Ep.021: There’s no one like IMVNI. Born on “Planet X” and raised in Louisiana, her music folds jazz, R&B, rock, and soul into a sonic experience that’s both otherworldly and deeply rooted. In this conversation, we break down her incredible debut album The 11th Hour, a genre-defiant project woven with love, grief, prayer, and psychedelic grooves. She opens up about how addiction shaped her storytelling, how recording her grandmother’s voice gave the album its soul, and why she nearly walked away from music altogether. But it’s her belief in art as medicine that carries this conversation, and her music, straight to the heart.

We Chat About:

• The story behind her debut album The 11th Hour
• How soulful, genre-fluid music is making a quiet resurgence
• Why she records everything, from jam sessions to her grandma’s voice
• The healing power of vulnerability in songwriting
• Crafting emotionally complex songs in Audacity and sending them into the world
• Navigating suicidal thoughts, grief, and creative block through sound
• What she learned from SZA, Tyler the Creator, and Travis Scott
• The importance of intimacy in live performance, and how she brings the whole room into her set
• Her message to anyone feeling overwhelmed, alone, or creatively stuck
• Why she believes music (and life) should leave you with one clear truth: you’re gonna be okay

About IMVNI:

IMVNI (IMANI) means FAITH. IMVNI (IMANI) is a genre bending artist born on an unknown Planet, Planet X. Her style is a fusion of experimental R&B, Soul, Jazz , and Rock with a sad edge. Her family left planet X in the 90s and moved to Louisiana. Her love for southern Hip Hop influences her sound with heavy bass and robust drums. IMVNI’s hypnotizing vocal style ranges from soft and angelic to gritty and diabolical. She credits her lively stage presence, which includes vignettes of inspiration, to being brought up in a small southern church. On her debut album, The 11th Hour, IMVNI talks to her Grandmother (Grammy) as they explore love, loss, and heartbreak.

Connect with IMVNI:

Instagram: @imvni.music

Spotify: IMVNI on Spotify

Apple Music: IMVNI on Apple Music

YouTube: IMVNI on YouTube

Tidal: IMVNI on Tidal

Website: imvni.com

Other Resources:

Follow the OFFICIAL “loves music” playlist on Apple Music: ​​https://music.apple.com/library/playlist/p.4Y0J406i03DQrX

“loves music” playlist on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0qE3kq89oyg3tFNbmRfHEO?si=vopaKQnNS8OHn0r2fFTVBg

Check out the “loves music” podcast website: https://www.podpage.com/loves-music/

Julian on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/julian.jones.9484

Julian on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/julianjones417/

Julian on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@julianjones417

Check out Julian’s book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B6QYX6RL

Music Mentioned in this Episode:

Songs:

• “Rollin” – IMVNI (inspired by Erykah Badu’s “On & On”)
• “Hello” – IMVNI
• “Maybe” – IMVNI
• “Evil Ways” – IMVNI (inspired by Santana’s “Evil Ways”)
• “Wish I Never Met You” – IMVNI
• “Do the Impossible” – IMVNI
• “Make Love” – IMVNI
• “Before You Let Go” – IMVNI
• “St. Chroma” – Tyler, The Creator
• “Empire Ants” – Gorillaz ft. Yukimi Nagano (of Little Dragon)
• “You Belong With Me” – Taylor Swift
• “Double Up” – Nipsey Hussle
• “Ain’t No More Neptunes So Peace” – Malice (referenced)

Albums & Projects:

• The 11th Hour – IMVNI
• The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill – Lauryn Hill
• Plastic Beach – Gorillaz
• Album by Yukimi Nagano (lead singer of Little Dragon — specific title not mentioned)

Artists & Bands:

• IMVNI
• Erykah Badu
• Jill Scott
• Alicia Keys
• H.E.R.
• Janelle Monáe
• SZA
• Daniel Caesar
• Lauryn Hill
• SZA
• Taylor Swift
• Tyler, The Creator
• Little Dragon
• Mélody’s Echo Chamber
• Tame Impala
• Gorillaz
• Kings of Leon
• Arctic Monkeys
• Cage the Elephant
• Black Keys
• Mumford & Sons
• MGMT
• Passion Pit
• The Neptunes (Pharrell & Chad Hugo)
• Nipsey Hussle

Ep.020: What happens when a film composer decides to stop playing it cool and finally puts his own name, and heart, into the music? In this episode, I talk with RIMENY, the alt-pop project of Zak Engel, who’s flipping the script on what it means to “arrive late” as an artist. We get into the personal stories behind his debut singles, the decade-long detour that led him back to performing, and the surprising beauty in releasing music that feels earnest, not engineered. If you’ve ever wrestled with timing, self-doubt, or finding your creative lane later than expected… this one will hit.

