Claim OwnershipThe Pop Pod
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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 Tuesday, Thursday and Friday.
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 Tuesday, Thursday and Friday.
52 Episodes
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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.
We missed last week—but we’re making up for it with a double dose of new music on this week’s Bop or Flop. We’re catching up on all the standout (and questionable) releases from the past two Fridays, including Sabrina Carpenter’s biting new track "Manchild" and Mariah Carey’s dramatic return with "Type Dangerous." Plus, we break down Addison Rae’s emotional "Times Like These," RAYE’s cinematic "Suzanne," Ethel Cain’s haunting "Nettles," and Zara Larsson’s shimmering "Midnight Sun." Two weeks of music. Six tracks. One verdict: bop or flop?Come and chat with us in the Discord: https://discord.gg/QEw9se7yAmSend voicenotes or questions to: thepoppod@popsamcam.com
Paramore’s RIOT! is officially an adult, and to celebrate its 18th anniversary, I’m joined by YouTube music reactor HTHAZE to dive into why this album still slaps as hard as it did in 2007. We talk about the raw energy of Hayley Williams, how RIOT! opened the door for emotional pop-rock in the mainstream, and its massive influence on today’s artists—from Olivia Rodrigo’s angst-pop anthems to Taylor Swift’s Fearless-era fire. Whether you grew up screaming “That’s What You Get” or just discovered Misery Business on TikTok, this one’s for you.Come and chat with us in the Discord: https://discord.gg/QEw9se7yAmSend voicenotes or questions to: thepoppod@popsamcam.com
1Today on The Pop Pod, I'm joined by Australian radio host and good friend Nic Kelly to break down the five pop stars who are defining the moment. From global icons like Billie Eilish to the unexpected rise of newcomers like Benson Boone, we debate who’s shaping the sound, setting the trends, and making the biggest impact in 2025. We also dig into Sabrina Carpenter’s power moves, the new era of streaming stars, and what makes a pop star truly important in today’s landscape.Come and chat with us in the Discord: https://discord.gg/QEw9se7yAmSend voicenotes or questions to: thepoppod@popsamcam.com
In this episode, we dive deep into Solange’s True EP—an indie pop and R&B hybrid that quietly shifted the pop landscape in 2012. Created in close collaboration with Dev Hynes (Blood Orange), True wasn’t a chart hit, but it became a style and sound guide for a new wave of alt-pop artists.We explore how Solange and Dev built the record across five cities, blending emotional honesty with infectious grooves. You’ll hear about the 1980s new wave and Jimmy Jam/Terry Lewis-inspired sounds that shaped the EP, why “Losing You” was a pivotal moment in pop, and how Solange’s refusal to conform laid the groundwork for artists like FKA twigs, Kelela, and Christine and the Queens.Plus, I had the pleasure of talking to Maren Morris off the back of her 'Dreamsicle' album. You can hear that chat right here.Come and chat with us in the Discord: https://discord.gg/QEw9se7yAmSend voicenotes or questions to: thepoppod@popsamcam.com
On this episode of the podcast, I’m joined by producer Jono as we dive deep into Something Beautiful, Miley Cyrus’ latest album that’s already being tipped as a potential Album of the Year contender. We go track by track, unpacking the sonic shifts, lyrical honesty, and vocal powerhouse moments that define the record. Is this her most complete body of work yet? Has Miley finally found her sound? And where does it sit in the pop landscape of 2025?Come and chat with us in the Discord: https://discord.gg/QEw9se7yAmSend voicenotes or questions to: thepoppod@popsamcam.com
Today on The Pop Pod, we're back with another Bop or Flop episode and—as always—Producer Jono is here to break down the biggest new releases. We're discussing fresh drops from Miley Cyrus, Addison Rae, Lorde and more, as we decide what's a certified bop and what… isn’t.Songs discussed this week:Addison Rae – Fame Is A GunMiley Cyrus – Easy LoverLorde – Man Of The YearTate McRae – Just Keep WatchingAva Max – Lovin MyselfConan Gray – This SongEli – MarianneOlivia Dean – Nice To Each OtherCome and chat with us in the Discord: https://discord.gg/QEw9se7yAmSend voicenotes or questions to: thepoppod@popsamcam.com
In 2017, Lorde released Melodrama — a breakup album, a coming-of-age story, and a night at a house party all rolled into one. It marked a major turning point for her: a bold reinvention that swapped minimalism for emotional maximalism. In this episode, I dive into how Melodrama was made, what it meant emotionally and artistically, and why it’s one of the most influential pop records of the 21st century. From her collaboration with Jack Antonoff to the album’s chart performance and lyrical brilliance, we unpack how Lorde turned heartbreak into high art — and how Melodrama reshaped the emotional blueprint of modern pop.
