And The Writer Is...with Ross Golan

Today's guest is a familiar face... A friend to the podcast and one of the most successful and influential creators in music history. He isn’t just a hitmaker. He's perhaps one of the few people in the history of music to have hits as a songwriter, artist, and producer... completely aside from one another across genres. And The Writer Is... Ryan Tedder! In this episode, he breaks down: 🎯 Why the middle class of music is disappearing 🎯 How splits, streaming, and AI are reshaping the game 🎯 The mindset you need to survive as an artist today 🎯 What real creative value looks like in 2025 and beyond This one isn’t just inspiring — It’s essential listening for anyone who wants to last in music.. A special thank you to our sponsors... O ur lead sponsor, NMPA, the National Music Publisher's Association. Your support means the world to us! And Splice -- the best sample library on the market. Hosted by Ross Golan Produced by Joe London and Jad Saad Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today's guest is an international soul sensation...From writing “The Hardest Part” on Zoom to conquering imposter syndrome, crafting hits like "Dive" and "Man I Need," and creating her acclaimed album The Art of Loving.. She is on a meteoric rise in music. We discuss raw stories of heartbreak, growth, the magic of songwriting.. and how she learned to protect her voice in a room and write music that actually feels like her. And The Writer Is...Olivia Dean! Whether you're a songwriter, fan, or music lover, this episode is packed with inspiration, laughs, and behind-the-scenes gems. Presented by NMPA.. The National Music Publisher's Association. Championing songwriters everywhere. Thank you to our sponsors! Co-presented by Splice. The best music sample library in music. CHAPTERS: 00:00 – Welcome to the Soul 01:50 – “I Still Feel So British” 03:00 – First Trip to L.A. (With No GPS or Plan) 04:00 – Learning to Trust Her Own Taste 07:40 – When Artists Had Time to Be Bad 08:30 – Making Meaningful Music in a Chart World 09:20 – “I Don’t Write Every Day” 13:35 – Disney, West Side Story, and Other Early Teachers 15:50 – The First Song: “Mean Boy” 17:05 – Parents Who Said Yes 17:20 – The BRIT School Plan 20:05 – Busking, Best Friends, and the Birth of a Band 22:15 – The First Show: 70 Tickets, 10 People on Stage 23:40 – Signing Her First Deal 25:00 – The Studio Explosion (Her Worst Song Story) 27:00 – Surviving the Rooms 29:15 – How the Best Songs Are Written 30:45 – The Yellow Van Tour (COVID-Era Reinvention) 31:30 – “OK Love You Bye” — The First Song That Felt Free 34:00 – From 70 Fans to 100 Million Streams 36:00 – It Takes a Village (and a Lot of Gratitude) 39:00 – “The Hardest Part” — The Song She Hated (That Changed Everything) 40:00 – The Take That Hurts Is the Take That Wins 43:20 – NMPA Ad Read 44:05 – Splice Ad Read 47:45 – Crying on the Studio Floor 48:00 – “Dive” — When the World Started Singing Back 51:40 – Being a Woman Who Writes (and Plays) 53:10 – The Anatomy of a Song 56:25 – “I Don’t Write Lies” 57:35 – “The Art of Loving” — How the Album Was Born 1:00:15 – What Love Actually Taught Her 1:01:35 – Making Time for Love Anyway 1:02:55 – Ross’s Mirror Moment 1:04:30 – Learning to Sit in Silence 1:05:45 – The Weight of Words 1:06:30 – Being Heard And The Writer Is... Hosted by Ross Golan Produced by Joe London and Jad Saad Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Julia Michaels has quietly rewritten the emotional DNA of pop music. From Selena Gomez to Justin Bieber to Sabrina Carpenter — her pen reshaped how vulnerability sounds on the radio. In this episode, Julia sits down with Ross to unpack the craft behind her catalog: the psychology of honest writing, the architecture of a hit, and the years she spent changing pop from behind the glass. They dive into the writing of hits, the evolution of her artistry, and what it means to sustain creative integrity in a fast-changing industry. Chapters 0:00 Intro: The Woman Who Reshaped Pop Music 0:59 Welcome Back: Reflecting on 8 Years in the Industry 2:13 Music Industry Evolution: Then vs. Now 3:00 Adapting Songwriting to Social Media and Trends 4:32 Early Career Advice: Mental Health and Boundaries 6:03 Panic Attacks and Performance Anxiety 9:25 From Songwriter to Artist: Reluctance and Breakthrough 11:23 Influence on Songwriting: Changing Pop's Sound 15:06 Hit Runs, Burnout, and