Grammar Matters and Stuff That Isn't Funny

We're back! In this ep, Mat and Tim reflect on their time away from the pod – then they consider what the upcoming season of Earbuddies might look like thematically. Oh yeah, we're navel-gazing! Come along for the fun.SONGS PLAYED:Insane Clown Posse - Hokus PokusAlan Menken & Howard Ashman - Beauty and the BeastBruce Springsteen - Born in the U.S.A.Elton John - Circle of LifeDISCLAIMERS:Under section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for “fair use” of copyrighted material in a manner that constitutes quotation, criticism, review, parody, caricature, pastiche, and other legal copyright exceptions. Fair use is a use permitted by copyright statute that might otherwise by infringing.Also, nobody actually sponsors Earbuddies. We're just joking.

Or is it... Pod Buddy Summer? In this ep, Mat and Tim suspend their summer hiatus to catch up on a momentous season for pop music, spearheaded by Chappell Roan, Sabrina Carpenter, and Charli XCX. So many killer tunes in one summer! But where do Taylor Swift and Katy Perry fit into the mix?This episode contains explicit language.SONGS PLAYED:Chappell Roan - HOT TO GO!Chappell Roan - Good Luck, Babe!Chappell Roan - Red Wine SupernovaSabrina Carpenter - Please Please PleaseCharli XCX - 360Taylor Swift - The AlchemyKaty Perry - Woman's WorldCharli XCX - Girl, so confusingDISCLAIMER:Under section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for “fair use” of copyrighted material in a manner that constitutes quotation, criticism, review, parody, caricature, pastiche, and other legal copyright exceptions. Fair use is a use permitted by copyright statute that might otherwise by infringing.

In this season finale, Mat and Tim read excerpts from an article by Leonard Bernstein for The Atlantic entitled "Speaking of Music," published in December of 1957. Leonard's words cause the buddies to consider: what's the point of this entire podcast?We thank you for your continued support of Earbuddies. Regular episode releases will continue in the fall of 2024. You may also receive bonus episodes in your feed as the summer progresses. So please don't unsubscribe! Please.SONGS PLAYED:Ludwig von Beethoven - Eroica SymphonyShenandoah (arr. Frank Ticheli)Tracy Chapman - Fast Car (Orchestral Version)DISCLAIMERS:Under section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for “fair use” of copyrighted material in a manner that constitutes quotation, criticism, review, parody, caricature, pastiche, and other legal copyright exceptions. Fair use is a use permitted by copyright statute that might otherwise by infringing.

The British are coming! In this episode, Mat and Tim lead the Earbuddies Army to the battlefield. On the other side: the "21st Century Mozart," Jacob Collier. Who is he? What's his deal? Why does he make music the way that he does – and what's the difference between good music and good songs?SONGS PLAYED:Jacob Collier - All Night Long (feat. Take 6)Jacob Collier - Over You (feat. aespa & Chris Martin)Lizzy McAlpine - erase me (feat. Jacob Collier)Jacob Collier - Summer Rain (feat. Madison Cunningham & Chris Thile)Jacob Collier - Isn't She LovelyJacob Collier - Don't You Worry 'Bout a ThingJacob Collier - FlintstonesJacob Collier - With the Love In My HeartJacob Collier - Moon RiverJacob Collier - 100,000 VoicesJacob Collier - Do You Feel Love (feat. Steve Vai)Daniel Johnston - True Love Will Find You In the EndJacob Collier - The Audience Choir (Live at O2 Academy Brixton, London)Jacob Collier - Little Blue (feat. Brandi Carlile)Bill Withers - Lean On MeNemo - The CodeDISCLAIMERS:Under section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for “fair use” of copyrighted material in a manner that constitutes quotation, criticism, review, parody, caricature, pastiche, and other legal copyright exceptions. Fair use is a use permitted by copyright statute that might otherwise by infringing.Also, nobody actually sponsors Earbuddies. We're just joking.

Pucker up! In this ep, Mat and Tim reflect on a sub-sub-sub-genre of emo music that was, plain and simple, made for kissin'. (And for weeping over the kisses you'll no longer get.) Plus: circling back to the presidential canine situation.SONGS PLAYED:From First To Last - EmilySecondhand Serenade - Fall For YouTaking Back Sunday - New American ClassicSomething Corporate - As You SleepDashboard Confessional - Screaming InfidelitiesA Day To Remember - If It Means a Lot To YouDaphne Loves Derby - Hopeless LoveThe Red Jumpsuit Apparatus - Your Guardian AngelStraylight Run - Existentialism On Prom NightBoys Like Girls - ThunderDISCLAIMER:Under section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for “fair use” of copyrighted material in a manner that constitutes quotation, criticism, review, parody, caricature, pastiche, and other legal copyright exceptions. Fair use is a use permitted by copyright statute that might otherwise by infringing.

