Nitty Gritty of Ditties with Brooke

In my current music therapy job, I've had the ability to work with many different kinds of clients in many different settings. One of these settings is an addiction recovery facility, and I feel like not much is known to the general public about music therapy and addiction recovery. So, I'm explaining what we do! In the first part of the episode, I discuss how music therapists might work with recovery groups. Then, I get into my top 10 songs to listen to in my addiction recovery group. Whether you identify as someone in recovery or not, these songs are really great for anyone going through a challenging time. Songs mentioned in this episode: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2ZaqfPKj4eIxLCt72tsQMX?si=d08910866aa34bdb Merch: https://nitty-gritty-of-ditties.myspreadshop.com/ --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/nittygrittyofditties/support

When I heard that a new Pixar movie was coming out, and that it would be about a preteen girl in the early 2000's I was excited. I was not prepared for the level of nostalgia I would feel from watching it, however. 4*Town reminded me of all of my favorite boy bands growing up - Backstreet Boys, *NSYNC, and, of course, Dream Street. I decided to use those nostalgic feelings to analyze how 4*Town's songs stacked up against the early 2000's classics using my Boy Band Metric. Listen to hear how your favorites compare! Songs mentioned in this episode: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/56tRkoU1NZCiC0oXv0aJRw?si=953c902d9f914251 Merch: https://nitty-gritty-of-ditties.myspreadshop.com/ --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/nittygrittyofditties/support

After writing and recording my episode about Labrinth's music in Euphoria and how it elevates the show, I still felt like I wasn't done talking about all of the music that this show incorporates. So, I invited my friend Rachel to the podcast to look at all of the songs that are chosen to be featured the Euphoria universe, and how those songs enhance our understanding and appreciation for the characters and the show as a whole. It was a really fun conversation, so I hope you enjoy it as much as I did! Merch: https://nitty-gritty-of-ditties.myspreadshop.com/ --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/nittygrittyofditties/support

I took a little break from podcast recording because I wasn't feeling inspired to make new episodes. Nothing in the music world felt interesting to talk about, until I binged all of the show, Euphoria. I have so much to say about the music in this show, that I'm releasing two episodes about it! In part 1, this episode, I talk about all of the original music composed by Labrinth for this show, and how the music matches and enhances the internal struggles that Rue and all of the other characters go through. Merch: https://nitty-gritty-of-ditties.myspreadshop.com/ --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/nittygrittyofditties/support

I love to talk about pop music, which is why I started this podcast in the first place, but I have an equal passion (if not more) for music and neuroscience. One of the most interesting topics related to music and the brain is mirror neurons - what they are, how they work, and how they might enhance our perception and enjoyment of music. I touch on all of these topics, and how they relate to my obsession with hand claps in music, in this episode! Songs mentioned in this episode: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/00AQjOKpbV4pN5YvYQEEvi?si=5c0fa06d5e0a4f4d --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/nittygrittyofditties/support

During my first viewing of Encanto, I didn't feel like it was anything special. But, days after, I couldn't get the songs or these characters out of my head! The songs in this movie do a great job of highlighting all kinds of mental anguish we all might go through, especially in these times. The songs touch on how individuals deal with the pressures and issues of intergenerational trauma, and also how community shapes our own mental illness and wellness. Listen to the episode to find out how each song can be used as a resource! Merch: https://nitty-gritty-of-ditties.myspreadshop.com/ --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/nittygrittyofditties/support

As we approach a new year, I always love reading the "year end" lists to see what music stood out to music critics and everyday people alike from the past year. This year, since I enjoy reading them so much, I thought I'd make one of my own! Listen to hear my top 10 (or 11) songs of 2021, and see if any of your favorites made the list! Spotify playlist of songs mentioned: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0NeYUBNOF6cOiwsqLpE25N?si=2be8f1ae31af4c5d Merch! https://nitty-gritty-of-ditties.myspreadshop.com/ --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/nittygrittyofditties/support

I love Christmas music, I love winter music, and I love Hanukkah music. I released a few podcast episodes last year about my favorite Hanukkah and Christmas songs. But, as long as I can remember, I've hated "I Have a Little Dreidel", the most famous Hanukkah song. In this episode, I dig into the musical reasons why this song misses the mark so badly, and I was so irate, that I wrote my own dreidel song to prove how easy it can be. As a holiday gift to the listeners, listen to the end to hear my original song for the season! Find Merch Here with new designs: https://nitty-gritty-of-ditties.myspreadshop.com/ --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/nittygrittyofditties/support

