In this week’s episode, we look at how Randy Newman writes through invented characters rather than speaking in his own voice. From satire to tenderness, his songs use irony, perspective, and a distinctive piano style to help us hear truth in unexpected ways.

Here’s a link to the heartbreakingly beautiful song, Wandering Boy:https://youtu.be/I2s1WNagdA0

Here’s a link to Randy Newman’s NPR Tiny Desk Concert:https://youtu.be/1wFWR5qCB2k

The Friday FIVE is a weekly five-minute podcast series from Musically Speaking that features music commentary, examples, and recommendations from Jarrod Richey.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit jarrodrichey.substack.com