In this solo ep, Tim's thinking different! He recalls the remarkable history of the iPod and the rise of the digital music era – and suggests that the golden age of music consumption is in the rearview.SONGS PLAYED: Yuzzy - A Little MorningJet - Are You Gonna Be My GirlYuzzy - Running WildU2 - VertigoThe Philadelphia Orchestra - Clair de LuneYuzzy - ElipseYuzzy - Thin Paper HutYuzzy - Snow MorningPrestige Podcast Background Music by Yuzzy: https://bit.ly/2nUbGqDDISCLAIMER:Under section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for “fair use” of copyrighted material in a manner that constitutes quotation, criticism, review, parody, caricature, pastiche, and other legal copyright exceptions. Fair use is a use permitted by copyright statute that might otherwise by infringing.

You smoked then ate seven bars of chocolate / We declared Earbuddies should be a bigger podcastIn this tortured ep, Mat and Tim share their preliminary thoughts about Taylor Swift's eleventh studio album, The Tortured Poets Department: The Anthology. As you can see from the title of this ep, they found it to be lacking! They hone in on the tunes and enter into evidence their talismans and charms, etc.SONGS PLAYED:Taylor Swift - The Tortured Poets DepartmentTaylor Swift - My Boy Only Breaks His Favorite ToysTaylor Swift - Fortnight (feat. Post Malone)Taylor Swift - Cruel SummerTaylor Swift - I Hate It HereTaylor Swift - The Black DogTaylor Swift - Chloe or Sam or Sophia or MarcusTaylor Swift - lomlTaylor Swift - How Did It End?Taylor Swift - So High SchoolTaylor Swift - I Can Do It With a Broken HeartTaylor Swift - So Long, LondonTaylor Swift - But Daddy I Love HimTaylor Swift - The AlchemyDISCLAIMER:Under section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for “fair use” of copyrighted material in a manner that constitutes quotation, criticism, review, parody, caricature, pastiche, and other legal copyright exceptions. Fair use is a use permitted by copyright statute that might otherwise by infringing.

In this episode, Mat and Tim are joined by Alvin Jones, otherwise known as "The Unseen VJ" – the man who created Rap City, a long-running music video program on BET. He tells the buddies what inspired him to push for greater hip-hop representation on BET in the mid- to late-80s, and reflects on the impact his advocacy has had on the tapestry of hip-hop and rap in the decades since.FURTHER VIEWING:The 17th Annual Blacks In Wax: Hip Hop: The Music, The Culture, The Struggle at The Kennedy Center, March 16, 2024Welcome To Rap City - Three-Part Documentary on BETSONGS PLAYED:Excerpt from Rap City, 1990Excerpt from Blacks In Wax at The Kennedy Center, 2024Excerpt from Video Soul, 1987Excerpt from Video Vibrations, 1986Doug E. Fresh - D.E.F. = Doug E. FreshExcerpt from CBS News' coverage of the March on Washington, 1963Excerpt from Rap City: The BasementNew Edition - Earth AngelDISCLAIMER:Under section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for “fair use” of copyrighted material in a manner that constitutes quotation, criticism, review, parody, caricature, pastiche, and other legal copyright exceptions. Fair use is a use permitted by copyright statute that might otherwise by infringing.

In this solo ep, Tim talks through the history – and indeed, the controversy – of Rhapsody in Blue by George Gershwin. It's one of the most iconic pieces of American music ever composed. But its origin story is a little complicated. Leave it to Timmy to sort it all out!SONGS PLAYED:George Gershwin - Rhapsody in BlueEddie Cantor - If You Knew Susie (Like I Know Susie!)Willie "The Lion" Smith - Keep Your TemperW.C. Handy - St. Louis BluesPaul Simon - Crazy Love, Vol. IIBéla Fleck - Rhapsody in Blue(grass)FURTHER READING:Arranging Gershwin: Rhapsody in Blue and the Creation of an American Icon by Ryan Bañagale‘We must face harms done”: Béla Fleck's defense of George Gershwin's ‘Rhapsody in Blue'DISCLAIMER:Under section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for “fair use” of copyrighted material in a manner that constitutes quotation, criticism, review, parody, caricature, pastiche, and other legal copyright exceptions. Fair use is a use permitted by copyright statute that might otherwise by infringing.

