, and his love for The Chamberlin keyboard.

The brilliant Tim Heidecker chats with Simon and Brian about his gorgeous record High School, his love for Randy Newman, and recreating the yacht rock sound. The comedian, writer, actor and musician also explains why he wrote a hymn for agnostics, and wonders why we keep burying people in the ground when they die.

To mark the release of a new deluxe reissue of his eponymous debut, Seal joins Simon and Brian for a conversation about his songwriting process. The singer-songwriter discusses classic hits like 'Killer', 'Crazy' and ‘Kiss From A Rose’ and explains why the alchemy of songwriting still has him passionate about making music.

Matty and George from The 1975 talk with Sodajerker about the band's stellar new album Being Funny In A Foreign Language, working with Jack Antonoff, and being addicted to making stuff. The guys explain their songwriting and creativity in a variety of ways, touching on everything from postmodernism to comedy in what feels like a very good therapy session.

Death Cab for Cutie's Ben Gibbard gives Sodajerker the lowdown on the band's superb new album Asphalt Meadows, the process of round robin songwriting, and why he's always falling in love with dead movie stars. The songwriter and guitarist also talks about writing with his trusty Fender Mustang, how certain guitars can deal a hot hand creatively, and the importance of lived experience in his work.

Suede's Brett Anderson joins Simon and Brian for a candid conversation about the writing of the band's new record Autofiction, accessing naivety, avoiding self-parody, and the value of craft. The frontman and author also reflects on the importance of fans, and why a songwriter's musical limitations don't need to be a barrier to success.

The phenomenal Madison Cunningham speaks with Sodajerker about her new record Revealer, sincerity versus technicality in music making, and why songs are sometimes smarter than you. The singer-songwriter also discusses her distinctive approach to the guitar and the influence of church music in her development.

Julian Lennon joins Simon and Brian for a chat about his new record Jude, the importance of emotion in songwriting, dealing with anxiety, and the trials of relearning his old material. The multi-faceted singer-songwriter also discusses his work as a photographer, filmmaker and author, and reflects on how his creativity is powered by his relentless work ethic.

Singer-songwriter Martha Wainwright discusses her recent memoir Stories I Might Regret Telling You, how she approaches writing both songs and prose, and being done with old narratives. The critically lauded artist also shares her thoughts on using open tunings, why she found acting wasn’t compatible with songwriting, and her plans for the future.

Canadian treasure Steven Page sits down with Simon and Brian to discuss his songwriting process, his work with Barenaked Ladies, and songs from his forthcoming solo album. The beloved singer-songwriter shares his thoughts on the joy of choir singing, the place of humour in songwriting, and what he's learned from long-time collaborators like Stephen 'Tin Tin' Duffy.

The charismatic Bruce Hornsby joins us to talk about the writing of his superb new album 'Flicted and the art of living a life of creativity. In this in-depth conversation, the singer-songwriter and pianist describes how he gets inspired by reading literary fiction, his work on music for Spike Lee joints, what he means when he describes his sound as 'Bill Evans meets the hymnbook', and why 'The Way It Is' was one of the most unlikely hits ever.

Singer-songwriter and violin virtuoso Andrew Bird discusses the writing of his captivating new record Inside Problems. In this detailed chat, the seasoned artist explains his approach to confessional songwriting, using archaic language, and how he has been inspired by everything from insomnia to the air freshener used in New York taxicabs.

Beloved Scouse singer-songwriter Michael Head (The Pale Fountains, Shack) talks about his fantastic new record Dear Scott and his approach to songwriting. In this detailed conversation, Mick reflects on his relationship with poetry, his Liverpool roots, and how he imbues his songs with stories, characters and imagination.

Norah Jones talks about the 20th anniversary edition of her Grammy award-winning record Come Away With Me and how her songwriting has developed over the past two decades. The singer, songwriter and pianist also discusses her past collaborations with Danger Mouse and Jeff Tweedy, and explains why the bathtub is the best place to write songs.

Grammy-winning singer-songwriter PJ Morton talks about the writing of his latest record Watch The Sun and his collaborations with the likes of Stevie Wonder, Jill Scott and El DeBarge. The versatile musician and producer also reflects on the importance of being himself, the inspiration he takes from his hometown of New Orleans, and his work as the keyboard player for Maroon 5.

