Steal This Song | Creative Songwriting & Production Podcast

Episoade

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  My Sales Call Process as a Songwriter/Producer 30.09.2026 21min

  How do you actually sell yourself as a producer or songwriter without making the whole thing feel… salesy?In this video, I walk through my approach to sales calls with artists — from the preparation before a meeting, to the Zoom call itself, to pricing, contracts, and what happens after the artist says yes.But a good sales call isn't really about “convincing” someone to work with you. It’s about helping both sides figure out whether you're the right fit for each other.I also talk about what happens once the collaboration starts: how to communicate with artists, set expectations, navigate timelines, and create a songwriting process where both the artist and songwriter can do their best work.If you're a songwriter, producer, or artist trying to get more clients and build better creative collaborations, this should give you a practical look at how I approach the entire process.In this video:Why selling yourself can feel so difficultMarketing vs. selling — and why the distinction mattersHow I prepare for an artist meetingThe questionnaire I use before a sales callHow I structure the Zoom callHow to establish trust and set expectationsTalking about pricing without awkwardnessWhat happens after the client says yesWhy contracts matterHow to build a professional but personal working relationshipNavigating the songwriting process, timelines, and collaborationWant to work with me? Link to survey mentioned at the end: https://forms.gle/vzAcEMnXwDHuDquX7
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  I Tried to Make a Video Game. Here's What Happened. 16.09.2026 21min

  Friedemann discusses his journey in creating his first video game, a tower defense game for musicians that uses ear training to fight enemies. He shares his fascination with game design, his experience with board game design, and his foray into learning programming for game development. Friedemann also reflects on the challenges and setbacks he faced in developing a music theory-based app and the lessons he learned from the experience. Friedemann shares his experience of creating a game using AI and programming, highlighting the challenges, learning experiences, and the role of AI in the game development process.Fill That Page (for news about Next Level Songwriter):https://www.holistic-songwriting.com/fill-that-page-downloadTakeawaysGame design and music theory have a strong connection, and Friedemann's passion for both has influenced his creative projects.Learning programming and game development has been a challenging but rewarding experience for Friedemann, allowing him to bring his game ideas to life.The process of creating a game involves vision, simplification, playtesting, and refinement, which parallels the creative process in music and other artistic endeavors. Start with the core concept before focusing on aestheticsAI can assist in breaking down complex tasks and creating a planGame development involves unexpected challenges and tedious tasks
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  I’m Done Being Just a Songwriting Teacher 09.09.2026 8min

  What happens when the thing you’ve built your entire career around is no longer the thing you want to be known for?In this video, Friedemann talks about his transition from Holistic Songwriting toward a more personal creative brand—and the fear that comes with taking that next step.After years of teaching songwriting, building products, writing books, and creating all kinds of projects, he’s realizing that maybe the answer isn’t to narrow himself down, but to find the unique thread that connects everything he creates.He talks about the tension between building a recognizable personal brand and following your own curiosity, why it can be scary to put your own message at the center, and the process of figuring out what makes your creative voice truly yours.If you’re a creative person who struggles with finding your niche, choosing what to focus on, or giving yourself permission to explore different interests, this one is for you.
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  Thinking of shooting a music video? Watch this. 02.09.2026 18min

  Ever wondered what it really takes to shoot a music video? In this video, I take you behind the scenes of our latest music video production and share the entire journey—from planning and preparation to unexpected problems, changing constraints, and the chaos of the actual shoot.This was my biggest music video production yet, with a larger cast, choreography, a script, multiple locations, and a lot more planning than I'm used to. Things didn't always go according to plan—but that's exactly where the most interesting lessons came from.I'll talk about the challenges we faced, the problems we had to solve on the fly, and why having the right people involved can make all the difference.Watch the finished music video here:Watch the music videoKey takeaways:• Adaptability and problem-solving are essential parts of the creative process.• The people you surround yourself with can make or break a project.
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  Holly Humberstone's Friendly Fire Took Me by Surprise 26.08.2026 21min

