The Pop Pod

PopSamCam

Your ultimate guide to the world of pop.

Hosted by music journalist and pop obsessive Sam Murphy (aka @PopSamCam), this podcast keeps you caught up on everything happening across the pop universe. From headline-making news and deep-dive album reviews to hot takes, artist interviews, and bold Grammy predictions, it’s all here.

New episodes on Thursdays.

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111 episodes
Updated Wednesday

Episodes111

Newest first

Sep 2, 2025 · 31 min
Sabrina Carpenter - Man's Best Friend: Too Soon? Too Boring? Too Dirty?
Sabrina Carpenter is back with her brand new album Man’s Best Friend, just a year after Short n’ Sweet — but was it too soon? In this episode, I dive into everything you need to know about the record: whether she released it too quickly, its chances at next year’s Grammys, how it stacks up against her past work, and what it means for her place in the pop landscape right now. Come and chat with us in the Discord: https://discord.gg/QEw9se7yAm Send voicenotes or questions: thepoppod@popsamcam.com PopSamCam's New Music Friday Playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1FDLtpOHeFvrzesTKQ5Qhb?si=78c15e3dfa05462a
Aug 29, 2025 · 52 min
New Music Bop or Flop: Sabrina Carpenter, CMAT, Blood Orange + More
Sabrina Carpenter is back with her new album Man’s Best Friend. Can she strike gold twice in just over a year following Short N’ Sweet? We get into “Tears” and the rest of this week’s big releases, plus an interview with Audrey Hobert, who’s behind one of the best debut albums of the year. Also on the playlist this week: Florence + The Machine — “Everybody Scream” CMAT — “When a Good Man Cries” Hayley Williams — “Parachute” Blood Orange & Caroline Polachek — “The Train (King’s Cross)” The Kid LAROI, Hannah Jadagu, Eli, Medium Build, Skepta & Fred again.. Come and chat with us in the Discord: https://discord.gg/QEw9se7yAm Send voicenotes or questions to: thepoppod@popsamcam.com PopSamCam’s New Music Friday Playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1FDLtpOHeFvrzesTKQ5Qhb?si=78c15e3dfa05462a
Aug 27, 2025 · 33 min
Responding To Controversial Opinions About Taylor Swift, Lana Del Rey, Album Variations + More
This week, you sent in some spicy takes — and we’re diving right in. From questioning whether Taylor Swift would’ve hit the same heights without the pandemic, to calling Lana Del Rey boring, we’re tackling your most controversial opinions. We also debate the aesthetics of alternate album covers and discuss whether Britney Spears should ever release another album. Come and chat with us in the Discord: https://discord.gg/QEw9se7yAm Send voicenotes or questions to: thepoppod@popsamcam.com PopSamCam's New Music Friday Playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1FDLtpOHeFvrzesTKQ5Qhb?si=78c15e3dfa05462a
Aug 22, 2025 · 31 min
New Music Bop or Flop: Doja Cat, Sombr, Laufey + More
This week on Bop or Flop, I'm getting into the new music drops and deciding what’s worth your streams. We’re talking sombr, Laufey, Wolf Alice, Mariah the Scientist, Royel Otis, Ava Max, Kid Cudi, ADÉLA, Carly Rae Jepsen, and Doja Cat’s brand-new track "Jealous Type." Here’s the full list of songs discussed: sombr – i wish i knew how to quit you Laufey – Mr. Eclectic Wolf Alice – Just Two Girls Mariah the Scientist – Sacrifice Royel Otis – who’s your boyfriend Ava Max – Don’t Click Play Kid Cudi – Mr. Miracle ADÉLA – SexOnTheBeat Carly Rae Jepsen – More Doja Cat – Jealous Type Come and chat with us in the Discord: https://discord.gg/QEw9se7yAm Send voicenotes or questions: thepoppod@popsamcam.com PopSamCam's New Music Friday Playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1FDLtpOHeFvrzesTKQ5Qhb?si=78c15e3dfa05462a
Aug 19, 2025 · 45 min
Best New Artist Grammy Predictions + My Best New Artists of 2025
