Broken Record with Rick Rubin, Malcolm Gladwell, Bruce Headlam and Justin Richmond

Today, Justin Richmond is joined by the Starchild himself—KISS co-founder and frontman, Paul Stanley. Born and raised in New York City, Paul fell in love with music at an early age, attending shows at iconic venues like the Fillmore East. Over the course of more than 50 years with KISS, he helped build one of the most devoted fan bases in rock history, turning theatrical spectacle into an art form. Now that KISS has officially retired from touring, Paul reflects on life beyond the stage. He opens up about what continues to fuel his creativity, and what it means to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the KISS Army. He also shares his personal top five KISS albums—and gives us a preview of KISS: Storms Vegas, the upcoming Las Vegas residency that proves the end of touring doesn’t mean the end of the show. You can hear a playlist of some of our favorite songs from Paul Stanley and Kiss HERE. Get ad-free epsiodes to Broken Record by subscribing to Pushkin+ on Apple Podcasts or Pushkin.fm. Pushkin+ subscribers can access ad-free episodes, full audiobooks, exclusive binges, and bonus content for all Pushkin shows. Subscribe on Apple: apple.co/pushkinSubscribe on Pushkin: pushkin.fm/plusSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Shirley Manson rose to '90s fame as the magnetic front woman of Garbage, but she was already a seasoned singer when guitarist Steve Marker spotted her in a music video for her previous band, Angelfish. She joined the Garbage in 1994. The band was made up of Steve Marker and producers Duke Erikson and Butch Vig—renowned for his work with Nirvana and Smashing Pumpkins. Nearly 30 years and over 17 million albums later, Garbage is preparing to release their eighth studio album, Let All That We Imagine Be The Light. Shirley’s voice remains as sharp and compelling as ever. On today’s episode, Leah Rose sits down with Shirley Manson to discuss how an unexpected piece of advice from an acting coach during her time on the Fox sci-fi series Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles continues to shape her creative process. Shirley also opens up about the challenges of communicating with her bandmates—and shares a hilarious story about meeting one of her musical heroes, Patti Smith—only to discover she had green curry smeared across her face. You can hear a playlist of some of our favorite songs from Shirley Manson & Garbage HERE.  Get ad-free epsiodes to Broken Record by subscribing to Pushkin+ on Apple Podcasts or Pushkin.fm. Pushkin+ subscribers can access ad-free episodes, full audiobooks, exclusive binges, and bonus content for all Pushkin shows. Subscribe on Apple: apple.co/pushkinSubscribe on Pushkin: pushkin.fm/plusSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today, we're revisiting a gem from our archives. In late 2020, Wilco's frontman and acclaimed songwriter Jeff Tweedy released his compact yet powerful book, "How to Write One Song" – a remarkable guide for unlocking anyone's creative potential through songwriting. This exploration of creativity immediately resonated with Broken Record host Malcolm Gladwell, leading to a fascinating conversation about the book and examining what has established Tweedy as one of the most distinctive songwriters of the 21st century so far. You can hear a playlist of some of our favorite songs from Jeff Tweedy & Wilco HERE.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For close to three decades, Ben Kweller’s been crafting deeply personal indie rock that's both intimate and expansive. From his early days fronting the band Radish as a teenager in the '90s to his acclaimed solo career that began in the early 2000s, he's consistently delivered songs that feel raw, honest and almost conversational. But his latest album, Cover the Mirrors, finds Ben in a different place entirely. It's an unflinching examination of grief, healing, and the complicated process of moving forward after unimaginable loss. In today’s episode we’ll talk with Ben about the death of his teenage son, Dorian. How Ben and his family embraced grief and managed to not retreat from their lives and work. And what it means to return to making and releasing music. You can hear a playlist of some of our favorite Ben Kweller songs HERE. Get ad-free epsiodes to Broken Record by subscribing to Pushkin+ on Apple Podcasts or