The Spark Parade

Critically acclaimed singer-songwriter grandson joins Adam to explore his musical spark: Rage Against the Machine’s legendary album The Battle of Los Angeles. Grandson shares how this politically charged, genre-blending rock album influenced his journey from hip-hop-loving Canadian teen to international hitmaker—breaking down the record’s impact on his identity, artistry, and activism.

• Musical Origin Story: Grandson reveals how rock, rap, and guitar-driven hip-hop led him to Rage Against the Machine—and why The Battle of Los Angeles gave him permission to express vulnerability and anger authentically.
• Album Analysis: The discussion unpacks the complexities and evolution behind Rage’s third album, its uncompromising sound, and the creative rifts and powerful clarity that defined its production.
• Artistry and Activism: Grandson connects the explosive energy and political urgency of Rage’s music to his own career, from shaping his songwriting to inspiring civic engagement and progressive causes.
• Legacy and Motivation: Learn why The Battle of Los Angeles continues to be a call to action for listeners, pushing them to “get off the sidelines” and find agency, purpose, and community—even in the face of failure or industry pressure.
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Grandson is a boundary-pushing artist and activist, known for his fusion of rock, hip-hop, and electronic music. His breakthrough singles “Blood // Water” and “Dirty” turned him into a global sensation, and his bold lyricism has fueled collaborations with Tom Morello, Travis Barker, and other icons. Grandson’s records and electrifying live shows tackle urgent themes—from political upheaval to mental health—embodying the kind of social conviction that Rage Against the Machine pioneered. This tone is especially prevalent on his third album Inertia.

Released in 1999, The Battle of Los Angeles is Rage Against the Machine’s Grammy-winning third studio album. Its incendiary lyrics, innovative genre mashups, and relentless energy cemented Rage’s legacy as both musical and political disruptors. Featuring classics like “Guerrilla Radio,” “Calm Like A Bomb,” and “Testify,” the album remains a staple of protest, self-expression, and musical rebellion.

• A must-hear for fans of Rage Against the Machine, political music, and genre-blending rock.
• Grandson’s perspective is motivational, raw, and deeply personal—essential for music lovers, creators, and activists.
• The conversation explores how inspiration, courage, and self-expression tie art to real-world action.

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.

Acclaimed pop songwriter and artist Bonnie McKee joins Adam to dive into her spark: the cult comedy classic Wayne’s World. Bonnie shares how the film’s humor, music, and fiercely independent spirit shaped her creative outlook—and why its soundtrack and lo-fi, DIY energy still fuel her work today.

• Wayne’s World & Childhood Inspiration: Bonnie discusses how Wayne’s World was a key part of her childhood, influencing her music, style, and approach to authenticity as an artist.
• Music, MTV, and Movie Soundtracks: Insights on how the film’s MTV-era aesthetic and legendary “Bohemian Rhapsody” scene inspired Bonnie’s own music and visuals.
• Staying True to Yourself: Candid conversation about creative independence, selling out, and the connection between public access TV and today’s YouTube/TikTok world.
• The Penelope Spheeris Touch: A look at the trailblazing direction of Penelope Spheeris, plus love for Cassandra’s underdog story and Tia Carrere’s musical breakthrough.
• From Soundtrack to Stage: Bonnie spills on how Wayne and Garth’s wild, quirky fandom mirrors her own as a super-fan, and why those 90s pop culture moments still hit so hard.

Bonnie McKee is a gold-certified pop artist, legendary queer songwriter, and hitmaker behind ten #1 singles—including “Roar,” “California Gurls,” and “Teenage Dream” for Katy Perry, as well as chart-toppers for Britney Spears, Cher, Christina Aguilera, Taio Cruz, Ke$ha, and more. Her latest solo LP, praised by Variety, Rolling Stone, and People, showcases her signature blend of nostalgia, hooks, and bold storytelling. Bonnie is currently on tour—grab tickets and experience her high-energy live show!

Directed by Penelope Spheeris and released in 1992, Wayne’s World stars Mike Myers and Dana Carvey as rock-loving cable access hosts Wayne and Garth. The film became a pop culture sensation thanks to its iconic catchphrases, hilarious MTV-inspired visuals, and a soundtrack that catapulted Queen’s “Bohemian Rhapsody” back into the charts. A timeless ode to music fandom, authenticity, and the power of independent creators, it remains a must-see comedy for every generation.

