It's Real with Jordan and Demi

Kelsy Karter is a throwback to when rock 'n' roll was fun. Stylistically, her music is brash and anthemic, somewhere between '70s arena rock and '80s pop metal.Aesthetically, Karter and her band the Heroines fit the part. Long messy hair, tight pants, and black leather help create an experience that feels lifted from the Sunset Strip's heyday.As the band tours the world and releases music like the recent power ballad "Hotel Flamingo," they keep the momentum going for rock's resurgence. Their new album, Love Made Me Do It, is out Jan. 31.For the final episode of 2025, Jordan Edwards and Demi Ramos talk to Karter about new music, her viral Harry Styles face tattoo, and why she loves life on the road.

During the holidays, it's easy to forget the excitement and anticipation you experienced as a child. With “Kid at Christmas,” Calum Scott captures the magic of that feeling.A duet with Christina Perri, the single is a reminder to slow down and feel the joy of the season. Build around piano and strings, it evokes the classic Christmas pop era of the 1950s and '60s.Jordan Edwards talks to Scott about the story behind the song and some favorite Christmas memories. After the interview, stick around for Demi Ramos' favorite albums of 2024.

It's Bootsy, baby! Jordan and Demi talk to legendary bassist Bootsy Collins about working with James Brown, George Clinton, Kali Uchis and more!

What's that sound? It's the angelic voice of Clay Aiken. The 'American Idol' favorite has returned with a new Christmas album. 'Christmas Bells Are Ringing' is a collection of holiday standards inspired by the golden era that gave us classics by Perry Como, Brenda Lee, Andy Williams, and Darlene Love.Jordan and Demi talk to Aiken about recording the album, his favorite holiday foods (hot takes!), and his rise to fame on 'Idol."

This week, Demi talks to two of her favorite indie artists, re6ce and Max Fry. re6ce is a Liverpool-based musician. From a small home studio, re6ce creates trippy pop that meshes chillwave with Stone Roses-style psychedelia. Their latest single "SCREAMING ALONE" follows the EP grey europe from earlier this year.Max Fry is a songwriter and producer who calls his mix of dark post punk and synth pop "Floridacore." His rise in popularity was ignited by the viral single "zombie," released in 2023. Like re6ce, Fry is adept at making music that sounds futuristic and vintage at the same time.

Emi Grace can shred! The guitarist, producer, and songwriter has built a huge social media following thanks to her "Trashy Tone Thursday" videos. Inspired by rock legends from the '70s and '80s, she mixes complex guitar work with modern beats. She's always pushing the boundaries of what a guitar can sound like. Jordan Edwards and Demi Ramos talk to Emi Grace about developing her technique, her favorite guitarists, and collaborating with roommate Zoe Ko. Plus a performance!

The megahit "Sail," made Aaron Bruno famous, but he spent more than a decade performing in different bands before creating AWOLNATION. Since then, his music has become the soundtrack for countless commercials, TV Shows, and sporting events. Bruno continues to try different sounds and instruments as AWOLNATION evolves.In this episode, Bruno talks to Jordan and Demi about the making of his new album, The Phantom Five, the creation of "Sail," and his love for surfing and the Las Vegas Raiders.

We're back with two of our good friends from the LA music scene! Chloe Chaidez is known to for fronting the band Kitten. Recently she's focused on PSY Sound, a record label, production studio, and artist development company. One of Chaidez's frequent collaborators is Kian Stevens-Winston AKA Sugar Pit. The viral musician/producer, known for his high energy and bizarre videos, recently signed to Atlantic Records. Demi talks to both about working together, their legendary DIY shows, and the motivation behind their unique fashion choices.

If you've been on social media in the last few months, you've probably come across "Dirt Man." The funny little song has changed Carter Vail's life. There's merch, sold out live shows, and even an official Bob's Burgers tribute.Vail talks to Jordan and Demi about the making of "Dirt Man," his favorite music gear, and his love for mixed martial arts.

Dun-dun! Jordan and Demi talk to legendary TV composer Mike Post. His iconic themes include Law & Order, NYPD Blue, The A-Team, and Hill Street Blues.Post breaks down a few of his most well-known songs, as well as the recording of his new album Message from the Mountains & Echoes of the Delta.