Pushkin.fm. Pushkin+ subscribers can access ad-free episodes, full audiobooks, exclusive binges, and bonus content for all Pushkin shows. Subscribe on Apple: apple.co/pushkinSubscribe on Pushkin: pushkin.fm/plusSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Over the past few years, Kali Uchis has released three standout albums: Red Moon in Venus, Orquídeas, and now her latest, Sincerely. Each has made a powerful contribution to the evolving legacy of R&B and Latin music—but Sincerely marks a striking leap forward in her artistic journey. So it’s no surprise that in her conversation with Justin Richmond, Kali reveals she took a different approach this time—writing most of the album on her own before stepping into the studio. It also, heartbreakingly, makes sense that Sincerely was shaped in the shadow of a traumatic, life-altering experience involving her mother. In today’s episode, Kali opens up about that experience, along with her reflections on parenthood, her family’s immigration story, and the challenges of her first tour. You can hear a playlist of some of our favorite Kali Uchis songs HERE. Get ad-free epsiodes to Broken Record by subscribing to Pushkin+ on Apple Podcasts or Pushkin.fm. Pushkin+ subscribers can access ad-free episodes, full audiobooks, exclusive binges, and bonus content for all Pushkin shows. Subscribe on Apple: apple.co/pushkinSubscribe on Pushkin: pushkin.fm/plusSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Rico Nasty is a genre-defying force in contemporary hip-hop, known for her raw, unapologetic style and fearless experimentation. Rico started releasing mixtapes while still in high school in Maryland, with early tracks like “iCarly” and “Hey Arnold” catching fire online. After dropping five mixtapes independently, she signed with Atlantic Records in 2018 and introduced the world to her signature “sugar trap” sound—a blend of aggressive nu-metal energy and trap production—on breakout tracks like "Smack a Bitch" and "Rage." Today, Leah Rose sits down with Rico as she prepares to release her fourth studio album, Lethal. They dive into everything from the beautiful chaos of female-heavy mosh pits at her shows, what it was like to suddenly come into lots of money as a teenager early, to how she landed her first acting role in the upcoming A24/Apple TV series Margo’s Got Money Troubles. You can hear a playlist of some of our favorite Rico Nasty songs HERE. Get ad-free epsiodes to Broken Record by subscribing to Pushkin+ on Apple Podcasts or Pushkin.fm. Pushkin+ subscribers can access ad-free episodes, full audiobooks, exclusive binges, and bonus content for all Pushkin shows. Subscribe on Apple: apple.co/pushkinSubscribe on Pushkin: pushkin.fm/plusSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Daryl Hall stands as one of the greatest pop songwriters in music history. As the iconic half of Hall & Oates, his classic tracks like "Sara Smile," "Rich Girl," and "Maneater" earned the duo coveted spots in both the Songwriters and Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. Yet beyond his chart-dominating success throughout the '70s and '80s, Daryl remains a profoundly gifted, soulful creator whose musical talents transcend genres. On today's episode, Justin Richmond talks to the legendary Daryl Hall about his early career with Gulliver on Elektra Records—where he shared a label with The Doors—and diving into the creative process behind classics like "She's Gone" from the seminal album Abandoned Luncheonette. Daryl also talks about his latest artistic endeavor, D, a collaborative album he made with Eurythmics co-founder Dave Stewart. This episode is brought to you by Defender – A vehicle engineered to meet challenges head-on, so you can explore with confidence. Adventure seekers and risk-takers can explore the full Defender lineup at LandRoverUSA.com. You can hear a playlist of some of our favorite Daryl Hall songs HERE. Get ad-free epsiodes to Broken Record by subscribing to Pushkin+ on Apple Podcasts or Pushkin.fm. Pushkin+ subscribers can access ad-free episodes, full audiobooks, exclusive binges, and bonus content for all Pushkin shows. Subscribe on Apple: apple.co/pushkinSubscribe on Pushkin: pushkin.fm/plusSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Richard Thompson is a London-born guitar virtuoso whose career started in 1967 as part of the groundbreaking folk band Fairport Convention. The following decade Richard formed a duo with his former wife Linda Thompson, and together they released six albums, including the critically acclaimed, I Want To See The Bright Lights Tonight. Richard then struck out on his own, writing songs that have since been covered by artists like Robert Plant, Elvis Costello and Bonnie Raitt. On today’s episode Bruce Headlam talks to Richard about his love of traditional Scottish music, and how he’s reworked old folk songs over the years. Richard also plays examples of his unique playing style on the guitar and talks about the time he played alongside Jimi Hendrix. You can hear a playlist of some of our favorite Richard Thompson songs HERE.