We could have had it all! In this episode, Mat and Tim get a bit, oh, idk, philosophical, about incredible vocalists. What does our love of great singers say about our entertainment preferences as a culture? Are we prioritizing the right things? Hmm. You'll know in about 59 minutes!SONGS PLAYED:Beyoncé - TEXAS HOLD 'EMTeddy Swims - Lose ControlAdele - Rolling in the DeepClay Aiken - Build Me Up Buttercup (from American Idol)John Legend - All of MeCarrie Underwood - Church BellsCarrie Underwood - Blown AwayKelly Clarkson - What Was I Made For?Billie Eilish - What Was I Made For?Teddy Swims - Make You Feel My LoveQueen - Crazy Little Thing Called LoveChris Stapleton - Tennessee WhiskeyQueen - Don't Stop Me NowColdplay - Fix YouDISCLAIMERS:Under section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for “fair use” of copyrighted material in a manner that constitutes quotation, criticism, review, parody, caricature, pastiche, and other legal copyright exceptions. Fair use is a use permitted by copyright statute that might otherwise by infringing.Also, nobody actually sponsors Earbuddies. We're just joking.

We're bringing buddies back! In this episode, Mat and Tim pore over the life and career of Justin Timberlake – from Mouseketeer to boy band heartthrob to swagged-up solo act and beyond. But what about his gaffes?? And what does the listening public want from JT in this day and age? Folks, you know we've got the answers.SONGS PLAYED:The Mickey Mouse Club Theme SongJustin Timberlake - Always In My HeartJustin Timberlake - SelfishJustin Timberlake - My LoveNSYNC - It's Gonna Be MeJustin Timberlake - SeñoritaJustin Timberlake - I'm Lovin' ItJustin Timberlake - SexyBackJustin Timberlake - What Goes Around... Comes AroundThe Lonely Island - D*** in a BoxJustin Timberlake - Suit & TieJustin Timberlake - MirrorsJustin Timberlake - Say SomethingJustin Timberlake - PlayJustin Timberlake - Paradise (feat. NSYNC)DISCLAIMERS:Under section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for “fair use” of copyrighted material in a manner that constitutes quotation, criticism, review, parody, caricature, pastiche, and other legal copyright exceptions. Fair use is a use permitted by copyright statute that might otherwise by infringing.

Come out, ye buddies fans! Matty's on the mic for a solo episode of Earbuddies in which he discusses Irish music and culture. Why do we Americans love St. Patrick's Day so much? What's going on with these tunes? Simply download and listen, and allow Mat to delight you with his signature demure wit and wry intellect!DISCLAIMER:Under section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for “fair use” of copyrighted material in a manner that constitutes quotation, criticism, review, parody, caricature, pastiche, and other legal copyright exceptions. Fair use is a use permitted by copyright statute that might otherwise by infringing.

Oh! Say! In this episode, Mat and Tim dig deep into our nation's anthem: The Star Spangled Banner. They consider its strengths and shortcomings, and offer a patriotic prescription to make the song truly work for America.SONGS PLAYED:Kinsley Murray - The Star Spangled BannerLuther Vandross - The Star Spangled BannerThe Star Spangled Banner (Orchestral)Gaither Vocal Band - The Star Spangled BannerLee Greenwood - The Star Spangled BannerMy Country! Tis of TheeP!NK - The Star Spangled BannerJon Batiste - The Star Spangled BannerDISCLAIMERS:Under section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for “fair use” of copyrighted material in a manner that constitutes quotation, criticism, review, parody, caricature, pastiche, and other legal copyright exceptions. Fair use is a use permitted by copyright statute that might otherwise by infringing.Also, nobody actually sponsors Earbuddies. We're just joking.

We can only imagine! In this episode, Mat and Tim recall the heyday of CCM – contemporary Christian music – and bemoan the ever-narrowing sonic range found in the genre today. What happened? The answer, it turns out, is tied to money, focus groups, and someone named Becky. Oh, you guys are gonna love this ep! Get to listening!SONGS PLAYED:MercyMe - I Can Only ImagineHousefires - I Thank GodJars of Clay - FloodNewsboys - Entertaining AngelsNewsboys - Love, Liberty, DiscoAudio Adrenaline - Never Gonna Be As Big As JesusChris Tomlin - Holy ForeverPhil Wickham - This Is Our GodChris Tomlin - Jesus MessiahBethel Music - I Still BelieveNewsboys - He LivesNewsboys - I Will Give EverythingNewsboys - BreakfastNewsboys - Greatness of Our GodDC Talk - Jesus FreakElevation Worship - Trust In GodSwitchfoot - Meant To LiveRend Collective - Oceans (Where Feet May Fail)MercyMe - I Can Only ImagineOlivia Rodrigo - good 4 uOlivia Rodrigo - brutalDISCLAIMERS:Under section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for “fair use” of copyrighted material in a manner that constitutes quotation, criticism, review, parody, caricature, pastiche, and other legal copyright exceptions. Fair use is a use permitted by copyright statute that might otherwise by infringing.Also, nobody actually sponsors Earbuddies. We're just joking.