On this episode of The Pop Pod, I gaze ahead to the 2026 Grammys and try to predict who might land a Best New Artist nomination. Could it be Sombr, Addison Rae, Alex Warren, or Ravyn Lenae? I break down their chances and unpack what might make—or break—each contender. Later in the episode, I spotlight my personal favorite new artists right now and sit down with Audrey Hobert, Natanya, and Iyla for candid chats about their journeys, creative inspirations, and next moves. Artists featured in this episode: Audrey Hobert Rose Gray Natanya Eli Iyla Alemeda Haute & Freddy Chloe Qisha Ronia Eddie Benjamin 🎧 Listen to the playlist: PopSamCam’s New Artist Picks Come and chat with us in the Discord: https://discord.gg/QEw9se7yAm Send voicenotes or questions to: thepoppod@popsamcam.com PopSamCam's New Music Friday Playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1FDLtpOHeFvrzesTKQ5Qhb?si=78c15e3dfa05462a
Aug 15, 2025 · 39 min
New Music Bop or Flop: Conan Gray, Olivia Dean, Zara Larsson + More
It’s a stacked week of new music, and we’re putting it all to the Bop or Flop test. We discuss Conan Gray’s “Caramel,” Olivia Dean’s “Man I Need,” and Zara Larsson’s “Crush,” plus I speak with Audrey Hobert about her new single “Thirst Trap.” We also check out tracks from Wolf Alice, Khalid, Steve Lacy, Maroon 5 with Lil Wayne, Amaarae, and Jenevieve. This is the full list discussed: Wolf Alice – White Horses Olivia Dean – Man I Need Conan Gray – Caramel Khalid – in plain sight Steve Lacy – Nice Shoes Zara Larsson – Crush Audrey Hobert – Thirst Trap Maroon 5 feat. Lil Wayne – Love Is Like Amaarae – Fineshyt Jenevieve – Hvn High Come and chat with us in the Discord: https://discord.gg/QEw9se7yAm Send voicenotes or questions to: thepoppod@popsamcam.com PopSamCam’s New Music Friday Playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1FDLtpOHeFvrzesTKQ5Qhb?si=78c15e3dfa05462a
Aug 14, 2025 · 48 min
Ethel Cain Leads Us Down A Path To Devastation On 'Willoughby Tucker, I'll Always Love You' + TS12 Reaction
On this week’s episode, I’m joined by my good friend Yan to dive deep into Ethel Cain’s Willoughby Tucker, I’ll Always Love You — unpacking its devastation, intimacy, and her complete lack of interest in chasing pop stardom. We explore whether it stands as a worthy successor to Preacher’s Daughter and what it reveals about her evolving artistry. Plus, we share our first thoughts on Taylor Swift’s freshly announced album The Life of a Showgirl and what it could mean for her next era. Come and chat with us in the Discord: https://discord.gg/QEw9se7yAm Send voicenotes or questions to: thepoppod@popsamcam.com PopSamCam’s New Music Friday Playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1FDLtpOHeFvrzesTKQ5Qhb?si=78c15e3dfa05462a
Aug 12, 2025 · 55 min
Every Taylor Swift Album Ranked From Worst To Best
Taylor Swift has delivered over a decade of era-defining albums — but which one truly reigns supreme? In this episode, we’re ranking every Taylor record from debut to The Tortured Poets Department, looking at the music, the impact, and the moments that made each era unforgettable. Come and chat with us in the Discord: https://discord.gg/QEw9se7yAm Send voicenotes or questions to: thepoppod@popsamcam.com PopSamCam's New Music Friday Playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1FDLtpOHeFvrzesTKQ5Qhb?si=78c15e3dfa05462a
Aug 5, 2025 · 37 min
Did These Albums Turning 5 Age Well? Lady Gaga, Taylor Swift, Dua Lipa + More