Singer-songwriter Jewel discusses her new record Freewheelin' Woman and how she has used the songwriting process as a way to deal with anxiety. The musician and author also remembers lessons learned from time spent with Bob Dylan and Neil Young, and explains why singing in the studio is a little bit like porn.

Hit songwriter and producer Desmond Child speaks with Simon and Brian about the songs that make up his enviable catalogue. From his work with Kiss, Bon Jovi, and Aerosmith, to global smashes with Ricky Martin, Desmond has consistently been involved in creating unforgettable songs for major artists. In this conversation, Desmond explains how his approach to songwriting, creativity and collaboration has facilitated his success.

Legendary singer and songwriter Daryl Hall talks with Sodajerker about his new retrospective solo anthology Before After, the writing of his classic hits with John Oates, and his seminal web series Live From Daryl's House. The Philly soul star also reflects on his musical origins and early inspiration from contemporaries like Gamble & Huff and Thom Bell.

Versatile songwriter and producer Bleu discusses his recent album SiX TAPE, his new Berklee course on sync for songwriters, and his adventures in writing K-pop. The multi-talented singer and collaborator also revisits his many excellent side projects like Loud Lion, L.E.O. and The Major Labels.

Welsh songsmith Kelly Jones of Stereophonics joins Simon and Brian for a chat about their brand new number one album Oochya!, the importance of narrative in his songwriting process, and mega hits from the back catalogue like 'Dakota'.

Catherine Anne Davies aka The Anchoress talks about the expanded edition of her critically acclaimed record The Art of Losing, her approach to songwriting and production, and why there's no such thing as great inspiration.

Roland Orzabal and Curt Smith of Tears For Fears discuss their excellent new record The Tipping Point, getting back to basics as songwriters, and classic hits from the past like 'Mad World', 'Head Over Heels', 'Everybody Wants To Rule The World' and 'Sowing The Seeds Of Love'.

Actor and singer-songwriter Kiefer Sutherland joins Sodajerker for a chat about his new album Bloor Street and his creative process. Kiefer talks about writing from experience, how his acting informs his songwriting, and why he loves to write at his kitchen island.

Singer-songwriter, producer and actor Steven Van Zandt sits down with Simon and Brian in Manchester, UK, for an inspiring conversation about songwriting and arranging, his expansive musical history, and forays into other art forms. The E Street Band guitarist also talks about his creative partnership with Bruce Springsteen, early records with Southside Johnny and the Asbury Jukes, and the five crafts of rock.

Decorated lyricist Sir Tim Rice chats with Simon and Brian about his writing process and his extraordinary career in musical theatre and film. In this wide-ranging conversation, Tim discusses the business of launching shows like Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, Jesus Christ Superstar, Evita and Chess, his illustrious collaborations with Andrew Lloyd Webber, Sir Elton John, ABBA's Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus, and songs for films like The Lion King and Aladdin.

Singer-songwriter LP joins Simon and Brian for a freewheeling conversation about their new album Churches, the art of whistling, collaborating with greats like Dan Wilson and Billy Steinberg, and why they'll never co-write on Zoom.

Duran Duran's Simon Le Bon and John Taylor talk with Sodajerker about their exciting new record FUTURE PAST. During the chat, the pair reflect on the band's creative process, including their approach to groove, tempo and melody, and their recent collaborations with Graham Coxon and Giorgio Moroder.

Tori Amos joins Simon and Brian for a chat about her new record Ocean to Ocean and her songwriting process. The bewitching singer-songwriter and pianist gives a detailed account of her practice, including the art of following her muses, stocking her sonic pantry, and taking inspiration from Bruce Lee.

Adam Granduciel of The War On Drugs sits down with Simon and Brian to discuss the band's latest record I Don't Live Here Anymore and how it was shaped and reshaped prior to release. During the conversation, Adam explains his creative process, his experimental approach to recording, and why it's important to have a very well-organised Dropbox.