  What makes Holly Humberstone’s “Friendly Fire” such a compelling song?In this songwriting breakdown, Friedemann takes a deep dive into “Friendly Fire,” analyzing everything from the acoustic guitar intro and chord progression to the lyrics, vocal production, arrangement, and unexpected drum groove.The song starts out intimate and vulnerable, but its rhythmic choices introduce a surprising boldness that completely changes how the song feels. We’ll look at how Holly Humberstone uses groove, structure, harmony, and production to support the emotional story of the song — and why one particular drum choice works so well.Most importantly, we’ll pull out a stealable songwriting technique: experimenting with unexpected drum grooves to completely transform the feeling of a song.If you’re a songwriter, producer, or musician interested in songwriting analysis, drum grooves, song arrangement, music production, chord progressions, and writing more emotionally effective songs, there’s plenty to steal from this track.In this video:• Holly Humberstone – “Friendly Fire” song analysis• Acoustic guitar and intimate songwriting• Chord progression and harmony• Lyrics, vulnerability and personal struggle• Vocal production and arrangement• The unexpected drum groove• How rhythm can change the emotional impact of a song• Song structure and thematic development• A stealable technique for experimenting with drum groovesWant to master groove & arrangement?If you want to go deeper into groove, drums, arrangement, and rhythmic songwriting, check out my Puppet Master Groove Bundle:The Puppet Master Groove Bundle#HollyHumberstone #Songwriting #SongwritingTips
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  Why Do We Remember Certain Songs, And Not Others? 19.08.2026 14min

  Why do some songs get stuck in your head after just one listen — while others disappear from your memory almost instantly?In this video, we explore the psychology of memorable music and break down what actually makes a song memorable. Memorability isn’t random: there are specific psychological and songwriting principles you can use to make melodies, hooks, lyrics, and entire songs more memorable.We’ll look at four key ingredients of memorable music: attention, repetition, contrast, and emotional connection.You’ll learn why certain musical ideas grab our attention, how repetition makes songs stick, why contrast makes a musical moment stand out, and how getting the listener to participate can turn a good song into an unforgettable one.If you’re a songwriter, producer, musician, or music creator, this video will give you practical songwriting techniques for writing better hooks, melodies, choruses, and songs that people actually remember.What makes music memorable?• Attention – How to make the listener notice an idea• Repetition – Why repeated patterns get stuck in our heads• Contrast – How difference and surprise make moments stand out• Participation – Why listeners remember things they actively engage with• Emotional connection – How emotion strengthens musical memory#Songwriting #SongwritingTips #MusicTheory
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  MK.gee – Alesis: Why These Melodies Hit So Hard 12.08.2026 23min

  What makes a great song really great? In this songwriting breakdown, Friedemann analyzes a song he’s completely obsessed with — from its lyrics, melody, chords, and guitar playing to its drum groove, vocal performance, and arrangement.There’s a lot more going on here than meets the ear. We’ll break down how the song uses tension and release, rhythmic performance, vocal layering, chord progression, and melodic choices to create its emotional impact.And at the end, I’ll show you a stealable songwriting technique you can use in your own songs: how to reinterpret chords to create unexpected tension and satisfying resolution.If you’re interested in songwriting, music theory, song analysis, songwriting techniques, chord progressions, melody, harmony, lyrics, arrangement, or music production, this breakdown will give you plenty of ideas to steal for your own music.In this video:• Songwriting analysis: what makes the song work• Lyrics and storytelling• Melody and vocal performance• Chord progression and harmony• Guitar playing and rhythmic performance• Drum groove and rhythmic tension• Backing vocals and vocal arrangement• Song arrangement and structure• Tension & release in songwriting• A chord reinterpretation technique you can steal for your own songs#Songwriting #SongwritingTips #SongAnalysis #MusicProduction
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  BTS's Weird Song Structure (And Why It Works) | Steal This Song Ep 13 05.08.2026 13min

  BTS don't just write catchy songs—they build them with a strong sense of structure, energy, and surprise.In this video, Friedemann starts by sharing his experience of attending a BTS concert before diving deep into the songwriting behind one of their tracks. Together, we'll analyze the chord progression, synth textures, live bass arrangement, and the song's unusual melodic structure. We'll also explore how BTS use call and response in the chorus, why the arrangement keeps the energy moving, and how a completely new chord progression transforms the ending.Along the way, Friedemann uncovers a powerful songwriting technique he calls the "Second Verse Jump"—a concept that any songwriter can steal and use in their own music.🎵 Want to level up your songwriting? Check out our courses and programs:https://www.holistic-songwriting.com/products
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  Half Moon Run is Criminally Underrated! | Steal This Song Ep 12 29.07.2026 31min