We Chat About:

• His journey from film composer to front-facing pop artist
• Why he waited over a decade to release his own music
• Letting go of imitation and learning to write honestly
• Building a music career while raising a family
• The magic of creating songs that feel “happy, cool, and earnest”
• How Sweet Tea and Matt capture real friendship and nostalgia
• The tension between chasing perfection and letting go
• Why confidence (and not playing it cool) can change your whole approach
• The beauty of building slow, sustainable momentum

About RIMENY:

Who is RIMENY? RIMENY is the alt-pop alter-ego of Zak Engel. Hi! It’s me, Zak. I’ve spent over a decade behind a desk scoring films, mixing, and geeking over sound design. Songwriting and performing have been stuck in the backseat–RIMENY puts them at the wheel. The Sound I’ve been listening to The 1975, Mk.gee, Dijon, Bon Iver, Bleachers, Holly Humberstone, Jack’s Mannequin, Brand New, Miles Davis, Paul Desmond, Charli XCX, Armlock, Small Pond…and…yeah they’re all in the RIMENY sound. But I’m in this music more than any “band” I’ve ever had. I’m a late bloomer, and I feel like I’m finally hearing my influences in my songwriting without having them dominate the whole sound. It’s new. I’m figuring it out :) 

What’s Out Now: Three singles: Matt, Sweet Tea, and Treat Me Like a Stranger, are streaming. They are a taste of the debut album, set to drop in a few months. One more single is coming in a few weeks. Some of these songs are old…like ten years old…and are finally getting the attention they deserve–in some cases reworking an intense imitation track into something much more honest. Time…this all takes time. 

The Team RIMENY has already had a stellar crew of collaborators: Molly McDevitt, Justin VanDommelen, Sam Kyzivat, John Waugh, Leo Egan, Dave Weingarten, Ruairi O’Flaherty, Jared Hazelton, and Joe Murphy. Secret sauce and helping hands behind RIMENY’s sound. What’s Next Once the album’s out, I want to get in front of YOU. Hit the stage…dance…you know. Put something together that’s somewhere between a Bleachers show and a Mk.gee show. :)

Connect with RIMENY:

Instagram: @_rimeny

TikTok: @_rimeny

Spotify: RIMENY

Other Resources:

Follow the OFFICIAL “loves music” playlist on Apple Music: ​​https://music.apple.com/library/playlist/p.4Y0J406i03DQrX

“loves music” playlist on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0qE3kq89oyg3tFNbmRfHEO?si=vopaKQnNS8OHn0r2fFTVBg

Check out the “loves music” podcast website: https://www.podpage.com/loves-music/

Julian on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/julian.jones.9484

Julian on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/julianjones417/

Julian on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@julianjones417

Check out Julian’s book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B6QYX6RL

Music Mentioned in this Episode:

Songs:

• “Matt” – RIMENY
• “Sweet Tea” – RIMENY
• “Treat Me Like a Stranger” – RIMENY
• “3AM” – Matchbox 20
• “MMMBop” – Hanson
• “Vera” – Pink Floyd

Artists & Bands:

• Bon Iver
• Mk.gee
• Jack’s Mannequin
• Brand New
• The 1975
• Bleachers (Jack Antonoff)
• Miles Davis
• Foo Fighters
• Green Day
• Blink-182
• Charli XCX
• Holly Humberstone
• Armlock
• Small Pond
• Matchbox 20
• Peter Gabriel
• Enya
• The Beatles
• Van Morrison
• Jesse Rutherford
• Artemis (UK)
• The Neighborhood

Quia Morgan-Hill knows how to make a brand stand out in a crowded media space, and she’s been doing it for over a decade. From her start in radio to building a full-service multimedia company, Quia has mastered the art of blending authenticity, strategy, and connection. In this episode, we talk about her journey, her unique approach to booking celebrity guests, and the mindset shifts that keep her work rooted in passion and purpose. She also opens up about resilience, navigating male-dominated industries, and why nostalgia plays such a big role in her storytelling.