Washed Out (Ernest Greene) recently released his fifth studio album Notes From A Quiet Place. It's a lush collection of sunny pop songs perfect for a summer drive. Tracks like "Running Away" drip with nostalgia and the optimism of young love.Riding the wave of Hype Machine and the music blog boom of the late 2000s, Greene rose to become of one electronic music's most respected musicians. Tracks like "Feel It All Around" and "Amor Fati" have become modern classics and party playlist staples.Greene talks to Jordan Edwards and Demi Ramos about making the new album, life in rural Georgia, and how Portlandia changed his life.

Over the last few years, Danae Hays has become one of TikTok's biggest comedy stars. With characters that poke fun at her Southern roots, the Alabama native can hardly go anywhere without being recognized.Recently, Hays has been making a push to expand her audience beyond social media. She's embarking on a 28-city standup tour starting July 19, and she's beginning to land parts in movies.Hays has also been recording music. Embracing the early '90s country sound her parents loved, she's released the singles "All It Takes" and "Rode Hard." Working with real Nashville songwriters, she creating a style that straddles the line between legit country music and satire.Listen to her talk to Jordan Edwards about the origins of her career, teaming up with her wife Mandie for videos, and the humane way to prank call a stranger.

It feels like Lindsey Stirling is living her dream. From an audience favorite on America's Got Talent to filling large Las Vegas theaters, she's at the top of her game. She's admired by adults and small children, and her social media following totals more than 20 million.Her latest album, Duality is cinematic and a little dark, the kind of album that needs to be listened to at full volume. It includes "Inner Gold," a collaboration with Royal & Serpent and "Evil Twin," an instrumental with pounding drums and a sweeping refrain.Stirling talks to Jordan Edwards and Demi Ramos about the making of Duality, producing her incredible music videos, and being grateful for her success.

Although she's only 22, Skylar Simone has been recording music for a decade. She made a name for herself with tracks like "How Did We" and a cover of Pharrell's "Happy," as well as appearances on Austin & Ally and Super Fun Night. Skylar recently signed to Def Jam, joining one of music's most prestigious legacies and signaling a new era in her career. "Shiver" her most recent single, is a preview of her first EP for the label due out later this summer. Listen to Skylar Simone talk to Jordan Edwards and Demi Ramos about how she became a performer, upcoming projects, and her life outside of music.

For the last few years, AleXa has ascended through the world of K-Pop. Adopting a cyberpunk aesthetic with hypnotic choreography, she's racked up more than 160 million views on her YouTube channel. American audiences got to know AleXa two years ago when she won the first and only season of American Song Contest. She formed a bond with cohost Kelly Clarkson, appearing as a guest on her show this January. AleXa's latest single "sick" leans away from dance pop in favor of a more pop-rock sound that recalls P!nk and Avril Lavigne. She looks forward to trying out new styles as she aims to grow her brand in the U.S. Jordan and Demi talk to AleXa about her early days in Tulsa, rise in South Korea, and her favorite metal bands. Plus, stick around for the new segment Demi's Rising Stars featuring Ayleen Valentine.

Since the release of her massive debut album Innocent Eyes in 2003, Delta Goodrem has remained one of Australia's most popular entertainers. She's scored several number one hits in her home country, starred in popular shows, and served as a coach on the Australian version of The Voice. American audiences may recognize Goodrem from the 2023 Netflix movie Love Is in the Air. She's recently returned to the recording studio, although she's not revealing plans for a new album yet. Her latest single "Hearts On The Run," is an upbeat celebration of living life to the fullest. Goodrem talks to Jordan Edwards and Demi Ramos about recording new music, her acting career, and looking to the future.

Over the last few years, HAUSER has become one of the world's most popular classical performers. His shows are spectacles that thrill thousands of fans for up to three hours. With dozens of musicians on stage, the Croation cellist covers well known orchestral themes as well as new arrangements of modern hits. Although his previous album focused on Latin pop songs like "Livin' La Vida Loca," his new album, returns to traditional melodies. CLASSIC II is full of favorite compositions like Rachmaninoff's Symphony No. 2 and Mozart's Piano Concerto No. 23. From Croatia, HAUSER talks to Jordan Edwards and Demi Ramos about his ascension as a solo artist, massive live performances, and favorite compositions.

