We recently deconstructed how Kate Bush’s 1985 song “Running Up That Hill” has found itself at the center of culture due to a placement in the Netflix, eighties, horror, sci-fi show, Stranger Things. For that episode we excerpted an interview with the composers of the show who shared great insights on how they created the iconic theme song and spooky soundsc ... Show More
Aug 19
All roads lead to Pharrell: Tyler, Clipse, and Cardi
The conversation around the new music this summer has been a dour one. Some of the biggest songs in the country right now are downtempo stomp-clap anthems and wistful Cranberries pastiche. Even on this very show, Nate and Charlie have asked: where's the fun? As it turns out, the ... Show More
52m 36s
Aug 12
A brief history of terrible lyrics (with Sam Sanders)
Why do bad lyrics happen to good people? From "suckin' on a chili dog" to "making love to his tonic and gin," even the biggest hits from our favorite artists can feature lyrical turns that make us feel quizzical, offended, or even downright nauseated. With the help of Sam Sanders ... Show More
43m 5s
Aug 2016
"Stranger Things" Composers Michael Stein and Kyle Dixon, and the Power of Music on TV
Examining the power of original scoring for television throughout history, with a particular emphasis on its return to prominence in the era of Peak TV. Plus: an interview with Michael Stein and Kyle Dixon, who wrote the music for Netflix's "Stranger Things."Theme music: "Slinky" ... Show More
39m 16s
Oct 2021
Spotlight on Avatar's Soundtrack with Jeremy Zuckerman and Hrishikesh Hirway
In this very special episode, ATLA & TLOK Composer Jeremy Zuckerman sits down with Janet, Dante, and Song Exploder’s Hrishikesh Hirway! The focus is all about the music in this lively discussion about the challenges and delights of scoring television and film. Listen to tales of ... Show More
53m 6s
Mar 2022
'Something in the Way,' 'The Batman,' Prince, and the Wild History of Batmusic
With Nirvana's 'Something in the Way' a streaming smash thanks to 'The Batman,' we look at the new movie's music and the whole story Batmusic, from the '60s TV theme song to Prince and beyond. David Fear and Erica Thompson join host Brian Hiatt for the discussion. Learn more abou ... Show More
41m 5s