The Popdust Podcast with Demi Ramos

Send us Fan MailHi guys :) I’m excited to share with you another episode with the legendary Suzanne Vega! Get to know the woman behind the music and so much more. This one is definitely one of my favorites, enjoy <3 xo Demi

Send us Fan MailTune in for a mini episode with Return to Dust — a new favorite coming out of LA. You’ll get the inside scoop on their upcoming tour with Yungblud and maybe even find out who the band’s best chef is :) xo, Demi

Send us Fan MailHi guys <3 In this episode, we sit down with Matt from From Ashes to New for a deep dive into both Matt and the band’s journey. Matt opens up about the stories behind their latest music, the challenges they’ve faced along the way, and how they continue to push boundaries while staying true to their roots. From insights into their creative process to life on the road and what’s next for the band, you’ll get to know the man behind some of your favorite songs, and so much more :) xo, Demi

Send us Fan MailWelcome to a brand-new season of the show, kicking off with Cailin Russo!! In this episode, Cailin reflects on personal and artistic growth, the importance of taking creative risks, and the perseverance required to evolve in the industry. Known for blending music, fashion, and storytelling, she shares insight into the experiences that have shaped her journey and also a bit of tea for the girlies ;) Tune in for one of my favorite interviews yet 🎙️✨xo Demi

Send us Fan MailAfter a seven-year studio hiatus, CKY is recording new music. The band released “Can’t Stop Running” on Oct. 10, and drummer Jess Margera promises more singles soon.Although fans are just now hearing them, the new songs started in the wake of Covid. Founding guitarist, producer, and now vocalist Chad I Ginsburg has written a ton of new material that the band has taken into the studio.Outside of music, Margera is known for his role in the CKY videos and helping launch what would become Jackass. Unlike his younger brother Bam, Jess’s skating wasn’t on the level to compete professionally. So, drums became his career.On the day before Thanksgiving, Jordan Edwards talked to Jess Margera about the band’s resurgance, the CKY Crew’s early days, and the impact his family has made on pop culture.

Send us Fan MailThe LA-based band released their latest album WHERE HAVE ALL THE BUTTERFLIES GONE? in September followed by a European headline tour and U.S. dates with blink-182 and LetLive. Riding the wave of pop-punk nostalgia, BSD is one of the leading new acts to grab the torch from the Y2K artists who inspired them.In this episode, Demi Ramos and Jordan Edwards interview Colie Hutzler, Beepus, and Colton Flurry about the band’s origins, new album, DIY roots and being handpicked by blink-182 to open their arena shows.

Send us Fan MailIn high school, Braison Cyrus imagined a career behind the camera, maybe in photography or filmmaking. As he entered adulthood, the family business came calling. He started with a few singles in 2020, followed by his debut album 'Javelina' in 2021.His most recent single “Know This” is a collaboration with Miley released on September 5. It precedes his upcoming second album, due out in the spring.Watch Braison Cyrus talk to Jordan Edwards and Demi Ramos about his transition into music, life in Nashville, and making music with his sisters.

Send us Fan MailMudvayne was one of the most distinctive metal bands of the 2000s. Their music was brutal, their lyrics were emotional, and their visuals freaked out parents across America.After more than 15 years, the metal legends are recording new music. They recently released “Sticks and Stones,” which follows their comeback single “Hurt People Hurt People.” Frontman Chad Gray can’t wait to create more.The band is on tour celebrating the 25th anniversary of their breakout album LD50. Between shows, Jordan and Demi talked to Gray about Mudvayne's rise, the legacy of Ozzfest, and getting back in the studio.

Send us Fan MailAsk any major pop-punk artist about their influences, and they’re likely to mention Descendents. From blink-182 to Green Day, generations of bands have benefited from their pioneering melodic hardcore.Led by frontman Milo Auckerman, Descendents grew out of the Southern California punk scene that produced Germs, X, and The Go-Gos. Their debut album Milo Goes to College is a cornerstone of American punk, and subsequent releases laid the groundwork for bands like Jimmy Eat World, MxPx, and the Get Up Kids.In this interview, Jordan and Demi talk to Auckerman and drummer Bill Stevenson about their friendship, favorite memories, influence on the culture, and fascinating lives outside of the band.