  Discover the hidden songwriting brilliance of Half Moon Run in this episode of the podcast as we dive deep into their song “You Can Let Go.” Often described as an underrated band, Half Moon Run combine incredible musicianship, unique arrangements, and emotional songwriting into a sound that feels both organic and meticulously crafted.We break down the song’s instrumentation, guitar parts, chord progressions, vocal rhythms, harmonic movement, and production choices to uncover what makes this track so compelling. From the intricate drum grooves to the unexpected structural decisions, “You Can Let Go” is a masterclass in creating tension, release, and musical depth.Whether you’re a songwriter, producer, or simply a fan of great music, this analysis offers a closer look at the creative decisions behind one of Half Moon Run’s most fascinating songs.In this episode, we explore:The songwriting and production techniques behind “You Can Let Go”Half Moon Run’s unique musical identity and instrumentationHow chord progressions create emotional movementThe role of vocal rhythm and melody in storytellingThe song’s structure, time signatures, and evolving arrangementThe band’s intricate drum grooves and linear drumming approach#HalfMoonRun #YouCanLetGo #Songwriting #MusicProduction #SongAnalysis
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  Oliver Tree’s “I’m Gone” Has a Secret Weapon | Steal This Song Ep 11 22.07.2026 23min

  What makes Oliver Tree’s “I’m Gone” such a fascinating piece of songwriting? In this episode, we break down the unusual choices behind the song — from its expressive vocal performance and unexpected chord progressions to the way it builds tension, release, and emotional impact.We explore how the song’s unconventional structure, including the midpoint bridge and reimagined final section, keeps the listener engaged and creates a sense of surprise. Along the way, we analyze the guitar parts, arrangement decisions, and songwriting techniques that make “I’m Gone” stand out.Whether you’re a songwriter, producer, or simply curious about how great songs are constructed, this breakdown offers a closer look at the creative decisions behind Oliver Tree’s unique sound.#Songwriting #MusicProduction #OliverTree
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  AI and Creativity (My Thoughts as a Creator) | Steal This Song 15.07.2026 17min

  AI is changing the way we create, learn, and communicate — but should we embrace it, fear it, or reject it?In this episode, I explore my changing perspective on artificial intelligence: from the initial fear and uncertainty around AI to a more nuanced view of what it actually means for creativity, education, and the future of artists.We talk about whether AI is a threat to human creativity or simply another tool in the creative toolbox, how it is reshaping social media, what role it should play in education, and the ethical questions every creator has to answer for themselves.Rather than asking “Is AI good or bad?”, the more important question might be: How do we choose to use it?Topics discussed:Why AI initially felt threateningHow AI affects creativity and artistic expressionThe future of AI in educationHow AI is changing social media and content creationWhether creators should embrace or reject AITeaching the next generation to think critically about AIThe difference between using AI ethically and using it irresponsiblyTakeaways:AI is a neutral tool — the impact depends on how we use itThe ethical use of AI is a personal choiceCreativity, intention, and human perspective remain essential#AI #Creativity #FutureOfEducation #Songwriting #ArtificialIntelligence
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  How Deftones' My Own Summer (Shove It) Builds Pressure 08.07.2026 23min

  In this episode, Friedemann breaks down “My Own Summer (Shove It)” by Deftones, focusing on what makes the track so powerful from a songwriting and production perspective.Rather than just analyzing surface-level details, we zoom into the mechanics: how tension is built and released, how sound design shapes emotional impact, and how lyrics and imagery contribute to the song’s eerie, restrained energy.We also look closely at structure and arrangement choices, and how the band uses contrast to keep the listener locked in from start to finish.If you’re interested in songwriting, production, or understanding why certain songs feel so compelling, this breakdown will give you practical insights you can apply directly to your own work.
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  Why Most Success Advice Is Useless | Steal This Song 24.06.2026 10min