If you're happy and you know it, subscribe to Earbuddies! In this ep, Mat and Tim are joined by Caitlin Claessens, better known by millions as Caitie from Super Simple Songs. Caitlin discusses her status as a kids' music superstar – then, they figure out what separates the great children's tunes from the rest.SONGS PLAYED:Super Simple Songs - There's a Monster in My TummySuper Simple Songs - Days of the WeekSuper Simple Songs - The Bath SongSuper Simple Songs - Open Shut Them #2Super Simple Songs - I See Something BlueSuper Simple Songs - And the Green Grass GrewCaitie's Classroom - If You're Happy & You Know ItSuper Simple Songs - With My HeartFred Penner's Place - IntroFred Penner - What a Day!Caitie's Classroom - Healthy SmilesFred Rogers - What Do You Do?Caitie's Classroom - Countdown To Christmas!DISCLAIMER:Under section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for “fair use” of copyrighted material in a manner that constitutes quotation, criticism, review, parody, caricature, pastiche, and other legal copyright exceptions. Fair use is a use permitted by copyright statute that might otherwise by infringing.

Turn that up in my headphones! In this episode, Mat and Tim discuss the crucial role that producers play in the creation of pop music as we know it.DISCLAIMERS:Under section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for “fair use” of copyrighted material in a manner that constitutes quotation, criticism, review, parody, caricature, pastiche, and other legal copyright exceptions. Fair use is a use permitted by copyright statute that might otherwise by infringing.Also, nobody actually sponsors Earbuddies. We're just joking.

Put on your suspenders and fill your mason jars! In this ep, Mat and Tim prepare the Earbuddies Army for the coming return of indie folk – a genre that defined millennial culture 15 years ago. What are we supposed to do? How are we supposed to feel? Let the buddies figure it out for you!SONGS PLAYED:Noah Kahan - All My LoveNoah Kahan - Stick SeasonMumford & Sons - I Will WaitOf Monsters and Men - Little TalksMumford & Sons - Little Lion ManThe Lumineers - Ho HeyPhillip Phillips - HomePhillip Phillips - Gone, Gone, GoneOne Direction - The Story of My LifeAmerican Authors - Best Day of My LifeVance Joy - RiptideNoah Kahan, Post Malone - Dial DrunkNoah Kahan - False ConfidenceEdward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros - HomeSheryl Crow - Real GoneRascal Flatts - Life Is a HighwayMumford & Sons - The CaveMarcus Mumford & Oscar Isaac - Fare Thee Well (Dink's Song)Marcus Mumford & Tom Howe - Ted Lasso ThemeDISCLAIMERS:Under section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for “fair use” of copyrighted material in a manner that constitutes quotation, criticism, review, parody, caricature, pastiche, and other legal copyright exceptions. Fair use is a use permitted by copyright statute that might otherwise by infringing.Also, nobody actually sponsors Earbuddies. We're just joking.

Sound the alarm!! In this emergency ep, Mat and Tim unpack the big moments from MUSIC'S BIGGEST NIGHT. From Tracy Chapman to Miley Cyrus, and of course, Taylor Swift's announcement of "The Tortured Poets Department". All's fair in love and poetry, I guess!

GARTH BROOKS IF YOU'RE READING THIS: OUR USE OF YOUR MUSIC IS PROTECTED BY FAIR USE PRINCIPLES UNDER THE COPYRIGHT ACT OF 1976. PLEASE LEAVE US ALONE. THANK YOUIn this ep, Mat and Tim discuss the best selling solo recording artist of all time: Garth Brooks! Everyone knows who he is, but does anyone know *who he is*? It's time to find out.SONGS PLAYED:Garth Brooks - Callin' Baton RougeGarth Brooks - Me Without YouGarth Brooks - Friends In Low PlacesGarth Brooks - Papa Loved MamaChris Gaines - Lost In YouGarth Brooks - ShamelessGarth Brooks - We Shall Be FreeVulfpeck - Back Pocket (Live at Bonnaroo)Vulfpeck - Dean TownDISCLAIMERS:Under section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for “fair use” of copyrighted material in a manner that constitutes quotation, criticism, review, parody, caricature, pastiche, and other legal copyright exceptions. Fair use is a use permitted by copyright statute that might otherwise by infringing.Also, nobody actually sponsors Earbuddies. We're just joking.

Zzzzzz... in this palate-cleansing episode, Mat and Tim discuss a topsy-turvy cottage industry within the music industry: "functional noise." That is, white noise! What is it? Why is it so comforting? And should white noise farmers be paid by Spotify at the same rate as musical artists? Answers within!SONGS PLAYED:Vulfpeck - Fugue StateVampire Weekend - White SkyVampire Weekend - M79Vampire Weekend - A-PunkVampire Weekend - Everlasting ArmsDisclaimers:Under section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for “fair use” of copyrighted material in a manner that constitutes quotation, criticism, review, parody, caricature, pastiche, and other legal copyright exceptions. Fair use is a use permitted by copyright statute that might otherwise be infringing.Also, nobody actually sponsors Earbuddies. We're just joking.

