Episode Summary

Fitz, frontman of chart-topping indie soul-pop group Fitz and The Tantrums, reveals how Jeff Buckley’s iconic album Grace set him on his journey to finding his authentic voice as an artist and inspired a whole new approach to singing, songwriting, and performance.

What’s Inside

• Discovery of a Classic: Fitz shares how he discovered Jeff Buckley’s Grace years after Buckley’s passing and why the record instantly captivated him with its emotional honesty and vocal brilliance.
• Finding True Artistic Voice: Explore Fitz’s realization that authenticity—rather than imitation—is the key to creating impactful music. Hear about the struggles, setbacks, and breakthroughs on the way to developing the Fitz and The Tantrums sound.
• Vocal Lessons from Buckley: Fitz breaks down the technical and emotional qualities that make Buckley’s singing so legendary, including the impressive falsetto, genre-bending range, and raw vulnerability.
• The Legacy of Grace: Discover how Grace continues to shape the worlds of indie, alternative, and pop music, influencing singers from Thom Yorke to Matt Bellamy and beyond.
• Stage Presence and Synergy: Fitz reflects on how learning to connect with bandmates, audiences, and his own voice transformed the live show experience—and why joy and alchemy are at the heart of great music.

About Fitz and The Tantrums

Fitz and The Tantrums is an indie pop/soul band known for their energetic performances and catchy hits like “HandClap” and “Out of My League.” With a career spanning over 15 years and a reputation for blending throwback influences with a modern edge, the band continues to evolve with each release.

About Jeff Buckley’s Grace

Grace, Jeff Buckley’s only complete studio album, was released in 1994 and is recognized as one of the most influential albums of the ’90s. Featuring Buckley’s haunting vocals and masterful songwriting, it spawned the now-iconic cover of “Hallelujah.” The album’s lasting impact is felt across indie, rock, and pop music worldwide.

Why Listen?

• Perfect for fans of Fitz and The Tantrums, Jeff Buckley, and anyone passionate about creativity, songwriting, and the search for artistic identity.
• Practical, heartfelt insights on navigating your artistic journey and the power of finding your own voice.
• Inspiration for musicians, performers, and music lovers alike—learn how the albums that change us can spark new eras of creative freedom.

The Spark Parade is a podcast that dives deep into the films and albums that have inspired today’s creative icons. Hosted by Adam Unze, each episode features a unique conversation with an artist about their chosen film or album, and how it sparked their artistic journey.

Follow us on social media:

Instagram/Bluesky/TikTok: @sparkparade

Subscribe, rate, and leave a review wherever you listen!

For more info, visit: www.thesparkparade.com

Copyright © 2025 The Spark Parade. All rights reserved.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.