Creative Pauses 17:55 Writing for Disney's Wish: Behind the Scenes 19:42 Future Plans: Musicals, Retirement, and Balance 21:05 Artistry and Collaborations 23:00 Inside the Sabrina Carpenter Camp 29:01 Breaking Down Hits: Taste, Bed Chem, and Coincidence 30:50 Joining Tate McRae: From 17 to Global Hits 33:39 Favorite Producers: Ryan Tedder, Stargate, and More 36:04 Working with Ed Sheeran: Panic, Brotherhood, and Hits 39:30 Crafting Lose You To Love Me with Selena Gomez 43:24 Longtime Bond with Selena: Firsts and Milestones 45:50 Celebrating Wins in a Changing Industry 47:19 Songwriter Struggles: Pay, Radio, and Streaming 50:26 Fair Splits and Standing Up for Writers 55:09 Gender Challenges: Overworking Female Writers 1:00:06 Regimented Life: Balance and Boundaries 1:02:40 Running Her Own Label: Freedom and Control 1:04:15 Career Lows and Highs 1:06:10 Perfect Studio Moment: Working with Britney Spears 1:07:34 Reflections: Where She Thought She'd Be 1:08:45 Uncut Demos and Sacred Songs 1:11:27 Wrapping with Selena, Benny, and Unlikely Stars 1:15:55 Ego-Free Sessions and Lifelong Roots 1:18:22 Outro and Credits NMPA fights for songwriters' rights, ensuring fair pay and protection. Check them out at NMPA.org and follow them on social media at @NMPAorg Splice is the industry’s top sample library—royalty-free for all. It empowers creators with its incredible library and ethical AI tools, supporting original artists every step of the way. Download Splice today and follow them on social media at @splice And The Writer Is... Hosted by Ross Golan Executive produced by Joe London and Jad Saad Follow us on socials at @andthewriteris Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s guests are one of the most unique voices in music — and they’ve carved out one of the most iconic sounds of their generation. Not to mention having collaborated with some of the biggest names in music. And the writer(s) are... HAIM! Dive into an unfiltered conversation with HAIM — a decade-long journey of grit, growth, and staying true when the world said no. We talk about: • How they found success their way after years of reps and rejection • The real stories behind their music • How they learned to write songs that move millions and more. Presented by our friends at @NMPA @splice NMPA fights for songwriters' rights, ensuring fair pay and protection. Check them out at NMPA.org and follow them on social media at @NMPAorg Splice is the industry’s top sample library—royalty-free for all. It empowers creators with its incredible library and ethical AI tools, supporting original artists every step of the way. Download Splice today and follow them on social media at @splice And The Writer Is... Hosted by Ross Golan Executive produced by Joe London and Jad Saad Follow us on socials at @andthewriteris Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s guest is one of the most exciting young artists in the world right now. A once-in-a-generation artist writing and producing every record himself — and turning that independence into global hits. His records aren’t just topping charts — many of them are 100%ers. Self-written, self-produced, and streamed hundreds of millions of times. He’s building a world entirely his own... In this episode of And The Writer Is, Ross Golan sits down with Sombr to unpack how he: 🎛️ Writes and produces 100% of his music 🌍 Went from viral moments to global success 💭 Deals with pressure, purpose, and proving himself 💬 Comment your favorite moment below. #Sombr #AndTheWriterIs #RossGolan #Songwriting #MusicProduction #PopMusic Presented by our friends at NMPA. A huge thank you to our sponsors. NMPA fights for songwriters' rights, ensuring fair pay and protection. Check them out at NMPA.org and follow them on social media at ⁨@NMPAorg⁩ Splice is the industry’s top sample library—royalty-free for all. It empowers creators with its incredible library and ethical AI tools, supporting original artists every step of the way. Download Splice today and follow them on social media at ⁨@splice⁩ And The Writer Is... Hosted by Ross Golan Executive produced by Joe London and Jad Saad Follow us on socials at @andthewriteris ​ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today's guest is quite literally one of the greatest songwriters of all time. He also happens to be one of the biggest artists of all time. Imagine that. This legend needs no introduction... And