Drop and give us 100! In this centennial ep, Mat and Tim share ten lists of ten tunes (which equals one hundred. You get it!) They laugh. They cry. They look back. They look to the future. Join them!Visit Earbuddies.Army for the latest from your buddies, as well as exclusive merchandise!Click here to see all ten lists of ten songs. This link contains spoilers for this episode of Earbuddies!---Disclaimer:Under section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for “fair use” of copyrighted material in a manner that constitutes quotation, criticism, review, parody, caricature, pastiche, and other legal copyright exceptions. Fair use is a use permitted by copyright statute that might otherwise be infringing.

Those were the best days of his life! In this ep, Mat and Tim are joined by a songwriter whose work helped define rock and pop music in the 1980s: Jim Vallance. He tells us why for him, songwriting isn't a choice: it's what he must do. Plus, he offers insights into his long and fruitful career writing music with Bryan Adams.SONGS PLAYED:Bryan Adams - Summer of '69Aerosmith - Rag DollBryan Adams - Don't Ya Say ItBryan Adams - Cuts Like a KnifeBryan Adams - HeavenHeart - What About Love?Bryan Adams - Heat of the NightSamantha Barks - Anywhere But Here (from Pretty Woman: The Musical)Disclaimers:Under section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for “fair use” of copyrighted material in a manner that constitutes quotation, criticism, review, parody, caricature, pastiche, and other legal copyright exceptions. Fair use is a use permitted by copyright statute that might otherwise be infringing.Also, nobody actually sponsors Earbuddies. We're just joking.

When good buddies go bad! From ‘irreconcilable differences of ambition' to ‘ultimate partnership betrayal' – so many buddies of yesteryear have gone their separate ways. What can Mat and Tim, as buddies themselves, learn from these bygone buddies to ensure that their personal and professional relationship remains fruitful and life-giving?Songs Played:Daryl Hall & John Oates - Kiss On My ListThe White Stripes - Seven Nation ArmyThe Beatles - Let It BeThe Civil Wars - Poison & WineSimon & Garfunkel - Bridge Over Troubled WaterThe Everly Brothers - Dream, Dream, DreamThe Charley Family - Down By The RiversideThe Wonders - That Thing You Do!Blossom Dearie - They Can't Take That Away From MeShow and Tell:Billie Joe Armstrong and Norah Jones - Long Time GoneFleetwood Mac - Go Your Own WayDisclaimers:Under section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for “fair use” of copyrighted material in a manner that constitutes quotation, criticism, review, parody, caricature, pastiche, and other legal copyright exceptions. Fair use is a use permitted by copyright statute that might otherwise by infringing.Also, nobody actually sponsors Earbuddies. We're just joking.

Grab your pitch pipes! In this ep, Mat and Tim discuss the world's preeminent a cappella group, Pentatonix. They ask (and answer!) so many questions: Are they a Christmas band? Why do they make those faces all the time? How in the world do they sound like that? Do they actually like being an a cappella group? And so on and so forth. Buckle up, choir nerds.SONGS PLAYED:Pentatonix - Mary, Did You Know?Pentatonix - E.T. (from NBC's 'The Sing-Off')Pentatonix - Somebody That I Used To KnowPentatonix - God Only KnowsPentatonix - The Sound of SilencePentatonix - Be My EyesEric Whitacre - SleepRoomful of Teeth - OtherwisePentatonix - Daft PunkDaft Punk - Get LuckyPentatonix - Evolution of Ariana GrandePentatonix - Jolene (ft. Dolly Parton)Eric Whitacre - Lux AurumqueTiny Habits - landslideThe Beach Boys - God Only KnowsT-Pain - I'm N Love (Wit a Stripper)T-Pain - I Don't Want To Be (Live)T-Pain - Tennessee Whiskey (Live)--Disclaimers:Under section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for “fair use” of copyrighted material in a manner that constitutes quotation, criticism, review, parody, caricature, pastiche, and other legal copyright exceptions. Fair use is a use permitted by copyright statute that might otherwise be infringing.Also, nobody actually sponsors Earbuddies. We're just joking.