True Swifties knew that a version of "All Too Well" existed that was 10-minutes long, but they didn't think they'd ever get to hear it. Once Taylor announced that she'd be adding that version of her highly regarded song to her Red album re-release, I knew that I was going to have to talk about it. After I dissect this new version's music and lyrics, Lori comes on the podcast to do what we do best - talk Taylor Swift. Merch found here: https://nitty-gritty-of-ditties.myspreadshop.com/ --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/nittygrittyofditties/support

I, like millions of people around the world, was captivated by Squid Game. It took me a few weeks to synthesize my thoughts on the show, and to think deeply about all of the great music! So, I asked my friend Johnny, who is a classically trained cellist, to come break down all of the interesting elements of the Squid Game soundtrack with me, and we both had a lot to say! Spotify link to the soundtrack: https://open.spotify.com/album/3LUdxlF9Gq90Jcd9Y24ZH8?si=ilOqEMAeT_2qKkLyFR6SBQ Merch is here! https://nitty-gritty-of-ditties.myspreadshop.com/ --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/nittygrittyofditties/support

Even though I've been having some Bachelor franchise fatigue, I have been excited for Michelle's season for a while. I thought she was the most interesting woman of the Bachelor season she appeared on, and I am really rooting for her to find love. But, with these limo exits specifically, my hopes are not so high. Hear me break down all of the music of each man's limo exit and what it means for their chances to be one of Michelle's frontrunners! Merch is here! https://nitty-gritty-of-ditties.myspreadshop.com/ --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/nittygrittyofditties/support

An "earworm" is a term for when a song gets stuck in your head, and you can't get it unstuck. In this episode, I look at research about how earworms happen, some quick brain science, and most importantly - how to get rid of them! A short and sweet episode about those short and sweet pieces of songs that won't leave our brains alone! New merch: https://nitty-gritty-of-ditties.myspreadshop.com/ --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/nittygrittyofditties/support

Dear Evan Hansen, the musical version, came out in 2016. I had avoided all spoilers until I was able to see the film a few weeks ago, five years later. How such a celebrated musical could be turned into such a disappointing film was confusing to me, so I dug into the music to find out where the problems lie. The music and plot of this show do not seem to fit together, and I explain why that hurts the entire production. New merch store! : https://nitty-gritty-of-ditties.myspreadshop.com/ --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/nittygrittyofditties/support

Since Montero is in the running for album of the year, I wanted to make sure my episode about the album would give it the credit it deserves. So, I brought it reinforcements. Rachel, Jordan, and I go track-by-track through Lil Nas X's debut album, give each song a superlative, and share our unfiltered thoughts! --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/nittygrittyofditties/support

My friend Jessica is TA'ing a class at Duke University, where they were asked what their favorite songs to work to are! She graciously gave me the list, and I analyze the musical elements behind their favorite study songs. Then, she comes on the podcast and we discuss the songs together! Songs mentioned in this episode: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0GQ8nL4OGab5kXmu9aAKq1?si=03abc167b3c24edc --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/nittygrittyofditties/support

Decided to lean into my alt-rock fangirl past in this week's episode. I attended the Hella Mega Tour featuring Weezer, Fall Out Boy, and Green Day, and had a lot of thoughts. I start by discussing initial observations, and then I get into how the set lists either helped or hurt the feelings of nostalgia the crowd experienced. Which of these three bands make you feel the most nostalgic? --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/nittygrittyofditties/support

As someone who works closely with music and nostalgia for my day job, I am always thinking about what music makes me feel nostalgic. Lately, I have been thinking about all of the 2006 emo classics that are turning 15 this year! In this episode, I go through 11 emo songs that are turning 15, and rate how emo they really are as well as how nostalgic they make me. Listen to find out the highest-rated emo song from that year and see if you agree! Songs mentioned in the episode: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1K5k2lR6sxYqKs3rfIqZAM?si=42ecdcc203c74ed0 --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/nittygrittyofditties/support

My whole life, I have had terrible veins. As someone with an autoimmune disease, I have to get my blood drawn twice a year. To get through this unpleasant experience, I listen to music. In this episode, I dissect my "medical procedure" song, "Shrike" by Hozier, and talk about the musical elements to look for when picking a song to help you get through the events that you can't stand! --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/nittygrittyofditties/support