To celebrate 10 years of the Sodajerker podcast, we sat down for a special tin anniversary Q&A hosted by podcasting megalodon and very nice man Adam Buxton. In this lively ramble chat, we answer listener questions and talk about everything from our favourite guests and their songwriting tips to PR shenanigans, TV's breastfeeding boyfriends and more!

Ricky Ross of Deacon Blue joins Sodajerker to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the band's third studio album Fellow Hoodlums. During the chat, Ricky talks about his songwriting process across his career, co-writing with artists like James Blunt, the roots of Scottish soul, and the band's recent creative renaissance.

October 15th 2021 sees the release of a remixed special edition of Let It Be, the final album by The Beatles. To celebrate the occasion, Simon and Brian sat down with the excellent Giles Martin to talk about his work remixing The Beatles at Abbey Road Studios, the songwriting of Lennon & McCartney, his work on Peter Jackson's forthcoming documentary series The Beatles: Get Back, and memories of his father, Sir George Martin.

Singer-songwriter James Walsh of Starsailor joins Sodajerker to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the band's beloved debut album Love Is Here. During the conversation, James reflects on songs from the now classic album, what he's learned about songwriting over the years, and his experiences co-writing with pop acts.

Legendary songwriter, producer and guitarist Lindsey Buckingham joins Simon and Brian to discuss his fantastic self-titled new album, his Cubist approach to songwriting, and the art of the ‘Kevlar chorus'. During the chat, Lindsey touches on his work with Fleetwood Mac, standout tracks like 'Slow Dancing' and 'Holiday Road', and much more. This is a special moment for us, so thanks for listening!

Actor, writer and musician David Duchovny sits down with Sodajerker to discuss the writing of his third album Gestureland. David discusses the collaborative process, similarities with his work in other art forms, and why the recording is not the final word on a song.

Barenaked Ladies frontman Ed Robertson joins Simon and Brian to discuss the writing of the band's latest album Detour de Force as well as classic BNL songs like 'One Week'. In this wide-ranging chat, Ed talks about collaborating with the likes of Kevin Griffin and Donovan Woods, writing in his car, and taking inspiration from everyone from Howard Jones to Eminem.

Rising star Maisie Peters chats with Simon and Brian about the writing of her debut album You Signed Up For This. The singer-songwriter gives an in-depth account of her process and shares what it's like to collaborate with Ed Sheeran, the value of busking to her career, and the word she chose to remove from the song ‘Boy’.

Singer-songwriter Yola talks about the writing of her exciting new album Stand For Myself, collaborating with creative partners like Dan Auerbach and Natalie Hemby, and interacting with the Nashville writing culture.

Will Taylor and Nick Hill of Flyte take a deep dive into the creative process behind the band's excellent new album This Is Really Going To Hurt. The guys explain their approach to collaboration, the importance of simplicity and streamlining, and how songs can retrospectively take on greater significance.

Singer-songwriter MARINA breaks down the songwriting process behind her amazing new album Ancient Dreams In A Modern Land and songs from past eras. MARINA also talks about her experiences writing with teams like Stargate, how her fierce independence informs her creativity, and why it's important to take time out.

Singer-songwriter, musician, actor and podcaster Gary Kemp joins Simon and Brian for a chat about his exciting new album INSOLO, writing mega-hits like 'True', 'Gold' and 'Through The Barricades' for Spandau Ballet, and why he likes to write alone. Gary also shares his thoughts on writing from the head and the heart, the discipline of rhyming, and the importance of storytelling.

Laura Mvula discusses her sparkling new album Pink Noise, teasing out 80's influences, and pushing herself into new musical territories. The Birmingham-born artist shares insights into her career and creative process by talking about life after Sony, working with collaborators like Oli Rockberger, and challenging herself as a singer.

Sharleen Spiteri of Texas chats with Simon and Brian about the band's new album Hi. During the conversation, the singer and guitarist shares insights into her longtime writing partnership with Johnny McElhone, the writing of their many hits, collaborating with Wu-Tang Clan, and how her creativity is enlivened by having synesthesia.

The sensational St. Vincent joins Simon and Brian for a conversation about her fascinating new album Daddy's Home. During the chat, Annie talks about her approach to songwriting, collaborating with the likes of David Byrne and Jack Antonoff, her relationship with the guitar, and the place of music theory in her work.

