Nitty Gritty of Ditties with Brooke: Recent Episodes
Brooke Sawyer
Do you turn on the radio and hear songs you love? Songs you love to hate? Songs you hate to love? In this podcast, I explore why you love some songs in spite of yourself or why you might hate songs that seem to be really popular using music theory and music psychology! You can still love the music you love, hate the music you hate, but now you can learn why you feel that way! Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/nittygrittyofditties/support
In my current music therapy job, I've had the ability to work with many different kinds of clients in many different settings. One of these settings is an addiction recovery facility, and I feel like not much is known to the general public about music therapy and addiction recovery. So, I'm explaining what we do! In the first part of the episode, I discuss how music therapists might work with recovery groups. Then, I get into my top 10 songs to listen to in my addiction recovery group. Whether you identify as someone in recovery or not, these songs are really great for anyone going through a challenging time.
Songs mentioned in this episode: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2ZaqfPKj4eIxLCt72tsQMX?si=d08910866aa34bdb
Merch: https://nitty-gritty-of-ditties.myspreadshop.com/
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/nittygrittyofditties/support
When I heard that a new Pixar movie was coming out, and that it would be about a preteen girl in the early 2000's I was excited. I was not prepared for the level of nostalgia I would feel from watching it, however. 4Town reminded me of all of my favorite boy bands growing up - Backstreet Boys, NSYNC, and, of course, Dream Street. I decided to use those nostalgic feelings to analyze how 4*Town's songs stacked up against the early 2000's classics using my Boy Band Metric. Listen to hear how your favorites compare!
Songs mentioned in this episode: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/56tRkoU1NZCiC0oXv0aJRw?si=953c902d9f914251
Merch: https://nitty-gritty-of-ditties.myspreadshop.com/
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/nittygrittyofditties/support
After writing and recording my episode about Labrinth's music in Euphoria and how it elevates the show, I still felt like I wasn't done talking about all of the music that this show incorporates. So, I invited my friend Rachel to the podcast to look at all of the songs that are chosen to be featured the Euphoria universe, and how those songs enhance our understanding and appreciation for the characters and the show as a whole. It was a really fun conversation, so I hope you enjoy it as much as I did!
Merch: https://nitty-gritty-of-ditties.myspreadshop.com/
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/nittygrittyofditties/support
I took a little break from podcast recording because I wasn't feeling inspired to make new episodes. Nothing in the music world felt interesting to talk about, until I binged all of the show, Euphoria. I have so much to say about the music in this show, that I'm releasing two episodes about it! In part 1, this episode, I talk about all of the original music composed by Labrinth for this show, and how the music matches and enhances the internal struggles that Rue and all of the other characters go through.
Merch: https://nitty-gritty-of-ditties.myspreadshop.com/
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/nittygrittyofditties/support
I love to talk about pop music, which is why I started this podcast in the first place, but I have an equal passion (if not more) for music and neuroscience. One of the most interesting topics related to music and the brain is mirror neurons - what they are, how they work, and how they might enhance our perception and enjoyment of music. I touch on all of these topics, and how they relate to my obsession with hand claps in music, in this episode!
Songs mentioned in this episode: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/00AQjOKpbV4pN5YvYQEEvi?si=5c0fa06d5e0a4f4d
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/nittygrittyofditties/support
During my first viewing of Encanto, I didn't feel like it was anything special. But, days after, I couldn't get the songs or these characters out of my head! The songs in this movie do a great job of highlighting all kinds of mental anguish we all might go through, especially in these times. The songs touch on how individuals deal with the pressures and issues of intergenerational trauma, and also how community shapes our own mental illness and wellness. Listen to the episode to find out how each song can be used as a resource!
Merch: https://nitty-gritty-of-ditties.myspreadshop.com/
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/nittygrittyofditties/support
As we approach a new year, I always love reading the "year end" lists to see what music stood out to music critics and everyday people alike from the past year. This year, since I enjoy reading them so much, I thought I'd make one of my own! Listen to hear my top 10 (or 11) songs of 2021, and see if any of your favorites made the list!