Eight years after the viral success of "Sweatshirt," Jacob Sartorius has evolved into a contemplative singer-songwriter. Recent tracks like "homebody" and "luv" reveal a more mature musician facing grownup issues. His latest single, "Lonely," is a duet with friend Audrey Mika. The piano-driven song explores the fallout of a failed relationship. It's relatable, sad, and super catchy. Known for collaborations with artists like Tate McRae and Gryffin, Mika gained famed by posting covers of hit songs on YouTube. She's focused on original music the last few years, but continues to perform songs by Billie Eilish and Ariana Grande. Jordan and Demi talk to Sartorius and Mika about how they met, their collaboration, and how to get over a breakup.

On March 1, Paula Cole released her latest album, Lo. It's her first collection of original new music in nearly a decade. Singles like "Green Eyes Crying" are earthy and organic, the result of recording with longtime collaborators like drummer Jay Bellerose. Known for hits like "Where Have All the Cowboys Gone?" and "I Don't Want to Wait," Cole never saw herself as a top 40 artist. She takes pride in the deep catalog she has created and the deep musical connections she's maintained. From her home in snowy New England, Cole talks to Jordan and Demi about new music, memories from Lilith Fair, and her impact on '90s pop culture.

Although he found early success as a rapper, Travis Mills always liked the idea of being in a band. He grew up admiring blink-182, MxPx, and The Used. Early groups didn't work out for various reasons, and he found solo success with tracks like "Diemonds" and "Young & Stupid." In drummer Nick Gross, Mills found a musical partner with the drive to make their band a success. Together as girlfriends, the duo has embraced the music that shaped their youth. They enlisted producer John Feldmann, the Dr. Dre of pop punk, to complete their sound. Over two albums and an EP, they've created anthems that sound like artifacts of the early 2000s, rather than recreations of TRL rock. Their recent single "shut & kiss me" sounds like it could have been on the Road Trip soundtrack. It's the first new music for the band since the EP Over My Dead Body last May. This summer, girlfriends will join Avril Lavigne on her North American tour. Mills and Gross talk to Jordan Edwards about their experience with girlfriends, touring with Lavigne, and making music at The Noise Nest.

You may know Asher Angel for his roles in the Shazam! movies and the Disney Channel comedy Andi Mack. But he's also a talented musician. The 21-year-old plays guitar and piano, and his smooth pop R&B vocals recall vintage Justin Timberlake and Usher. Although he released several singles in the wake of Andi Mack, he hasn't spent much time on music since 2020. That's changing. His latest single, "Flip The Switch" came out last week, and he's lining up more releases for later this year. Listen to Angel talk to Jordan Edwards and Demi Ramos about his success as an actor, favorite celebrity encounters, and his plan for expanding his music career.

For the final It's Real episode of 2023, Jordan Edwards and Demi Ramos talk to a couple of artists who have had great years. Sadie Dupuis, known for fronting Speedy Ortiz, was recently named one of the 250 Greatest Guitarists of All Time by Rolling Stone. In September, the band released Rabbit Rabbit. Their first album since 2018's Twerp Verse, it was a hit with both fans and critics. Outside of music, Dupuis is a poet and former journalist who has written the books Mouthguard and Cry Perfume. She's an avid reader and often posts about her favorite books on social media. Joining Dupuis is Navied Mahdavian, a Utah-based cartoonist and author best known for his contributions to The New Yorker. This fall, he released his first book This Country: Searching for Home in (Very) Rural America. The bittersweet graphic memoir covers the time he spent with his wife and young daughter in Central Idaho. Watch Dupuis and Mahdavian talk to Jordan and Demi about their favorite books of the year, as well as the music they've been listening to.

With more than five million followers on social media, Gabi Sklar is on the rise. However, the singer-songwriter is more concerned about the quality of her music than the number of likes she receives. She's quick to point out that all those followers are people who are there for her voice, creative percussion, and impeccable taste in cover songs. Although she gained notoriety for performing other people's music, Sklar has been hard at work releasing originals. Her latest "Lonely Times," is her fifth single of 2023. Listen to Jordan and Demi talk to Sklar about her journey from singing covers in the laundry room to creating a career in music.  