The multi-talented Moby discusses his latest album Reprise, his love for bedroom studios, and why you'll never find him on holiday. The DJ, producer and songwriter also shares insights into his working routines, the writing of major albums like Play, and strategies for overcoming writer's block.

For this very special 200th episode, Simon and Brian revel in the boundless creativity of musician Jon Batiste. The Late Show bandleader joins Sodajerker from his piano to explain the writing process behind his life-affirming record We Are, how he understands music in terms of frequencies, and what he feels is his superpower as an artist.

Birdy joins Simon and Brian for a chat about her most personal album to date, Young Heart, the art of co-writing, and the influence of Joni Mitchell. Birdy also describes how she challenged herself by going to write in LA and Nashville, and how this helped her to develop her confidence and work through writer's block.

Singer-songwriter David Gray chats about his beautiful new album Skellig, the social and political leanings that underpin his music, and classic songs from his monumental hit White Ladder. David also remembers the time he spent in Liverpool as a young man and explains how his current lifestyle challenges his creativity.

Paul Smith and Duncan Lloyd of Maxïmo Park discuss their latest album Nature Always Wins and how they recorded the album remotely during lockdown. The pair provide an in-depth account of their creative process and how they strive to avoid clichés when writing about topics like childhood, parenting, ageing, and the social politics of tragedy.

Singer-songwriter and producer Róisín Murphy breaks down the creative processes behind her album Róisín Machine and explains how she develops tracks, lyrics and remixes across a range of electronic music styles. Róisín also talks about collaborators like Richard Barratt (DJ Parrot/Crooked Man) and Eddie Stevens, and her hits for Moloko created with Mark Brydon.

One of our all-time favourite guests, singer-songwriter and producer Mike Viola returns to the podcast to discuss his fantastic new album Godmuffin. During the conversation, Mike explains how he makes time for creativity, how the past informs his present, and how he is coping with the loss of his friend Adam Schlesinger. Mike's first appearance on the show was in episode 20.

Distinguished songwriter and composer Nitin Sawhney shares insights into the writing of his latest album Immigrants, and its relationship to his acclaimed breakthrough Beyond Skin. During the chat, Nitin also talks about the poetry and mathematics of Indian classical music, collaborating with Paul McCartney, and how he has continued working during lockdown.

Enduring singer-songwriter Don McLean discusses the writing of songs from throughout his extraordinary career including 'American Pie', 'Vincent', 'Wonderful Baby', 'The Legend of Andrew McCrew', 'Prime Time', 'Sea Man' and 'When July Comes'. In the conversation, Don teases out the importance of artists like Fred Astaire, Bob Dylan and The Beatles, and explains why he wants to write songs that are useful to people.

The New Bohemians singer-songwriter joins Simon and Brian for a chat about the band's excellent album Hunter and the Dog Star, her approach to lyrics and melody, and the music that inspired her. During the conversation, Edie also reflects on her time away from music, her work with Steve Martin, and a potential collaboration with her husband Paul Simon.

Legendary R&B writer and Muscle Shoals figurehead Dan Penn discusses his recent album Living On Mercy and timeless classics like 'The Dark End of the Street', 'Do Right Woman, Do Right Man' and 'I'm Your Puppet'. During the conversation, Dan talks about his time at FAME Studios, his collaborations with the likes of Aretha Franklin and Otis Redding, and why he's not trying to tell his own story through his songs.

In this special episode, legendary singer, songwriter and philanthropist Jon Bon Jovi joins Simon and Brian to discuss his recent album 2020, and his incredible hits through the years. During the conversation, Jon talks about writing topical songs, collaborating with people like Desmond Child and Dave Stewart, and why he keeps coming back to a guitar named Bob. If you enjoy this episode, be sure to check out the JBJ Soul Foundation which is dedicated to long-lasting solutions to hunger and homelessness.

Singer-songwriter and producer Steven Wilson joins Sodajerker to discuss his terrific album The Future Bites, why he hates songwriting, and what it was like collaborating with Elton John. Steven also describes his work remixing classic albums and explains how he finds it important to divorce himself from his love for other artists in his own songwriting.