Spotify playlist of songs mentioned: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0NeYUBNOF6cOiwsqLpE25N?si=2be8f1ae31af4c5d
Merch! https://nitty-gritty-of-ditties.myspreadshop.com/
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/nittygrittyofditties/support
I love Christmas music, I love winter music, and I love Hanukkah music. I released a few podcast episodes last year about my favorite Hanukkah and Christmas songs. But, as long as I can remember, I've hated "I Have a Little Dreidel", the most famous Hanukkah song. In this episode, I dig into the musical reasons why this song misses the mark so badly, and I was so irate, that I wrote my own dreidel song to prove how easy it can be. As a holiday gift to the listeners, listen to the end to hear my original song for the season!
Find Merch Here with new designs: https://nitty-gritty-of-ditties.myspreadshop.com/
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/nittygrittyofditties/support
True Swifties knew that a version of "All Too Well" existed that was 10-minutes long, but they didn't think they'd ever get to hear it. Once Taylor announced that she'd be adding that version of her highly regarded song to her Red album re-release, I knew that I was going to have to talk about it. After I dissect this new version's music and lyrics, Lori comes on the podcast to do what we do best - talk Taylor Swift.
Merch found here: https://nitty-gritty-of-ditties.myspreadshop.com/
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/nittygrittyofditties/support
I, like millions of people around the world, was captivated by Squid Game. It took me a few weeks to synthesize my thoughts on the show, and to think deeply about all of the great music! So, I asked my friend Johnny, who is a classically trained cellist, to come break down all of the interesting elements of the Squid Game soundtrack with me, and we both had a lot to say!
Spotify link to the soundtrack: https://open.spotify.com/album/3LUdxlF9Gq90Jcd9Y24ZH8?si=ilOqEMAeT_2qKkLyFR6SBQ
Merch is here! https://nitty-gritty-of-ditties.myspreadshop.com/
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/nittygrittyofditties/support
Even though I've been having some Bachelor franchise fatigue, I have been excited for Michelle's season for a while. I thought she was the most interesting woman of the Bachelor season she appeared on, and I am really rooting for her to find love. But, with these limo exits specifically, my hopes are not so high. Hear me break down all of the music of each man's limo exit and what it means for their chances to be one of Michelle's frontrunners!
Merch is here! https://nitty-gritty-of-ditties.myspreadshop.com/
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/nittygrittyofditties/support
An "earworm" is a term for when a song gets stuck in your head, and you can't get it unstuck. In this episode, I look at research about how earworms happen, some quick brain science, and most importantly - how to get rid of them! A short and sweet episode about those short and sweet pieces of songs that won't leave our brains alone!
New merch: https://nitty-gritty-of-ditties.myspreadshop.com/
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/nittygrittyofditties/support
Dear Evan Hansen, the musical version, came out in 2016. I had avoided all spoilers until I was able to see the film a few weeks ago, five years later. How such a celebrated musical could be turned into such a disappointing film was confusing to me, so I dug into the music to find out where the problems lie. The music and plot of this show do not seem to fit together, and I explain why that hurts the entire production.
New merch store! : https://nitty-gritty-of-ditties.myspreadshop.com/
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/nittygrittyofditties/support
Since Montero is in the running for album of the year, I wanted to make sure my episode about the album would give it the credit it deserves. So, I brought it reinforcements. Rachel, Jordan, and I go track-by-track through Lil Nas X's debut album, give each song a superlative, and share our unfiltered thoughts!
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/nittygrittyofditties/support
My friend Jessica is TA'ing a class at Duke University, where they were asked what their favorite songs to work to are! She graciously gave me the list, and I analyze the musical elements behind their favorite study songs. Then, she comes on the podcast and we discuss the songs together! Songs mentioned in this episode: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0GQ8nL4OGab5kXmu9aAKq1?si=03abc167b3c24edc
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/nittygrittyofditties/support
Decided to lean into my alt-rock fangirl past in this week's episode. I attended the Hella Mega Tour featuring Weezer, Fall Out Boy, and Green Day, and had a lot of thoughts. I start by discussing initial observations, and then I get into how the set lists either helped or hurt the feelings of nostalgia the crowd experienced. Which of these three bands make you feel the most nostalgic?
