Sodajerker On Songwriting

Mumford & Sons' Marcus Mumford and Ben Lovett talk about the writing of the band's latest record, Prizefighter. The pair reflect on working with producer Aaron Dessner, the trust required to take creative risks as a band, and how collaborations with the likes of Hozier, Gracie Abrams, Chris Stapleton and Justin Vernon shaped the final record.

Chris Difford, English lyricist known for character-driven storytelling, and Glenn Tilbrook, singer-guitarist and arranger, revisit Trixies, a concept album built from teenage demos. They discuss uncovering old recordings, lyric-first songwriting, updating sensitive lines, arranging vintage textures and imagining a fictional London nightclub. They also talk about how the project shaped their current writing.

Cory Wong, Grammy-nominated guitarist, songwriter and producer known for Vulfpeck and big collaborations. He talks about making his album Lost in the Wonder, using voice memos to catch ideas, keeping demo magic in final takes, designing clever production tricks and how collaborators change his process. Short stories reveal song origins, live recording moments and arranging with strings and groove.

The fabulous Jill Scott sits down with Sodajerker to discuss her expansive new album To Whom This May Concern. The singer, songwriter and poet talks about the creative discipline behind the record, how her relationship with poetry continues to anchor her writing, and why the songs evolve every time she performs them live.

Ryan Tedder, songwriter to artists including Taylor Swift, Adele, and Beyoncé, and frontman of OneRepublic, talks to Sodajerker about tracking cultural shifts, writing at scale, and staying competitive in a saturated market. Drawing on his Nashville training and his apprenticeship with Timbaland, he breaks down his belief in craft, persistence, and instinct, and explains why writer's block only has power if you let it.

Jason Williamson and Andrew Fearn of Sleaford Mods talk to Sodajerker about their new album The Demise of Planet X. They discuss creating interplay between their words and music, making pop culture references work in songs, and integrating guest contributions from artists such as Aldous Harding and Gwendoline Christie.

Jamie Cullum, an award-winning singer-songwriter and pianist, shares insights on writing for the Royal Shakespeare Company and the importance of collaboration in songwriting. He emphasizes the role of the piano in his creative process and discusses his journey through music theory. Billy Bragg, a political activist and folk-punk musician, reflects on songwriting as a means of connection, arguing for empathy and honest perspectives in his work. Both artists explore how music can inspire change and foster community, showcasing the art of songwriting from their unique perspectives.

Dave Bayley, the creative powerhouse behind Glass Animals, shares his journey from teenage songwriter to chart-topping artist. He reveals the magic of late-night inspiration and the importance of vulnerability in pop music. Bayley discusses his unique methods, like capturing fleeting ideas with voice memos and the thrill of sudden creative breakthroughs. He emphasizes the role of collaboration and how embracing imperfections leads to unforgettable sound. With insights on songwriting, he encourages exploring everyday details to spark lyrical brilliance.

Multifaceted British writer, actor, podcaster and musician Adam Buxton ushers in the 2025 holiday season with Sodajerker by chatting about his delightful record, Buckle Up, produced by Joe Mount of Metronomy. From the challenges of writing jingles to the heartfelt themes in songs like 'Pizza Time' and 'Standing Still', Adam reveals the personal stories behind his catchy tunes and the unique blend of the trivial and profound that defines his work.

Snarky Puppy mastermind Michael League talks to Sodajerker about the band's new record, Somni, an exploration of the dream state through music. The decorated bassist, composer and producer discusses writing for a large ensemble, the balance between complexity and accessibility in his compositions, and his collaborations with legendary artists like David Crosby.