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jim James, the frontman of My Morning Jacket, has lived many lives over the band’s 27-year career. He started as a hopeful young musician, chasing the magic of his musical heroes—while secretly fearing he’d never measure up. Later, he spiraled into heavy drinking and self-doubt, teetering on the edge of leaving the band. But today, Jim is in a much different place. Healthier, more grounded, and full of self-acceptance, thanks in part to a mix of traditional and psychedelic therapies he turned to during the pandemic. This month, My Morning Jacket returns with Is, their tenth studio album—and their first made entirely with an outside producer, the legendary Brendan O’Brien. On today’s episode, Leah Rose sits down with Jim to talk about the ayahuasca journey that helped him learn how to truly love himself. He also looks back on writing the band’s ambitious second album, At Dawn, and recalls the surreal moment he saw Bob Dylan disappear into the music while playing with him live. You can hear a playlist of some of our favorite My Morning Jacket songs HERE. Get ad-free episodes to Broken Record by subscribing to Pushkin+ on Apple Podcasts or Pushkin.fm. Pushkin+ subscribers can access ad-free episodes, full audiobooks, exclusive binges, and bonus content for all Pushkin shows.  Subscribe on Apple: apple.co/pushkinSubscribe on Pushkin: pushkin.fm/plusSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Join us for an intimate conversation with legendary producer and songwriter Daniel Lanois, captured live at Brooklyn's premier podcast event, On Air Fest. Host Justin Richmond sits down with Lanois before an audience filled with musical luminaries—including Prince's former guitarist Donna Grantis, performance artist Laurie Anderson, and ambient music pioneer Laraaji. In this special episode, Lanois shares fascinating insights from his storied career producing albums with Neil Young, Bob Dylan, and The Neville Brothers. He also delves into the creative process behind his exceptional solo work, punctuating the conversation with a mesmerizing live pedal steel performance that showcases his unique musicality. You can hear a playlist of some of our favorite Daniel Lanois songs HERE. Get ad-free epsiodes to Broken Record by subscribing to Pushkin+ on Apple Podcasts or Pushkin.fm. Pushkin+ subscribers can access ad-free episodes, full audiobooks, exclusive binges, and bonus content for all Pushkin shows. Subscribe on Apple: apple.co/pushkinSubscribe on Pushkin: pushkin.fm/plusSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Justice, the French electronic music duo composed of Gaspard Augé and Xavier de Rosnay is the gift that keeps on giving. They just released an incredible new album called Hyperdrama that not only sounds like the best possible night out in Paris, but brings in touches of jazz and experimentation that feel new for the group. They also just co-produced the opening track of The Weeknd’s latest album, a song called “Wake Me Up” that finds a  brilliant way of harkening back to Michael Jackson's “Thriller.” Today Justin Richmond discusses the creative process behind The Weeknd track, Justice's new album, and whose drums they sampled on their first album Cross. You can hear a playlist of some of our favorite Justice songs HERE.