Sweet Song Podcast

Wendy Bevan and Duran Duran’s Nick Rhodes on "Alone with the Unknown," Cinematic Pop, and Pandemic Projects

In this episode of the Sweet Song Podcast, host Kristi York Wooten sits down singer-violinist Wendy Bevan to pull back the curtain on her latest collaboration with Duran Duran's Nick Rhodes, Alone with the Unknown. Rhodes chimes in with his "Sweet Song" and the pair reveal when a pandemic-induced pivot birthed their massive 52-track ambient project Astronomia, how that massive undertaking forged a shared sonic language, and how they channeled classic film noir, Scott Walker, and David Lynch to create an album steeped in dark glamour.

JOHNNYSWIM on Honest Songwriting, "Drunks," Sacred Spaces, and Why Music Brings People Together: Episode 31

Amanda Sudano Ramirez and Abner Ramirez of JOHNNYSWIM talk about life in motion—parenting four kids, touring, and opening their musical One Day in London—while reflecting on the songs that best reveal who they are. At the center of it all is a big idea: honest songs last longer, and music can create real communion between strangers. In this episode, they open up to Sweet Song Podcast host Kristi York Wooten about the emotional and creative thread running through their top-streaming 2016 album, Georgica Pond, the family memory of Donna Summer's hit "MacArthur Park" at the 2026 winter Olympics, and why their work keeps circling back to faith, grief, joy, and relationships.

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Stella Prince on the New Folk Movement, Iceland, and Writing Songs for Gen Z: Episode 30

Host Kristi York Wooten sits down with 21-year-old folk singer Stella Prince to discuss what folk music means today, why young artists need to write about their generation’s realities, and how Stella is shaping her debut album. Stella breaks down her SWEET SONG, her new single RUBY BOOTS co-written with Nashville legend Matraca Berg, her takes on Simon & Garfunkel, Bob Dylan, and the women artists who inspire her, including Emmylou Harris, Joni Mitchell, Dolly Parton, and more.

Branford Marsalis on John Coltrane's legacy at 100, the BMQ's new album with Dianne Reeves, and a surprise revelation about 'Giant Steps'

In a personal conversation with Sweet Song Podcast host Kristi York Wooten just ahead of what would have been jazz saxophone icon John Coltrane's 100th birthday, Branford Marsalis opens up about his first memories of hearing Coltrane, revealing the pivotal moments that shaped his musical direction and the Branford Marsalis Quartet's new Blue Note album, Dedicated to You. The album features inimitable vocalist Dianne Reeves and revisits the 1963 collaboration between Coltrane and singer Johnny Hartman, including songs from Rodgers and Hart, Billy Strayhorn, Irving Berlin, and more. PLUS: Marsalis deconstructs the bonus track, BIG NICK, shares why the group recorded the album at Georgia’s Spivey Hall, and reveals the two SWEET albums that made him want to be a saxophone player.

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Tears for Fears' Roland Orzabal on grief, God, music, and his new memoir, Welcome to Your Life: Episode 28

In this deep conversation with host Kristi York Wooten, Roland Orzabal from Tears for Fears shares the profound connection between astrology, music, and life. Discover how cosmic cycles influence creativity, relationships, and the timeless appeal of hits like 'Everybody Wants to Rule the World.' Hear how the band's music was transformed by singer Oleta Adams, and Orzabal's thoughts on why the moon is such a powerful force in art.

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Patrick Droney on Made You Look, attention, and making music that feels like home: Episode 27

Singer-songwriter Patrick Droney joins host Kristi York Wooten to talk about his third full-length album, Made You Look, and the deeply personal season that shaped it. The conversation revolves around fatherhood, identity, genre, storytelling, and why music still matters as a place to feel grounded in a distracted world. In this episode, Kristi and Patrick discuss the art of paying attention, the emotional weight of songs like “Math of Us” and “Cigarette Break,” and what it means to build a career around honesty instead of hype. They also talk about live shows, curation, and the artists who leave a lasting mark.

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Glenn Tilbrook on how Squeeze made it from age 16 to 50 years in the business: Sweet Song Podcast Episode 26

In this episode, Glenn Tilbrook of Squeeze discusses the band's new album Trixies, the influence of Stevie Wonder, and the enduring power of music and friendship with collaborators, including songwriting partner Chris Difford. Tune in for deep dives into hit songs, Glenn's Sweet Song reveal, and memorable moments from a legendary career.

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MT Jones and the JOY-ful Summer of British Soul: Sweet Song Podcast Episode 25

In this engaging interview with host Kristi York Wooten, Liverpool singer-songwriter MT Jones discusses his dynamic brand of British soul music, songwriting process, influences, and experiences touring in the US. Discover how authentic instrumentation and emotional storytelling shape songs from his debut album, Joy, including "I Don't Understand," "Why I Cry," "Gentle Reminder," and more. Will he be the next UK music school star since Adele?

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Amy Grant's Power of Vulnerability in Music: Sweet Song Podcast Episode 24

In this special Recast Edition of the Sweet Song Podcast, Kristi York Wooten speaks with Grammy-winning singer Amy Grant about her health journey after heart surgery and a serious bicycle accident, which inspired the songs on her 2026 album, The Me That Remains. Grant reveals her working relationship with husband Vince Gill, her sweet songs from the latest album, and how she weaves vulnerability, community, and spiritual themes into her music. This interview is republished with permission from its original airing on Georgia Public Broadcasting at GPB.org.

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The Human League on Synths and Songs: Sweet Song Podcast Episode 23

In this episode, Kristi Wooten interviews Philip Oakey and Susan Ann Sulley of the Human League, exploring their musical journey, the meaning behind their iconic songs, working with Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis and their thoughts on AI and humanity. Discover behind-the-scenes stories, song insights, and reflections on their impact on pop and electronic music.