We Chat About:

• How to market your podcast and attract the right audience
• Strategies for booking celebrity guests and making authentic connections
• Why energy and integrity are non-negotiables in business relationships
• Turning nostalgia into a unique brand advantage
• Lessons from setbacks and walking away from the wrong opportunities
• Balancing creativity with the business side of media
• Building resilience after personal loss and finding peace of mind

About Quia Morgan-Hill:

Quia Morgan-Hill is a seasoned multi-media connector and founder of Quia’s Communication LLC. Born in a small town in Kentucky and raised in Columbus, Ohio, she has built a career rooted in dedication and hard work. Her journey began over a decade ago as an on-air personality, working with several radio stations including Power 1075/1063FM, WTMH Radio, and WNCI 97.9FM. She also gained valuable experience behind the scenes at television stations such as ABC6/FOX28 News and NBC4 News, where she contributed to daily news production.

Her company, Quia’s Communication LLC, has evolved into a comprehensive multi-media firm. It offers a wide range of services including content creation, brand management, event planning, podcast launching, and social media strategy. The company is committed to delivering high-quality representation for every client, ensuring excellence from start to finish. Services also include logo and graphic design, website development, and event hosting. Additionally, the company provides modeling opportunities and features an online booking system to streamline scheduling and avoid location-based conflicts.

Connect with Quia:

Podcast: 90s Girl Boss – The Quia Morgan-Hill Show

Threads: https://www.threads.com/@quiamorganhill

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/quiamorganhill/

Other Resources:

Follow the OFFICIAL “loves music” playlist on Apple Music: ​​https://music.apple.com/library/playlist/p.4Y0J406i03DQrX

“loves music” playlist on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0qE3kq89oyg3tFNbmRfHEO?si=vopaKQnNS8OHn0r2fFTVBg

Check out the “loves music” podcast website: https://www.podpage.com/loves-music/

Julian on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/julian.jones.9484

Julian on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/julianjones417/

Julian on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@julianjones417

Check out Julian’s book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B6QYX6RL

Music Mentioned in this Episode:

Songs:

• “Freak Like Me” – Adina Howard
• “T-Shirt and My Panties On” – Adina Howard

Artists & Bands:

• Lauryn Hill
• Mariah Carey
• Pretty Ricky
• H-Town
• Boyz II Men
• Chris Brown
• Ne-Yo
• Drake

This one’s bigger than bars. In this episode, I reconnect with Philly artist, writer, and producer Scholito, a true force in the independent music world. We talk about everything from publishing deals to post-traumatic growth, and how he’s turned his pain into luxury-level art. Whether it’s his Everything Plush fashion line, upcoming TV series, or high-energy live shows, Scholito’s building an empire: brick by brick, beat by beat. This convo touches on faith, fatherhood, Philly, and the fire it takes to keep showing up for your dream.

We Chat About:

• How he secured a co-publishing deal with Sony by producing 8 tracks for Freeway
• The creative intention behind his evolving album story arcs
• His decision to never write down lyrics—and how he still delivers cohesive, concept-driven projects
• The origins of Everything Plush and why quality is non-negotiable
• Losing family to violence and incarceration—and rising above it through music
• Using music, fashion, and storytelling to build “Free World” as both a movement and mindset
• His advice for young artists: stop waiting for permission, and drop the damn music
• Why elevating your partner elevates your life
• Balancing darkness with light, and staying grounded through prayer, healthy living, and purpose
• Upcoming projects: new album, new TV show They Call Me Saint, and more

About Scholito:

This “Philly Bred” artist/writer/producer has an organic approach at selling lifestyle through his music/content. While most individuals focus on building a brand outside themselves, Scholito realizes “He” is the Brand. Scholito a.k.a Ricardo Crawfioni is a perfect balance of street and sophistication, simultaneously catering to the women. Scholito has built “Free World” over the last 4 years which he is the founder and CEO of. Scholito is on his way to becoming a household name internationally. Scholito has not only graced stages all over the US but in Europe as well. His live show is just as captivating as his music. Scholito performed at the Notting Hill Carnival in London, Made in America, The Brooklyn Fest, Webster Hall, Powerhouse, SXSW, just to name a few. This performer has also been on multiple city tours with Freeway, Wu Tang, sharing stages with Beanie Sigel, G Eazy, Pusha T, Asap Ferg, YG, even performed at Beyonce’s after party at Club Mansion in Miami with Jay z and Beyoncé, Scott Storch and DJ Khaled in attendance. This innovative artist is no stranger to pushing the envelope and creating original content. Mid 2022 up until now, Scholito has birthed a series called “Breakfast Bars”. The artist/writer/producer has production/writing credits with Lil Wayne, Raheem Devaughn, Gloria Velez, Kool G rap, and Jadakiss… the list goes on.

