This week I sit down with Emily James, who's breakout song 'Brooklyn' has been on nearly every playlist I've made in the last 3 years. Emily opens up about the success of that song, her upcoming LP 'Summer Nostalgia' (and why it shares a name with last years' EP), the line between vulnerability and oversharing, and making romance out of life.

Songs featured in this episode:

Uncommon Sense

Blueprint

Brooklyn

Song for Bryan

Picture It

Underdog

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This week I sit down with Zach Sweeney and Alex Forsythe of the indie-folk group, Welcome Stranger. We dive into the history of the band and the Craigslist ad that spawned it, the process of writing songs, the influence of growing up in an Evangelical Christian home, experimenting with Tik Toks, and keeping your job and music separate.

Songs featured in this Episode:

These Things Take Their Time

Won't Be Around

Half A Man

You Need Me

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This week on First Spin I sit down with Owen Burton, the creative force behind the band Ovven as he shares his journey from growing up in the Chicago burbs, his experiences in the Peace Corps, and the evolution of his music career. He reflects on the influence of classical guitar on his songwriting, the impact of a life-changing concert, and the importance of embracing personal embarrassment in his art. Owen also discusses the challenges of navigating the industry, balancing multiple roles, and the significance of creating unique music that resonates with listeners.

Abbreviated

Dishes

Embarassing

Crows

Pre-save Ovven's upcoming album "Gnawing at the Cord"

If you enjoyed this episode, it’d mean a lot if you left a quick review—it's one of the best ways to help new listeners find the show.

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Thanks for listening—see you next week.