the writer is... Ed Sheeran! Presented by our friends at NMPA. A huge thank you to our sponsors. NMPA fights for songwriters' rights, ensuring fair pay and protection. Check them out at NMPA.org and follow them on social media at ⁨@NMPAorg⁩ Splice is the industry’s top sample library—royalty-free for all. It empowers creators with its incredible library and ethical AI tools, supporting original artists every step of the way. Download Splice today and follow them on social media at ⁨@splice⁩ Chapters: 00:00:00 - Intro 00:02:05 - Ed and Ross Reconnect 00:04:41 - From Rap Battles to Shaping His Songwriting 00:07:07 - Painting as Creative Outlet 00:09:13 - Emotional Ties to Songs, Writing Honest Songs for Himself and Others 00:12:05 - Childhood Music: Beatles, Dylan, and Irish Trad Influences 00:15:07 - Fatherhood’s Impact: Balancing Music and Family 00:16:26 - Ed Sings His First Song! 00:18:30 - Ed Sings, Ross Tests His Song Memory 00:20:27 - The Key to Confidence Starts With.... 00:22:10 - Advice: Navigating the Music Industry’s Challenges 00:24:20 - Where Ed Gets His 'Buzz' From Music 00:25:50 - The Thing That Made His Songwriting 'Stick' 00:28:35 - No Plan B: Why He Never Gave Up 00:30:04 - Discovery by Jamie Foxx: Breaking into the Scene 00:36:14 - Mid-Roll Ad: NMPA Fighting for Songwriters 00:36:52 - Mid-Roll Ad: Splice Supporting Creators with AI 00:44:11 - First Cuts: Writing for Olly Murs and One Direction 00:46:58 - Creative Process 00:52:12 - The Lawsuit That Changed Everything 00:55:49 - Protecting Songwriters: Why No Union Exists 01:05:57 - Making "Perfect" to Prove Himself After the Lawsuit 01:12:49 - Advice to Young Songwriters... 01:14:03 - Legacy Songs: What Ed Wants His Grandkids to Hear 01:15:23 - Family Over Fame: Being a Present Dad 01:20:38 - Songs Ed’s Jealous Of 01:23:46 - Closing: Ed’s Gratitude and Future Plans And The Writer Is... Hosted by Ross Golan Executive produced by Joe London and Jad Saad Follow us on socials at @andthewriteris ​ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today's guest is one of the most sought-after hitmakers of the last decade. A Grammy-winning producer, songwriter, and guitarist whose genre-bending work has shaped the sound of modern music. From rock legends to pop superstars, he’s collaborated with Justin Bieber, Post Malone, Ozzy Osbourne, The Rolling Stones, Dua Lipa, Miley Cyrus, and more — earning The Recording Academy’s Producer of the Year award and cementing his status as one of the most in-demand hitmakers on the planet. And the writer is... Andrew Watt! In this episode, Watt opens up to Ross about the relentless drive, bold creative leaps, and collaborative ethos that fueled his journey from bar gigs and $100-a-week tours to producing global anthems. Listeners will learn: vibeartist comfortLet Me Love YouHavanaSeñoritaStayPeaches Chapters 0:00 - Andrew Watt: The Hitmaking Legend 1:12 - From Bieber to Ozzy: Watt’s Epic Journey 2:20 - Studio Sparks: Watt’s Energy vs. Circuit’s Chill 4:47 - Rock Gods: Producing Pearl Jam & Stones 8:02 - Post Malone Meets Ozzy: A Game-Changer 9:31 - Rainbow Bar Magic: Ozzy & Post’s Collab 14:54 - Greece Hustle: $100/Week Tour Life 19:14 - Why Watt Never Quit Music 24:44 - Guitar to Glory: Cody Simpson to Bieber 27:01 - Music Truth: Results Are Everything 28:52 - “Let Me Love You”: Bieber’s Wild Ride 39:52 - Pop Hits: “Havana” & “Wolves” Secrets 42:02 - Dream Team: Ali, Brian & Pop Gold 46:21 - “Havana” Moment: Camila’s Mic Drop 48:27 - Post Malone: Instant Bond & Real Talk 50:06 - Imposter Syndrome: Honesty in the Studio 51:17 - “Stay”: Post’s Non-Pop Masterpiece 56:22 - “Peaches”: Justin’s Jam with Shawn & Hailey 58:38 - Demos That Hit Hard: Watt’s Emotions 1:00:36 - Lady Gaga: Crafting a Visual Epic 1:02:15 - Bruno & D’Mile: “Die with a Smile” Magic 1:06:34 - Prank Call Chaos: The Tobias Mix-Up 1:12:11 - Prank Aftermath: Industry Drama Unleashed 1:19:17 - Heartfelt Loss: Watt’s Tribute to a Friend 1:20:16 - Ozzy’s Advice: Be Kind on the Way Up This season of And The Writer Is… is presented by the National Music Publishers’ Association (NMPA) — the voice of American songwriters, composers, and music publishers. And The Writer Is... Hosted by Ross Golan Executive Produced by Joe London and Jad Saad Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s guest is more than a hitmaker — she’s a creative force who has shaped the sound of a generation. From penning chart-toppers like “Thank U, Next” (Ariana Grande), “High Hopes” (Panic! at the Disco), and “Love Lies” (Khalid & Normani) to building her own label, publishing company, and artist career, her story is a masterclass in reinvention, resilience, and longevity. And the writer is… Tayla Parx! In this episode, Tayla sits down with Ross to unpack how she’s navigated more than a decade at the top of the music industry — from her start in Hairspray to writing with Babyface, to becoming one of the few Black women with a #1 country song. She opens up about: For every songwriter, artist, or creative grinding to build a career that lasts — this is the blueprint. 