• Perfect for fans of Bonnie McKee, 90s pop culture, movie soundtracks, and anyone passionate about the creative spark behind hit music.
• Insightful anecdotes on songwriting, industry authenticity, and how the movies we love leave a lifelong mark.
• Get a peek behind the scenes with one of pop’s songwriting legends as she breaks down the intersection of music, comedy, and personal inspiration.

Keywords: Bonnie McKee, Wayne’s World, pop songwriter, movie soundtrack, 90s comedy, MTV aesthetic, Bohemian Rhapsody, Penelope Spheeris, Katy Perry, podcast, music inspiration, music podcast, comedy film

Press play for a nostalgia-packed, musically inspired ride with one of pop’s boldest voices!

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.

Adam sits down with rising country star William Beckmann to talk all about his spark: Robert Rodriguez’s iconic action film Desperado. William shares how seeing Desperado—filmed right in his hometown of Acuña, Mexico—had a massive impact on his music, style, and creative vision.

• A Hometown Connection: William recounts recognizing streets, bars, and even old teachers in Desperado, and what it’s like growing up near a famous movie set.
• Movie Magic Meets Real Life: Discover how William filmed a music video at the legendary Corona Club—home to the film’s most famous shootout—and how seeing family friends on screen brought the story to life.
• Creativity on a Budget: Learn about Robert Rodriguez’s scrappy, fearless approach to filmmaking, turning a seven-thousand-dollar indie film (El Mariachi) into a Hollywood cult classic, and why those clever creative choices inspire William’s approach to songwriting and stage shows.
• Style and Authenticity: Hear how Desperado influenced William’s signature look—blending mariachi flair with classic country style—and why having a unique personal brand matters in today’s music scene.
• The Power of Specificity: William and Adam dig into the art of saying more with less, what it means to find your voice, and how the smallest artistic details make the biggest impact.

William Beckmann is taking the country world by storm with his deep, timeless baritone and a modern twist on classic country storytelling. Raised in Del Rio, Texas, William blends American country, classic rock, and traditional mariachi influences into songs full of heart, nostalgia, and border-town swagger. His debut major label album Whiskey Lies & Alibis is out now on Warner Music Nashville, and he’s hitting the road for over 100 shows a year.

Directed by Robert Rodriguez and released in 1995, Desperado stars Antonio Banderas and Salma Hayek in a stylish, high-octane action movie that cemented Rodriguez’s signature look and established new standards for creative, low-budget filmmaking. Part of the director’s “Mexico Trilogy,” the film blends western drama, explosive action, and unforgettable style—making it a cult favorite for movie fans everywhere.

• Perfect for fans of William Beckmann, country music, movies, or anyone interested in the intersection of art, style, and storytelling.
• Packed with behind-the-scenes stories, creative inspiration, and practical wisdom on making your mark with limited resources.

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.

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.

• 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.

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.

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.

• 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.

Matt Weedon from TORS joins Adam for a lively, heartfelt chat about the classic musical comedy The Blues Brothers. Find out why this wild, joyous movie was a defining moment in Matt’s creative journey and how its blend of music and chaos still shapes his songwriting—and TORS’s energetic live shows—today.

• Origin Story: Matt recounts his first late-night viewing of The Blues Brothers with his family, sparking a lifelong love of music, comedy, and performance.
• Creative Freedom: Insights into how the movie’s joyful chaos and anything-goes energy inspired Matt’s approach to writing and playing music.
• Behind the Band: Discover how the film’s message about having fun, taking artistic risks, and celebrating music for its own sake became a guiding force for TORS.
• The Power of Fun: Discussion on why balancing silliness and emotion is key—both in The Blues Brothers and on stage with TORS.
• Legacy of the Film: Explore the ongoing impact of The Blues Brothers as a cult classic, featuring musical icons and a legendary soundtrack that introduced blues, soul, and R&B to new generations.

TORS are a British indie folk trio from Devon, known for their harmonies, big hooks, and live shows bursting with joy and singalongs. Recently signed to Glassnote Records, their new EP Songs From The Road Vol. 1 drops July 24th, and they kick off a major world tour this August.

Directed by John Landis and released in 1980, The Blues Brothers stars John Belushi and Dan Aykroyd as Jake and Elwood Blues, two brothers on a musical “mission from God.” Packed with musical legends like Aretha Franklin, Ray Charles, and James Brown, and featuring unforgettable car chases and comedy, the film is a cult classic loved for its unfiltered fun, iconic soundtrack, and celebration of blues and soul music.