Connect with Scholito:

Instagram: @scholitoenvoy

Linktree: https://linktr.ee/scholitoenvoy

Facebook: Scholito on Facebook

Other Resources:

Follow the OFFICIAL “loves music” playlist on Apple Music: ​​https://music.apple.com/library/playlist/p.4Y0J406i03DQrX

“loves music” playlist on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0qE3kq89oyg3tFNbmRfHEO?si=vopaKQnNS8OHn0r2fFTVBg

Check out the “loves music” podcast website: https://www.podpage.com/loves-music/

Julian on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/julian.jones.9484

Julian on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/julianjones417/

Julian on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@julianjones417

Check out Julian’s book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B6QYX6RL

Music Mentioned in this Episode:

Songs:

• Ball Drop – Scholito feat. Freeway
• Beatty Paoli – Scholito
• Mother in Love – Scholito
• Panther Party – Scholito
• Make the Walls Echo – L&S
• Wade Fresher – L&S
• Fly Money Fly – L&S

Albums/Projects:

• Mafio Soul
• The Cycle
• Croffioni Collections 1 & 2
• Mother in Love
• Upcoming project (Croffioni gets “made”)

Artists & Bands:

• Freeway
• Wu-Tang Clan
• Jay-Z
• Beyoncé
• G-Eazy
• Beanie Sigel
• Pusha T
• A$AP Ferg
• YG
• Lil Wayne
• Jadakiss
• Kool G Rap
• Raheem DeVaughn

Wilhelm Duke has bars, bounce, and a catalog deeper than you might expect. In this episode, I catch up with the Swedish American rapper who’s been carving his sound from the streets of Chicago to viral moments on Facebook. We talk about his infectious single “Butterick’s,” what it was like being Twista’s assistant, and how becoming a husband and father shifted his perspective on success. Wilhelm’s catalog is layered: fast flows, real introspection, club knockers, and experimental risks, and we dig into all of it. This one’s for the real heads, the lyric lovers, and anyone who’s ever tried to find their lane while staying true to themselves.

We Chat About:

• The unexpected origin story behind “Butterick’s”
• His time working for Twista and what he learned
• Speed rap as a skillset, and how it became his signature
• Balancing growth, risk, and experimentation in his catalog
• The power of great features and collaboration
• How family shifted his definition of artistic success
• AI in music: where he draws the line, and where he leans in
• What genre he thinks is making a comeback in 2025

About Wilhelm Duke:

Wilhelm Duke, the Swedish American Rapper. Born in Omaha Nebraska, flow forged in Chicago (circa 2012). An enigmatic and electrifying fast emcee, Duke has been carving out his lyrics, speed, flow, and sound for over a decade now. In early 2022 WD went viral on Facebook for rapping over the Yo Gotti Dolla Fo Dolla instrumental culminating in 1.4M+ views on FB Reels. That same year he worked as Twista’s personal assistant earning his co-sign and respect with him reposting two of his rap remix videos to his IG feed. WD has garnered co-signs from Twista, Tech N9ne, Papoose , and the comedian Dana Gould. He’s worked with Crypt, Scru Face Jean, Joey Nato, Moxas, Deen Akbar, RappaHeartless, VIPeach, Orlando Coolridge, Yung Tact, the Swedish rapper Xersize and many more! Duke has 4 albums, 3 EPs, and 31 singles in distribution along with an extensive amount of videos on his YouTube to pair with his music catalog.

Connect with Wilhelm:

Spotify: Wilhelm Duke

Website & Merch: wilhelmduke.com/shop

YouTube: @WilhelmDuke

Instagram: @wilhelmduke

Other Resources:

Follow the OFFICIAL “loves music” playlist on Apple Music: ​​https://music.apple.com/library/playlist/p.4Y0J406i03DQrX

“loves music” playlist on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0qE3kq89oyg3tFNbmRfHEO?si=vopaKQnNS8OHn0r2fFTVBg

Check out the “loves music” podcast website: https://www.podpage.com/loves-music/

Julian on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/julian.jones.9484

Julian on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/julianjones417/

Julian on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@julianjones417

Check out Julian’s book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B6QYX6RL

Music Mentioned in this Episode:

Songs:

• “Booterix” – Wilhelm Duke
• “Not A Movie” – Wilhelm Duke
• “Battle Beast” – Wilhelm Duke
• “Azure” – Wilhelm Duke (prod. by Mike Nappi)

Albums/Projects:

• Berserker – Wilhelm Duke
• Chrome Adrenaline – Wilhelm Duke
• Foundry IV – Wilhelm Duke
• All Blues and Yellows – Wilhelm Duke (drops July 27)