Send us Fan MailFor more than 20 years, Chevelle has been one of the biggest bands in hard rock. Starting with their breakthrough album Wonder What’s Next, the Chicago trio has produced hits like “The Red,” “Send the Pain Below,” and “Face to the Floor.” The band’s 10th studio album, Bright as Blasphemy, arrived August 15. The lead single "Rabbit Hole (Cowards, Pt. 1)" has already become a fan favorite.In this episode of Jordan and Demi, frontman Pete Loeffler reflects on the band’s career, recording with Steve Albini, and what he’s learned about making music.

Send us Fan MailOver the past several years, Corbyn Besson has created a fanbase as a member of the boy band Why Don’t We. Now, he’s developing his own sound as a solo artist.His throwback 2000s style stands out against a crowded field of male pop singers. He’s closer to Justin Timberlake than Alex Warren or Benson Boone. Recent singles “Love Me Better” and “Tied Up” have led to his biggest collab yet with R&B star Jeremih. Released on August 1, “Summer,” is an energetic pop anthem made for a sunset a drive with the windows down.In this interview with Demi, Besson talks about this new phase of his career, his love for sports cars, and the experience of performing at Red Rocks with DJ duo Two Friends.

Send us Fan MailFitz and The Tantrums released their sixth studio album Man on The Moon last week. Anchored by the lead single “Ruin the Night,” the album is full of alt pop anthems with booming Motown-inspired drums.Over the years, hits like “Out of My League,” “I Just Wanna Shine” and “HandClap” have become part of pop culture. Even if you don’t follow the band, you’ve heard them in a TV show, movie, or commercial.What makes the run more impressive is the path Fitz (Michael Fitzpatrick) took to get here. A professional musician for decades, he was in his late 30s when the band started and north of 40 when they scored a record deal.In this interview with Jordan and Demi, Fitz talks about the band’s origin story, the making of Man on the Moon, and his undeniable stage chemistry with co-vocalist Noelle Scaggs.

Send us Fan MailFor the last decade, Frankie Cosmos has been one of New York’s most beloved bands. The music industry has shifted dramatically during that time, but Greta Kline hasn’t changed her approach to recording. She still creates intimate songs with a handful of friends and bandmates. This commitment shines on the band’s latest album Different Talking, a collection of 17 songs out on Sub Pop Records. That doesn’t mean every song is quiet. “Bitch Heart,” for example, gets louder than casual fans might expect.Despite her status as a leader in the DIY community, Kline has embraced the viral success of “Fool,” a track from 2016 that recently went Gold.In this episode of Jordan and Demi, Kline talks about recording the new album, the history of Frankie Cosmos, and the importance of fun inclusive performance spaces.

Send us Fan Mail2025 is a big year for 311 frontman Nick Hexum. The band is celebrating the 30th anniversary of their classic self-titled LP, and they’re still recording new songs. Their fourteenth studio album Full Bloom dropped last October.Outside of 311, Hexum has been recording acoustic-based music. He’s released unplugged covers of Billie Eilish’s “Ocean Eyes” and “St. Judy’s Comet” (a tribute to his three daughters) by Paul Simon. This summer, he’ll complete a moon-themed acoustic trilogy that started with Waxing Nostalgic and Full Memories.Much of his recent inspiration comes from the women in his life. His wife Nikki is a Bob Dylan fan, and his daughters serve as a gateway to newer artists like Faye Webster, Chappell Roan, and Sierra Ferrell.In this 200th episode of Jordan and Demi, Hexum looks back on career highlights like “Amber,” collaborating with Ben Kweller, and 311’s pop culture legacy.

Send us Fan MailSince his breakthrough single “Stand By Me,” Prince Royce has risen to become one of the biggest stars in Latin music. He has more than 17 million monthly listeners on Spotify with hits like “Corazón Sin Cara” and “La Carretera.” He’s also collaborated with icons like Bad Bunny, Daddy Yankee, Jennifer Lopez, Mark Anthony, and J. Balvin. On Prince Royce’s latest album, Eterno, the New York City native reinterprets classic pop songs with Spanglish lyrics. The lead single is his take on the Backstreet Boys’ “I Want It That Way.” Eterno also includes new versions of hits by Stevie Wonder, The Beatles, and Fleetwood Mac. In this episode, Jordan talks to the superstar about the making of Eterno, as well as his favorite shows and video games. Then Demi interviews rising Colombian artist VALÉ.