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Adam Duritz is no stranger to the spotlight. Counting Crows’ 1993 debut album, August And Everything After, sold over seven million copies in the U.S. Singles released from the album including “Mr. Jones” and “Round Here” dominated radio and MTV at the time. But all the exposure wasn’t great for the band, and  according to Duritz, it led critics to focus more on Durtitz’s star-studded dating life, than the band’s music. Regardless, Counting Crows have continued to release music over the last three decades and this month they are putting out their latest album, Butter Miracle, The Complete Sweets! Today we’ll hear Adam Duritz talk in-depth about his life-long struggle with mental health and how his dissociative disorder has impacted his ability to connect with people off-stage. You can pre-save The Counting Crows new album here. And check out their new video for “Under The Aurora” here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QMzFO8CAmK0&feature=youtu.be  You can hear a playlist of some of our favorite Counting Crows songs here.  Get ad-free episodes to Broken Record by subscribing to Pushkin+ on Apple Podcasts or Pushkin.fm. Pushkin+ subscribers can access ad-free episodes, full audiobooks, exclusive binges, and bonus content for all Pushkin shows.  Subscribe on Apple: apple.co/pushkinSubscribe on Pushkin: pushkin.fm/plusSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Join Justin Richmond and Ben Walter, CEO of Chase For Business, for a special conversation about finding success in the music industry through non-traditional means. Ben shares his insights on balancing risk while scaling a business, as they talk about how the indie label XL Recordings built a sustainable business model by making unorthodox business decisions. He also shares how artists often have an edge in creating original business ideas like when music titans Dr. Dre and Jimmy Iovine built Beats by Dre and later sold it to Apple Music for $3 billion.  This episode was made in partnership with Chase for Business. Listen and subscribe to Ben Walter's podcast The Unshakeables here. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A month ago at the Grammys, Alicia Keys gave a beautiful speech while accepting the Global Impact Award. Part of her speech was dedicated to the women producers who power the industry, women like Patrice Rushen, Missy Elliott, Linda Perry, and others. This was top of mind for Justin Richmond when he sat down with esperanza spalding at the Blue Note club in New York, where she was in the middle of a residency. Not only because she just produced a gorgeous new collaborative album by the unheralded Brazilian genius, Milton Nascimento, naturally called “Milton + esperanza.” But she’s also self produced just about all of her own projects from the very beginning. esperanza and Justin talk about why she’s been producing herself from the jump in this episode, what it’s been like working so closely with master mentors like Milton Nascimento, but also Wayne Shorter and Herbie Hancock. And esperanza talks about the rocky beginning of her career. Listen to the songs of Milton Nascimento as curated by esperanza spalding Listen to Milton + esperanza’s collaborative album Listen to a collection of songs by esperanza spalding Get ad-free episodes to Broken Record by subscribing to Pushkin+ on Apple Podcasts or Pushkin.fm. Pushkin+ subscribers can access ad-free episodes, full audiobooks, exclusive binges, and bonus content for all Pushkin shows.  Subscribe on Apple: apple.co/pushkinSubscribe on Pushkin: pushkin.fm/plusSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Alice Randall is a country music songwriter, a New York Times bestselling author, and a newly minted memoirist. She calls her new book, My Black Country, a love letter to Black country music. In addition to her memoir, Alice also released the album, My Black Country: The Songs of Alice Randall, that includes a rendition of the song, “The Ballad of Sally Anne” performed by Rhiannon Giddens. The song, which confronts the harsh realities of lynching in the American South was nominated for a Grammy last year in the Best American Roots Performance category. On today’s episode Bruce Headlam talks to Alice Randall about her lifelong love of country music. And how growing up in Detroit during the height of Motown influenced her musical sensibilities. She also traces the countless contributions African Americans have made to country music and why she believes that history has been ignored. You can hear a playlist of some of Alice Randall's favorite songs HERE. Get ad-free episodes to Broken Record by subscribing to Pushkin+ on Apple Podcasts or Pushkin.fm. Pushkin+ subscribers can access ad-free episodes, full audiobooks, exclusive binges, and bonus content for all Pushkin shows. ' Subscribe on Apple: apple.co/pushkinSubscribe