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/nittygrittyofditties/support
As someone who works closely with music and nostalgia for my day job, I am always thinking about what music makes me feel nostalgic. Lately, I have been thinking about all of the 2006 emo classics that are turning 15 this year! In this episode, I go through 11 emo songs that are turning 15, and rate how emo they really are as well as how nostalgic they make me. Listen to find out the highest-rated emo song from that year and see if you agree!
Songs mentioned in the episode: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1K5k2lR6sxYqKs3rfIqZAM?si=42ecdcc203c74ed0
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/nittygrittyofditties/support
My whole life, I have had terrible veins. As someone with an autoimmune disease, I have to get my blood drawn twice a year. To get through this unpleasant experience, I listen to music. In this episode, I dissect my "medical procedure" song, "Shrike" by Hozier, and talk about the musical elements to look for when picking a song to help you get through the events that you can't stand!
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/nittygrittyofditties/support
I've always wanted to like Billie Eilish's music, and I think she's incredibly talented, but I think today I found out what rubs me the wrong way. In her latest album, "Happier than Ever", she sings about some very heavy subjects, but the music does not always match the mood of the words. In this episode, I analyze how each track's lyrics relate to the music behind them, and whether the pairing is great or not so much.
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/nittygrittyofditties/support
I, like most young millennials, have been highly anticipating new Lorde music. So, I was pretty disappointed when "Solar Power" didn't live up to the hype. I know it's getting a lot of great reviews, but I'm just not feeling it. In this episode, I justify my dislike with an analysis of the music and lyrics, as well as a look back at what made Lorde's previous music great!
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/nittygrittyofditties/support
As a music therapist, I do a lot of singing and guitar-playing in music therapy sessions. However, I almost always use one recorded pop song at some point during sessions so that the schoolchildren that I work with and I can dance! In this episode, I go over my top 9 dance songs that I used this past year, and I discuss the musical elements in each one that make them so fun and engaging!
Spotify link to songs mentioned: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/6L1YExeKP9Zme9RU3gbN8E?si=4b5dc87eae8a4bf9
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/nittygrittyofditties/support
In order to predict this year's song of the summer, I had to look back at years' past. First, I look into the number one song of each summer for the past 10 years and analyze the musical and lyrical trends. Then, I look at seven of the most popular songs of this summer to see how they stack up! What song will remind us of this summer for years to come? Spotify playlist of songs mentioned: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/15SpTXYcBFFnVJ20It2vAw?si=df6ecdf687b34c52
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/nittygrittyofditties/support
When I'm on summer break, I always find myself missing my music therapy clinical work, even if the break is nice! So, I talked to some friends of mine about their favorite and least favorite parts of working in the music therapy profession, and I got some great answers! I go over the pros, the cons, and the misconceptions of this work that is still unfamiliar to a lot of people. Some answers might surprise you!
If you have any music therapy questions, reach out to me at Instagram here! https://www.instagram.com/nitty_gritty_of_ditties/
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/nittygrittyofditties/support
I went to a movie theater for the first time in almost two years, and it was because I needed to see "In the Heights." I love musicals, but they also always make me cry. So, I dove into some famous musical tearjerkers, as well as some songs from "In the Heights" to see what similarities they all had - musical and otherwise. Hear how your favorite sad ballad stacks up on my "sadness scale"!
Songs mentioned in the episode: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5DUl4jI0tTq8zhF1mtpKdi?si=5ad9b2ce2e9b45b1
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/nittygrittyofditties/support
I am so excited for music festivals to be back in the United States this summer that I made an entire episode about them! First, I discuss the idea of emotional contagion and the physiological benefits of live music. Then, I go over the festival rules I follow. And finally, my husband joins me on the podcast to discuss our favorite festival memories and dream lineups!
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/nittygrittyofditties/support
Back by popular demand, I'll be looking into all of the limo exit music from the premiere of Katie's Bachelorette season! I break all of the music down for all of you, and give my predictions based off of it. We'll see if I'm right by the end of the season, and I probably won't be, but it's always fun to try!
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/nittygrittyofditties/support
I knew I would like Olivia Rodrigo's debut album based off the singles, but I was impressed more than I thought I could be by a 18-year-old's debut album. In this episode, I dissect the music of each song and how the music might affect how the songs make us feel. Then, my friend Lori joins me to discuss how this album compares to early Taylor Swift, and where Rodrigo might go from here!
