And The Writer Is...with Ross Golan

Melanie Martinez, singer-songwriter and visual world-builder behind Cry Baby and K-12, talks about materializing ideas and building immersive worlds. She explains starting songs with titles, mixing dark whimsy with pop hooks, and protecting creative voice in a commercial industry. She also discusses performing nerves, The Voice reality, and the origins and themes of her new album Hades.

Charlie Puth, singer-songwriter-producer behind multi-billion streams and major collaborations, shares his long rise from LA writer to global pop voice. He talks studio quirks, uncredited moments on big tracks, the making of “See You Again,” how collaboration reshapes songs, balancing authenticity with industry pressure, and navigating creativity in an AI age.

Megan Moroney, a country singer-songwriter known for candid storytelling and viral hits, rose fast with songs like "Tennessee Orange." She tells how a cheerleading injury led to learning guitar and moving to Nashville. She talks about DIY releases, viral breakout via TikTok, collaborations with Ed Sheeran and Kacey Musgraves, and navigating writing rooms while defining her sound.

Jesse Rutherford, frontman and co-founder of The Neighbourhood known for writing and performing hits like 'Sweater Weather', reflects on growing up in Thousand Oaks, childhood acting, and the band's unlikely formation. He recounts the first riff and writing process behind their breakout song, navigates grief and industry pressures, and previews new music and touring plans.

EJAE, a Grammy-winning Korean-American songwriter and artist who moved from K-pop trainee to global pop architect. She recounts rigorous K-pop training, the slow pivot from trainee to songwriter, and writing hits like "Psycho." Conversations cover songwriting habits, remote sessions, and balancing pop clarity with theatrical storytelling.

Marcus Mumford, singer-songwriter and frontman of Mumford & Sons, reflects on his folk-rooted upbringing and solo work. He explains his idea of "catching" songs instead of forcing them. He shares stories about Bob Dylan, reframing success after a Pharrell moment, band co-ownership to avoid conflict, and why showing up repeatedly matters.

Illenium (Nick Miller), electronic producer and DJ who rebuilt his life after opioid addiction, shares his rise from wilderness therapy to multi-platinum success. He talks about learning production from scratch, building a signature cinematic sound, memorable collaborations, and designing immersive live shows. The conversation highlights recovery, creative process, and the making of his album Odyssey.

Philip Lawrence, a Grammy-winning songwriter and one-third of The Smeezingtons who helped shape Bruno Mars’ biggest hits. He recounts how a last $5 bus pass led to meeting Bruno, the pivot from performer to hitmaker, wild highs and a breakdown at the top, and the sober comeback that brought him back to music. Short, vivid stories about creating pop classics and studio life.

Join John Ryan, a powerhouse songwriter behind hits for One Direction and Sabrina Carpenter, as he reveals his creative journey and the secrets of staying relevant in the ever-changing music landscape. He shares struggles during the pandemic and emphasizes the importance of authenticity in songwriting. John breaks down his unique approach to blending personal projects and artist collaborations, and discusses the unpredictability of hits. Plus, he offers invaluable advice for aspiring musicians and a special live performance of his chart-toppers!

David Foster, a legendary songwriter and music producer with a career spanning five decades, shares insights from his transformative journey in music. He discusses the delicate balance between songwriting and production, including his pivotal role in launching artists like Céline Dion and Michael Bublé. Foster emphasizes the importance of longevity over fleeting hits, explores the intricacies of creating memorable hooks, and reveals the costs of greatness in the industry. He also offers wisdom on networking and staying relevant amidst evolving musical landscapes.