Send us Fan MailThe B-52’s are one of the most beloved bands in American pop music. From their early days in Athens, Ga., to their triumphant comeback with Cosmic Thing, they’ve experienced every high and low in the music industry. The new box set The Warner and Reprise Years celebrates the band’s career with nine limited edition LPs.At the core is the trio of vocalists: Fred Schneider, Kate Pierson, and Cindy Wilson. They’ve remained close friends through the decades, even when the future of the band was uncertain.In this episode of Jordan and Demi, Jordan Edwards talks to Pierson about the history of the band. “Rock Lobster,” “Love Shack,” and even their version of The Flinstones theme—here are the stories behind The B-52’s biggest hits and the bond formed between a few art school kids who loved to dance.

Send us Fan MailFor more than 30 years, Barenaked Ladies have been fixtures of pop culture.After becoming the biggest band in Canada, they conquered the American charts with their fourth album Stunt. The LP included the no. 1 hit “One Week,” which made them famous around the world. Other hit singles like “It’s All Been Done” and “Pinch Me” followed. And of course, there’s the theme song to The Big Bang Theory.These days, the band is as active as ever. They just dropped an acoustic EP with new versions of songs from their recent album In Flight. Starting June 3, the quartet will kick off a summer tour in Atlanta with support from Sugar Ray and Guster.In this episode of Jordan and Demi, Robertson talks about the band’s career, including the stories behind their biggest hits, as well as his passion for flying.

Send us Fan MailAfter more than a decade, Counting Crows are back with a new album. Butter Miracle, The Complete Sweets! is their first LP since 2014’s Somewhere Under Wonderland. Across nine tracks, Adam Duritz and the band explore new territory with louder guitars and even a few horns. One thing that hasn’t changed is Duritz’s commitment to intimate storytelling and memorable characters.Known for iconic hits like “Mr. Jones,” “A Long December,” and “Round Here,” Counting Crows are a fixture of pop culture. Everyone knows them now, but frontman Adam Duritz remembers the band initial struggle to break through on radio and TV.Jordan and Demi talk to Duritz about returning to the studio, the story behind “Mr. Jones,” and how he came to write the theme to Shrek 2.

Send us Fan MailJune 27, 2025 will be a date Jenna Davis will remember forever. On that day, the singer and actress will release her debut album as M3GAN 2.0 opens in theaters.At 20 years old, Davis has already become part of pop culture. She’s been a Disney Kid on Raven’s Home, a meme, the voice of a killer doll, and now, a country artist. Despite the early success, she remains a down-to-earth Texas girl who appreciates being in the moment. It may feel like going country has become trendy, but Davis wants people to know that she’s always been country. A descendant of singing cowboy Gene Autry, she grew up listening to Dolly Parton and Shania Twain. Her recent single, “On a Budget,” started as a Kelsea Ballerini demo. In this episode of Jordan and Demi, Davis talks about developing the M3GAN character, her music career, and how she overcame being the “Penny Nickel Dime” Girl.

Send us Fan MailOK Go’s innovative music videos and catchy power pop have made them into one of America’s most beloved bands. From the backyard dancing of “A Million Ways,” to the legendary treadmill choreography of “Here It Goes Again,” they’ve spent the last two decades as fixtures of pop culture.The band recently dropped their fifth studio album, And the Adjecent Possible, as well as a trippy music video for the single “Love.” On April 24, they’ll start a U.S. Tour. Many dates are already sold out. Considering it’s been over a decade since their last new album, the excitement makes sense. To be fair, Kulash has been raising twins with wife Kristin Gore (yes, that's Al Gore’s daughter). The pair also co-directed The Beanie Bubble for Apple TV+.In this episode of Jordan and Demi, frontman Damian Kulash discusses the new album, fatherhood, and the secrets behind some of their most memorable videos.