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/nittygrittyofditties/support
My friend Jordan joined me on the podcast again to talk about astrology! We each make the case for two songs to represent each zodiac sign and talk about our our sign is the best! It's a long episode but a fun one!
Spotify Playlist of songs mentioned: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/05lAkhOUMMTVCnejFV5x8K?si=6c8862eccf20446e
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/nittygrittyofditties/support
I've been feeling sentimental lately and thinking about weddings a lot. So, I figured it was time to talk about first dance songs! I asked my friends and family what their songs were, and created four categories of wedding songs based on their responses. See if you're wedding song made my list, and what category it falls into! Then I talk about my first dance song and why we chose it!
Spotify link to songs mentioned: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5livFyQTZRVYm4gZqeNdoi?si=a00905cdd7164584
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/nittygrittyofditties/support
When this episode is released, it'll be exactly one year from when my first episode went public! Time flies when you're inside working and podcasting. In this episode, I go over my favorite things that I've learned and insights that I've had while doing this show. I've learned a lot more than just music theory details of pop songs. But don't worry, I'm not going anywhere!
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/nittygrittyofditties/support
I came across an article the other day titled, "This is the Happiest Song on Earth, According to Science", and I was immediately interested. A neuroscientist claims that he found the happiest song, and analyzed the music to figure out why. In this episode, I reveal his "top 10 happiest songs", and argue that his reasoning is incorrect. I give my own theory and advise how to find a happiness song of your own!
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/nittygrittyofditties/support
A few months ago, a viral tweet went around asking for the "best opening lyric of all time," and in this episode, I explore why people love the opening lyrics that they do. I give my theory for why great opening lyrics can fall into two categories. Then, my friend Jessica, and English PhD candidate, joins me to discuss song lyrics, poetry, and play an opening lyric game!
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/nittygrittyofditties/support
The enneagram became an obsession of mine during the early days of the pandemic, and I'm lucky that my friend Jordan has the same interest! The enneagram is a set of 9 personality types, each with distinct characteristics, drives, and fears. We discuss current pop songs as enneagram types, and songs that truly embody each type.
Spotify playlist of each song we discuss: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5xELfzZovoy7xWfRQLzwCn?si=lIy2Owy_S3eUyf4GzV0OVw
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/nittygrittyofditties/support
I have been a Demi Lovato fan since her "Camp Rock" days, and continue to be more in awe of her and inspired by her as her struggles have unfolded before our eyes. In her latest album, she really channels everything she's been through over the last two yeas into digestible pop songs. Instead of analyzing the music, in this episode, I analyze the lyrics of each song through my Music Therapist lens!
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/nittygrittyofditties/support
I wasn't totally sold on "Old Town Road", but after hearing "MONTERO (Call Me By Your Name)", I think Lil Nas X is one of the best and most important people to come into mainstream music in a while. So, this makes the controversies surrounding this groundbreaking song even more unfortunate. I start this episode by discussing some of those controversies, and then later I dive into the most compelling musical components of this song. There is a lot to unpack!
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/nittygrittyofditties/support
For the past five years, I've been listening to the song "There Will Be Time" by Baaba Maal and Mumford and Sons every time I take off in a plane. Why, you ask? In this episode, I dive into the musical elements of this song that make it both calming and exhilarating. Then, I talk about some criteria anyone can use to find a song to listen to during any "anxious events" that may come up in life!
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/nittygrittyofditties/support
I've become a sap for award shows during this pandemic, and the Grammys have always been my favorite. Because of the lack of live music these days, I was riveted by all of the live performances! So, I made an episode about them. I ranked all 20 performances from worst to best. See if your favorite is the same as mine!
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/nittygrittyofditties/support
For a belated International Women's Day episode, I asked my listeners what female artists they'd like to hear me talk about, and y'all gave me some great answers! In this episode, I go through empowering songs from five female powerhouses - Celine Dion, Aretha Franklin, Shania Twain, Lizzo, and Billie Eilish - and talk about the positive takeaways from each song!