It’s been five years since a wave of major albums defined the sound of 2020. In this episode, I’m revisiting the records that shaped that year—from Future Nostalgia to folklore, Chromatica to Punisher—to explore how they hold up today. Some still feel vital, others less so. Let’s find out which ones aged gracefully, and which are starting to show their cracks. Albums discussed: Dua Lipa – Future Nostalgia The Weeknd – After Hours Phoebe Bridgers – Punisher Taylor Swift – folklore / evermore Fiona Apple – Fetch The Bolt Cutters Miley Cyrus – Plastic Hearts HAIM – Women in Music Pt. III Charli XCX – how i’m feeling now Lady Gaga – Chromatica Jessie Ware – What’s Your Pleasure? Chloe x Halle – Ungodly Hour Halsey – Manic Rina Sawayama – SAWAYAMA Justin Bieber – Changes Ariana Grande – Positions Katy Perry – Smile Selena Gomez – Rare Bad Bunny – YHLQMDLG Kesha – High Road Megan Thee Stallion – Good News Come and chat with us in the Discord: https://discord.gg/QEw9se7yAm Send voicenotes or questions to: thepoppod@popsamcam.com PopSamCam's New Music Friday Playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1FDLtpOHeFvrzesTKQ5Qhb?si=78c15e3dfa05462a
Aug 1, 2025 · 39 min
New Music Bop or Flop: Chappell Roan, Reneé Rapp, Demi Lovato + More
This week on Bop or Flop, we’re talking through new music from Renée Rapp, Hayley Williams, Chappell Roan, and more. Songs discussed: Renée Rapp – Kiss It Kiss It Hayley Williams – Glum Chappell Roan – The Subway Demi Lovato – Fast Blusher – DON’T LOOK AT ME LIKE THAT Eddie Benjamin – DRIVING Rose Gray, Shygirl, Casey MQ – Everything Changes (But I Want You) Ella Boh – ur gf Maren Morris – running Slayyyter – BEAT UP CHANEL$ Mariah the Scientist, Kali Uchis – Is It a Crime Come and chat with us in the Discord: https://discord.gg/QEw9se7yAm Send voicenotes or questions to: thepoppod@popsamcam.com PopSamCam's New Music Friday Playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1FDLtpOHeFvrzesTKQ5Qhb?si=78c15e3dfa05462a
Jul 31, 2025 · 30 min
Every Lana Del Rey Album Ranked
Lana Del Rey’s discography is one of the most fascinating in modern pop—shifting from cinematic grandeur to stripped-back intimacy over the course of a decade. In this episode, I’m ranking all of her albums and reflecting on how her sound and storytelling have evolved. From the early impact of Born to Die to the quiet beauty of Ocean Blvd, this is a look at the highs, the (occasional) lows, and everything in between. Lana Del Rey’s discography is one of the most fascinating in modern pop—shifting from cinematic grandeur to stripped-back intimacy over the course of a decade. In this episode, I’m ranking all of her albums and reflecting on how her sound and storytelling have evolved. From the early impact of Born to Die to the quiet beauty of Ocean Blvd, this is a look at the highs, the lows, and everything in between. ✨ Join the conversation: Discord Community 🎙️ Send voicenotes or questions: thepoppod@popsamcam.com 🎧 Follow the New Music Friday Playlist: PopSamCam on Spotify
Jul 28, 2025 · 44 min
New Music Bop Or Flop: Lola Young, Tame Impala, Sombr + More
This week, we’re diving into a fresh batch of new music—eleven songs, one verdict: bop or flop? Focus tracks include Tame Impala’s house-drenched return “End Of Summer,” Lola Young’s bold “d£aler,” and the genre-bending standout “12 to 12” from Sombr. Plus: new drops from Tyler, The Creator, Amaarae, CMAT, Confidence Man & JADE, Sam Smith, and more. One of the strongest weeks we’ve had all year—let’s get into it. Songs discussed: Tame Impala – End Of Summer Lola Young – d£aler Tyler, The Creator – Ring Ring Ring Confidence Man & JADE – gossip Tyla & Wizkid – DYNAMITE CMAT – EURO-COUNTRY Amaarae – Girlie-Pop! Jenevieve – Crysalis Audrey Hobert – Wet Hair Kim Petras – Freak It Sam Smith – To Be Free Sombr – 12 to 12 Come and chat with us in the Discord: https://discord.gg/QEw9se7yAm Send voicenotes or questions to: thepoppod@popsamcam.com PopSamCam's New Music Friday Playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1FDLtpOHeFvrzesTKQ5Qhb?si=78c15e3dfa05462a
Jul 24, 2025 · 23 min
What Pop Albums Are There Still To Look Forward To In 2025?