We'll pod our best for you (pa-rum-pum-pum-pum)! In this holiday ep, Mat and Tim unwrap the entire history of the most important drum ever invented: the snare drum. From the nativity of Christ to the end of monoculture, we trace every boom-chick and rat-a-tat-tat throughout history.SONGS PLAYED:Traditional - The Little Drummer BoyBuddy Rich - Talk of the TownGreg Hutchinson - Drum SoloTraditional - Fife and Drum of the Revolutionary WarZac Brown Band - Chicken FriedJohn Philip Sousa - Semper FidelisTeddy Wilson - Exactly Like YouThe Contours - Do You Love MeStevie Wonder - SuperstitionMichael Jackson - Rock With YouChicago - Stay the NightPhil Collins - In the Air TonightBruce Springsteen - Born in the U.S.A.Human League - Don't You Want MeSixpence None the Richer - Kiss MeRed Hot Chili Peppers - CalifornicationGin Blossoms - Follow You DownParamore - Misery BusinessUnderoath - A Boy Brushed Red, Living in Black and WhiteQueen - Crazy Little Thing Called LoveLorde - RoyalsThe Beatles - Eight Days a WeekPentatonix - Little Drummer BoySHOW AND TELL:Blink-182 - I Miss YouLuke Bryan - But I Got a Beer In My HandPhil Wickham - This Is Our God--Disclaimers:Under section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for “fair use” of copyrighted material in a manner that constitutes quotation, criticism, review, parody, caricature, pastiche, and other legal copyright exceptions. Fair use is a use permitted by copyright statute that might otherwise be infringing.Also, nobody actually sponsors Earbuddies. We're just joking.

More like 'Rainy Days and Never Missing Mondays'! On this very special ep, Mat and Tim are joined by legendary songwriter Paul Williams. The award-winning musician shares stories about his career as a songwriter, including how he got into the headspace of Kermit the Frog for "The Rainbow Connection". He also discusses his work as an advocate for artists' rights and how he views generative AI in relation to music creation.Learn more about Paul's work and career here.SONGS PLAYED:The Muppets - ScroogeThe Carpenters - We've Only Just BegunKermit the Frog - The Rainbow Connection--Disclaimers:Under section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for “fair use” of copyrighted material in a manner that constitutes quotation, criticism, review, parody, caricature, pastiche, and other legal copyright exceptions. Fair use is a use permitted by copyright statute that might otherwise by infringing.Also, nobody actually sponsors Earbuddies. We're just joking.

Please stop asking about Tim! In this, yet another solo ep, Mat takes us down into his music laboratory to analyze one of the great “middle of the road” musical groups of our time: The Carpenters. Why do so many of us only listen to them in December? Why don't we talk about their tunes very much? It's time to change things the only way Mat knows how to: for the better.--Disclaimers:Under section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for “fair use” of copyrighted material in a manner that constitutes quotation, criticism, review, parody, caricature, pastiche, and other legal copyright exceptions. Fair use is a use permitted by copyright statute that might otherwise by infringing.Also, nobody actually sponsors Earbuddies. We're just joking.

Matty's on the mic to talk about the tunes! Or rather, a single tune – one that carried an entire feature length film and ran circles around much of the music it paid homage to: That Thing You Do!--Disclaimers:Under section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for “fair use” of copyrighted material in a manner that constitutes quotation, criticism, review, parody, caricature, pastiche, and other legal copyright exceptions. Fair use is a use permitted by copyright statute that might otherwise by infringing.Also, nobody actually sponsors Earbuddies. We're just joking.

Get by with a little help from your buddies! In this ep, Mat and Tim finally – finally – talk about the lovable lads from Liverpool. Are they actually underrated? How's that new single of theirs? And are they actually a children's band?SONGS PLAYED:The Beatles - With a Little Help From My FriendsThe Beatles - Now and ThenThe Beatles - Come TogetherThe Beatles - Penny LaneLittle Richard - Good Golly, Miss MollyThe Beatles - Eleanor RigbyThe Beatles - Can't Buy Me LoveThe Beatles - SomethingThe Beatles - Tomorrow Never KnowsThe Beatles - Rocky RaccoonThe Beatles - Here Comes the SunThe Beatles - YesterdayThe Beatles - Norwegian Wood (The Bird Has Flown)The Beatles - Ob-La-Di, Ob-La-DaElmer Fudd - With a Little Help From My Friends--Disclaimers:Under section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for “fair use” of copyrighted material in a manner that constitutes quotation, criticism, review, parody, caricature, pastiche, and other legal copyright exceptions. Fair use is a use permitted by copyright statute that might otherwise by infringing.Also, nobody actually sponsors Earbuddies. We're just joking.

Go buddies, give us nothing! In this ep, Mat and Tim try to discern the superstardom of Dua Lipa, the reigning queen of disco pop in 2023. What's beneath the surface of her tunes? Listen and find out, maybe!SONGS PLAYED:Dua Lipa - HoudiniDua Lipa - LevitatingDua Lipa - Dance the NightZetta Bytes - Nothing's Wrong With MeDua Lipa - Don't Start NowKesha - TiK ToKChic - Dance, Dance, Dance (Yowsah, Yowsah, Yowsah)Dua Lipa - New RulesKylie Minogue - Can't Get You Out of My HeadRihanna - Umbrella (feat. JAY-Z)--Disclaimers:Under section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for “fair use” of copyrighted material in a manner that constitutes quotation, criticism, review, parody, caricature, pastiche, and other legal copyright exceptions. Fair use is a use permitted by copyright statute that might otherwise by infringing.Also, nobody actually sponsors Earbuddies. We're just joking.