Playlist of the songs I talk about can be found here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/4jInV4aoeSsI5q200BRAUe?si=-_wQ1P_gR7u7HtR6MM5GGQ
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/nittygrittyofditties/support
In this episode, I talk about the history of the banjo. The banjo came here from Africa, but how did it turn into the whitest instrument in America? I explore where it originally came from, how it got appropriated by white Americans, and how to support Black country artists today. All proceeds from this episode will be donated to My Block, My Hood, My City (an amazing organization in Chicago)!
My Block, My Hood, My City's website: https://www.formyblock.org/
Daniel Jatta playing the akonting (video mentioned in episode): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lzt0v9roU6g
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
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I think we can all agree that when we heard the song "Friday" for the first time, we knew it wasn't great. But, the media quickly turned to harping on Rebecca Black for this, which was unfair, and she was a 13-year-old child at the time! First, I dissect the musical elements in the song that don't work in its favor. Then, my sister joins me and we talk about her experience of the song, since she is the same age as Rebecca, and we discuss the new remix that was released to mark the 10-year anniversary!
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
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We could've all done better in 2007 when it came to Britney Spears. The new documentary, "Framing Britney Spears", makes that clear, while also leaving a lot of questions open about how conservatorships really works. In the first half of this episode, where I first analyze Britney's 2007 song "Piece of Me" as it relates to what was to come in her life. In the second half, I got some answers for a lawyer about how conservatorships work and why Britney even qualified.
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/nittygrittyofditties/support
The Super Bowl is this Sunday! I've always loved both the game itself, and the halftime performances. So, I decided to revisit the halftime shows of years past! I go into a little of the history of the halftime show, I talk about what factors make an amazing performance, and then I rank my top 5 performances of all time! Listen to hear if we have the same favorite!
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
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In honor of my birthday coming up, I decided to do another episode about songs I listen to on my own time! I dive into my "Songs I Need" playlist that I've been working on since 2011 and possibly before, and what criteria I use to put a song on that playlist. Maybe hearing why I love the songs that I do can give you insight into why you love the music that you do!
Spotify playlist of songs mentioned: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7sGMaidMGAbC6MhyJEfOPZ?si=_qsTkAQMS6en7CwkRKM5MA
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/nittygrittyofditties/support
I decided to take a break from dissecting mainstream music for a week to talk about my day job - my life as a music therapist! January is "Music Therapy Social Media Advocacy Month", so I begin the episode by talking about some of my approaches to music therapy advocacy. Then, I talk about what my work as a school-based music therapist looks like! It's not all fun and games, but there is a lot of fun and games!
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/nittygrittyofditties/support
Olivia Rodrigo's song, "driver's license" has been out for a week, and is already smashing song streaming records. I only wanted to make an episode about the song if I felt like I had a unique perspective on it, and I wasn't sure that I would, but then I heard the bridge. I found the bridge in this song so fascinating that I had to dedicate an episode to it! Hear about why this bridge sounds so childlike and so mature at the same time!
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/nittygrittyofditties/support
Because I had so much fun making an episode about the Bachelorette premiere, I decided to dive into the music of the Bachelor premiere episode that first aired on January 4th, 2021. This time, I focused exclusively on limo exit music to see if the music can predict the contestants' futures. I also look to see if there are any racial biases found in the music, because there seemed to be some last season... This episode is spoiler free (except for the ending of the premiere)!
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/nittygrittyofditties/support
Instead of doing my own "music of 2020 year in review", I decided to ask my friends what their favorite songs were that came out this year and why. They gave me some interesting picks all across the musical landscape, so I made it my mission to find a common thread! I look at the genres, musical elements, and lyrics to see if these very different songs have any similarities. Did your favorites from 2020 make my friends' list?
Spotify playlist for the songs mentioned in the episode: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0bVRS21TGNk17ws03PC86L?si=BYncy0C4R8epsw46sbV_6Q
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
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In my final episode about holiday music , I look at 10 brand new, original, holiday songs that came out this year. I then decide if each song will end up in my permanent Christmas rotation, or if this is the only year I'll ever hear these songs. I talk about songs by Dolly Parton, Lil Nas X, the Jonas Brothers, and more, but do they make the cut?