Artists & Bands:

• Twista
• Tech N9ne
• Jay-Z
• Wu-Tang Clan
• Nas
• Lupe Fiasco
• T.I.
• Kid Cudi
• Wiz Khalifa
• Bone Thugs-N-Harmony
• The Faint
• Pusha T
• 50 Cent
• Amy Winehouse
• Green Day
• Sum 41

Adrienne Swiatocha didn’t grow up playing in bands or chasing music dreams from the jump. She built a career, had a family, and then picked up a guitar… and thank God she did. In this episode, we talk about what it’s like to discover your creative voice later in life, how her band Plans to Sand came together almost by accident, and why she believes playing live music is one of the purest joys there is. We also get into her political punk side project, Octopus Knife Fight, and the real emotional weight behind writing songs that matter. Whether you’re raising kids or just trying to raise your voice, Adrienne’s story is gonna hit home.

We Chat About:

• How Adrienne started playing guitar after becoming a mom and launching an architecture firm
• The origins of her band Plans to Sand and their debut album
• Why their sound reminds listeners of Death Cab for Cutie and Tegan and Sara
• The meaning behind the band name (and the Nico Case lyric that inspired it)
• Touring Philly’s indie scene, from the Grape Room to the Fillmore
• Her political punk project Octopus Knife Fight and using music as activism
• Advice for creative parents trying to make space for their art
• Why live shows > recording, and how music helps fill her emotional gas tank

About Adrienne Swiatocha:

Adrienne Swiatocha is a co-founding member of the band Plans to Sand, a Philadelphia based indie-rock band. Adrienne’s musical career started later in life; after having her second child and establishing an architecture firm she began fulfilling a long awaited dream of learning how to play guitar. Soon the love of playing and performing took hold. With her band Adrienne writes original songs, plays guitar, and performs lead vocals and harmonies. The band has performed at various venues in Philadelphia including the Foundry at the Fillmore, the Grape Room, and PhilaMOCA. Recently Adrienne began a side project, Octopus Knife Fight, allowing herself to explore advocacy through music.

Connect with Adrienne:

Instagram: @planstosandband

Threads: @octopus_knife_fight_band

Spotify: Plans to Sand

Bandcamp: Meredith Street – Plans to Sand

Other Resources:

Follow the OFFICIAL “loves music” playlist on Apple Music: ​​https://music.apple.com/library/playlist/p.4Y0J406i03DQrX

“loves music” playlist on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0qE3kq89oyg3tFNbmRfHEO?si=vopaKQnNS8OHn0r2fFTVBg

Check out the “loves music” podcast website: https://www.podpage.com/loves-music/

Julian on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/julian.jones.9484

Julian on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/julianjones417/

Julian on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@julianjones417

Check out Julian’s book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B6QYX6RL

Music Mentioned in this Episode:

Songs:

• “Tell Myself” – Plans to Sand
• “Look Happy” – Plans to Sand
• “Do You Think It’s a Good Idea?” – Plans to Sand
• “Meredith Street” – Plans to Sand
• “Caught Up” – Plans to Sand
• “Already Broken” – Octopus Knife Fight
• “Waiting for Superman” – The Flaming Lips (covered by Adrienne)
• “The District Sleeps Alone Tonight” – The Postal Service (Plans to Sand cover coming soon)
• “Friend of the Devil” – Grateful Dead
• “Rock & Roll” – The Velvet Underground

Albums:

• Plans to Sand (self-titled debut album)

Artists & Bands:

• Death Cab for Cutie
• Tegan and Sara
• The Cranberries
• Ben Gibbard
• Nico Case
• The Flaming Lips
• Guster
• Led Zeppelin
• George Harrison
• The Postal Service
• Velvet Underground
• Grateful Dead
• Elton John
• Santigold

From the first time I heard Lina Cooper, I knew she wasn’t just writing songs; she was writing scenes. The kind that feel like your life, but funnier, messier, louder, and somehow still tender as hell. In this episode, I catch up with Ukrainian-born, LA-based artist Lina Cooper: a powerhouse songwriter, producer, and performer who blends wit, vulnerability, and pure talent into everything she touches. From viral pop-punk anthems to deeply personal concept records, Lina is building a brand that’s as bold as it is brutally honest. We talk about the emotional engine behind her new single “Like, Comment, Subscribe,” how she’s turning the complexities of 21st-century connection into cohesive sonic storytelling, and the infamous roommate breakup that inspired one of her most unapologetic tracks to date.