I've always wanted to like Billie Eilish's music, and I think she's incredibly talented, but I think today I found out what rubs me the wrong way. In her latest album, "Happier than Ever", she sings about some very heavy subjects, but the music does not always match the mood of the words. In this episode, I analyze how each track's lyrics relate to the music behind them, and whether the pairing is great or not so much. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/nittygrittyofditties/support

I, like most young millennials, have been highly anticipating new Lorde music. So, I was pretty disappointed when "Solar Power" didn't live up to the hype. I know it's getting a lot of great reviews, but I'm just not feeling it. In this episode, I justify my dislike with an analysis of the music and lyrics, as well as a look back at what made Lorde's previous music great! --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/nittygrittyofditties/support

As a music therapist, I do a lot of singing and guitar-playing in music therapy sessions. However, I almost always use one recorded pop song at some point during sessions so that the schoolchildren that I work with and I can dance! In this episode, I go over my top 9 dance songs that I used this past year, and I discuss the musical elements in each one that make them so fun and engaging! Spotify link to songs mentioned: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/6L1YExeKP9Zme9RU3gbN8E?si=4b5dc87eae8a4bf9 --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/nittygrittyofditties/support

In order to predict this year's song of the summer, I had to look back at years' past. First, I look into the number one song of each summer for the past 10 years and analyze the musical and lyrical trends. Then, I look at seven of the most popular songs of this summer to see how they stack up! What song will remind us of this summer for years to come?  Spotify playlist of songs mentioned: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/15SpTXYcBFFnVJ20It2vAw?si=df6ecdf687b34c52 --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/nittygrittyofditties/support

When I'm on summer break, I always find myself missing my music therapy clinical work, even if the break is nice! So, I talked to some friends of mine about their favorite and least favorite parts of working in the music therapy profession, and I got some great answers! I go over the pros, the cons, and the misconceptions of this work that is still unfamiliar to a lot of people. Some answers might surprise you! If you have any music therapy questions, reach out to me at Instagram here! https://www.instagram.com/nitty_gritty_of_ditties/ --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/nittygrittyofditties/support

I went to a movie theater for the first time in almost two years, and it was because I needed to see "In the Heights." I love musicals, but they also always make me cry. So, I dove into some famous musical tearjerkers, as well as some songs from "In the Heights" to see what similarities they all had - musical and otherwise. Hear how your favorite sad ballad stacks up on my "sadness scale"! Songs mentioned in the episode: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5DUl4jI0tTq8zhF1mtpKdi?si=5ad9b2ce2e9b45b1 --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/nittygrittyofditties/support

I am so excited for music festivals to be back in the United States this summer that I made an entire episode about them! First, I discuss the idea of emotional contagion and the physiological benefits of live music. Then, I go over the festival rules I follow. And finally, my husband joins me on the podcast to discuss our favorite festival memories and dream lineups! --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/nittygrittyofditties/support

Back by popular demand, I'll be looking into all of the limo exit music from the premiere of Katie's Bachelorette season! I break all of the music down for all of you, and give my predictions based off of it. We'll see if I'm right by the end of the season, and I probably won't be, but it's always fun to try! --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/nittygrittyofditties/support

I knew I would like Olivia Rodrigo's debut album based off the singles, but I was impressed more than I thought I could be by a 18-year-old's debut album. In this episode, I dissect the music of each song and how the music might affect how the songs make us feel. Then, my friend Lori joins me to discuss how this album compares to early Taylor Swift, and where Rodrigo might go from here! --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/nittygrittyofditties/support

My friend Jordan joined me on the podcast again to talk about astrology! We each make the case for two songs to represent each zodiac sign and talk about our our sign is the best! It's a long episode but a fun one! Spotify Playlist of songs mentioned: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/05lAkhOUMMTVCnejFV5x8K?si=6c8862eccf20446e --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/nittygrittyofditties/support

I've been feeling sentimental lately and thinking about weddings a lot. So, I figured it was time to talk about first dance songs! I asked my friends and family what their songs were, and created four categories of wedding songs based on their responses. See if you're wedding song made my list, and what category it falls into! Then I talk about my first dance song and why we chose it! Spotify link to songs mentioned: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5livFyQTZRVYm4gZqeNdoi?si=a00905cdd7164584 --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/nittygrittyofditties/support

When this episode is released, it'll be exactly one year from when my first episode went public! Time flies when you're inside working and podcasting. In this episode, I go over my favorite things that I've learned and insights that I've had while doing this show. I've learned a lot more than just music theory details of pop songs. But don't worry, I'm not going anywhere! --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/nittygrittyofditties/support