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Mike Campbell Talks Heartbreakers Legacy, New Dirty Knobs Album, and Inspirations: Sweet Song Podcast Episode 22

In this episode of the Sweet Song Podcast, host Kristi York Wooten engages in an insightful conversation with legendary guitarist Mike Campbell, whose storied career spans decades with Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, Fleetwood Mac, and his own band, the Dirty Knobs. The discussion traverses Mike Campbell's Southern roots, the evolution of his musical identity, the making of the Dirty Knobs' latest album "Mission of Mercy," and the indelible influence of artists like the Beatles and Beach Boys. The episode delves into his creative process, perspectives on technological shifts in music—such as AI—and the enduring human connection at the heart of songwriting. Listeners are also treated to reflections on his SWEET SONGS and a preview of Mike Campbell's orchestral collaboration with the Atlanta Symphony, underscoring the ever-evolving intersection of legacy, innovation, and soulful artistry.

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Sweet Song Podcast Episode 21: Haircut One Hundred

In this lively conversation about reunions and songwriting, Sweet Song Podcast host Kristi York Wooten chats with Nick Heyward and Graham Jones from the beloved British pop group Haircut 100, which also includes members Les Nemes and Blair Cunningham. The guys share their thoughts about snoring on the tour bus, favorite Depeche Mode songs, their new album Boxing the Compass, and upcoming U.S. tour with Squeeze.

Sweet Song Podcast Episode 20: Emma Swift

In this emotional conversation with Sweet Song host Kristi York Wooten, Emma Swift shares her musical journey from Australia to Nashville, her influences from Linda Ronstadt to Gillian Welch, and her transition from interpreting others' songs to her own songwriting. Discover insights into Americana, her new album the Resurrection Game, her creative process, and personal resilience during challenging times. Plus: Ringo the cat makes an appearance and Emma shares her sweet Robyn Hitchcock song.

Sweet Song Podcast Episode 19: Jason Narducy

KristiYork Wooten welcomes Jason Narducy to the podcast for a conversation about R.E.M. Narducy is known for his guitar work with Bob Mould, Superchunk, Sunny Day Real Estate and Eddie Vedder as well as his own bands and projects. He's currently on tour with actor Michael Shannon celebrating the 40th anniversary of R.E.M.'s fourth full-length album, Lifes Rich Pageant. Jason shares what R.E.M.'s music means to him, and teases a highly secretive sweet song.

Sweet Song Podcast Episode 18: Colin Devlin from The Devlins

In this delightful conversation with host Kristi York Wooten, Colin Devlin discusses The Devlins' career and music catalog, breaking out in the music industry of the 1990s with the hit song "Waiting," recording with his brother Peter and bandmates, the impact of fellow Irish musicians U2, touring with Lilith Fair arists, how song placements in TV and film helped the Devlins find success, the band's new album All the Days and Colin's Sweet Songs from Talk Talk, World Party, David Sylvian and more.

Sweet Song Podcast Episode 17: R.E.M.'s Mike Mills and renowned violinist Robert McDuffie

In this fun conversation, Kristi Wooten hosts R.E.M. bassist Mike Mills and international concert violinist Bobby McDuffie, exploring their parallel musical journeys since they met in middle school, the impact of rock and classical music on their lives, and the importance of collaboration and friendship in the industry. Georgia music, new supergroup Howl Owl Howl, and Taylor Swift pop up in this chat, along with composer Samuel Barber and Verdi's opera, Aida. They reflect on their experiences touring, the Southern music scene, and the emotional connections people have with music, especially in challenging times.

Sweet Song Podcast Episode 16: Buddy Red

In this engaging conversation, Buddy Red joins Kristi York Wooten to shares his unique journey as a musician, discussing his name, musical influences, and the impact of his family background. He reflects on the vibrant music scene in Atlanta, the creative process behind his Sweet Song, "Sold His Soul," and the growth that comes from stepping out of one's comfort zone. The discussion also touches on family dynamics in the music industry and Buddy's experiences on tour, highlighting his aspirations for the future.

Sweet Song Podcast Episode 15: Mike Mantione of Five Eight

In this episode, Mike Mantione of Five Eight joins host Kristi York Wooten to explore the journey this Athens, Ga. rock band that faced a breakup but found renewed success through radio play and opportunities to tour with major acts like REM. A 2025 documentary about Five Eight, Weirdo, was released this fall, and their new album Help A Sinner is due in March 2026.

Sweet Song Podcast Episode 14: Jon Regen

In this fun conversation with host Kristi York Wooten, Jon Regen shares his journey as a musician, discussing his recent appearance on BBC Radio with Jules Holland, the challenges of defining his musical identity across genres, and the impact of parenthood on his songwriting. He reflects on the importance of gratitude in his career, the joy of collaboration with other artists, and the essence of his music. The discussion also touches on the evolution of the music industry and the excitement of creating new art. Stay tuned for the first listen of his latest single, "Every Time You Walk Away," at the end!

Sweet Song Podcast Episode 13: HuDost

In this episode of the Sweet Song Podcast, host Kristi Wooten goes deep with the musical duo HuDost, Moksha Sommer and Jemal Wade Hines, discussing their latest album 'Monkey and the Crown' and the evolution of their music since 'Anthems of Home'. They explore themes of personal growth, the challenges of balancing parenthood and creativity, and the importance of community engagement and activism. The conversation delves into the meaning behind their songs, the significance of collaboration in their songwriting process, and their reflections on the impact of music in addressing social issues. The episode concludes with personal insights on favorite songs and their enduring influence.