Send us Fan MailMaybe you know Kyle Gordon from his ’90s Eurodance character DJ Crazy Times, or from his more recent videos lampooning Nu Metal and UK Hip-Hop. If you’re on social media, you’ve seen his face.The comedian and musician developed his characters over several years in New York. Raised in the suburbs north of the City, he absorbed 2000s pop culture for what it was: hopeful, ridiculous, and a bit naive.Jordan talks to Gordon about his new album, developing his characters, and building his brand online.

Send us Fan MailSince his 1984 debut album Valotte, Julian Lennon has maintained his own vision. Sure, he’s the son of John Lennon, but he’s a multidisciplinary artist who’s never pandered to Beatles fans.Lennon recently released his first book of photography, Life’s Fragile Moments, and he’s been making new music. His latest single is a collaboration with longtime friend Gregory Darling. “A New Dream,” reworks a project that’s sat unreleased since 2020. In a conversation with Jordan Edwards and Demi Ramos, Lennon and Darling discuss their friendship, Lennon growing up without his father, and how photography became a passion.

Send us Fan MailAfter 20 years as a band, The Lumineers have become a fixture of pop culture. Their 2012 breakout hit "Ho Hey" is a millennial anthem that's been imitated and used in countless shows and commercials.Wesley Schultz and Jeremiah Fraites recently returned with their fifth studio album 'Automatic.' Across 11 songs, the band gives fans familiar sounds while exploring new musical territory.Jordan and Demi talk to Fraites about the new album, the story behind "Ho Hey," and creating his signature look.

Send us Fan MailMore than 20 years into their career, Shinedown show no sign of fading into a nostalgia act.Last month, the band released a pair of singles "Three Six Five" and "Dance, Kid, Dance." They'll hit the road this April for an arena tour with Bush, Beartooth, and Morgan Wade.Jordan and Demi welcome leader singer Brent Smith back to the show for a conversation on new music, the state of the Grammys, and Shinedown's enduring popularity.

Send us Fan MailSorry Millenials, but Ryan Cabrera’s “On The Way Down” is two decades old. To celebrate the iconic Y2K hit, Cabrera teamed up with other 2000s stars for a reimagined version.NSYNC’s Joey Fatone, A.J. McLean from the Backstreet Boys, Taylor Hanson, and Drake Bell are joined by WALK THE MOON and Nash Overstreet on the track.Watch Jordan Edwards and Demi Ramos talk to Cabrera about his signature hit, being a new dad, and his experience as a TRL heartthrob.

Send us Fan MailWhen K.Flay lost the hearing in her right ear in 2022, she could have kept the news private. Instead, she built an entire album around the experience.Released in the spring of 2023, MONO addressed her new reality head on. The opening track “Are You Serious?” details her frustration with the situation.In November, K.Flay dropped I’m Making Friends with the Silence, an EP with softer reworked songs from MONO. She’s now preparing for a full North American tour.

Send us Fan MailOur first show of 2025 features one of last year's breakout stars. Gigi Perez landed a top 40 hit with "Sailor Song," a song that first gained popularity on TikTok. The South Florida singer-songwriter has big plans for this year, including her first headline tour.Jordan and Demi talk to Perez about her recent success, the inspiration behind "Sailor Song," and creating music in her bedroom.

Send us Fan MailKelsy Karter is a throwback to when rock 'n' roll was fun. Stylistically, her music is brash and anthemic, somewhere between '70s arena rock and '80s pop metal.Aesthetically, Karter and her band the Heroines fit the part. Long messy hair, tight pants, and black leather help create an experience that feels lifted from the Sunset Strip's heyday.As the band tours the world and releases music like the recent power ballad "Hotel Flamingo," they keep the momentum going for rock's resurgence. Their new album, Love Made Me Do It, is out Jan. 31.For the final episode of 2025, Jordan Edwards and Demi Ramos talk to Karter about new music, her viral Harry Styles face tattoo, and why she loves life on the road.