We're halfway through the year, but pop isn't done with us yet. In this episode, we preview the biggest and most intriguing albums still to come in 2025—from Renee Rapp's Bite Me to Mariah Carey's Here for It All. We talk pop comebacks, cult favorites, and wildcard releases including new records from Amaarae, Ethel Cain, Conan Gray, Laufey, Wolf Alice, Sabrina Carpenter, Cardi B, and more. It's shaping up to be a chaotic, genre-hopping second half—let’s get into it. Come and chat with us in the Discord: https://discord.gg/QEw9se7yAm Send voicenotes or questions to: thepoppod@popsamcam.com PopSamCam's New Music Friday Playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1FDLtpOHeFvrzesTKQ5Qhb?si=78c15e3dfa05462a
Jul 18, 2025 · 38 min
New Music Bop or Flop: Justin Bieber, Conan Gray, FKA Twigs and More
This week on Bop Or Flop, we're wading through one of the most eclectic release weeks of the year. From Justin Bieber’s unexpected return to Danny L Harle and PinkPantheress teaming up for a high-BPM dream, the new music is coming at us fast—and we’ve got thoughts. We talk Blood Orange's stacked collab with Lorde and Caroline Polachek, FKA twigs’ “Perfectly,” the first taste of the EUSExUA deluxe, and Olivia Dean’s smooth new groove. Are you boppin' or floppin'? Come and chat with us in the Discord: https://discord.gg/QEw9se7yAm Send voicenotes or questions to: thepoppod@popsamcam.com PopSamCam's New Music Friday Playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1FDLtpOHeFvrzesTKQ5Qhb?si=78c15e3dfa05462a
Jul 17, 2025 · 34 min
Do We Have A Song of the Summer Yet?
What’s going to be the Song of the Summer? This year, it’s harder to tell than usual. There’s no clear frontrunner, and the usual markers—chart dominance, TikTok virality, radio play—aren’t pointing in one obvious direction. In this episode, I try to make sense of it all. I look at the current contenders, late entries, underrated picks, and a few tracks that seemed like they had a shot but lost steam along the way. Songs discussed include: Alex Warren’s “Ordinary,” Ravyn Lenae’s “Love Me Not,” Sabrina Carpenter’s “Manchild,” Kendrick Lamar’s “Luther,” Justin Bieber’s “Daisies,” TYLA’s “IS IT,” and more. Come and chat with us in the Discord: https://discord.gg/QEw9se7yAm Send voicenotes or questions to: thepoppod@popsamcam.com
Jul 10, 2025 · 38 min
The Best Songs of 2025 So Far...