  🎵 Join Next Level Songwriter:https://www.holistic-songwriting.com/next-level-songwriterWhat if everything you've been told about success as an artist is wrong?In this episode, we explore the myth of success, survivorship bias, the illusion of causality, and why fame often fails to deliver what artists hope it will. We discuss the tension between algorithms and authenticity, the importance of reconnecting with the craft itself, and why making honest art may be more meaningful than chasing external validation.If you've ever felt discouraged by a lack of results, questioned your artistic path, or wondered whether success is really what you're after, this conversation offers a different perspective—one rooted in authenticity, creativity, and the joy of making things that matter.🔑 Key Takeaways:• Success is unlikely—redefine what failure means• The value of creating authentic and honest art• Why survivorship bias distorts our understanding of success• The hidden costs of fame and recognition• How to reconnect with the craft and enjoy the processIf you enjoyed this episode, consider subscribing and sharing it with a fellow songwriter or artist.
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  The Genius of “Manchild” — Harmony, Humor & Delayed Resolution | Steal This Song 01.07.2026 21min

  🎵 Join Next Level Songwriter:https://www.holistic-songwriting.com/next-level-songwriterIn this episode, we break down Sabrina Carpenter’s hit song Man Child and uncover the songwriting and production choices that make it so effective. From its central theme and lyrical approach to its meticulously crafted production, we explore how the song balances sharp accusations with humor, creating a track that feels both playful and cutting.Along the way, we analyze the song’s use of delayed resolution to build tension, its colorful melodic choices, and the subtle musical techniques that keep listeners engaged. We also discuss the cultural impact of Man Child, the craftsmanship behind its arrangement, and why its production feels so polished and complete.Whether you're a songwriter, producer, or simply a fan of great pop music, this episode offers valuable insights into what makes Man Child such a compelling listen.Key TakeawaysHow delayed resolution creates tension and anticipationWhy humor makes the song’s criticism more effectiveThe relationship between melody and lyrical meaningProduction techniques that elevate the trackWhat makes a modern pop song feel “finished”
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  APT. Breaks The Addiction Formula | Steal This Song 17.06.2026 37min

  Applications for the Next Level Songwriter Program are only open until July 1, and seats are limited. If you're serious about taking your songwriting to the next level, check out the link below before enrollment closes.https://www.holistic-songwriting.com/next-level-songwriterIn this episode, we break down the songwriting and production behind "APT." by ROSÉ and Bruno Mars, uncovering the techniques that make it so compelling.We discuss:The songwriting and production team behind the trackWhy groove takes priority over harmonic complexityHow the melody locks into the rhythmThe unique chord progression—and the surprising concept of a "chordless chord progression"What songwriters can borrow and apply to their own musicWhy songwriting credits are more complicated than they appear in today's music industryIf you're a songwriter, producer, or simply fascinated by what makes great songs work, this episode is packed with practical insights you can use in your own writing.What do you think is the secret ingredient that makes "APT." so memorable? Let me know in the comments.#Songwriting #MusicProduction #BrunoMars #ROSÉ #SongAnalysis #PopMusic #Songwriter #MusicTheory
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  Stealing RAYE’s Wildest Melody Tricks | Steal This Song 10.06.2026 25min

  In this episode of Steal This Song, we break down the musical genius behind RAYE’s “Where Is My Husband?” — from its chaotic energy and layered melodies to the sneaky theory tricks hiding underneath the surface.We explore:• The song’s use of the Dorian and pentatonic scales• How selective coloration makes the melody feel fresh• Overlapping vocal melodies and controlled chaos• The challenge of fitting dense lyrics into rhythmic phrasing• The incredible production choices that give the song its personality• A stealable songwriting trick from the bridge’s bluesy 16th-note licksIf you love songwriting, production, music theory, or just obsessing over brilliant pop songs, this episode is for you.🎧 Steal the techniques. Don’t copy the song.#RAYE #Songwriting #MusicTheory #Production #StealThisSongTakeawaysDive deep into the analysis of hit songs to uncover their techniques and creative elements.Explore the use of Dorian scale, pentatonic scale, and selective coloration in songwriting and melody composition.Want better lyric ideas instantly?Download my free “Fill That Page” songwriting guide here: https://www.holistic-songwriting.com/fill-that-page-download
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  “Ordinary” Is Just Two Melodies | Steal This Song 03.06.2026 22min