🎧 Listen now and learn how Tayla Parx keeps writing hits… again and again. Chapters 0:00 Teaser – Why Longevity Matters in Music 1:37 Intro: And The Writer Is… Tayla Parx! 8:33 From Dallas Kid to Hairspray & Nickelodeon Star 12:49 Finding Songwriting & Learning From Babyface 14:07 Leaving Acting Behind to Chase Music Full-Time 24:53 The Warner Chappell Era: Building a Writer Community 27:15 Breakthrough Hits: “Thank U, Next” & “High Hopes” 31:38 NMPA Ad – Fighting for Songwriter Rights 32:45 Inside the Story of “Thank U, Next” 39:37 How to Build a Catalog That Pays for Decades 40:55 “Love Lies” & Crossing Genres as a Hitmaker 50:34 Advocating for Women, Black Creatives & LGBTQ+ Voices 52:00 Why Tayla Still Releases Her Own Music 53:20 From Bieber to John Legend to Country #1 55:32 Exploring Jazz, R&B, and Children’s Music 59:34 Song Splits, Collaboration & Session Dynamics 1:03:41 Why Collaboration Matters (and When to Write Alone) 1:11:38 The Secret to Longevity & Reinvention 1:16:25 Closing Reflections & Legacy And The Writer Is… is presented by The National Music Publishers’ Association (NMPA) — advocating for songwriters, music publishers, and their essential rights. Learn more at NMPA.org Hosted by Ross Golan Executive Produced by Joe London and Jad Saad Watercolor by Michael White Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s guest is nothing short of a phenomenon. With roots in Iceland and China, raised in a family of classical musicians, she grew up between symphony halls and jazz records — and has now become the defining voice of her generation. Her music is a breathtaking blend of timeless jazz, classical elegance, and modern storytelling that has captivated millions around the world. From posting standards online during college to headlining the Hollywood Bowl, she’s built a movement — proving that jazz not only lives, but thrives in the hands of a new generation. Her Grammy-winning sophomore album, Bewitched, cemented her as an international force. And now with her brand-new release, A Matter of Time, she dives deeper into emotional vulnerability and sonic ambition — pushing jazz, classical, and folk influences into a sound that feels both cinematic and intimate. Named one of Time’s Women of the Year, celebrated by critics and adored by fans, she is redefining what it means to be an artist in the modern age. And The Writer Is… Laufey! And The Writer Is… is hosted by Ross Golan and executive produced by Joe London and Jad Saad. As always, we’d like to thank our friends at the National Music Publishers’ Association. The NMPA is dedicated to protecting the rights of songwriters and music publishers, ensuring that the creators behind the songs we love are fairly represented and compensated. We’re grateful for their continued support of this show and our community of writers. Learn more at NMPA.org Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s guest began on YouTube — a teenager posting bedroom covers to a handful of viewers. Now, his songs have been streamed billions of times across the globe. He’s headlined sold-out arenas on multiple continents, become a global fashion force, and built one of the most devoted fanbases of his generation. He’s collaborated with legends like Max Martin, while never losing the raw honesty that made his music essential in the first place. He’s not just a rising star — he’s already one of pop’s defining voices. And with his new album, he proves that even at the biggest scale, vulnerability is still his superpower. And the writer is… Conan Gray! Follow us on socials! @andthewriteris Thank you to NMPA for sponsoring this season, and fighting for songwriters as well as this podcast. 