This week on The Pop Pod, I’m on the hunt for the elusive Song of the Summer — but where is it? From Alex Warren’s viral heat to Lady Gaga’s reanissance, Ravyn Lenae’s breakout to Bad Bunny’s latest drop, there are a few contenders, but it’s shaping up to be a much more melancholic summer than usual. I dive into why 2025 hasn't delivered an obvious contender yet and what that says about the pop landscape. Plus: I review Beyoncé’s Cowboy Carter Tour, and react to your picks for the biggest skips on classic pop albums.Come and chat with us in the Discord: https://discord.gg/QEw9se7yAmSend voicenotes or questions to: thepoppod@popsamcam.comFollow @the.poppod on Instagram
In 2017, Taylor Swift didn’t just release an album—she orchestrated a full-scale reinvention. Reputation arrived in the wake of public backlash, celebrity feuds, and snake emojis, marking a bold pivot from polished pop princess to calculated antihero.In this episode, we break down how Reputation reshaped the pop landscape—from its icy, industrial sound to the unprecedented social media blackout. We explore the context behind the chaos, the record-breaking numbers, and the album’s lasting influence on image, identity, and reinvention in pop music.Plus, we cover the biggest pop headlines:- Lorde previews new single Man of the Year- Renée Rapp announces her next album- Kendrick Lamar breaks a major chart record- Addison Rae unveils the tracklist for her debut albumCome and chat with us in the Discord: https://discord.gg/QEw9se7yAmSend voicenotes or questions to: thepoppod@popsamcam.com
It’s (probably) way too early—but that’s never stopped us before. In this episode, I’m breaking down the frontrunners, dark horses, and long shots for the 2026 Grammy Award for Album of the Year. From Kendrick Lamar’s GNX and SZA’s LANA, to Lady Gaga’s chaotic Mayhem, Bad Bunny’s DeBÍ TiRAR MáS FOToS, and the unexpected power duo of Elton John and Brandi Carlile, I’m diving into who’s got the momentum—and who might get snubbed. I also look at whether Charli’s remix album can break through, if Wicked could pull a Black Panther, and how artists like The Weeknd, Haim, and Lorde are staging their Grammy comebacks. Plus, I touch on potential releases from Lana Del Rey, Doja Cat, Ed Sheeran, and more.Also in this episode: I cover some of the week’s biggest music headlines, including the newly revealed tracklist for Miley Cyrus’ Something Beautiful (dropping May 30), the Eurovision 2025 winner, and the viral chart takeover from Charli XCX and Ariana Grande.Come and chat with us in the Discord: https://discord.gg/QEw9se7yAmSend voicenotes or questions to: thepoppod@popsamcam.com
We're digging into a big week of pop news: Lorde teases her upcoming "feral" album, Laufey announces her sophomore project A Matter of Time (produced by Spencer Stewart and Aaron Dessner), and Charli XCX gives fans the party 4 u video and a vinyl restock. Plus, Ravyn Lenae is climbing the global charts, and Calvin Harris scores a big gainer with “Blessings.”Then it’s onto the New Music Friday lineup—did these tracks slay or flop? We’re rating:- Lola Young – One Thing- Morgan Wallen ft. Tate McRae – What I Want- Laufey – Tough Luck- Kesha – Boy Crazy- Little Simz – Young- MØ – Heartbreak- Chlose Qisha – The Boys- Noah Cyrus – I Saw The MountainsPlus, throwbacks from Rihanna and Charli XCX.Come and chat with us in the Discord: https://discord.gg/QEw9se7yAm
In 2020, Charli XCX gave herself just four weeks in lockdown to make a full album — and somehow created one of the most important pop records of the 21st century. how i’m feeling now is euphoric and sad, raw and ravey, intimate yet made for a crowd we couldn’t be in.In this episode, I unpack the album’s strange magic — the glitchy production, the club beats we danced to alone, and the heartbreak that hit even harder with distance. I talk about the producers who helped shape it (A.G. Cook, BJ Burton, Danny L Harle), how it quietly reshaped pop music, and why “party 4 u” feels even more devastating now than it did in lockdown.I also cover the news headlines in pop:JADE announces her debut albumRihanna has new music comingA 'party 4 u' music video is on the way.Email voicenotes to thepoppod@popsamcam.comCome and chat with us in the Discord: https://discord.gg/QEw9se7yAm
On this episode, I’m diving into the pop singles that shouldn’t have been hits — and the deep cuts that deserved the spotlight instead. From Beyoncé to Lana Del Rey, Lady Gaga to SZA, I'm calling out the pop crimes and imagining alternate timelines where justice was served. Why did “Halo” blow up but a song like "Boydguard" never got off the ground? Plus, I’m giving some love to the songs that could still bee hits if the stars align just right.In music news: Charli XCX reportedly shot a video for fan favourite “Party 4 U,” Lola Young is dropping “One Thing” this Friday, and "Supernatural" by Ariana Grande is having a surprise chart moment. Lorde’s “Ribs” is back on the Global Spotify chart (justice!), and Shaboozey’s “A Bar Song (Tipsy)” has broken another chart record.Come and chat with us in the Discord: https://discord.gg/QEw9se7yAm