Spotify playlist of songs I talk about can be found here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/3UuZDM9NoRGCiYbi1FOJ9x?si=iMTYtom5TwCKDFygvqCS7g
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I thought I couldn't handle any more surprises in 2020, but this one was a good one! Taylor released her sister album to folklore, evermore, this past Friday, so I decided to do a bonus episode to break down the album! I had so much fun going through folklore track by track and then talking to my friend Lori, a life-long Taylor Swift fan, that I did it all again with this new album! First, I go through each song, and then Lori joins me to give her perspective on what made this album so great! I hope you enjoy my longest episode yet for this very important 2020 surprise!
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I think during this year, we all need a little more festive cheer! For this episode, I dug deep into my Holiday Music playlist and found the songs that I think are the most underrated. I tried to narrow it down to my top 5, but I couldn't, so here are my top 7 most underrated holiday songs! I also give two honorable mentions to Christmas songs that I think should be on everyone's lists.
Spotify playlist of all the songs mentioned: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/6nQtBDNQYcceMx1V83UDl6?si=o8wUotw_QdGGo3zkukkcqA
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On this episode, I go into my personal music vault and break down all of the Hanukkah songs I listen to every year to get in the spirit! I put all of my Hanukkah songs into four categories, and then break down my two favorite songs that I could listen to all year round! I hope this brings some festivity to a dreary year.
All of the songs I mention can be found on this Spotify playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7IxWTZ2xlN1oovhRKYOMUO?si=CQLJ1zHXRmKG5o3G5Etztg
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"Put your Records On" by Corinne Bailey Rae is one of my favorite songs of the 2000's. Hearing it always puts a smile on my face. When I heard that a cover of the song was taking over TikTok by a musician named Ritt Momney, I had to check it out. And... feeling disappointed is an understatement. Hear my take on everything that Ritt Momney did wrong when covering this near-perfect song.
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After hearing the news of Alex Trebek's passing this past week, I started reminiscing about all things Jeopardy! Aside from the host, the most iconic part of Jeopardy! is the 30-second song that is played during the final Jeopardy question, "Think!" by Merv Griffin. The song is so catchy yet calming, invigorating yet soothing, and still gives listeners a tangible way to measure time passing. I decided to take a deep dive from both a music theory and music therapy perspective into why this song stands the test of time and why it makes us feel the way it does.
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What songs really encapsulate the spirit of Halloween? I feel like there aren't many, but as a music therapist, it's part of my job to find them. I took the top 10 songs that I think sound the most "Halloween" to me, and ranked them based on the measurement tool I created - the "Spooky Scale". Listen to see where your favorite Halloween song ranked!
Spotify playlist of all the songs I discuss: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/6tPGRNH5V1D5KvUA99q8ZY?si=iDzBmPNaTiKdvq7EEZBfxw
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When I heard Miley Cyrus' recent covers of "Zombie" and "Heart of Glass", I was blown away. I honestly haven't thought much about her as a musician since around 2013, but while we were all not paying attention, she has turned into a rock star! I talk about her evolution from trying to break out of the Disney bubble to where she is now, and then my friend Rachel comes on to talk about how she feels about Miley's covers and new sound. She and I also discuss the place that rock music is at today in the current music landscape, and where we hope it goes!
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Before this past year, I was a casual fan of the Bachelor franchise. However, during this very serious year, I have been using the show, the news about the show, and podcasts about the show as my main form of escapism and entertainment. So, I was so excited about The Bachelorette finally premiering, that I'm dedicating an episode to its music! Hear about my take on why they use certain elements of music during certain parts, and why they use certain music with certain people! SPOILERS after the break, but the first 17 or so minutes are spoiler-free!
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There are few artists that have inspired me as much as Demi Lovato. In this episode, I explore her career and her personal life, as well as why I've always been a huge fan! Then, I take a deep dive into her 2020 discography and analyze the song "Still Have Me," which may be the best song she's released in a long time. I hope you enjoy my analysis!