  Alex Warren’s “Ordinary” looks simple on the surface — but underneath, it’s doing something far more sophisticated.In this episode, we break down how emotional intensity is built through songwriting mechanics rather than complexity. We explore how register borrowing, lyrical contradiction, and hymn-like phrasing create a feeling of overwhelming emotional scale, even when the harmonic and melodic material is surprisingly limited.We also look at how the song uses a wordy, almost overflowing chorus to create emotional saturation rather than clarity, and how melody, time signature, chord progression, and production all work together to create that distinctive “bigger than life” effect.One of the key ideas in this breakdown is how simplicity can feel huge when it’s arranged with emotional intent rather than structural variety — and how “Ordinary” turns that principle into a powerful pop moment.We also cover:Why register borrowing creates emotional contradictionHow the chorus uses density instead of variationThe hymn-like feel created through rhythm and harmonyHow production reinforces emotional escalation rather than traditional song structureIf you want to go deeper into songwriting craft, check out our courses and tools here: https://www.holistic-songwriting.com/products
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  Why “Pink Pony Club” Feels So Emotionally Conflicted | Steal This Song 27.05.2026 17min

  Why did “Pink Pony Club” take years to become a phenomenon?In this episode, we break down the songwriting and production techniques that made Chappell Roan’s “Pink Pony Club” emotionally explosive long before the culture fully caught up to it. We explore how the song expresses internal conflict through dialogue, production style, melodic identity, and harmonic movement — turning a deeply personal story into something theatrical, universal, and unforgettable.One of the central ideas in this breakdown is what I call “lyric sparring” — a technique where opposing emotional perspectives fight for dominance inside the same song. Rather than presenting a single emotional viewpoint, “Pink Pony Club” creates tension between desire, guilt, liberation, identity, and belonging.We also explore:How the chord progression creates emotional dualityWhy the melody feels simultaneously triumphant and conflictedThe production techniques that communicate freedom vs. restraintHow the arrangement reinforces the song’s thematic transformationWhy the song’s emotional honesty helped fuel its breakout years after releaseWant to write more lyrics without getting stuck staring at the page? Download my free guide “Fill That Page” here:Fill That Page – Free Lyric Writing Guide
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  Lola Young’s “Messy” Is Brilliantly Unstructured | Steal This Song 20.05.2026 23min

  Lola Young’s “Messy” breaks a surprising number of songwriting “rules” — and that’s exactly why it works.In this episode, we dive deep into the writing and production techniques that make the song feel so raw, human, and addictive. We explore the conversational lyric style, the unusual verse structure, the hidden storytelling mechanics, the tension-filled chord progression, and the production choices that keep the song emotionally escalating without ever losing its intimacy.One of the biggest ideas in this breakdown is what I call “ramble realism” — a technique where lyrics feel spontaneous and messy on the surface while still being carefully crafted underneath. It’s a powerful way to make songs feel more alive, personal, and believable.We also look at:Why the chorus works from two emotional perspectives at onceHow the melody flows like real speech without losing hookinessWhy the production feels both chaotic and controlledHow tension and release are created harmonically and emotionally throughout the trackChapters:00:00 Introduction to Lola Young's “Messy”07:16 Verse Structure and Storytelling18:18 Dual Perspectives in Chorus24:03 Chord Progression and Tension32:17 Production and Energy Curve38:15 Interpretation of the SongWant to write more lyrics without overthinking yourself into paralysis? Download my free guide “Fill That Page” here:Fill That Page – Free Lyric Writing Guide
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  How Huntrix' "Free" Compresses 5 Minutes of Ballad into 3:30 15.05.2026 49min

  In this episode, we dive into how long, sprawling ballads can be reshaped into lean, high-impact songs without losing their emotional weight.We explore “peak relabeling”—a powerful way of rethinking where a song’s emotional climaxes actually sit—and how shifting those peaks can completely transform structure, pacing, and listener impact. From there, we break down techniques for compression: how truncation can tighten a song without flattening it, and how polymeter and rhythmic design can create momentum in even the smallest melodic ideas.We also look at the relationship between internal and external storytelling in lyrics, and how character development, dialogue, and emotional high points can be mapped onto musical form. Along the way, we examine standout melodies versus truncated versions, production structure, and how multiple “peaks” can be engineered to keep a song constantly alive.If you’ve ever wondered how to take something too long, too soft, or too unfocused—and turn it into something precise, powerful, and unforgettable—this episode is a deep look at the tools that make that possible.Chapters00:00 Peak Relabeling: Transforming Long Ballads06:01 Truncated Melody and Polymeter16:22 Truncation Techniques for Shorter Songs25:50 Lyrical Structure and Character Development32:03 Dialogue and Emotional High Point