on Pushkin: pushkin.fm/plusSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In the 30-plus years since Billy Corgan hit it big as the lead singer/songwriter of The Smashing Pumpkins, he’s become many things including the owner of the National Wrestling Alliance, a father and a husband, and an outspoken advocate of free speech through appearances on divisive podcasts hosted by Alex Jones, Joe Rogan, and Bill Maher. Proving to be both eloquent and controversial, Billy is now hosting his own long form interview podcast called "The Magnificent Others" where he interviews music industry heavyweights like Tom Morello, Sharon Osbourne, and Gene Simmons. On today’s episode Leah Rose talks to Billy Corgan about his approach to interviewing, why he rejected the alternative-music ethos in the 90s, and the subset of his fanbase that he calls “Siamese zombies.” You can hear a playlist of some of our favorite songs from Billy Corgan HERE. Get ad-free episodes to Broken Record by subscribing to Pushkin+ on Apple Podcasts or Pushkin.fm. Pushkin+ subscribers can access ad-free episodes, full audiobooks, exclusive binges, and bonus content for all Pushkin shows. ' Subscribe on Apple: apple.co/pushkinSubscribe on Pushkin: pushkin.fm/plusSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Black Keys are gearing up to release their latest album, No Rain, No Flowers. The Akron, Ohio duo consisting of Dan Auerbach on lead vocals and guitar, and Patrick Carney on drums, have released 12 studio albums since their indie debut, The Big Come Up in 2002. On today's episode Justin Richmond talks with Dan and Patrick about their process of mixing the new album. They also share memories growing up together in a town filled with eccentric characters, and they explain their newfound love of DJing parties where they challenge themselves to make people dance to an eclectic mix of unknown songs. You can hear a playlist of some of our favorite songs from The Black Keys HERE.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tunde Adebimpe is a creative powerhouse. He's a cartoonist, a painter, a director, a Hollywood actor, and for the past 20 years, he’s been the lead singer of the band TV On The Radio. His latest offering—another of his many artistic pursuits—is a solo project called Thee Black Boltz. Tunde began writing these songs back in 2019. And after a stint composing music for the PBS Kids show “City Island” with producer Wilder Zoby, the two decided to set their sights on Tunde’s growing collection of solo songs. Both Jaleel Bunton and Jahphet Landis of TV On The Radio also contributed to the album, which sounds every bit as fresh and thrilling as Tunde’s past work. On today’s episode Leah Rose talks to Tunde Adebimpe about how staying steeped in creative projects keeps him sane. He also recalls his days working as a stop-motion artist on MTV’s Celebrity Death Match, and why he thinks TV On The Radio isn’t cool enough to be considered “indie sleaze.” You can hear a playlist of some of our favorite songs from Tunde Adebimpe HERE.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The British funk band Cymande released their self-titled debut in 1972. The album’s deep calypso and reggae rhythms are inspired by its member’s West Indian roots. And decades after its release, samples taken from Cymande’s albums would find their way into songs that now define hip-hop’s golden era from artists like De La Soul, Gang Starr and The Fugees. While Cymande has found a second life through sampling during the late ‘80s and ‘90s, its primary members, bassist Steve Scipio and guitarist Patrick Patterson had long since moved on from their artistic life in London, and both moved back to the Caribbean to become lawyers. But the desire to make music never left them and last month Cymande released a new album called Renascence, a project their label describes as a “spiritual and sonic follow-up” to their 1974 album, Promised Heights. On today’s episode Justin Richmond talks to Steve Scipio and Patrick Patterson about their early band days in London, and about the early calypso tracks that helped launch Cymande’s sound. They also reminisce about touring the U.S. and opening for Al Green in the '70s, and how they came to collaborate with artists like Jazzie B. and Celeste on their new album. You can hear a playlist of some of our favorite Cymande songs HERE.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.