00:00 – This Is Conan Gray (teaser) 01:00 – Singing Disney With Ross 🎶 02:00 – From Bedroom Dreams to Billions 02:59 – Growing Up Lonely, Writing to Survive 04:45 – The Music Video That Rewired His Brain 06:30 – When Adele Proved Bedroom Songs Were Possible 07:30 – Uploading at Age 9 (Before He Knew the Internet) 14:15 – “Nothing Sounded Like Me” 15:45 – Panic Attacks → Falling in Love With Touring 21:15 – Dropping Out & Betting Everything on Music 23:20 – The Moment His Sister Realized He Was Famous 24:30 – Turning Heartbreak Into Healing on Stage 26:00 – The Nightmare of Empty Venues 28:30 – Dan Nigro: The Producer Who Changed Everything 30:15 – Why Conan Refuses to Believe He’s ‘Made It’ 33:22 – Ad Break – Support Songwriters (NMPA) 34:00 – ‘Maniac’: The Shower Song That Hit a Billion 🚿 35:45 – Heather: The Song Everyone Slept On… Until They Didn’t 40:32 – Found Heaven: His Public Bootcamp 43:23 – Max Martin’s Biggest Lesson (That Changed His Writing) 47:00 – Rediscovering Himself on Wishbone 50:05 – The Falsetto High Note That Almost Broke Him 52:07 – Cornell: The Song Too Honest to Ignore 53:00 – Why Radical Honesty Is His Only Rule 55:00 – Why His Art Isn’t Just Music 56:00 – The Three Songs That Define His New Era 01:03:15 – What He’d Tell 12-Year-Old Conan 01:07:00 – Ross: “You Wrote a Song I Wish Was Mine” Hosted by Ross Golan Executive Produced by Joe London and Jad Saad Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

He believed before anyone else did. Before the Grammys. Before the 39 billion streams. Before Say My Name changed the sound of radio forever. He was just a kid on a New Jersey bus, chasing a dream no one else could see. In this episode, legendary producer Rodney “Darkchild” Jerkins shares how faith, fire, and pure conviction took him from a basement studio to shaping the sound of a generation. From Michael Jackson to Beyoncé, Lady Gaga, and Sam Smith, Rodney opens up about the mindset behind the music — and why belief is still the most powerful tool a creator has. You’ll hear about the reset that saved his career, the changing landscape of songwriting in the AI era, and the stories behind some of the most iconic records of the last 25 years. And The Writer Is... Rodney Jerkins. Topics: Say My Name Michael JacksonBeyoncéGaga Sponsored by: SONA, DIMA, Amazon Music, and YouTube Songwriters. Thank you for supporting us and protecting the future of songwriting! Produced by Ross Golan, Joe London, and Jad Saad Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What does it really take to become irreplaceable in music? This is more than a lesson in music. It’s a masterclass in how to make yourself essential in any room you enter. In this episode, Ryan Tedder shares a raw, unfiltered blueprint for building a career that stands the test of time. From mastering guitar, piano, and production to writing two songs a day, Ryan unpacks why versatility, humility, and relentless work ethic are the hidden currencies of longevity. He breaks down the mindset shifts that separate fleeting success from lasting impact, and why assuming everyone is more talented than you might just be your greatest advantage. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s guest is the mastermind behind some of the biggest songs on earth – a creative force whose melodies have shaped generations. From crafting timeless anthems with Beyoncé, Adele, and Taylor Swift to leading OneRepublic to global dominance, he’s not just a hitmaker – he’s an architect of modern music. In this conversation, Ryan Tedder rips the veil off fame and fortune, revealing the hidden costs of success, the brutal truths no one talks about, and his unfiltered blueprint for building wealth, longevity, and creative mastery in a world obsessed with trends. He dives deep into why most artists fail, how boredom became his superpower, and what it actually takes to build a legacy that lasts. This isn’t an interview. It’s a wake-up call for every creator chasing relevance in 2025 and beyond. And The Writer Is… Ryan Tedder! (Part 3) Produced by Joe London, Ross Golan, & Jad Saad Chapters: 00:00 Intro 00:52 His Morning Routine That Changed Everything 02:06 How Boredom Made Him Creative 03:40 The Hidden Dark Side of Fame 05:50 Justin Timberlake’s Brutal Warning 10:15 Fame is a Prison: Stories from the Top 14:14 Why He Hid His Singing Talent as a Kid 17:25 Lady Gaga’s Secret Ambition Revealed 20:55 Money Makes You a Target 23:02 His Dream: Rich But Unknown 25:26 Investing Millions Outside Music 27:05 Why Famous Artists Go Broke 31:02 Getting Dropped Saved His Career 36:13 What $50 Million a Year Really Means 39:22 NMPA Sponsor Break 41:01 Labels Want You Wild & Broke 44:40 Can You Win Without Flexing? 