After more than two decades, NEEDTOBREATHE frontman Bear Rinehart stills gets a thrill out of performing for fans. Songs like "Who Am I" and "Multiplied" have helped build a huge following, allowing the band to play arenas across the country. Labeled a Christian band by many, NEEDTOBREATHE's music has a much larger scope. While embraced by the Christian music community, their catalog is full of songs both secular and spiritual. At their core, they're a rock band. On a break from tour, Rinehart talks to Jordan and Demi about the new album, songwriting, and being grateful for the success he's enjoyed.

On November 17, Plain White T's will release their self-titled ninth studio album. While the songwriting feels familiar, the band's sound has shifted. The acoustic guitar is still there, but the production is more atmospheric. "Happy," for example, features layered vocals and percussion ready for top 40 radio. Although best known for hits like "Hey There Delilah" and "Rhythm of Love," the Chicago band has a deep catalog going back to their days as a pop punk group in the early 2000s. Jordan and Demi recently talked to Higgenson about making the new album, his favorite things about Chicago, and of course, the story behind "Hey There Delilah." 

In a world of dark, cynical pop songs, UMI loves love. Whether through her music, social media posts, or YouTube videos, she radiates positivity. Her latest single "happy im" is a lush acoustic R&B song about giving in to love and joy. It's the kind of song that makes you feel like holding hands with someone on a rooftop at sunset. Born to a Japanese mother and African American father, she grew up immersed in both cultures. She would wake up to her father's soul and gospel records and hear Japanese pop on the way to school in her mother's car. Known for the viral singles "Love Affair" and "Remember Me," as well as the 2022 album Forest in the City, she's currently working on new music. Listen to Jordan Edwards and Demi Ramos interview UMI about her latest music, creating her visuals, and the key to a positive life.

This past summer, Yellowcard reunited and performed dozens of shows at large venues across the country. They also released their first new music since 2016. The EP Childhood Eyes returns to the sound that made them popular, but the songwriting reflects their maturity and sense of nostalgia. It includes collaborations with Dashboard Confessional and Pierce The Veil, as well as the lead single "Childhood Eyes." The reunion coincides with the recent pop punk renaissance as younger bands reach back for those Y2K power chords and hooks. Will there be any more new music? Although there are no plans for a new album, a statement on the band's Instagram says, "The future is bright. We clearly have so much more to do." Watch frontman Ryan Key talk to Jordan Edwards and Demi Ramos about the reunion, making the EP, and the story behind "Ocean Avenue."

The last month has been one that Chappell Roan won't forget. She released her debut album, began a nearly sold out headlining tour, and announced that she will support Olivia Rodrigo in the spring. She even made an appearance on Elton John's Rocket Hour show, where the music legend expressed that he thinks her records are "amazing." It may seem like a quick rise, but there's a lot of hard work behind the success. Raised in Willard, Missouri, the singer-songwriter spent time in Nashville before moving to Los Angeles. Since her debut EP in 2017, she's released a series of singles and music videos that showcase her creativity, infectious pop songwriting, and colorful, campy aesthetic. The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess is the culmination of all that momentum. Collaborating with producer Dan Nigro (Olivia Rodrigo, Conan Gray), she's developed a sound that's both adventurous and ready for the radio. Jordan and Demi talk to Roan about her success, growing up in the Ozarks, and her wild live shows.

After 30 years together, MxPx remains one of the best and hardest working bands out there. They recently released their 11th studio album Find A Way Home. Anchored by "Not Today," and "Stay Up All Night," it's full of the catchy rock songs that fans love. Watch lead vocalist/bassist Mike Herrera and lead guitarist Tom Wisniewski talk about how they make music now, their favorite Warped Tour memories, and the story behind the "Pokinatcha Punk."

Jordan and Demi welcome Echosmith back to the show! The band has evolved since their breakout hit “Cool Kids” a decade ago. While they still produce atmospheric, catchy pop songs, they take more risks. Their self titled new album is their most experimental release yet. It may also be the trio's best. Sydney Sierota and Noah Sierota about recording the new album, their sibling bond, and upcoming European tour.

In an era of trending sounds and singles, Kota the Friend makes albums. His latest, Protea, is a kaleidoscope of clever wordplay, smooth hooks, and beats you can dance to. Dedicated to his wife, the 16 tracks feel like a celebration. It features guest spots from Aloe Blacc, Braxton Cook, and Samm Henshaw. Listen to Jordan Edwards and Demi Ramos interview Kota about the evolution of his sound, influences, and love for Brooklyn.