Send us Fan MailDuring the holidays, it’s easy to forget the excitement and anticipation you experienced as a child. With “Kid at Christmas,” Calum Scott captures the magic of that feeling.A duet with Christina Perri, the single is a reminder to slow down and feel the joy of the season. Build around piano and strings, it evokes the classic Christmas pop era of the 1950s and ’60s.Jordan Edwards talks to Scott about the story behind the song and some favorite Christmas memories. After the interview, stick around for Demi Ramos’ favorite albums of 2024.

Send us Fan MailIt's Bootsy, baby! Jordan and Demi talk to legendary bassist Bootsy Collins about working with James Brown, George Clinton, Kali Uchis and more!

Send us Fan MailWhat's that sound? It's the angelic voice of Clay Aiken. The 'American Idol' favorite has returned with a new Christmas album. 'Christmas Bells Are Ringing' is a collection of holiday standards inspired by the golden era that gave us classics by Perry Como, Brenda Lee, Andy Williams, and Darlene Love.Jordan and Demi talk to Aiken about recording the album, his favorite holiday foods (hot takes!), and his rise to fame on 'Idol."

Send us Fan MailThis week, Demi talks to two of her favorite indie artists, re6ce and Max Fry. re6ce is a Liverpool-based musician. From a small home studio, re6ce creates trippy pop that meshes chillwave with Stone Roses-style psychedelia. Their latest single "SCREAMING ALONE" follows the EP grey europe from earlier this year.Max Fry is a songwriter and producer who calls his mix of dark post punk and synth pop "Floridacore." His rise in popularity was ignited by the viral single "zombie," released in 2023. Like re6ce, Fry is adept at making music that sounds futuristic and vintage at the same time.

Send us Fan MailEmi Grace can shred! The guitarist, producer, and songwriter has built a huge social media following thanks to her "Trashy Tone Thursday" videos. Inspired by rock legends from the '70s and '80s, she mixes complex guitar work with modern beats. She's always pushing the boundaries of what a guitar can sound like. Jordan Edwards and Demi Ramos talk to Emi Grace about developing her technique, her favorite guitarists, and collaborating with roommate Zoe Ko. Plus a performance!

Send us Fan MailThe megahit "Sail," made Aaron Bruno famous, but he spent more than a decade performing in different bands before creating AWOLNATION. Since then, his music has become the soundtrack for countless commercials, TV Shows, and sporting events. Bruno continues to try different sounds and instruments as AWOLNATION evolves.In this episode, Bruno talks to Jordan and Demi about the making of his new album, The Phantom Five, the creation of "Sail," and his love for surfing and the Las Vegas Raiders.

Send us Fan MailWe're back with two of our good friends from the LA music scene! Chloe Chaidez is known to for fronting the band Kitten. Recently she's focused on PSY Sound, a record label, production studio, and artist development company. One of Chaidez's frequent collaborators is Kian Stevens-Winston AKA Sugar Pit. The viral musician/producer, known for his high energy and bizarre videos, recently signed to Atlantic Records. Demi talks to both about working together, their legendary DIY shows, and the motivation behind their unique fashion choices.

Send us Fan MailIf you've been on social media in the last few months, you've probably come across "Dirt Man." The funny little song has changed Carter Vail's life. There's merch, sold out live shows, and even an official Bob's Burgers tribute.Vail talks to Jordan and Demi about the making of "Dirt Man," his favorite music gear, and his love for mixed martial arts.

Send us Fan MailDun-dun! Jordan and Demi talk to legendary TV composer Mike Post. His iconic themes include Law & Order, NYPD Blue, The A-Team, and Hill Street Blues.Post breaks down a few of his most well-known songs, as well as the recording of his new album Message from the Mountains & Echoes of the Delta.

Send us Fan MailWashed Out (Ernest Greene) recently released his fifth studio album Notes From A Quiet Place. It's a lush collection of sunny pop songs perfect for a summer drive. Tracks like "Running Away" drip with nostalgia and the optimism of young love.Riding the wave of Hype Machine and the music blog boom of the late 2000s, Greene rose to become of one electronic music's most respected musicians. Tracks like "Feel It All Around" and "Amor Fati" have become modern classics and party playlist staples.Greene talks to Jordan Edwards and Demi Ramos about making the new album, life in rural Georgia, and how Portlandia changed his life.