I came across an article the other day titled, "This is the Happiest Song on Earth, According to Science", and I was immediately interested. A neuroscientist claims that he found the happiest song, and analyzed the music to figure out why. In this episode, I reveal his "top 10 happiest songs", and argue that his reasoning is incorrect. I give my own theory and advise how to find a happiness song of your own! --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/nittygrittyofditties/support

A few months ago, a viral tweet went around asking for the "best opening lyric of all time," and in this episode, I explore why people love the opening lyrics that they do. I give my theory for why great opening lyrics can fall into two categories. Then, my friend Jessica, and English PhD candidate, joins me to discuss song lyrics, poetry, and play an opening lyric game! --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/nittygrittyofditties/support

The enneagram became an obsession of mine during the early days of the pandemic, and I'm lucky that my friend Jordan has the same interest! The enneagram is a set of 9 personality types, each with distinct characteristics, drives, and fears. We discuss current pop songs as enneagram types, and songs that truly embody each type. Spotify playlist of each song we discuss: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5xELfzZovoy7xWfRQLzwCn?si=lIy2Owy_S3eUyf4GzV0OVw --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/nittygrittyofditties/support

I have been a Demi Lovato fan since her "Camp Rock" days, and continue to be more in awe of her and inspired by her as her struggles have unfolded before our eyes. In her latest album, she really channels everything she's been through over the last two yeas into digestible pop songs. Instead of analyzing the music, in this episode, I analyze the lyrics of each song through my Music Therapist lens! --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/nittygrittyofditties/support

I wasn't totally sold on "Old Town Road", but after hearing "MONTERO (Call Me By Your Name)", I think Lil Nas X is one of the best and most important people to come into mainstream music in a while. So, this makes the controversies surrounding this groundbreaking song even more unfortunate. I start this episode by discussing some of those controversies, and then later I dive into the most compelling musical components of this song. There is a lot to unpack! --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/nittygrittyofditties/support

For the past five years, I've been listening to the song "There Will Be Time" by Baaba Maal and Mumford and Sons every time I take off in a plane. Why, you ask? In this episode, I dive into the musical elements of this song that make it both calming and exhilarating. Then, I talk about some criteria anyone can use to find a song to listen to during any "anxious events" that may come up in life! --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/nittygrittyofditties/support

I've become a sap for award shows during this pandemic, and the Grammys have always been my favorite. Because of the lack of live music these days, I was riveted by all of the live performances! So, I made an episode about them. I ranked all 20 performances from worst to best. See if your favorite is the same as mine! --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/nittygrittyofditties/support

For a belated International Women's Day episode, I asked my listeners what female artists they'd like to hear me talk about, and y'all gave me some great answers! In this episode, I go through empowering songs from five female powerhouses - Celine Dion, Aretha Franklin, Shania Twain, Lizzo, and Billie Eilish - and talk about the positive takeaways from each song! Playlist of the songs I talk about can be found here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/4jInV4aoeSsI5q200BRAUe?si=-_wQ1P_gR7u7HtR6MM5GGQ --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/nittygrittyofditties/support

In this episode, I talk about the history of the banjo. The banjo came here from Africa, but how did it turn into the whitest instrument in America? I explore where it originally came from, how it got appropriated by white Americans, and how to support Black country artists today. All proceeds from this episode will be donated to My Block, My Hood, My City (an amazing organization in Chicago)! My Block, My Hood, My City's website: https://www.formyblock.org/ Daniel Jatta playing the akonting (video mentioned in episode): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lzt0v9roU6g --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/nittygrittyofditties/support

I think we can all agree that when we heard the song "Friday" for the first time, we knew it wasn't great. But, the media quickly turned to harping on Rebecca Black for this, which was unfair, and she was a 13-year-old child at the time! First, I dissect the musical elements in the song that don't work in its favor. Then, my sister joins me and we talk about her experience of the song, since she is the same age as Rebecca, and we discuss the new remix that was released to mark the 10-year anniversary! --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/nittygrittyofditties/support

We could've all done better in 2007 when it came to Britney Spears. The new documentary, "Framing Britney Spears", makes that clear, while also leaving a lot of questions open about how conservatorships really works. In the first half of this episode, where I first analyze Britney's 2007 song "Piece of Me" as it relates to what was to come in her life. In the second half, I got some answers for a lawyer about how conservatorships work and why Britney even qualified. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/nittygrittyofditties/support

