Sodajerker On Songwriting

Death Cab for Cutie's Ben Gibbard gives Sodajerker the lowdown on the band's superb new album Asphalt Meadows, the process of round robin songwriting, and why he's always falling in love with dead movie stars. The songwriter and guitarist also talks about writing with his trusty Fender Mustang, how certain guitars can deal a hot hand creatively, and the importance of lived experience in his work.

Suede's Brett Anderson joins Simon and Brian for a candid conversation about the writing of the band's new record Autofiction, accessing naivety, avoiding self-parody, and the value of craft. The frontman and author also reflects on the importance of fans, and why a songwriter's musical limitations don't need to be a barrier to success.

The phenomenal Madison Cunningham speaks with Sodajerker about her new record Revealer, sincerity versus technicality in music making, and why songs are sometimes smarter than you. The singer-songwriter also discusses her distinctive approach to the guitar and the influence of church music in her development.

Julian Lennon joins Simon and Brian for a chat about his new record Jude, the importance of emotion in songwriting, dealing with anxiety, and the trials of relearning his old material. The multi-faceted singer-songwriter also discusses his work as a photographer, filmmaker and author, and reflects on how his creativity is powered by his relentless work ethic.

Singer-songwriter Martha Wainwright discusses her recent memoir Stories I Might Regret Telling You, how she approaches writing both songs and prose, and being done with old narratives. The critically lauded artist also shares her thoughts on using open tunings, why she found acting wasn’t compatible with songwriting, and her plans for the future.

Canadian treasure Steven Page sits down with Simon and Brian to discuss his songwriting process, his work with Barenaked Ladies, and songs from his forthcoming solo album. The beloved singer-songwriter shares his thoughts on the joy of choir singing, the place of humour in songwriting, and what he's learned from long-time collaborators like Stephen 'Tin Tin' Duffy.

The charismatic Bruce Hornsby joins us to talk about the writing of his superb new album 'Flicted and the art of living a life of creativity. In this in-depth conversation, the singer-songwriter and pianist describes how he gets inspired by reading literary fiction, his work on music for Spike Lee joints, what he means when he describes his sound as 'Bill Evans meets the hymnbook', and why 'The Way It Is' was one of the most unlikely hits ever.

Singer-songwriter and violin virtuoso Andrew Bird discusses the writing of his captivating new record Inside Problems. In this detailed chat, the seasoned artist explains his approach to confessional songwriting, using archaic language, and how he has been inspired by everything from insomnia to the air freshener used in New York taxicabs.

Beloved Scouse singer-songwriter Michael Head (The Pale Fountains, Shack) talks about his fantastic new record Dear Scott and his approach to songwriting. In this detailed conversation, Mick reflects on his relationship with poetry, his Liverpool roots, and how he imbues his songs with stories, characters and imagination.

Norah Jones talks about the 20th anniversary edition of her Grammy award-winning record Come Away With Me and how her songwriting has developed over the past two decades. The singer, songwriter and pianist also discusses her past collaborations with Danger Mouse and Jeff Tweedy, and explains why the bathtub is the best place to write songs.

Grammy-winning singer-songwriter PJ Morton talks about the writing of his latest record Watch The Sun and his collaborations with the likes of Stevie Wonder, Jill Scott and El DeBarge. The versatile musician and producer also reflects on the importance of being himself, the inspiration he takes from his hometown of New Orleans, and his work as the keyboard player for Maroon 5.

Singer-songwriter Jewel discusses her new record Freewheelin' Woman and how she has used the songwriting process as a way to deal with anxiety. The musician and author also remembers lessons learned from time spent with Bob Dylan and Neil Young, and explains why singing in the studio is a little bit like porn.

Hit songwriter and producer Desmond Child speaks with Simon and Brian about the songs that make up his enviable catalogue. From his work with Kiss, Bon Jovi, and Aerosmith, to global smashes with Ricky Martin, Desmond has consistently been involved in creating unforgettable songs for major artists. In this conversation, Desmond explains how his approach to songwriting, creativity and collaboration has facilitated his success.

Legendary singer and songwriter Daryl Hall talks with Sodajerker about his new retrospective solo anthology Before After, the writing of his classic hits with John Oates, and his seminal web series Live From Daryl's House. The Philly soul star also reflects on his musical origins and early inspiration from contemporaries like Gamble & Huff and Thom Bell.

Versatile songwriter and producer Bleu discusses his recent album SiX TAPE, his new Berklee course on sync for songwriters, and his adventures in writing K-pop. The multi-talented singer and collaborator also revisits his many excellent side projects like Loud Lion, L.E.O. and The Major Labels.

Welsh songsmith Kelly Jones of Stereophonics joins Simon and Brian for a chat about their brand new number one album Oochya!, the importance of narrative in his songwriting process, and mega hits from the back catalogue like 'Dakota'.

Catherine Anne Davies aka The Anchoress talks about the expanded edition of her critically acclaimed record The Art of Losing, her approach to songwriting and production, and why there's no such thing as great inspiration.

Roland Orzabal and Curt Smith of Tears For Fears discuss their excellent new record The Tipping Point, getting back to basics as songwriters, and classic hits from the past like 'Mad World', 'Head Over Heels', 'Everybody Wants To Rule The World' and 'Sowing The Seeds Of Love'.

Actor and singer-songwriter Kiefer Sutherland joins Sodajerker for a chat about his new album Bloor Street and his creative process. Kiefer talks about writing from experience, how his acting informs his songwriting, and why he loves to write at his kitchen island.

Singer-songwriter, producer and actor Steven Van Zandt sits down with Simon and Brian in Manchester, UK, for an inspiring conversation about songwriting and arranging, his expansive musical history, and forays into other art forms. The E Street Band guitarist also talks about his creative partnership with Bruce Springsteen, early records with Southside Johnny and the Asbury Jukes, and the five crafts of rock.