We Chat About:

• How social media inspired the theme of her next project
• Her creative process behind “Like, Comment, Subscribe” and the art of saying just enough
• The backstory of “Daddy Issues” and the real-life roommate drama that sparked it
• Why she wiped her Instagram to mark a new era of artistry
• Bringing comedy and chaos into her music without losing emotional depth
• What success really looks like as an independent artist in today’s world
• Her advice to the next generation of bold, messy, big-dreaming musicians

About Lina Cooper:

Lina Cooper is a distinguished artist, songwriter, and producer/multi-instrumentalist based in Los Angeles. Hailing from Donetsk, Ukraine, she has garnered acclaim for her innovative artistry and compelling stage presence. Her work has been recognized by notable platforms such as Spotify, Buzz Music, Grimy Goods, Shoutout LA, and Confessional Magazine. Lina's diverse sound spans from poignant indie-folk to vibrant pop-rock, drawing inspiration from musical icons including Taylor Swift, Halsey, Lorde, ABBA, Queen, Maggie Rogers, and Phoebe Bridgers. 

Lina's musical journey began at age 8 with classical guitar lessons and songwriting as a hobby. By 17, she was studying at Berklee College of Music, where she double-majored in Contemporary Writing & Production and Songwriting, with a minor in Orchestral Conducting. In 2020, Lina secured her first publishing deal following a feature on Spotify’s editorial playlist 'Fresh Finds.' That same year, she relocated to Los Angeles to pursue her professional career. Since then, she has amassed a substantial following on Spotify, achieved numerous editorial placements, and secured sync placements in television shows, including the Hulu hit "Everything’s Trash." 

Additionally, Lina has performed at iconic venues across LA, both as a headliner and an opener, and has contributed songs to a range of talented artists such as Jules Walcott, Elisheva, Myah, Rian Cult, Nikitaa, Jessica Reilly, Anastasia, XNK, and others. In 2023, Lina signed her first record deal and embarked on a touring career, now celebrated for her substantial streaming success and songwriting accolades.

Connect with Lina:

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/0YxNJr7YsY95zd86zCjSYH?si=0foDVoHQQUa0fy7vQRYCJA

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lina_cooper/

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lina_cooper

Other Resources:

Follow the OFFICIAL “loves music” playlist on Apple Music: ​​https://music.apple.com/library/playlist/p.4Y0J406i03DQrX

“loves music” playlist on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0qE3kq89oyg3tFNbmRfHEO?si=vopaKQnNS8OHn0r2fFTVBg

Check out the “loves music” podcast website: https://www.podpage.com/loves-music/

Julian on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/julian.jones.9484

Julian on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/julianjones417/

Julian on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@julianjones417

Check out Julian’s book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B6QYX6RL

Music Mentioned in this Episode:

Songs:

• “Like, Comment, Subscribe” – Lina Cooper
• “Daddy Issues” – Lina Cooper
• “Don’t Let Me Fall” – Lina Cooper
• “You’re Fucking Kids” – Lina Cooper
• “Hot n Cold” – Katy Perry
• “I Kissed a Girl” – Katy Perry
• “Dancing Queen” – ABBA
• “Teenage Dream” – Katy Perry

Albums:

• No Filter – Lina Cooper
• Lemonade – Beyoncé
• Self-Titled (BEYONCÉ) – Beyoncé

Artists & Bands:

• Lina Cooper
• Avril Lavigne
• Katy Perry
• Pink
• Taylor Swift
• Halsey
• Lorde
• Maggie Rogers
• Phoebe Bridgers
• ABBA
• Queen
• Green Day
• My Chemical Romance
• Panic! at the Disco
• Beyoncé
• Sara Bareilles
• Rihanna
• Skillet
• ACDC
• The Beatles
• The Rolling Stones
• Sturgill Simpson
• Jelly Roll
• Olivia Rodrigo
• Charlie XCX
• Chappell Roan

There are some artists who just keep getting better, and Rob Tait is one of them. In this episode, we dive into the making of At the End of the World, his gorgeously raw solo album, and his collaborative journey with the soul-rock band Cordelia Blue. We swap stories about songwriting, being a drummer who sings, the Philly music grind, and what it really takes to build a sustainable career in music today. If you’ve ever wrestled with balancing honesty and ambition, or wondered how to create something timeless, this one’s for you.