The Super Bowl is this Sunday! I've always loved both the game itself, and the halftime performances. So, I decided to revisit the halftime shows of years past! I go into a little of the history of the halftime show, I talk about what factors make an amazing performance, and then I rank my top 5 performances of all time! Listen to hear if we have the same favorite! --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/nittygrittyofditties/support

In honor of my birthday coming up, I decided to do another episode about songs I listen to on my own time! I dive into my "Songs I Need" playlist that I've been working on since 2011 and possibly before, and what criteria I use to put a song on that playlist. Maybe hearing why I love the songs that I do can give you insight into why you love the music that you do! Spotify playlist of songs mentioned: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7sGMaidMGAbC6MhyJEfOPZ?si=_qsTkAQMS6en7CwkRKM5MA --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/nittygrittyofditties/support

I decided to take a break from dissecting mainstream music for a week to talk about my day job - my life as a music therapist! January is "Music Therapy Social Media Advocacy Month", so I begin the episode by talking about some of my approaches to music therapy advocacy. Then, I talk about what my work as a school-based music therapist looks like! It's not all fun and games, but there is a lot of fun and games! --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/nittygrittyofditties/support

Olivia Rodrigo's song, "driver's license" has been out for a week, and is already smashing song streaming records. I only wanted to make an episode about the song if I felt like I had a unique perspective on it, and I wasn't sure that I would, but then I heard the bridge. I found the bridge in this song so fascinating that I had to dedicate an episode to it! Hear about why this bridge sounds so childlike and so mature at the same time! --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/nittygrittyofditties/support

Because I had so much fun making an episode about the Bachelorette premiere, I decided to dive into the music of the Bachelor premiere episode that first aired on January 4th, 2021. This time, I focused exclusively on limo exit music to see if the music can predict the contestants' futures. I also look to see if there are any racial biases found in the music, because there seemed to be some last season... This episode is spoiler free (except for the ending of the premiere)! --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/nittygrittyofditties/support

Instead of doing my own "music of 2020 year in review", I decided to ask my friends what their favorite songs were that came out this year and why. They gave me some interesting picks all across the musical landscape, so I made it my mission to find a common thread! I look at the genres, musical elements, and lyrics to see if these very different songs have any similarities. Did your favorites from 2020 make my friends' list? Spotify playlist for the songs mentioned in the episode: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0bVRS21TGNk17ws03PC86L?si=BYncy0C4R8epsw46sbV_6Q --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/nittygrittyofditties/support

In my final episode about holiday music , I look at 10 brand new, original, holiday songs that came out this year. I then decide if each song will end up in my permanent Christmas rotation, or if this is the only year I'll ever hear these songs. I talk about songs by Dolly Parton, Lil Nas X, the Jonas Brothers, and more, but do they make the cut? Spotify playlist of songs I talk about can be found here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/3UuZDM9NoRGCiYbi1FOJ9x?si=iMTYtom5TwCKDFygvqCS7g --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/nittygrittyofditties/support

I thought I couldn't handle any more surprises in 2020, but this one was a good one! Taylor released her sister album to folklore, evermore, this past Friday, so I decided to do a bonus episode to break down the album! I had so much fun going through folklore track by track and then talking to my friend Lori, a life-long Taylor Swift fan, that I did it all again with this new album! First, I go through each song, and then Lori joins me to give her perspective on what made this album so great! I hope you enjoy my longest episode yet for this very important 2020 surprise! --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/nittygrittyofditties/support

I think during this year, we all need a little more festive cheer! For this episode, I dug deep into my Holiday Music playlist and found the songs that I think are the most underrated. I tried to narrow it down to my top 5, but I couldn't, so here are my top 7 most underrated holiday songs! I also give two honorable mentions to Christmas songs that I think should be on everyone's lists. Spotify playlist of all the songs mentioned: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/6nQtBDNQYcceMx1V83UDl6?si=o8wUotw_QdGGo3zkukkcqA --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/nittygrittyofditties/support

On this episode, I go into my personal music vault and break down all of the Hanukkah songs I listen to every year to get in the spirit! I put all of my Hanukkah songs into four categories, and then break down my two favorite songs that I could listen to all year round! I hope this brings some festivity to a dreary year. All of the songs I mention can be found on this Spotify playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7IxWTZ2xlN1oovhRKYOMUO?si=CQLJ1zHXRmKG5o3G5Etztg --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/nittygrittyofditties/support