On this episode of It's Real, Jordan and Demi interview two multitalented performers who first appeared on screen when they were young. Katelyn Tarver was a contestant on American Juniors, where she made the final round. She then acted in shows like Big Time Rush, The Secret Life of the American Teenager, and HBO's Ballers. Olivia Olson made her debut in Love Actually as Joanna, the aspiring pop singer who belts Mariah Carey and steals Sam's heart. These days, Olson is best known as a voiceover artist for hit shows like Phineas and Ferb and as the iconic Marceline the Vampire Queen on Adventure Time, a role which she reprises in the the new Max limited series Fionna and Cake. Tarver and Olson have both grown up to singer-songwriters as well. Tarver will start a headlining tour on Sept. 6 (dates below) with a new album in the works. Her song “What Makes A Life Good?” recently played in the series finale of The Other Two, which costarred her brother Drew Tarver. Olson is working on a new album while she helps write the Phineas and Ferb reboot for Disney. Watch Jordan Edwards and Demi Ramos interview Tarver and Olson about growing up in the entertainment industry, their latest projects, and handling multiple careers.

For the first time, an episode of It's Real with Jordan and Demi features two unrelated guests. Madilyn Bailey and Rachel Grae are both singer-songwriters, but that's where the similarities end. Bailey's debut album Hollywood Dead drops on August 23, and she's expecting her first child after that. Although she's excited for motherhood, she doesn't plan to take much of a break from music. The Wisconsin native gained fame on America's Got Talent with a song composed of negative comments from her YouTube channel. Since then, she's kept the momentum going with singles like "Doomsday in LA" and "Serious." Grae, on the other hand, is about to go on tour. She'll headline a show at LA's Moroccan Lounge on September 20 before heading out in support of Dylan Matthew. Since starting her recording career in 2021, Grae has released several singles including "Outsider," "Friend Like Me," and her latest "You Suck." Although she visits Los Angeles frequently, Grae calls the New York City area home. Listen to Bailey and Grae discuss how they write songs, their approach to social media, and their favorite guilty pleasure TV shows.

While Cannons been releasing music for nearly a decade, their popularity has exploded in the last couple of years thanks to the success of "Fire for You" and their last album, Fever Dream. That means their next album will be their most anticipated. The lead single, "Loving You," came out in April, but the band hasn't given up many details about the rest of the tracklist. Listen to Jordan Edwards and Demi Ramos interview Michelle Joy, Paul Davis, and Ryan Clapham about their Craigslist beginnings, the bond they've created, and yes, the origin of Michelle's amazing wardrobe.

On June 30, Gabi DeMartino released her latest single "Heaven." More than a year in the the making, the track is perhaps her most confessional. Using lyrics from the 1957 film An Affair to Remember, the song reveals the truth behind her broken engagement to ex-fiancé Collin Vogt. Along with her sister Niki, Gabi DeMartino has spent her entire adult life in the public eye. She's one of YouTube's most successful content creators with over 12 million combined subscribers. But the success has led to scrutiny. The 28-year-old no longer feels comfortable revealing everything on her channel, so music has become an important emotional outlet. Listen to DeMartino talk to Jordan Edwards and Demi Ramos about her life as a YouTuber, her shift towards music, and what she does when she's not documenting her life.

​On July 14, Lauren Spencer Smith will release her debut album, Mirror. It's the culmination of three years of hard work and growing as a songwriter and performer. Appearing on American Idol in 2020, the 19-year-old used the momentum from the show to create a career that's earned her hit songs, a huge social media following, and an appearance on The Tonight Show. Many know the Vancouver native for "Fingers Crossed," but she's built a surprisingly deep catalog with tracks like "Flowers" and "Fantasy," a collaboration with friends GAYLE and Em Beihold. The day the album drops, Spencer Smith will kick off a headlining tour. The North American leg starts in Chicago, and she'll head to Europe in early September. Several dates are already sold out. Watch Spencer Smith talk to Jordan Edwards and Demi Ramos about her experience on Idol, developing her voice, and how she's handling all the success.