Won't you be my buddy? In this ep, Tim shares his love of the joyful, jazzy music of Mister Rogers' Neighborhood.SONGS PLAYED:Fred Rogers - It's You I LikeFred Rogers - Won't You Be My Neighbor?Fred Rogers - There Are Many Ways To Say "I Love You"Fred Rogers - Please Don't Think It's FunnyFred Rogers - This Is Just the DayJon Batiste - Space MakerArt Tatum - YesterdaysFred Rogers - It's Such a Good Feeling--Disclaimers:Under section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for “fair use” of copyrighted material in a manner that constitutes quotation, criticism, review, parody, caricature, pastiche, and other legal copyright exceptions. Fair use is a use permitted by copyright statute that might otherwise by infringing.Also, nobody actually sponsors Earbuddies. We're just joking.

Don't say we didn't warn you! In this ep, Mat and Tim discuss 1989 (Taylor's Version). Were the buddies wrong to be worried about this one? Is it good that Taylor's a billionaire now? Answers lie within!SONGS PLAYED:Taylor Swift - Bad Blood (Taylor's Version)Taylor Swift - Blank Space (Taylor's Version)Taylor Swift - You Are In Love (Taylor's Version)Taylor Swift - "Slut!" (Taylor's Version) [From the Vault]Taylor Swift - Now That We Don't Talk (Taylor's Version) [From the Vault]Taylor Swift - Suburban Legends (Taylor's Version) [From the Vault]Taylor Swift - Is It Over Now? (Taylor's Version) [From the Vault]Taylor Swift - Message in a Bottle (Taylor's Version) [From the Vault]Taylor Swift - Clean (Taylor's Version)--Disclaimers:Under section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for “fair use” of copyrighted material in a manner that constitutes quotation, criticism, review, parody, caricature, pastiche, and other legal copyright exceptions. Fair use is a use permitted by copyright statute that might otherwise by infringing.Also, nobody actually sponsors Earbuddies. We're just joking.

Maybe together, we can get somewhere! In the season three premiere of Earbuddies, Mat and Tim consider the state of country music – and heck, all of music – and heck, all of art, maybe! – by examining the massive success of Luke Combs's cover of Tracy Chapman's "Fast Car".SONGS PLAYED:Tracy Chapman - Fast Car (performed by Cover Orchestra)Tracy Chapman - Fast CarLuke Combs - Fast CarCole Swindell - She Had Me At Heads CarolinaJo Dee Messina - Heads Carolina, Tails CaliforniaJake Owen - On the Boat AgainTracy Chapman - Fast Car (piano arrangement by heavypiano on YouTube)Zach Bryan - I Remember Everything (feat. Kacey Musgraves)Tiny Habits - Landslide--Disclaimers:Under section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for “fair use” of copyrighted material in a manner that constitutes quotation, criticism, review, parody, caricature, pastiche, and other legal copyright exceptions. Fair use is a use permitted by copyright statute that might otherwise by infringing.Also, nobody actually sponsors Earbuddies. We're just joking.

Listening to Earbuddies tonight – it's a bad idea, right? In this special episode, Mat and Tim discuss the sophomore effort by Olivia Rodrigo, GUTS. Does it live up to its predecessor? Is it embarrassing for adults to listen to? Plus: circling back to our feelings on album lengths.

MISSION ACCOMPLISHED. In this ep, Mat and Tim reflect on the journey they've been on as part of Season Two of Earbuddies. Are we better equipped to face the pop music landscape of 2023? Find out!Thank you for your continued support of Earbuddies. Regular episode releases will continue in the fall of 2023. You may also receive bonus episodes in your feed as the summer progresses. So, you know, don't unsubscribe! Gosh, please don't unsubscribe.SONGS PLAYED:Cody Fry - I Hear a Symphony

Hit the road, Jack! In this ep, Mat and Tim are joined by marathoner Thomas Stromme, who just achieved the major milestone of completing the Boston Marathon. So what kind of tunes does he recommend training to? Plus: a trip to Planet Money to talk about BANKS.THE HOUR OF ANGST PLAYLIST:Ocean Avenue - Yellowcard Sugar we're going down – Fall Out Boy Holiday – Green DayUma Thurman – Fall Out BoyDance Dance - Fall Out Boy Centuries - Fall Out Boy Teenagers - My Chemical Romance Face Down - Red Jumpsuit ApparatusMisery Business - ParamoreGossip - Breathe Carolina American Idiot - Green DayAll the Small Things - Blink-182What's My Age Again? - Blink-182Welcome to the Black Parade - My Chemical RomanceBasket Case - Green Day Dani California - Red Hot Chili PeppersDon't Trust Me - 3OH!3Starstrukk - 3OH!3 