• Perfect for fans of TORS, The Blues Brothers, and anyone who loves music, comedy, and the stories that spark creativity.
• Get exclusive insight into the creative mindset of an acclaimed indie band.
• Reflect on how great art—no matter how silly or serious—can inspire generations of artists.

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.

Activist, model, and writer Munroe Bergdorf sits down with Adam to talk about her spark: the cult classic queer comedy But I’m a Cheerleader. Hear Munroe’s personal story discovering the film, why it remains a game-changer for queer representation, and how its fearless humor and camp style shaped her path as a trailblazer.

• Origin Story: Munroe shares the story of renting But I’m a Cheerleader from Blockbuster as a teen and finding queer joy, self-acceptance, and unexpected inspiration from the now-iconic film.
• Queer Visibility in Film: Learn how the movie’s razor-sharp satire of conversion therapy, pastel aesthetic, and joyful queer storytelling offered both healing and laughter during hard times.
• Representation Matters: Adam and Munroe discuss why authentic, joyful queer stories—made by queer creators—matter, especially in a world where LGBTQIA+ voices are often silenced.
• Reflections on Activism: Munroe talks about the legacy of growing up queer during Section 28 in the UK, the importance of supportive community, and how media like But I’m a Cheerleader paved the way for her own work as an activist, author, and media leader.
• Cultural Impact: Explore the enduring influence of But I’m a Cheerleader—from its legendary cast (including RuPaul, Natasha Lyonne, and Clea DuVall) to its impact on generations of queer audiences and creatives.
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Munroe Bergdorf is a globally recognized writer, model, broadcaster, and LGBTQIA+ activist. She’s British Vogue’s contributing editor, an award-winning author, and the star of LOVE & RAGE: MUNROE BERGDORF, the brand-new documentary telling her own story and the fight for trans visibility. Her second book, Talk To Me, is out now.

Released in 1999 and directed by Jamie Babbit, But I’m a Cheerleader is a groundbreaking queer comedy that follows Megan (Natasha Lyonne) as she’s sent to a conversion therapy camp. Its pastel sets, absurdist humor, and focus on authentic queer joy have made it one of the most beloved LGBTQIA+ movies of all time.

• Perfect for fans of Munroe Bergdorf, queer cinema, pop culture buffs, and anyone looking for heartfelt conversations about identity and inspiration.
• Get real talk about coming out, forging pride through media, and how stories like But I’m a Cheerleader continue to spark hope and creativity.

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.

Ready for a trip down music memory lane? On this episode, Adam hangs out with Katie and Jules from The Ting Tings to talk all about the album that shaped their sound: Dire Straits’ Brothers in Arms.

What’s Inside

• First Dire Straits Memories: Katie and Jules share how Brothers in Arms became the soundtrack to their childhoods and teen years—think car rides, record store windows, and stealing albums from siblings.
• Why Brothers in Arms Still Hits: Find out why this album is still a go-to for The Ting Tings, and how Mark Knopfler’s songwriting and guitar playing continue to inspire their music today.
• Studio Magic & Innovation: The duo talks about the groundbreaking production on Brothers in Arms, from its crystal-clear sound to its record-breaking CD sales, and how it set the bar for studio albums.
• The Art of Songwriting: Adam, Katie, and Jules dive into why the storytelling and musicianship on this album make it timeless—and what today’s artists can learn from it.
• Favorite Tracks & Stories: Hear which songs from Brothers in Arms Katie and Jules keep coming back to, and how those tracks influenced their own new music.
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About The Ting Tings

The Ting Tings are a UK indie pop duo known for their massive hits like “That’s Not My Name” and “Shut Up and Let Me Go.” Their music is packed with catchy hooks, bold energy, and a love for mixing genres. Their latest record is out now and brings a fresh twist to the classic sounds that inspired them. They're new album Home is out now.

About Dire Straits’ Brothers in Arms

Released in 1985, Brothers in Arms is one of the best-selling albums of all time, featuring hits like “Money for Nothing,” “Walk of Life,” and the epic title track. The album blends rock, pop, and a little bit of everything else, earning multiple Grammy Awards and a legendary spot in music history.

Why Listen?

• Perfect for fans of The Ting Tings, Dire Straits, and anyone who loves hearing how classic albums inspire new music.
• Get behind-the-scenes stories about songwriting, band life, and what it takes to make a record that stands the test of time.
• Hear how Brothers in Arms keeps sparking creativity for artists today.

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.