We Chat About:

• His deeply personal solo record At the End of the World
• The unexpected chemistry behind Cordelia Blue’s double album
• Why “Weatherman” might be your new favorite 8-minute track
• Letting the music breathe—and why restraint matters
• Bruce Springsteen, Beck, and what makes a song timeless
• The brutal math behind full-time musicianship
• The best compliment he’s ever received as a songwriter
• Why honesty beats perfection, every time

About Rob Tait:

Whether he's serenading from behind the drums or the guitar, Rob Tait's folk-pop style can mend the ache of a broken heart or make you stomp and holler until the sole of your shoe falls off. Born and raised in the pine barrens of New Jersey, Rob Tait's music combines his Americana/folk/singer-songwriter vocal style with his deep rooted love and education of rhythm and the drums.

Connect with Rob:

All Streaming Platforms: ffm.bio/robtaitmusic

YouTube: https://youtube.com/@robtaitmusic?si=BpNGAYWtHGxGWhQX

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/robtaitmusic?igsh=Mnd4Zm9qam5vY2l6&utm_source=qr

Other Resources:

Follow the OFFICIAL “loves music” playlist on Apple Music: ​​https://music.apple.com/library/playlist/p.4Y0J406i03DQrX

“loves music” playlist on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0qE3kq89oyg3tFNbmRfHEO?si=vopaKQnNS8OHn0r2fFTVBg

Check out the “loves music” podcast website: https://www.podpage.com/loves-music/

Julian on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/julian.jones.9484

Julian on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/julianjones417/

Julian on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@julianjones417

Check out Julian’s book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B6QYX6RL

Music Mentioned in this Episode:

Songs:

• “Weatherman” – Cordelia Blue
• “Clementine” – Cordelia Blue
• “Day That I Die” – Cordelia Blue
• “Bright” – Cordelia Blue
• “Stop” – Cordelia Blue
• “Breathe” – Cordelia Blue
• “Spacefire” – Rob Tait
• “Turn Out the Light” – Rob Tait
• “Wishing Well” – Rob Tait
• “Matilda” – Rob Tait
• “Daddy Doesn’t Pray Anymore” – Chris Stapleton
• “Rosalita” – Bruce Springsteen
• “Swimming Pools (Drank)” – Kendrick Lamar
• “Loser” – Beck
• “Rack City” – Tyga

Albums:

• At the End of the World – Rob Tait
• Morning Phase – Beck
• Mellow Gold – Beck
• Odelay – Beck
• The Information – Beck (with Danger Mouse)
• Precious Soundtrack 

Artists & Bands:

• Rob Tait
• Cordelia Blue
• John Bickel
• Luke Ferricone
• Ham Bone Relay
• Paul Simon
• James Taylor
• Celine Dion
• Bruce Springsteen
• Alan Stone
• Gavin DeGraw
• Little Feat
• Tedeschi Trucks Band
• The Beatles
• Katie Pruitt
• Chris Stapleton
• Kendrick Lamar
• Beck
• Katy Perry
• Taylor Swift
• Earth, Wind & Fire
• Tyga
• SZA

In this episode, I catch up with Philly artist and internet swiss-army knife Mike Nappi: someone who’s equal parts musician, comedian, and marketing mind. From writing soul-sample bangers to rapping with Logan Paul and dropping viral Delco dad skits, Mike’s story is a masterclass in doing it your own way, even if it takes 8 years for the world to catch up. We get into the grit of building a full-time career from content and session work, how to ride the wave of a moment without selling out, and why staying fun doesn’t mean losing your footing. There’s so much here for any artist learning to bet on themselves.

We Chat About:

• How an old Eagles anthem became a viral hit years later
• Blending music and comedy without diluting either
• Honoring hip hop by learning it from the inside out
• Philly culture, Delco dads, and letting place shape your art
• Letting your passion lead, and still treating it like a business
• His transition from vlogging and touring to monetizing on every major platform
• What it really means to be guided vs. misguided by fun
• Creative burnout, partnership, and what keeps him grounded through it all

About Mike Nappi:

Mike Nappi is a self-produced artist, songwriter, MC, multi-instrumentalist, engineer and content creator from Delco, and West Chester PA, known for releasing a new song every two weeks and creating viral, Philly-centric videos. He’s performed internationally, opened for major acts like beanie sigel, freeway, yelawolf, 2 chainz, Lupe fiasco, and won Philly Daily’s “Most Authentic Philly Fan” contest. His work blends comedy, culture, and music into a unique voice fans recognize instantly.