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I'm sure I'm not the only one that has had politics on the brain 24/7 lately. So, given the political times that we're in, I decided to do a deep dive into a surprisingly political album that was released last year - "Closer than Together" by The Avett Brothers. In this episode, I explore why this Americana Rock band decided to go political, and the main takeaways from each song. Then, I talk about what I think is the most important song on the record, "We Americans." Hope you enjoy!
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The world, the United States, and individual communities are grieving in so many ways for so many different reasons right now. So, I decided to write an episode about how music might help with the grief process! I talk about a few client examples and do a deep dive into my own "transition" song. Hope this episode might help someone going through a loss of their own.
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I am and have always been a huge Pixar fan! I am also a music therapist. So, when Coco came out and had a scene that reminded me of my own line of work, I was so happy. On this episode, I talk about how music and memory are depicted in Coco, and how it looks compared to real life music therapy sessions I've had. I also talk about music and the brain in an evolutionary sense, and wonder what music therapy memory groups will look like in the future.
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I decided to take a research break and reach out to my friends and fans to see if they had any questions for me! It's a mailbag episode where I answer questions you all had about music therapy, my podcast process, or my life in general! I hope you enjoy!
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"Smile" by Katy Perry came out last week, and it's the album that I didn't know I needed. I start this episode by giving a little context into who Katy Perry is and how we got to who she is now. Then, I talk about the "hits" and "misses" from the album "Smile", and do a deep dive into my favorite track, "Daisies"!
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This episode I'm talking about the Schoolhouse Rock songs from the 70's! Why do we remember these songs all of these years later? What makes these songs effective teaching tools? I try to answer these questions, and then my sister Sarah, who is a math teacher and is getting a graduate degree in education from Harvard right now, gives us more insight on how these songs can be used as teaching tools! We also end by discussing which songs no longer hold up from the franchise.
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It's time to play the music, it's time to light the lights, it's time to... talk about music from all of the muppet movies! I am a lifelong muppet fan, and now that they have a new show, I thought it was time to take a deep dive into the music of the muppets. I talk about what characteristics I think make up the "muppet sound," and dissect their only oscar-winning song! Don't be like Statler or Waldorf and enjoy the listen!
Find the playlist to go along with this episode here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7DBJVQCjWzw6UO2cXYNsNr?si=NDAq2yl-RSqjfrnuHINPQA
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I had so much fun a few weeks ago looking at all of my friends playlists of what songs they are listening to during these lonely summer months, that I decided to dissect my own summertime of sadness playlist! Go behind the curtain and hear about what I listen to on my own time!
You can find the accompanying playlist on Spotify here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5pRI6C9NwwtKEAVlNoTfqz?si=Ee2XuC-JR2ij9n7CsS6i3w
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
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One of the few expectations I had for quarantine was that we might, as a society, become more united in music and the arts because those are what give us hope. I haven't seen that happen, and I wanted to understand why. In this exploratory episode, I talk about moments of intense music fandom - lisztomania, beatlemania, and Bieber fever, and wonder why we aren't seeing a moment like that now. I also poke fun at that "Imagine" video and the Together at Home concert, which both tried and failed to bring us together. Enjoy!
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I don't know about you, but I've been listening to folklore for a week straight and don't think I'm going to stop anytime soon. What is it about this album that is comforting all of us during this strange time? I dive into the music and lyrics to find out in a track-by-track breakdown. Then, I talk to my good friend Lori, who is also a Taylor Swift expert and has been following her career since the beginning, to see where she thinks folklore fits into Swift's career.
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
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I hope I'm not the only one that's been feeling a little hopeless lately. But, that feeling inspired this latest episode! Music can be used as a stress reliever during times of uncertainty, but what music do we pick to relieve our stress, and why? I talk about resource-oriented music therapy, ecologic music therapy, and my friends and family told me what music they listen to in times of stress!
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I love music from the 1960's, but Grateful Dead was never my cup of tea, until I did my research for this episode! Am I a Dead Head now that I have explored their live music and how it makes us feel from a music therapy perspective? Listen to find out! I also interview my friend Justin, who is a huge fan, to help me understand the collective magic of a live Grateful Dead show.
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Things that I love: movies with music in them, Eurovision, Will Ferrell comedies, and Demi Lovato. The movie Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Fire Saga, combined all of those things while also giving us great "Eurovision style" music. In this episode, I talk about what the Eurovision Song Contest is, why I love it so much, and how the songs from the movie compare to real songs that have appeared in the competition!