Singer-songwriter Lauren Spencer Smith joins Adam to talk about her biggest musical inspiration: Adele’s breakthrough album, 21. Lauren shares how hearing “Rolling in the Deep” as a kid changed everything for her, why Adele’s powerhouse vocals and honest songwriting became her comfort zone and how 21 shaped her own journey as an artist.

Lauren opens up about singing Adele songs at every competition, learning every vocal nuance and how Adele’s ability to blend genres and emotions inspired her to find her own voice. Adam and Lauren also discuss the impact of 21’s massive hits—like “Someone Like You,” “Rumour Has It” and “Turning Tables”—and what makes the album a timeless classic for songwriters and fans alike.

About Lauren Spencer Smith:

Lauren is a chart-topping singer-songwriter known for her raw vocals and relatable lyrics. She first gained major attention as an American Idol finalist and has since built a global fanbase with her viral singles and debut album. Lauren's new album The Art Of Being A Mess is out now!

About Adele’s 21:

Released in 2011, Adele’s 21 is one of the best-selling albums of the 21st century, featuring hits like “Rolling in the Deep,” “Someone Like You,” and “Set Fire to the Rain.” The album blends soul, pop, blues, and country influences, earning multiple Grammy Awards including Album of the Year. 21 is praised for its emotional depth, unforgettable melodies, and Adele’s stunning vocal performances.

In this episode:

• Lauren’s first memories of hearing Adele and buying her music
• Why 21 became Lauren’s comfort album and creative blueprint
• The influence of Adele’s vocals, songwriting, and genre-blending on Lauren’s own music
• How personal storytelling and emotional honesty make 21 a modern classic
• Favorite tracks from 21 and the stories behind them

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.

Comedian and impressionist Matt Friend joins Adam to talk about the movie that sparked his comedy journey: Austin Powers: The Spy Who Shagged Me. In this episode, Matt and Adam dive deep into the entire Austin Powers franchise, unpacking the iconic characters, endlessly quotable gags, and the unique comedic genius of Mike Myers.

Matt shares how watching Austin Powers as a four-year-old completely changed his life, inspiring him to start mimicking voices and setting him on a path to becoming one of the most exciting young comedians today. From his early days obsessing over DVDs and Blockbuster runs to his viral celebrity impressions and appearances on The Howard Stern Show, Jimmy Kimmel Live, The Simpsons, and Family Guy, Matt reflects on how the Austin Powers films shaped his love of character-driven, physical, and absurdist comedy.

About Matt Friend:

Matt Friend is a comedian, actor, and impressionist with over two million followers across TikTok, Instagram, and other platforms. He’s known for his spot-on celebrity impressions (over 250 in his repertoire!), viral comedy interviews, and performances at major events like the Netflix Is A Joke Festival and the White House Correspondents Dinner. Matt has voiced characters for The Simpsons and Family Guy.

About The Spy Who Shagged Me :

Austin Powers: The Spy Who Shagged Me is the second film in the Austin Powers franchise, released in 1999 and directed by Jay Roach. The film stars Mike Myers in multiple roles—Austin Powers, Dr. Evil, and Fat Bastard—and features Heather Graham, Michael York, Rob Lowe, and Seth Green. The story follows Dr. Evil as he travels back to the 1960s to steal Austin’s mojo, leading to outrageous adventures, time travel hijinks, and a parade of unforgettable characters. The Spy Who Shagged Me became a box office hit, grossing over $300 million worldwide, and introduced fan favorites like Mini-Me and Fat Bastard. Its mix of slapstick, innuendo, and pop culture parody cemented its status as a comedy classic.

In this episode:

• Matt’s origin story with Austin Powers and why The Spy Who Shagged Me stands out
• The influence of Mike Myers’ multi-character performances on Matt’s own comedy and impressions
• Favorite scenes, supporting characters, and the film’s hilarious attention to detail
• How the Austin Powers movies inspired Matt’s career, from childhood mimicry to viral stardom

Keywords:

Matt Friend, Austin Powers, The Spy Who Shagged Me, Mike Myers, comedy podcast, celebrity impressions, Adam Unze, The Spark Parade, viral comedian, Blockbuster nostalgia, Netflix Is A Joke Festival, The Simpsons, Family Guy, pop culture, comedy movies, 90s movies, cult classics, Mini-Me, Fat Bastard, Dr. Evil, Heather Graham, Michael York, Seth Green, Rob Lowe, Jay Roach, parody, slapstick, character comedy

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.

The second and final part of Adam's recap of the 2025 Tribeca Film Festival.

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.