Connect with Mike Nappi (of NappiMusic):

Instagram: @nappimusic

YouTube: Nappi Music Videos

Facebook: Mike Nappi

Spotify: Mike Nappi

TikTok: @nappimusic

Other Resources:

Follow the OFFICIAL “loves music” playlist on Apple Music: ​​https://music.apple.com/library/playlist/p.4Y0J406i03DQrX

“loves music” playlist on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0qE3kq89oyg3tFNbmRfHEO?si=vopaKQnNS8OHn0r2fFTVBg

Check out the “loves music” podcast website: https://www.podpage.com/loves-music/

Julian on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/julian.jones.9484

Julian on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/julianjones417/

Julian on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@julianjones417

Check out Julian’s book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B6QYX6RL

Music Mentioned in this Episode:

Songs:

• “Birdcall” – Mike Nappi
• “Sacala Basura” – Mike Nappi
• “Virtual Insanity” – Jamiroquai
• “Lucky You” – Eminem & Joyner Lucas

Albums:

• Soul – Mike Nappi

Artists & Bands:

• Mike Nappi
• Jamiroquai
• J. Cole
• Kendrick Lamar
• Joyner Lucas
• Yellow Wolf
• Rittz
• Busta Rhymes
• Eminem
• Tamaro
• Lupe Fiasco
• 2 Chainz
• Beanie Sigel
• Freeway
• Avril Lavigne
• Hilary Duff
• Hannah Montana
• Alex G
• The Dare
• Rachel Chinouriri
• The Neighbourhood
• 50 Cent
• Creed
• Nickelback
• The 1975
• Warpaint
• Wolf Alice

Kirsten Izer isn’t trying to find her sound; she’s already living in it. Her debut EP The Perfect Hire is a genre-blurring, emotionally precise collection that pulls just as much from ambient indie pop as it does from confessional folk and sludgy alt-rock. In this conversation, we unpack how Kirsten built this body of work from the ground up: writing, co-producing, self-directing her visuals, and filtering every choice through her exacting taste. She opens up about moving through heartbreak, making space for imperfection, and the long game of building a real career while holding a full-time job. Through it all, Kirsten shows us what it means to take your time and still show up with something undeniable.

We Chat About:

• The emotional and sonic process behind The Perfect Hire
• Letting go of old versions of songs (and self) to stay true to the vision
• Learning to shut out noise and trust your gut as a young artist
• How heartbreak and mental health show up in her lyrics
• Building a cohesive visual aesthetic without losing authenticity
• The balance between promoting and preserving your mental health
• Why she’s staying active post-release instead of disappearing
• Touring dreams, pop girlies, and what she listens to on repeat

About Kirsten Izer:

Kirsten Izer has been writing songs since she was 11-years-old. Born in New Jersey to visual artist parents, Izer has always felt a deep need to tell stories. Her father taught her the chords to Pink Floyd’s “Vera”, the same chords she used to teach herself a Taylor Swift song. Since then, her inspiration has expanded to the likes of Kate Bush, St. Vincent, Caroline Polachek and more; it is still that same juxtaposition that shows up in her work today—an equal amount of affection for an instrumental break, but also a well-told story. After a five year stint in New York as a music publicist and journalist, Izer decided it was time to tell her own story as an artist and packed her bags for Los Angeles. She’s released various singles and self-directed music videos to much acclaim, and is gearing up to release her debut EP, The Perfect Hire, on June 5, 2025.

Connect with Kirsten Izer:

Instagram: @thekirstenizer

YouTube: Kirsten Izer

TikTok: @thekirstenizer

Spotify: Kirsten Izer

Connect with Julian:

Check out the “loves music” podcast website: https://www.podpage.com/loves-music/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/julian.jones.9484

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/julianjones417/

Threads: https://www.threads.net/@julianjones417

Buy my book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B6QYX6RL

Music Mentioned in this Episode:

Songs:

• “The Perfect Hire” – Kirsten Izer
• “The Messenger” – Kirsten Izer
• “Electric Blue” – Kirsten Izer
• “You” – Kirsten Izer
• “Vera” – Pink Floyd
• “Sweater Weather” – The Neighbourhood
• “Pink Pony Club” – Chappell Roan
• “RIP KP” – King Princess

Artists & Bands:

• Caroline Polachek
• Lady Gaga
• Addison Rae
• St. Vincent
• Kate Bush
• Taylor Swift
• My Chemical Romance
• Big Thief
• Avril Lavigne
• Hilary Duff
• Hannah Montana
• Alex G
• The Dare
• Rachel Chinouriri
• The Neighbourhood
• 50 Cent
• Creed
• Nickelback
• The 1975
• Warpaint
• Wolf Alice