Maria Sherman

Rob explores one of the greatest boy band songs of all time, “I Want It That Way” by the Backstreet Boys, by discussing the nonsensical yet sonically pleasing lyricism and the perception of boy bands in larger cultural criticism.This episode was originally produced as a Music and Talk show available exclusively on Spotify. Find the full song on Spotify or wherever you get your music.Host: Rob HarvillaGuest: Maria ShermanProducers: Isaac Lee and Justin Sayles Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Maria Sherman, AP culture writer who covers albums and industry shifts, and Hazel Sills, NPR Music editor and critic, dig into Harry Styles’ new dance-tinged, post-punk record. They compare mood and mixing choices, debate restraint versus hit-making, discuss standout tracks and club influences, and imagine how the songs might land in live shows.

Join Taylor Crumpton, a music and culture writer for Time Magazine, and Maria Sherman, author of a boy band history, as they dive into the evolution of summer anthems. They discuss the nostalgia tied to songs like 'Despacito' and how boy bands have shaped pop culture. The duo navigates the changing landscape of summer music favorites, from the 1960s to contemporary hits, while exploring the emotional connections and memories we associate with these tracks. Listeners are invited to reminisce about their favorite summer jams!