Bad Hotel

In this episode of the Bad Hotel podcast I (Will Joseph Cook) talk with fellow independent singer songwriter Tom Rosenthal. Alongside a successful solo artist career, Tom has recently deepened his noncomformist approach to the musician life through starting his own label - tinpot records. It's endearing title doesn't come close to explaining just how radical and refreshing it's mission is, a truly artist first partnership. Through unpacking his journey we touch on his multiple encounters with intense internet virality, k-pop, creative mentorship, ghost aliases and the very relatable fear of starting a family in your 20s. Wowee, that's a lot - you better get listening! 

Wassup, how you been? Welcome back to Will Joseph Cook's (me lol) label podcast - Bad Hotel. In this episode my brother Charlie and I are joined by the musical artist Dodie.. Our conversation unpacks Dodie's unorthodox rise through the music industry, building the unwavering fanbase and unique creative world in which she exists today. Other themes include the ickiness of autobigraphical songwriting, our tour together, learning how to set boundaries with her internet fame, and a humble fit check. She's a truly fascinating queen and I enjoyed this chat profusely. 

Bad Hotel podcast is back! Season 2?! In this episode we are joined by austalian indie pop artist Thomas Headon. We cover Thomas's tune fueled migration to UK, his viral beginnings in music and the stories behind his hit songs. It was also an educational rollercoaster for our guest - Thomas learnt that the island of Sicily has water and was also shocked to learn Will is actually a bionicle. 

On this episode of the Bad Hotel podcast, we are joined by Frank Fieber: creative director at Sony music. Creating everything from cover art to merchandise to music videos, he injects awesome visual ideas into a recording artist's campaign. We discuss his various mantras and anecdotes picked up on his journey through the design and music industry. Currently, Frank's working with artists such as Declan McKenna, Koffee and Headi One. He’s also worked on campaigns for Ed Sheeran, Paolo Nutini and Charli XCX. He’s furiously charming and it’s a really interesting episode, especially for anyone wanting to get into the music design world.

Heck, Declan’s in the house. In this episode we’re joined by indie singer-songwriter, Declan McKenna. We discuss his new album ‘zeros’, naked spas, activism within music, the importance of music illiteracy, toxic tweets, his teenage rise to fame.. and most importantly, Declan finally breaks his silence on his complex relationship with baked beans.

Woah! Don’t just walk in like that without knocking! Anyway… It’s Episode 8 and we are joined by film maker Bertie Gilbert. From problematic lego animations to award winning indie flicks, we unpack Bertie’s creative journey through the world of online film making. Other topics include: Bertie’s blood relation to Draco Malfoy, incels, IT 2, breadstick trauma, Kermit the frog, MysteryGuitarMan and most importantly the tropical soft drink - Lilt.

Everyone calm down, it’s Episode 7. In this instalment of the Bad Hotel podcast we are joined by music industry enigma Katie Craik. Together we unfold the humble beginnings of commuter scooting, reveal a problematic love for serial killers, kick gender normative clothing to the curb… AND host the Bad Hotel’s first ever wedding. Starring one of London’s most loved indie music connoisseurs, there’s no shortage of hot takes and meandering memoirs in this episode. Wow.

It’s Episode 6 and everything is aligning perfectly. In this instalment of Bad Hotel, Daniel and Will are joined by artist, producer and pop writer - Oscar Scheller. Together they explore the pivotal transition Oscar made from lone wolf solo artist, to hyper collaborative writer. It’s no easy ride switching lanes like that, so bring your mediation mat and call your therapist, we’re about to unpack this knapsack of change.

Oh God! It’s episode 5, and lead singer of notorious indie rock band Indoor Pets - Jamie Glass, is here for some reason. Tales of the quartet’s tumultuous journey to the release of their debut album ‘Be Content’ are punctuated by anecdotes of moisturising routines, the dangers of soy, end of the world fantasies... and much, MUCH more! All for the unreasonably low price of £0.00!

Oh my word, it’s 2019 and we are back with a fresh steaming pile of conversation! Episode 4 features the new face of BBC Radio 1’s Indie Show, Jack Saunders. We take a dive into Jack’s impulsive journey through the ranks of UK radio, from University beginnings to landing a slot on the country’s most influential new music station. How on earth did he do it? Should porn be on the radio? Can Jack really communicate with those beyond the grave? There’s only one way to find out.