Send us Fan MailOver the last few years, Danae Hays has become one of TikTok's biggest comedy stars. With characters that poke fun at her Southern roots, the Alabama native can hardly go anywhere without being recognized.Recently, Hays has been making a push to expand her audience beyond social media. She's embarking on a 28-city standup tour starting July 19, and she's beginning to land parts in movies.Hays has also been recording music. Embracing the early '90s country sound her parents loved, she's released the singles "All It Takes" and "Rode Hard." Working with real Nashville songwriters, she creating a style that straddles the line between legit country music and satire.Listen to her talk to Jordan Edwards about the origins of her career, teaming up with her wife Mandie for videos, and the humane way to prank call a stranger.

Send us Fan MailIt feels like Lindsey Stirling is living her dream. From an audience favorite on America's Got Talent to filling large Las Vegas theaters, she's at the top of her game. She's admired by adults and small children, and her social media following totals more than 20 million.Her latest album, Duality is cinematic and a little dark, the kind of album that needs to be listened to at full volume. It includes "Inner Gold," a collaboration with Royal & Serpent and "Evil Twin," an instrumental with pounding drums and a sweeping refrain.Stirling talks to Jordan Edwards and Demi Ramos about the making of Duality, producing her incredible music videos, and being grateful for her success.

Send us Fan MailAlthough she's only 22, Skylar Simone has been recording music for a decade. She made a name for herself with tracks like "How Did We" and a cover of Pharrell's "Happy," as well as appearances on Austin & Ally and Super Fun Night.Skylar recently signed to Def Jam, joining one of music's most prestigious legacies and signaling a new era in her career. "Shiver" her most recent single, is a preview of her first EP for the label due out later this summer.Listen to Skylar Simone talk to Jordan Edwards and Demi Ramos about how she became a performer, upcoming projects, and her life outside of music.

Send us Fan MailFor the last few years, AleXa has ascended through the world of K-Pop. Adopting a cyberpunk aesthetic with hypnotic choreography, she's racked up more than 160 million views on her YouTube channel.American audiences got to know AleXa two years ago when she won the first and only season of American Song Contest. She formed a bond with cohost Kelly Clarkson, appearing as a guest on her show this January.AleXa's latest single "sick" leans away from dance pop in favor of a more pop-rock sound that recalls P!nk and Avril Lavigne. She looks forward to trying out new styles as she aims to grow her brand in the U.S.Jordan and Demi talk to AleXa about her early days in Tulsa, rise in South Korea, and her favorite metal bands.Plus, stick around for the new segment Demi's Rising Stars featuring Ayleen Valentine.

Send us Fan MailSince the release of her massive debut album Innocent Eyes in 2003, Delta Goodrem has remained one of Australia's most popular entertainers. She's scored several number one hits in her home country, starred in popular shows, and served as a coach on the Australian version of The Voice. American audiences may recognize Goodrem from the 2023 Netflix movie Love Is in the Air.She's recently returned to the recording studio, although she's not revealing plans for a new album yet. Her latest single "Hearts On The Run," is an upbeat celebration of living life to the fullest.Goodrem talks to Jordan Edwards and Demi Ramos about recording new music, her acting career, and looking to the future.

Send us Fan MailOver the last few years, HAUSER has become one of the world's most popular classical performers. His shows are spectacles that thrill thousands of fans for up to three hours. With dozens of musicians on stage, the Croation cellist covers well known orchestral themes as well as new arrangements of modern hits.Although his previous album focused on Latin pop songs like "Livin' La Vida Loca," his new album, returns to traditional melodies. CLASSIC II is full of favorite compositions like Rachmaninoff's Symphony No. 2 and Mozart's Piano Concerto No. 23.From Croatia, HAUSER talks to Jordan Edwards and Demi Ramos about his ascension as a solo artist, massive live performances, and favorite compositions.