The incredible Gregory Porter drops in to chat about his Grammy-nominated album All Rise, why he prefers to be in motion when writing songs, and how inspiration is a flower that opens up at midnight. Gregory also discusses his relationship with Nat King Cole's music and explains why super sexy guys have to be careful about what lyrics they sing.

Jessica and Camilla of The Staves join us to talk about their stunning new record Good Woman. The pair explain their different mindsets in the writing process, how they created the sonic textures on the record, and how they completed the album after a momentous personal loss. Jess also remembers her time spent in Liverpool, and tells the story of how their father once sang Christmas carols with Paul McCartney.

In a rare interview, singer-songwriter Ray LaMontagne shares insights into his latest album Monovision and reflects on why it’s important to maintain playfulness in the songwriting process. Ray also revisits classic songs like 'Trouble', compares the songwriting process to catching fireflies, and explains why he’ll never forget performing with Elvis Costello.

Obaro Ejimiwe aka Ghostpoet talks about his writing process on the album I Grow Tired But Dare Not Fall Asleep and building songs from long improvisations in the studio. During the course of the chat, Obaro also reflects on his lack of affiliation with particular genres, the political nature of his words, and his relationship with social media.

In this episode, the tremendous Jeff Tweedy of Wilco provides a masterclass on creativity and songwriting as he discusses his outstanding new book How To Write One Song, and his excellent recent solo album Love Is The King. If you enjoy hearing the world's best break down practical and useful strategies that you can apply to your own work, look no further.

EELS frontman Mark Oliver Everett (aka 'E') drops in to talk about about the writing of the band's new album Earth To Dora and his creative process. During the chat, Mark highlights the power of resilience, how he collaborates with his bandmates, and his love for John Lennon's Plastic Ono Band.

The formidable Lucinda Williams chats with Simon and Brian about the writing of her latest album Good Souls Better Angels. Talking through her expansive catalogue, the veteran artist uncovers a range of themes that have informed her songwriting and her outlook on the music industries including politics, domestic abuse, depression, experiences with record labels and reviews on social media.

Songwriter, comedian and actor Tim Minchin talks about the writing of his debut studio album Apart Together. During this in-depth chat about the creative process, Tim also reveals how he approaches writing songs for musicals like Matilda and Groundhog Day, and why his comedy influences are The Beatles, The Kinks, and Queen.

Decorated singer-songwriter Gary Barlow joins Simon and Brian to chat about his new album Music Played By Humans, his ongoing passion for writing and recording, and his work with Take That. In this wide-ranging conversation, Frodsham's favourite son talks through his glittering catalogue of hits, explains what it was like waiting for cues from Ken Dodd, and reveals how he once got Prince talking about his favourite studio gear.

The great Midge Ure drops in to discuss the 40th anniversary reissue of Ultravox's seminal album Vienna. The legendary songwriter talks about his writing process throughout his extraordinary career from his work with Rich Kids, Visage and Phil Lynott, to the collaborative miracle that was Band Aid's 'Do They Know It's Christmas?'

For this episode, Simon and Brian are joined by singer-songwriter Andrew Roachford to chat about the writing of his new record Twice In A Lifetime. The veteran musician talks about working with Beverley Knight, why he likes singing in his living room, and what it was like to see Alan Partridge miming his classic hit 'Cuddly Toy'.

Singer-songwriter Katie Melua talks with Simon and Brian about the writing of her absorbing new record Album No. 8. During the conversation, Katie also reflects on her collaborations with the likes of Mike Batt, Guy Chambers, Don Black and Sam Dixon, and explains why she has been on a mission to research lyric writing.

Matt Berninger of The National joins us to talk about the writing of his excellent solo album Serpentine Prison. During the conversation, Matt describes his partnership with the album's producer Booker T. Jones, and explains why he's striving to resist cultures of fear, and structure his life around positive forms of creativity.

Singer-songwriter Dan Croll talks about his staggeringly good third album Grand Plan which covers his first year living as an artist in LA. Dan also remembers the time he had a one-on-one masterclass with Paul McCartney while studying at LIPA and takes a moment to reflect on the tragic loss of the band Her's, which he captures beautifully in his song 'Together'.