47:12 Managers Who Destroy Artists’ Careers 50:52 Why Tate McRae Is Built Different 53:37 OneRepublic’s Secret to Longevity 57:12 Sync Deals vs Streaming: Where Money Really Is 01:00:52 His Songwriting Secrets & ‘God Moments’ 01:05:00 How He Stays Creative After 20+ Years 01:09:00 The Role of Trust in Hit-Making 01:13:00 Stories of Working With DJs & Pop Stars 01:17:00 The Future of Music & AI’s Impact 01:21:00 His Philosophy on Work Ethic & Success 01:25:00 Final Words: Advice to Creators 01:29:00 Outro Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this powerful 10-minute blueprint, Russ breaks down what every artist needs to know to build a real career in today’s music industry. From his mindset of delusional self-belief to strategic release plans and business truths, this clip will change the way you approach your music journey forever. Subscribe for more industry insight and give us a rating if you enjoyed this! It helps us keep this show free forever, which is our commitment to the industry and our audience. Presented by NMPA https://www.nmpa.org/ Chapters: 0:00 Why Songs Don’t Blow Up 0:15 Is Inspiration Overrated? 0:33 Writing Big Songs While Uninspired 1:05 How Russ Would Start From Zero Today 1:24 Stockpiling Songs & Posting Strategy 1:57 Do You Want Success Bad Enough? 2:01 Russ’ Duality: Confidence vs. Doubt 2:21 The Power of Delusional Self-Belief 3:02 Why Songwriters Should Stop Giving Songs Away 3:51 Why Most Artists Stay Broke 5:06 Taking Control of Your Music Business 6:38 The Purity of Creating Without an Audience 7:04 The Audience Picks The Hits 8:07 Russ’ Song-a-Week Strategy Explained 8:39 When a Song Flops: Russ on Bankrupt 9:13 Why It’s Okay If It’s Not The One Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s guest is a fearless storyteller whose voice is as raw as her lyrics—bold, emotional, and unapologetically real. A first-generation Colombian-Canadian, she turned hustle into art, weaving her experiences into songs that hit like truth bombs. Whether she’s penning heart-wrenching ballads or delivering razor-sharp verses alongside icons like Eminem and Beyoncé, her work is grounded in authenticity and fire. She’s busked, she’s bartended, she’s broken through. And now, with her third studio album, she continues to push boundaries—proving that vulnerability, grit, and honesty never go out of style. From Toronto to the world… And the writer is… Jessie Reyez! Produced by Joe London, Ross Golan, and Jad Saad Special thank you to our season sponsor NMPA! Chapters: 00:01:36 – Start Here: Why This Episode Will Change You 00:02:37 – How Jessie Met Eminem and Earned His Respect 00:09:50 – What Jessie Learned Giving Back to Songwriters 00:16:52 – Jessie’s First Song Ever (It’s Cringey… and Brilliant) 00:18:28 – Jessie’s Crazy Lyric Memory & Why It Matters 00:18:51 – From Choir Rooms to Stadiums: Where It All Began 00:27:57 – The Moment She Gave Herself One Year 00:31:12 – How Her Mom’s Brutal English Drills Made Jessie a Genius 00:35:35 – What Happens After the Hit? Jessie Tells All 00:37:11 – The Exact Moment She Knew Her Life Was Changing 00:42:36 – The Video That Changed Everything (She Almost Didn't Post) 00:45:14 – How a $50 Bus Ride Got Her Into the Remix Project 00:48:18 – Why She Stayed Up 14 Hours Editing Her First Video 00:50:12 – The Brave Story Jessie Told That Changed Everything 00:51:17 – Writing 'Figures' — The Raw, Drunken, Real Truth 00:56:44 – The Writing Camp That Sparked Her Breakthrough Hit 00:57:11 – How 'Figures' Was Really Written (And Why It Still Hurts) 01:00:00 – Gatekeeper: Calling Out Sexism in the Music Industry 01:01:42 – What MeToo Missed — And What Jessie Risked to Say 01:02:58 – The Heavy Cost of Telling the Truth 01:05:43 – Why Being Vulnerable is Jessie’s Greatest Superpower 01:06:20 – Jessie on Drake, Bieber, The Weeknd & Canadian Greatness 01:07:14 – Why So Many GOATs Come Out of Canada 01:08:11 – From Open Mics to Eminem: The Legacy She’s Building 01:18:14 – The Insane Calvin Harris Story (You Won’t Believe This One) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s guest is a musical architect whose fingerprints are on some of the most emotionally resonant and sonically rich records of the last decade. He’s not the loudest in the room—but when he’s in the studio, every note, every tone, every beat matters. A multi-instrumentalist, songwriter, and producer with an unmatched intuition, he brings out the soul in every song, guiding artists to their most authentic performances. From Grammy-winning collaborations with Kacey Musgraves to shaping records across indie, country, rock, and beyond, he’s the quiet force behind the soundtracks to our lives. All the way from Nashville, Tennessee, this master of nuance proves that subtlety can be a superpower. And the writer is… Ian Fitchuk! 