Send us Fan MailEight years after the viral success of "Sweatshirt," Jacob Sartorius has evolved into a contemplative singer-songwriter. Recent tracks like "homebody" and "luv" reveal a more mature musician facing grownup issues.His latest single, "Lonely," is a duet with friend Audrey Mika. The piano-driven song explores the fallout of a failed relationship. It's relatable, sad, and super catchy.Known for collaborations with artists like Tate McRae and Gryffin, Mika gained famed by posting covers of hit songs on YouTube. She's focused on original music the last few years, but continues to perform songs by Billie Eilish and Ariana Grande.Jordan and Demi talk to Sartorius and Mika about how they met, their collaboration, and how to get over a breakup.

Send us Fan MailOn March 1, Paula Cole released her latest album, Lo. It's her first collection of original new music in nearly a decade. Singles like "Green Eyes Crying" are earthy and organic, the result of recording with longtime collaborators like drummer Jay Bellerose.Known for hits like "Where Have All the Cowboys Gone?" and "I Don't Want to Wait," Cole never saw herself as a top 40 artist. She takes pride in the deep catalog she has created and the deep musical connections she's maintained.From her home in snowy New England, Cole talks to Jordan and Demi about new music, memories from Lilith Fair, and her impact on '90s pop culture.

Send us Fan MailAlthough he found early success as a rapper, Travis Mills always liked the idea of being in a band. He grew up admiring blink-182, MxPx, and The Used. Early groups didn't work out for various reasons, and he found solo success with tracks like "Diemonds" and "Young & Stupid."In drummer Nick Gross, Mills found a musical partner with the drive to make their band a success. Together as girlfriends, the duo has embraced the music that shaped their youth. They enlisted producer John Feldmann, the Dr. Dre of pop punk, to complete their sound. Over two albums and an EP, they've created anthems that sound like artifacts of the early 2000s, rather than recreations of TRL rock.Their recent single "shut & kiss me" sounds like it could have been on the Road Trip soundtrack. It's the first new music for the band since the EP Over My Dead Body last May. This summer, girlfriends will join Avril Lavigne on her North American tour.Mills and Gross talk to Jordan Edwards about their experience with girlfriends, touring with Lavigne, and making music at The Noise Nest.

Send us Fan MailYou may know Asher Angel for his roles in the Shazam! movies and the Disney Channel comedy Andi Mack. But he's also a talented musician. The 21-year-old plays guitar and piano, and his smooth pop R&B vocals recall vintage Justin Timberlake and Usher.Although he released several singles in the wake of Andi Mack, he hasn't spent much time on music since 2020. That's changing. His latest single, "Flip The Switch" came out last week, and he's lining up more releases for later this year.Listen to Angel talk to Jordan Edwards and Demi Ramos about his success as an actor, favorite celebrity encounters, and his plan for expanding his music career.

Send us Fan MailFor the final It's Real episode of 2023, Jordan Edwards and Demi Ramos talk to a couple of artists who have had great years.Sadie Dupuis, known for fronting Speedy Ortiz, was recently named one of the 250 Greatest Guitarists of All Time by Rolling Stone. In September, the band released Rabbit Rabbit. Their first album since 2018's Twerp Verse, it was a hit with both fans and critics.Outside of music, Dupuis is a poet and former journalist who has written the books Mouthguard and Cry Perfume. She's an avid reader and often posts about her favorite books on social media.Joining Dupuis is Navied Mahdavian, a Utah-based cartoonist and author best known for his contributions to The New Yorker. This fall, he released his first book This Country: Searching for Home in (Very) Rural America. The bittersweet graphic memoir covers the time he spent with his wife and young daughter in Central Idaho.Watch Dupuis and Mahdavian talk to Jordan and Demi about their favorite books of the year, as well as the music they've been listening to.

Send us Fan MailWith more than five million followers on social media, Gabi Sklar is on the rise. However, the singer-songwriter is more concerned about the quality of her music than the number of likes she receives. She's quick to point out that all those followers are people who are there for her voice, creative percussion, and impeccable taste in cover songs.Although she gained notoriety for performing other people's music, Sklar has been hard at work releasing originals. Her latest "Lonely Times," is her fifth single of 2023.Listen to Jordan and Demi talk to Sklar about her journey from singing covers in the laundry room to creating a career in music.