Taylor Goldsmith talks about his songwriting process across the impressive Dawes catalogue, collaborating with the likes of Elvis Costello on The New Basement Tapes project, and why it's important not to go into the studio with a hundred songs. Taylor also reflects on his work with talented friends like Brandon Flowers, Mike Viola, and his wife Mandy Moore.

To celebrate National Album Day, the great Billy Ocean discusses his new album One World, and his classic hits including 'Love Really Hurts Without You', 'Caribbean Queen', 'When The Going Gets Tough, The Tough Get Going' and 'Get Outta My Dreams, Get Into My Car'. Billy also explains his approach to melody and vocal performance, and remembers his time collaborating with super-producer Mutt Lange.

World-renowned producer, songwriter and musician Paul Epworth speaks about his debut solo record, the expansive space concept album Voyager. Paul also talks in depth about his creative process, his studio The Church, and co-writing global hits with Adele such as 'Rolling in the Deep' and 'Skyfall'.

Nashville powerhouse Margo Price discusses the many gems on her new album That's How Rumors Get Started. Now on her third long-player, the multi-talented singer-songwriter reflects on the art of writing political songs and the challenges of being a working mother.

Vince Clarke and Andy Bell of Erasure talk about their excellent new album The Neon and how their songwriting process has evolved. In addition to discussing classic hits from their back catalogue like 'Blue Savannah', 'Sometimes' and 'A Little Respect', the pair explain how Andy prepares to find melodies on a track and how Vince makes best use of the analogue and digital domains.

With two recent Emmy nominations under his belt, the multi-talented Labrinth joins us to discuss his work on the critically-acclaimed HBO series Euphoria and his hits from the past decade. During the conversation, Lab talks about his approach to music theory and arranging, co-writing with artists like Sia, and his passion for retro synthesisers.

The legendary Burt Bacharach and his brilliant co-writer Daniel Tashian drop in for a conversation about their stunning new EP, Blue Umbrella, and life as songwriters in the middle of a pandemic. The pair explain how they've continued their collaboration remotely between Los Angeles and Nashville, and how they've drawn on Burt's vast experience as an arranger to bring the songs to life.

Grammy-winning hitmaker Nile Rodgers and legendary manager Merck Mercuriadis join Simon and Brian onstage at the Southbank Centre's Queen Elizabeth Hall during the 2019 Meltdown festival. The pair share insights into the art and business of songwriting through their work together on the Hipgnosis Songs Fund Limited, and Nile takes up his guitar to demonstrate how he wrote classic hits for artists like Sister Sledge, Diana Ross and David Bowie. Nile was also the guest for episode 123 of this podcast.

Songwriter and producer Dave Stewart drops in to discuss the new Stewart/Lindsey album Amitié, his many classic hits with Annie Lennox in Eurythmics, and his storied career in music. Dave also reflects on his collaborations with Aretha Franklin, Shakespeares Sister, and the importance of distraction in the writing process.

The great Rufus Wainwright returns to discuss his new album Unfollow The Rules, becoming part of the Laurel Canyon scene, and how his operas have informed his pop songcraft. Rufus was also the guest for episode 54 of this podcast.

Prolific singer-songwriter Laura Marling discusses the writing of her beautiful new album Song For Our Daughter, collaborating with Blake Mills, Ethan Johns and Mike Lindsay, and the influence of Paul McCartney's acoustic guitar ballads.

Singer-songwriter Rina Sawayama joins Simon and Brian for the first fully remote episode of the show in which she describes the collaborative songwriting process behind her stunning debut album SAWAYAMA, how she was influenced by the pop of the early 2000s, and the intensely personal process of writing about family.

Rapper, poet, novelist and playwright Kate Tempest talks about her creative process across a range of projects, detailing her approach to lyrics, prose, melody, structure and narrative. The double Mercury Music Prize nominee also reflects on her time working with legendary producer Rick Rubin, and her deep relationship with the city of London.