0:00 – Intro: Sobriety, Fear & Creativity 0:55 – NMPA Sponsor Message 2:00 – Episode Begins: Ross Welcomes Ian 2:25 – Ian Fisher Intro (By Ross) 3:25 – Growing Up in the Chicago Suburbs 6:15 – Musical Upbringing: Classical Roots & Church Influence 9:05 – Early Influences: CDs, Cassettes & Graceland 12:05 – Bear Killer, Drums & Songwriting Beginnings 17:30 – From Church Bands to Writing Real Songs 20:50 – Leaving Home & Moving to Nashville 27:30 – First Touring Gig & Life Lessons 30:50 – Discovering Production via the Christian Music Scene 35:50 – A Decade of Struggle Before the Breakthrough 40:50 – Why Ian Never Quit (Even With Kids) 45:00 – Golden Hour Era: Writing With Kacey 50:50 – Making Golden Hour Using Logic Stock Sounds Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this special episode, Ross Golan sits down with David Israelite, the influential President and CEO of the National Music Publishers Association (NMPA). A fierce and tireless advocate for songwriters, David has spent nearly two decades fighting for the rights, recognition, and fair compensation of music creators in an ever-evolving industry. From spearheading groundbreaking legislation like the Music Modernization Act to navigating complex battles over streaming royalties and copyright protections, David shares a behind-the-scenes look at the work that goes into defending the value of songwriting. With unique insights into policy, publishing, and the business of music, this candid conversation reveals why David is one of the most pivotal figures working on behalf of songwriters today. If you care about music creators and the future of songwriting, this is an episode you won’t want to miss. 00:00 – Intro & Welcome Back 03:40 – How Songwriters Get Paid (Explained Like You’re 15) 05:19 – Why 75% of Songwriter Income Is Regulated by the Government 07:28 – The Music Modernization Act: Win or Band-Aid? 09:13 – The Broken Market: Songwriters Can’t Say No 12:01 – Artists vs. Songwriters: A Cultural Divide 13:50 – Ghostwriting, Publishing Abuse & The Elvis Tax 20:16 – Why Unionizing Isn’t the Answer 23:55 – What Is the CRB — And Why It Still Screws Songwriters 26:22 – Free Market vs. Regulated Market: Labels vs. Songwriters 28:33 – Why Songwriters Have No Political Power 31:01 – Consent Decrees & The PRO Problem 33:19 – What Are Selective Withdrawals? 39:10 – Do Big Publishers Hurt Small Writers? 45:25 – The Power of 'No' — and Why Songwriters Need It 46:25 – Are Labels & Publishers in Conflict? 49:45 – Catalog Sales & Investment Funds in Music 54:37 – Final Thoughts & Gratitude Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week’s guest is one of the most successful independent artists in modern music. He’s a rapper, singer, songwriter, and producer who built his career from the ground up—writing, recording, producing, mixing, mastering, and releasing everything himself. But in this rare conversation, he opens up about the side of the journey we don’t usually hear: The emotional weight of ownership, the mental toll of doing it all alone, and the belief system that kept him going when no one else did. We get into: This is more than a career breakdown—it's a blueprint for any creative who wants to build something real without losing their peace. And The Writer Is... Russ! Chapters 00:00:00 - Trailer: A Glimpse Inside 00:00:57 - Ad Break: NMPA and the Fight for Songwriter Pay 00:01:39 - Welcome to And The Writer Is… with Russ 00:02:14 - Meet Russ: The Unstoppable Indie Force 00:03:50 - From NJ to ATL: Russ’s Early Grind 00:06:40 - Atlanta’s Snap Era and Soulja Boy Influence 00:07:53 - Homegrown Sounds: 70s Rock and Dad’s Secret Talent 00:10:11 - First Guitar: The Genesis of a Songwriter 00:11:08 - GarageBand Dreams: Crafting Early Beats 00:12:09 - Musical