We’re halfway through the year, and we’re counting down our personal top 5 songs of 2025 so far. From massive pop moments to low-key gems, this episode covers the tracks we haven’t stopped playing—with love for Bad Bunny, Lady Gaga, Lorde, FKA twigs, Olivia Dean and plenty more. We’ve also got some honourable mentions that just missed the cut. Hear more of our faves in the Spotify playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0yaSFOknQ9UjobvlsdTUo2?si=bf6267099566484c Come and chat with us in the Discord: https://discord.gg/QEw9se7yAm Send voicenotes or questions to: thepoppod@popsamcam.com
Jun 27, 2025 · 31 min
New Music Bop or Flop: Lorde's 'Virgin', Kesha, Reneé Rapp, Kim Petras & More
This week on Bop or Flop, we’re diving into Lorde’s new album Virgin and sharing our thoughts on the full project — with a spotlight on the track “Shapeshifter.” We’re also reviewing new music from across the pop world, including: Lorde – “Shapeshifter” Renee Rapp – “Mad” Kim Petras – “Polo” Kesha – “The One” Katseye – “Gameboy” Dove Cameron – “Romeo” Barbra Streisand – “One Heart One Voice” Come and chat with us in the Discord: https://discord.gg/QEw9se7yAm Send voicenotes or questions to: thepoppod@popsamcam.com PopSamCam's New Music Friday Playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1FDLtpOHeFvrzesTKQ5Qhb?si=78c15e3dfa05462a
Jun 26, 2025 · 27 min
This Album Changed Pop: Carly Rae Jepsen's 'Emotion'
In this episode, we’re diving deep into Carly Rae Jepsen’s E·MO·TION — the shimmering, synth-soaked album that redefined her career and helped reshape modern pop. Released in 2015 to modest commercial success but massive critical acclaim, E·MO·TION became a slow-burn cult favorite, influencing a generation of pop artists and listeners alike. We unpack the album’s legacy: ✨ How it moved beyond Call Me Maybe and proved Carly as a master of pop craft 🪩 Why it resonated so deeply with pop fans and music nerds 🎛️ The production dream team (Dev Hynes, Ariel Rechtshaid, Rostam, etc.) 💖 And why Run Away with Me still has the best sax riff of the decade From the highs of Gimmie Love to the bonus track deep cuts, we’re celebrating one of the most beloved pop records of the 2010s — and asking the question: what makes E·MO·TION so timeless? Come and chat with us in the Discord: https://discord.gg/QEw9se7yAm Send voicenotes or questions to: thepoppod@popsamcam.com PopSamCam's New Music Friday Playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1FDLtpOHeFvrzesTKQ5Qhb?si=78c15e3dfa054
Jun 20, 2025 · 39 min
New Music Bop Or Flop: Haim, Lorde, Cardi B, Benson Boone & More
This week on The Pop Pod, we’re digging into a huge Friday drop led by Haim’s return, another track from Lorde, and a fiery new single from Cardi B. Plus, we’re talking SOPHIE’s posthumous release, a bold statement from Kesha, and plenty of exciting newcomers. Songs discussed: Haim – All Over Me Lorde – Hammer Cardi B – Enough (Miami) Benson Boone – Mr Electric Blue JADE – Plastic Box Lola Young – Not Like That Anymore CMAT – The Jamie Oliver Petrol Station Kesha – ATTENTION! SOPHIE – OOH KATSEYE – Gabriela Sombr – we never dated Sam Fender – Rein Me In Come and chat with us in the Discord: https://discord.gg/QEw9se7yAm Send voicenotes or questions to: thepoppod@popsamcam.com PopSamCam's New Music Friday Playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1FDLtpOHeFvrzesTKQ5Qhb?si=78c15e3dfa05462a
Jun 17, 2025 · 26 min
Pop Music Has Gone Conservative. How Did We Get Here?
On this episode, we're asking a big question: Why does pop music sound so safe right now? With artists like Alex Warren, Benson Boone, and Teddy Swims dominating the charts with piano ballads and stripped-back sincerity, it feels like we’ve shifted away from the chaotic brilliance of 2024 — Charli XCX, Chappell Roan, Sabrina Carpenter — and into a new era of emotional conservatism. So what happened? Is it industry fatigue? TikTok trends? Or does pop always swing back to something more familiar after a burst of innovation? We look back at the last time this happened (The Lumineers era, anyone?), explore how the cultural mood shapes what rises on the charts, and make the case that the game changers aren’t gone — they’re just waiting for the next wave.