On the fourth anniversary of his passing, we’ve dug into the Sodajerker vault to find an unreleased bonus episode from a couple of years ago in which we sat down for an hour to talk about one of our all-time favourite artists - Prince! We couldn’t resist bookending it with a Prince-inspired jam we found along with the recording. Enjoy!

The great Huey Lewis discusses the writing of his new album Weather, which was recorded prior to the singer losing his hearing to Ménière's disease in 2018. In addition to telling the stories behind hits like 'The Heart of Rock and Roll', 'Bad Is Bad', 'Hip To Be Square' and 'Small World', Huey also details his collaborations with mentors like Nick Lowe and Mutt Lange, and his work on the songs 'Power Of Love' and 'Back In Time' from the classic movie Back To The Future.

The wonderful KT Tunstall joins us at The Royal Birmingham Conservatoire for a live conversation as part of the launch of the Songwriting Studies Research Network. During the chat, KT takes to the guitar and the piano to demonstrate her creative process on songs like 'Black Horse and the Cherry Tree', 'Suddenly I See' and recent work from albums like KIN and WAX. Note: KT was also the guest for episode 61 of this podcast.

Thompson Twins' Tom Bailey describes the creative process behind enduring songs like 'In The Name Of Love', 'Love On Your Side', 'If You Were Here' and 'Hold Me Now'. During the conversation, Tom also gives detailed insights into the songwriting behind his 2018 solo album Science Fiction, and explains why it's important to maintain the distinctive aspects of your sound.

Singer-songwriter Richard Marx talks about the writing of his new album Limitless and the creative process behind hits like 'Right Here Waiting' and 'Hazard'. During the conversation, Richard also reveals the musical bonds that connect his family and shares stories about his collaborations with artists like Keith Urban on 'Long Hot Summer' and the late, great Luther Vandross on the Grammy-winning 'Dance With My Father'.

Grammy-winning songwriter, producer and bassist dixon.com/">Sam Dixon joins Simon and Brian at the legendary Rak Studios in London for a live conversation in front of an invited audience. During the episode, Sam discusses his work with artists like Adele, Sia, Christina Aguilera and Jack Savoretti and describes his strategies for bringing the best out of his collaborators. Special thanks to APRA AMCOS for inviting us.

ABC's Martin Fry describes the writing of his classic album The Lexicon Of Love including songs like 'The Look Of Love', 'Poison Arrow', 'Tears Are Not Enough' and 'All Of My Heart'. During the conversation, Martin also tells the story behind his beloved hit 'When Smokey Sings' and explains how he approached the daunting task of creating The Lexicon of Love II.

Acclaimed singer-songwriter and Monkee Michael Nesmith talks Sodajerker through the writing process behind songs like 'Papa Gene's Blues', 'Joanne', 'Different Drum', 'Rio' and 'Laugh Kills Lonesome'. In addition to discussing songs he wrote for The Monkees and his solo work, Nez reflects on his relationship with John Lennon, the importance of the arranger, and the influence of visual art on his writing.

In the final show of 2019, the singular Beck joins Simon and Brian in London to talk about his incredible new album Hyperspace. During the conversation, Beck describes his experiences collaborating with Pharrell, Greg Kurstin and Paul Epworth, the influence of his Grandfather, and what it was like to receive a Grammy from Prince.

Country superstar Keith Urban grabs a couple of his prized Fender guitars and talks Simon and Brian through the writing processes behind his many hit songs. During the conversation, Keith explains the importance of rhythm in his writing, collaborating with the likes of Julia Michaels and Richard Marx, and how he has been inspired creatively by his wife Nicole Kidman.

Andy McCluskey and Paul Humphreys of OMD sit down in London to discuss their career anthology box set Souvenir and the writing process behind their success. In explaining the chemistry of their creative partnership, Andy and Paul talk about writing sad songs with happy chords, striving to avoid lyrical cliches, and why they remain musical outsiders.

The excellent James Blunt joins Sodajerker in London to discuss his very personal new album Once Upon A Mind. During the conversation, James talks about collaborations with the likes of Linda Perry, Ryan Tedder and Ed Sheeran, shares the stories behind hits like 'You're Beautiful', and explains why it's always important to have a reason to write a song.