Influences: Lil Wayne and Pop-Punk 00:13:30 - Defining the Russ Sound 00:15:29 - Drum Programmers vs. Songwriters 00:18:23 - Publishing Game: Russ’s 50/50 Split Strategy 00:25:56 - Masters vs. Publishing: Where the Money Is 00:27:06 - Losin Control: The $850K Sample Mistake 00:28:28 - Building an Independent Empire 00:30:38 - Own Your Business: Russ’s Wake-Up Call 00:33:18 - Inspiration Is a Lie: Show Up and Work 00:34:28 - Weekly Releases: Discipline Over Inspiration 00:37:14 - Creative Sparks: Shower, Planes, and Life 00:47:26 - Cherry Hill: The Hunt for the Perfect Word 00:51:09 - Live First, Write Later 00:53:10 - The Power of Delusional Belief 01:03:11 - Russ’s Blueprint: 2 Songs a Month 01:06:57 - Respect Your Audience’s Ear 01:09:18 - The Pressure of Success and Family 01:13:55 - Therapy and Acceptance 01:14:37 - Breaking Into Acting and Hollywood 01:25:26 - Ad Break: Powered by peermusic 01:47:10 - Growth Through Vulnerability 01:48:46 - Why Russ Stays Independent 01:53:27 - Fair Pay for Songwriters 02:00:22 - The “Good Problems” of Success 02:07:38 - Chloe, Otto, and Life Lessons 02:08:57 - Outro: And The Writer Is... 02:11:42 - Why Not Me? Russ’s Final Word Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s guest is an artist whose voice cuts through like a blade—sharp, emotional, and unforgettable. Emerging from the shadows of alternative R&B and electro-pop, she’s crafted a sonic identity that’s both intimate and cinematic. Her lyrics are deeply confessional, fearless in their vulnerability, and her production choices push boundaries while staying rooted in undeniable emotion. From viral beginnings to critical acclaim, she’s stayed true to her vision, building an aesthetic that’s dark, empowering, and always evolving. All the way from Los Angeles, California—this is the sound of raw artistry at its finest. And the writer is… BANKS! 00:00 - Intro 01:07 - Growing Up in L.A. 03:52 - Music as Math? 06:16 - 100% Songs, No Concept First 08:08 - First Song Became a Jack Collab 10:04 - Social Anxiety + Going Out Hard 12:06 - Fans, Fame & Divine Feminine Energy 15:41 - Jillian vs. BANKS 18:10 - Stage Fright to Frontwoman 21:13 - Regrets & Album Titles That Got Away 22:28 - Streaming Era Beginnings 27:02 - Indie Artist Real Talk 31:12 - Viral Hits vs. Tour Culture 34:09 - “Don’t Try To Write a Hit” 36:04 - Underrated BANKS Songs 38:05 - Why This Album, Why Now 39:28 - How “I Hate Your Ex” Happened 41:24 - Voice as a Shape-Shifter 42:02 - Collaboration Energy Shift 43:03 - Studio Magic Stories 44:14 - Writing for Other Artists? 46:18 - Why Artists Look to BANKS 48:06 - 3 Life-Changing Decisions 49:40 - Five-for-Five Lightning Round 53:08 - Music + Visuals Are One 54:16 - Ross on BANKS’ Legacy Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s guest is a British sensation whose sound defies convention and whose rise has been anything but ordinary. With a style rooted in drum and bass, alt-pop, and early 2000s nostalgia, she’s redefined what it means to make bedroom pop in the digital age. Her songwriting is both diaristic and enigmatic, managing to say more in two minutes than most can in five. From viral fame to global stages, she’s built a world that’s entirely her own—introspective, stylish, and sonically daring. A true creative force who writes, produces, and performs with instinct and intention. From across the pond, the future is bright… And the wrier is… PinkPantheress! 00:00 – Intro 00:42 – Meet PinkPantheress 01:16 – The Self-Made Artist 05:02 – Growing Up Multicultural 09:49 – Emo, Piano & Early Music Obsession 13:03 – Building Her Unique Sound 16:26 – UK vs US Music Culture 21:04 – Not Chasing Numbers 23:01 – You Can’t Teach Taste 24:19 – Producing & Industry Bias 30:23 – Ad Read: NMPA + Peer Music 32:00 – Producing at 17 & Avoiding Media 34:06 – TikTok Fame Without Trying 38:22 – From Anonymous to Recognized 41:00 – Live Shows & Internal Standards 44:29 – Perfectionism & Learning in Public 45:04 – Writing 'Pain' in Her Dorm 46:31 – 'Boys a Liar' & Airbnb Vocals 50:16 – Taste as Her Superpower 52:15 – New Single & Feedback Avoidance 53:43 – Teasing the Next Song 54:59 – Dream Artists to Produce 55:27 – Where the Name Came From 55:32 – If She Started from Zero Today 57:05 – The Truth About Taste 58:12 – Rapid Fire: Bath, Family, Identity 58:57 – Final Thoughts: Breaking Through in the US Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.