Earlier this month, Emily Kinney released "Walkin' Round Your Dreams," a warm, retro pop song that recalls '60s girl groups and Rilo Kiley. The track is off of her upcoming album Swim Team, due out in September. Fans of Kinney may know her from roles like Beth Greene on the The Walking Dead and Anna in the Broadway musical Spring Awakening. For more than a decade, she's been writing and performing original music. In fact, she was working on an EP when she landed the role on The Walking Dead. In this episode of It's Real, Kinney talks to Jordan Edwards and Demi Ramos about the musical side of her career and what it was like to join one of the most popular shows on television.

The last time we talked to GAYLE, her megahit "abcdefu" was just entering the top 10. Since then, she's carved out a place as one of pop music's most distinctive and versatile young stars. In addition to a GRAMMY nomination for "abcdefu," she's continued to pump out catchy singles like "ur just horny" and "everybody hates me." And yes, Taylor Swift is a fan. After meeting at an awards show, Swift asked GAYLE to open for her on several dates of the Eras Tour. Jordan Edwards talk to GAYLE about her career and what it's like to befriend one of the biggest artists in the world.

Laura Marano has a lot going on. She released her latest single "Boundaries" on April 14, and she's been busy filming movies for Netflix. Last year, she starred in The Royal Treatment, and soon fans can see her in Choose Love, the streaming service's first interactive romantic comedy. Known for her role as Ally on Disney Channel's Austin & Ally, she's released solo music for several years. Recently, she reformed her sound, pushing it into different, more mature directions. Eight years removed from Disney, she's moved comfortably into the adult phase of her career. Listen to Jordan Edwards interview Marano about balancing both sides and her plans for the future.

On June 9, Milky Chance will drop their new album Living In A Haze. They've released a couple tracks from it, including the latest single "Golden." The album strikes a nice balance between the alt rock of their debut Sadnecessary and the more experimental Trip Tapes project. Known for their epic live shows, Clemens Rehbein and Philipp Dausch broke out with the global hit "Stolen Dance" in 2012. Since then, the German band has built a deep catalog and expanded their sound. Jordan Edwards and Demi Ramos talk to Rehbein and Dausch about their early days, making the new album, and how their recording process has evolved.

​Last week, Mudhoney released their 11th studio album Plastic Eternity. Fans of the legendary Seattle rock band get what they've come to expect: messy and melodic guitars, booming drums, and Mark Arm's passionate vocals. As the title suggests, the album is a warning about the climate crisis and the impact of ignoring it. It's been a few years since their last release, and the band sounds fresh. Although not as well known as other Seattle groups like Soundgarden and Nirvana, Mudhoney's place in rock history is cemented. Kurt Cobain cited them as an influence, and their snarling punk/grunge sound has echoed through generations of alternative bands. Jordan and Demi talk to Arm about the band's influence, his interactions with Nirvana and Sonic Youth, and the recording of Plastic Eternity.

Andrew McMahon's new album Tilt At The Wind No More is his first since 2018. The Southern California native has been a fixture of alternative radio for more than 20 years. From his early hits with Something Corporate, to Jack's Mannequin to in the Wilderness, his music has always found an audience. He's one of the rare musicians who found solo success to rival the band that made him famous. The common thread that runs through all his projects is the songwriting. The lyrics are always clever, and the hooks are always catchy. Watch him discuss recent projects and tell the stories behind some of his biggest songs including "Cecilia And The Satellite," "Punk Rock Princess," and "If You C Jordan."

In late January, Charlotte Sands released the single "Alright." It's a moving ballad about trying to find hope in dark times. With its vulnerable lyrics and slow-building crescendo, it will surely become a centerpiece of her live show. The song is a departure from the rock and dance floor anthems she's best known for. However, she's consistently shown the ability to change direction. Sands' biggest song to date is "Dress" a pulsing dance pop track. During festival season, however, she's known to jump on stage with one of the rock bands she's collaborated with. From her home in Nashville, Sands talks to Jordan Edwards about her love of performing and working with acts like Sleeping with Sirens and Taking Back Sunday.

With their warm guitars and intimate storytelling, Peach Pit feels like a band that you're friends with. Their music is drenched in nostalgia, reminding the listener of cool fall sunsets and BYOB house parties. Songs like "Alrighty Aphrodite" and "Shampoo Bottles" have earned the Canadian band a devout following and hundreds of millions of streams. They've also become a favorite on the festival circuit. This season, they're getting an early start with an appearance at the nonprofit M3F Festival in Phoenix on March 3 and 4. As frontman Neil Smith explains, festivals can be a blast, but it's hard to know what to expect. Smith and guitarist Chris Vanderkooy talk to Jordan Edwards and Demi Ramos about their live show, the origins of some of their biggest songs, and their plans for new music.