Or is it the American Idol of Europe? In this ep, Mat and Tim explore Eurovision: the massive annual pop music event that Americans just don't really care about.SONGS PLAYED:Noa Kirel - Unicorn (Israel)Lys Assia - Refrain (Switzerland)Conchita Wurst - Rise Like a Phoenix (Austria)Kalush Orchestra - Stefania (Ukraine)ABBA - Waterloo (Sweden)Käärijä - Cha Cha Cha (Finland)Loreen - Tattoo (Sweden)Igor Cukrov feat. Andrea - Lijepa Tena (Croatia)Mariya Yaremchuk - Tick-Tock (Ukraine)Barbara Pravi - Voila (France)Marian van de Wal - La Mirada Interior (Andorra)The Room - Discotheque (Lithuania)Djschinghis Khan - Djschinghis Khan (West Germany)Alexander Rybak - Fairytale (Norway)

This one's for all you mathematicians! In this ep, Mat and Tim finally consider the life and times of Ed Sheeran, who 1) just released a new album, and 2) just saved pop music(?!).SONGS PLAYED:Ed Sheeran - Shape of YouEd Sheeran - BoatEd Sheeran - The A TeamJustin Bieber - Love YourselfEd Sheeran - SingOne Direction - Little ThingsEd Sheeran - Thinking Out LoudEd Sheeran - Bad HabitsDamien Rice - The Blower's DaughterTaylor Swift - Picture To BurnTaylor Swift - Blank SpaceEd Sheeran - ShiversEd Sheeran - BorderlineMarvin Gaye - Let's Get It OnSponsored by the Harvard Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics.

We LOVE computers! But... In this ep, Mat and Tim share their feelings on the rise of generative artificial intelligence in the world of pop music. Is it a useful tool for artists? Or a threat to art itself?Sponsored by Mojave Max.SONGS PLAYED:Imogen Heap - Hide and SeekHolly Herndon - FrontierGhostwriter - Heart on My SleeveBrian Eno - Discreet MusicOlafur Arnalds - ekki hugsaDavid Guetta - Live excerptBrooklyn Duo feat. Dover Quartet - Hide and Seek (Imogen Heap cover)Brian Eno - 1/1

There must be more than this provincial pod! In this ep, Mat and Tim give flowers to Alan Menken, whose  Disney songs and film scores in the 1980s and 1990s gave the Mouse the strength he needed to tower over us today. Plus: each buddy shares his top three Menken tunes.

They said North Dakota in that song!! In this ep, Mat and Tim dissect the tunes of the Red Hot Chili Peppers. How did they impact Tim so significantly at a young age? Does their stuff hold up today? Should we have gone to see them at the Fargodome a few weeks ago? The answers lie ahead!

Now that's what I call hospital soap opera montage music! In this ep, Mat and Tim are joined by Courtney Olson to discuss Regina Spektor, one of her favorite artists. Then they consider the subgenre of Greycore: the heartstring-pulling needle drops from Grey's Anatomy. Choose us! Love us!Sponsored by The Super Mario Bros. Movie.

It's all so clear! In this ep, Mat and Tim check out 100 Gecs and the subgenre they helped define, hyperpop – and against all odds, the buddies reach an epiphany.

Thirty-six songs...? In this ep, Mat and Tim discuss the rise, brief fall, and then even bigger rise of Morgan Wallen, and what his persistent stardom says about the broader music industry.LINK: Pitchfork's review of One Thing at a Time by Morgan WallenSponsored by Subway.

Hon hon hon! In this ep, Tim is flying solo and talking through one of the most beloved classical music pieces of all time.LINK: Gilles-Claude Thériault reads Paul Verlaine's Promenade sentimentale

THIS IS OUR SCORE. In this ep, Mat and Tim are joined by certified film expert Caleb Steele to discuss the year's biggest music movie, TÁR.Sponsored by Lydia Tár.

Matty's on the mic for another great ep! This time he's examining the career and tunes of Meghan Trainor, including her latest, "Mother." And of course, he looks into the cultural discussion surrounding the tune.NOTE: Next week's episode will include a spoiler-full discussion of the film Tár. We invite you to watch the movie by next Monday so the ep makes sense!

"CALL 911 NOW!" In this ep, Mat and Tim share their first impressions of Skrillex's latest album releases – then they look at the growing trend of early 2010s artists chasing resurgences. Is it all for naught? Or is there hope for some of the most viral stars of that era?

Better have our money! In this ep, Mat and Tim break down why they loved Rihanna's Super Bowl halftime performance, and why her big moment has them considering whether artists owe consumers anything. Plus: America's Anchorman returns to say "See? I told you so!" about TikTok and Miley Cyrus.Sponsored by Rihanna.

There are plenty of buds in the sea! In this ep, Mat and Tim discuss several *other* pairs of musical buddies.Sponsored by the Library of Congress.

It's music's second-biggest night! In this solo ep, Matty talks through the 2023 Grammy Awards. Do they matter?