Sappenin’ Podcast with Sean Smith

Bert McCracken, the charismatic lead vocalist of The Used, returns for a lively chat that dives into his band's rich legacy and their upcoming projects. He shares insights on his time in Australia, tattoo culture on tour, and personal anecdotes about mental health and authenticity in the music scene. Bert also discusses his collaborative work, the emotional connection with fans, and the band's influence on new artists. With candid reflections on the highs and lows of emo, this conversation is a heartfelt celebration of music and community.

Danny Jones and Dougie Poynter from McFly, alongside Steven Battelle of LostAlone, dive into their new songwriting collective, SideQuest. They share heartfelt stories of camaraderie and collaboration, revealing how their experiences shaped their music. The trio discusses the importance of nurturing creativity, inspiring younger artists, and the emotional complexities behind their work. Tune in for tales of tour mayhem, studio chaos, and the joy of creating together, all wrapped in their signature humor and vibrant energy!

Tom Higgenson, the charismatic vocalist of Plain White T's, known for the iconic hit "Hey There Delilah," joins the conversation and dives deep into his band’s pop-culture legacy. He shares quirky tales of touring Walmart parking lots and even writing for SpongeBob! Higgenson discusses the emotional rollercoaster of creating their self-titled album and how nostalgia plays into their sound. With anecdotes about awkward fan interactions and funny stories of performing on cruise ships, he offers a glimpse into the joyful chaos of a musician's life.

Steph O’Sullivan, the powerhouse vocalist of Irish emo band Greywind, dives deep into her journey through the music scene. She reveals personal stories of music industry trauma and the struggle to reclaim their narrative. Steph shares about overcoming self-doubt, the inspiration she draws from her musical family, and her experiences with social media fame. From hair-dye therapy to football heartbreaks, this conversation teems with humor and raw emotions, celebrating resilience and creativity in the face of adversity.

Daryl Palumbo, the iconic vocalist of Glassjaw and Head Automatica, opens up about his unique vocal style and impact on post-hardcore music. He reflects on the 30th anniversary of Glassjaw, the transformative influence of meeting Justin Beck, and the challenges of mental health in the music industry. Daryl also discusses the ups and downs of his touring lifestyle, his unexpected return to Head Automatica, and hints at unreleased music. With candid anecdotes and insights, he shares the essence of his artistic journey and connections within the music scene.

Joining the conversation is Connor Ball, bassist for The Vamps and frontman of LUNARS, known for his vibrant performances and genre-bending talents. He shares insights on his transition to a pop-punk sound with LUNARS while tackling boyband stereotypes. Connor dives into wild stories from memorable gigs, including a unique concert in a pizza place and unexpected catering adventures. He reflects on the pressures of frontman duties, creative collaborations, and the joy of embracing musical diversity, all while keeping the mood light and humorous.

Nick Wheeler, co-founder of The All-American Rejects and owner of WheelHouse Studios, opens up about the band's unexpected comeback and recent tour. He shares humorous anecdotes from their time on the road, the challenges of staying creative amidst industry pressures, and insights from working with iconic producers. Nick reflects on brotherhood with Tyson Ritter, nostalgic moments from their early days, and speculation around new music. Plus, hear about the exciting return to festivals and the quirky interactions in Australia and Brazil!

Noah Adams, known as NOAHFINNCE, is a transgender emo activist, YouTuber, and pop-punk musician dedicated to creating safe spaces for the LGBTQ+ community. He shares insights about growing up online, the chaotic yet rewarding life on tour, and the importance of community support in music. Noah opens up about navigating ADHD, the thrill of connecting with fans, and the evolution of his sound. He also humorously reflects on backstage antics and the nuances of identity within the music industry, blending heartfelt messages with light-hearted humor.

John Nolan, the talented singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist from Taking Back Sunday, shares a glimpse into the band's new album '152' and reveals its secret coding. He reflects on his journey from shy songwriter to frontman, recounts the chaos of early shows, and his surprising experiences in baseball. Nolan discusses the band's evolution and their resonance in today's music scene, the bittersweet moments of live performances, and some playful stories from the studio. A candid and nostalgic conversation filled with passion for music!

Julian Comeau and Dylan Tirapelli-Jamail of the band Loveless bring their infectious energy to the conversation. They dive into their rise to fame through TikTok, share wild stories from their tours, and hilariously discuss the mishaps that come with live performances. From quirky fan interactions to their love for UK snacks, including a review of Greggs sausage rolls, their banter is a delight. They also reflect on their emotional songwriting blended with hyperactive stage personas, leaving listeners with a humorous and honest insight into band life.