Bankrol Hayden has continuously released memorable music since debuting in 2018. His quick, melodic flow is unique, and his hooks stay with you. Fans have taken notice. "Costa Rica," "Brothers," and "Come Through," have more than 400 million combined Spotify streams. He's versatile too. His latest single with charlieonnafriday and labelmate Arden Jones, "Can't Change for You," is an acoustic pop song that's ready for alternative radio. Despite the early success, he remains grounded. He's grateful for the opportunity to share his music and experience the life of a rap star. From the Atlantic Records offices in Los Angeles, the 20-year-old talks about his career so far, biggest influences, and plans for the future.

Many younger artists are embracing the music of previous decades. 2022 was full of Y2K rock and '80s pop. Few go back as far as Stephen Sanchez. Inspired by his grandparents' record collection, the 20-year-old has embraced the sound of artists like Roy Orbison, Buddy Holly, Ricky Nelson, and Elvis. His love for the 1950s and early '60s paid off. "Until I Found You" has racked up over a billion streams and views. Jordan Edwards and Demi Ramos talk to Sanchez about the massive success of "Until I Found You," receiving a phone call from Elton John, and his plans for music in 2023.

They've recorded a dozen albums and scored huge hits, but Switchfoot has never released a Christmas album. That changed this year with this is our Christmas album. The 12 tracks are split between classics like "Christmastime is Here" and "The Christmas Song," as well as new songs like the old school punk inspired-"Scrappy Little Christmas Tree." Watch lead singer/guitarist Jon Foreman and his brother Tim, the bassist, break down how they chose what classics to include and what originals have already become fan favorites. You'll also be treated to a very special holiday cheeseball recipe.

Many fans, especially young ones, know Alison Sudol for her role as Queenie Goldstein in the Fantastic Beasts franchise. Over three films, she's become part of one of the most beloved cinematic universes. But she's been a musician longer than she's been an actor. Recording as A Fine Frenzy, she built a devoted following and won over critics with releases like One Cell in the Sea and Bomb in a Birdcage. Over the last few years, her sound has evolved into something more layered and complex. Sudol's latest album Still Come The Night, arrived on Sept. 30. Intimate and unpredictable with warm organic production, it's perhaps the best of her career. Jordan Edwards talks to her about the album, how motherhood has inspired her, and how she chooses acting projects.  

Since the 2013 album Journals, Poo Bear and Justin Bieber have collaborated on hits including "Intentions," "What Do You Mean?" and "Yummy." Poo Bear even says that Bieber has picked up on his vocal style. You can hear those smooth, soaring vocals on his latest album The Book of Nabeel. It's his first LP since Bearthday Music in 2018. While that release was more of a project, The Book of Nabeel is a true solo album made with love. Fans will recognize tropical-inspired arrangements with a vibe similar to some of Bieber's hits. Poo Bear talks to Jordan Edwards about the new album and contributing to the Justin Bieber musical legacy.

Taylor Bennett loves music, and he's fascinated with the concept of genre. On Coming of Age, he creates an eclectic mix of pop, hip-hop, and rock. It includes guest spots from Jeremih, Matt and Kim, and Tom Higgenson of Plain White T's. But Bennett is more than a musician. He created Be Yourself, an activewear brand and collaboration with Champion. He's a dad, an LGBTQ+ advocate, and manager for his brother, Chance The Rapper. From his hometown of Chicago, Bennett talks to Jordan Edwards and Demi Ramos about Coming of Age, growing up with Chance, and how to build a career in the streaming era.

During her run as Adrianna Tate-Duncan on the reboot of 90210, Jessica Lowndes began recording singles. She explored pop, rock, and even Christmas music. In fact, producers originally cast her in a singing role. A decade later, music has become a big part of her career. The 33-year-old recently released Elemental, a visual album that includes a music video for each of the seven tracks. The recent remix for "Hunter" hints that Lowndes could go down an EDM path in the future. As the holiday season approaches, Lowndes talks to Jordan Edwards and Demi Ramos about Elemental, upcoming TV projects, and what it was really like to play Adrianna.