It's New Music Friday which means it's time for Bop or Flop. Producer Jono is back to help me go through the best and worst of the week including new music from Miley Cyrus, Kali Uchis and Tyla. We also bring our throwbacks to the table for a heated discussion. Here are the songs we are Bop or Flop-ping:Miley Cyrus - More To LosePinkPantheress - IllegalKali Uchis - All I Can SayCalvin Harris - BlessingsMaren Morris - Too Good Blusher - WHATEVERWHATEVERAudrey Hobart - Sue MeTyla - BlissWe also discuss the pop music headlines:Lorde has announced a tourKATSEYE and Lady Gaga continue to see streaming successDoechii addresses the Met Gala allegations of poor conductCome and chat with us in the Discord: https://discord.gg/QEw9se7yAmListen to PopSamCam's New Music Friday playlist:https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1FDLtpOHeFvrzesTKQ5Qhb?si=94e3de5245144ae1
This week, I was invited to listen to the new Miley Cyrus album ‘Something Beautiful’ and watch the accompanying film. I’m taking you behind the scenes on this episode, talking about the album that is still a couple of weeks from release. I go track-by-track through the record, talk about the most notable tracks and also answer some questions from your guys (05:30). I also cover the headlines:Rihanna won’t delay R9 because of the babyDoja Cat is looking to the ‘80s for inspiration‘Gnarly’ by KATSEYE is on the rise.Come and chat with us in the Discord: https://discord.gg/QEw9se7yAmSend voicenotes or questions to: thepoppod@popsamcam.com
Around this time last year, we were in a prosperous period for pop music. Over the space of just a couple months we got albums from some of the biggest pop artists in the game from Beyoncé to Taylor Swift. A year on though, some unexpected records have risen to the top while some hugely anticipated ones failed to deliver. On this episode, we reappraise these albums a year on. The album covered are:Taylor Swift - The Tortured Poets DepartmentBeyoncé - Cowboy CarterAriana Grande - Eternal SunshineCharli XCX - BratDua Lipa - Radical OptimismKacey Musgraves - Deeper WellBillie Eilish - Hit Me Hard and SoftCamila Cabello - C, XOXOWe also cover the latest headlines including: Lady Gaga playing to 2 million+ in BrazilCharli XCX wraps up the Brat headline tourBad Bunny announces a new tourCome and chat with us in the Discord: https://discord.gg/QEw9se7yAm
It’s New Music Friday and we have the fresh tunes at the ready to judge. Sam and producer Jono play Bop or Flop with new music from Selena Gomez & Benny Blanco, Ed Sheeran, Katseye, Ravyn Lenae and more. Plus, Sam talks about seeing Charli XCX’s ‘Brat’ show again in New York. We also cover the headlines:A new Miley Cyrus ballad on the wayThe F1 Movie Soundtrack lines up RAYE, Doja Cat, Ed Sheeran, Tate McRae and moreLorde talks about how Charli XCX informed her new album ‘Virgin’Lady Gaga rises in the charts with ‘Judas’Here are the songs we cover in Bop or Flop:Don Toliver & Doja Cat - Lose My Mind Ed Sheeran - Old PhoneSelena Gomez - TalkMaroon 5 - Priceless (Feat. Lisa)Mimi Webb - Mind Reader (Feat. Meghan Trainor)Dove Cameron - French GirlsKatseye - GnarlyFlume & JPEGMAFIA - Is It Real (Feat. Ravyn Lenae)Come and chat with us in the Discord: https://discord.gg/QEw9se7yAmGet your new music fix with PopSamCam’s New Music Friday:https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1FDLtpOHeFvrzesTKQ5Qhb?si=730499302a7346dc
Joining the podcast today, a songwriter and artist who has written 8 number one single - Bonnie Mckee. Bonnie was one of the main writers on Katy Perry’s ‘Teenage Dream’ album and went onto define the recession pop era with her delightfully escapist pop music. On The Pop Pod, she talks about being in rooms with Max Martin and Katy Perry plus watching her brand of pop music trend in and out. Also on the podcast today:Lorde announces her fourth album ‘Virgin’Beyoncé kicks off the ‘Cowboy Carter’ tourSelena Gomez and Benny Blanco announce a deluxe edition of ‘I Said I Love Your First’Ravyn Lenae, Jessie Murph and Sombr continue to rise up the charts.Come and chat with us in the Discord: https://discord.gg/QEw9se7yAm
Beyoncé is truly one of the greatest album artists in pop music history. Since her debut with Dangerously In Love, she has consistently delivered era-defining records. With the Cowboy Carter tour about to kick off, I'm taking on the near-impossible task of ranking Beyoncé’s full discography from worst to best. From early classics to groundbreaking visual albums, we dive deep into her evolution as an artist.I’d love to hear your thoughts too — let me know your favorite and least favorite Beyoncé albums!Also in this episode:Lana Del Rey debuts brand-new music live at Stagecoach FestivalChappell Roan announces a new management team amid her breakout yearHow Lorde’s new single “What Was That” performed in its first week🎶 Join the Pop Chat Discord to keep the pop music conversation going!https://discord.gg/8uKPnWthTR
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