Playlist of songs mentioned: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/6VFwm9cRSkNkguxgUaQH1x?si=3Ay9gteJRHeuoeBIyQd7Hg
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Brittany Howard entered the music scene as the lead singer/guitarist for Alabama Shakes, but her solo album is a glimpse into her pre-musician life. The themes she talks about in her album "Jaime" - race, religion, self-love, isolation, resilience - make this album the perfect listen for the tumultuous times we're living in. In this episode, I talk about her life, and analyze the song "History Repeats", the opening track on that album.
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You might think you don't know who Tayla Parx is, but I guarantee that you've heard one of the songs she's written! In this episode, though, I talk about her own solo album, "We Need to Talk", and how she uses the musical concept of the interlude in that album. My friend Keaton also hop on the podcast to talk about how the interlude, or intermezzo, was used in opera!
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Big Freedia is the biggest name in bounce music right now, and is breaking into the mainstream with her collaborations with artists like Lizzo and Kesha. In this episode, I talk about what bounce music is, who Big Freedia is, and I talk about the musical elements in the songs she and Kesha collaborated on - "Chasing Rainbows" and "Raising Hell". Then, I have a friend of mine join in to talk about Big Freedia, LGBTQ artists of color, and what these artists mean to her and to those communities.
Spotify Playlist for all of the songs mentioned: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5evBJ6BpfHekWcIfKhS9eC?si=r8b0uVqHRt6iyc6rRf3nKg
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"Can I love the world and hate how it makes me feel?" is a quote from Son Little's song, "O Mother", that was written in response to hearing about the deaths of Michael Brown and Eric Garner. On this episode, I look at the musical similarities and differences between 16 different songs written by Black artists that speak about oppression, these shootings, or are a call to action, from the past six years. Here is the list of songs I mention in this episode:
America – Abraham Alexander; Glory – Common and John Legend; LAND OF THE FREE – joey bada$$; Freedom – Beyonce, Kendrick Lamar; Alright – Kendrick Lamar; This is America – Childish Gambino; Black Man in a White World – Michael Kiwanuka; Rise Up – Andra Day; Don’t shoot – The Game, Rick Ross, 2 Chainz, Diddy, Faboolous, Wale, DJ Khaled, Swizz Beats, Yo Gotti, Curren$y, Problem, King Pharoah, TGT; I Might Need Security – Chance the Rapper; What am I – Jordan Mackampa; On my own – Lecrae, Leon Bridges; Revival – Gregory Porter; O Mother – Son Little; 16 Shots – Vic Mensa; This Land – Gary Clark Jr; Nina Cried Power - Hozier, Mavis Staples, Sheep - Mt. Joy
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How much do I have to say about the "woo" in "Truth Hurts"? A lot, actually. I talk a little about the music theory of the song, about the concept of the "isoprinciple" in music therapy, and another famous "woo" that I think speaks volumes. Shout-out to the Selena Gomez fans, because I talk a little about "Look at Her Now" at the very end. How are these concepts and songs all tied together? Listen and find out!
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A few weeks ago, a viral video went around that showed a baby crying during Frozen 2's song, "Into the Unknown". Then, more and more moms started sharing that their babies were crying during the exact same line of melody. I decided to look into the melody's musical elements, and some developmental psychology research, to see why that melody made babies so sad!
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The song "Shallow" worked well in the movie, A Star is Born, but it's always sounded out of place to me on the radio. I dug into the song's structure and musical elements to find out why.
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In this episode, I look at the musical elements behind what I believe to be the first two big hits from Post Malone: "Better Now" and Psycho". I really enjoyed the song "Psycho" especially when it first came out and couldn't understand why. This curiosity led me to create this podcast! My goal in this episode is two answer two questions: 1. Why did these songs become so popular? and 2. Does the music behind these songs pump us up or calm us down? I hope you enjoy my first episode!
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This is a short episode to explain why I decided to start this podcast, what it's all about, and a little bit about me! Get to know me and my reasons for deciding to record a pop music theory podcast!
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
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