Ep. 204: Wiz Khalifa

Today’s guest is a true jack-of-all-trades—part artist, part entrepreneur, and full-on icon. From nurturing a die-hard fanbase to dominating the charts across genres, he’s built an empire over the course of his incredible career. This diamond certified superstar is the pride of Pittsburgh and has proven time and time again that you can do it all—and do it well. And The Writer Is…Wiz Khalifa! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s guest is the definition of a songwriting legend! With a record-breaking 76 #1 hits (and counting), 10 ASCAP Songwriter of the Year awards, and the title of NSAI Songwriter of the Decade for 2010-2019, he’s set a standard that’s hard to match. His songs have dominated the charts and sound-tracked lives, earning him Grammy, CMA, and ACM nominations and wins along the way. But behind the stats is a humble, hardworking collaborator whose passion for music and dedication to the songwriting community make him one of the most respected names in the game. He’s the guy behind the hits and the inspiration behind the hustle.And The Writer Is…Ashley Gorley! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s guest is a lyrical powerhouse who’s been shaping the sound of pop, country, indie, and electronic music with her signature style. She started her songwriting journey in church before taking a leap of faith to Nashville, where she quickly became the go-to writer for heartfelt, unforgettable lyrics. From crafting hits for the biggest names in music to lighting up every room she enters, her talent and spirit are unmatched. Hailing from the Show Me State, she’s shown us how to turn a dream into a career. With her one-of-a-kind voice (on and off the page), this songwriter proves that faith, passion, and a little bit of Missouri grit can take you anywhere.And The Writer Is…Steph Jones! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, we highlight a live panel for APG’s 20th anniversary, hosted by Ross Golan. The event honors not just a company, but a community of artists, songwriters, producers, and all those who believe in the power of music to inspire, challenge, and connect us.Twenty years ago, APG set out with a bold vision: to be an independent powerhouse for both music publishing and artist development. Founded by Mike Caren, APG has grown into a unique space where creativity thrives and where artists can build their brands and realize their visions on their own terms. It’s been a launchpad for incredible talent like Charlie Puth, Kehlani, Kevin Gates, Ava Max, and so many others. But more than that, it’s been a platform where music creators are empowered to succeed on every level—whether it’s securing partnerships across film, TV, and advertising, or finding the best possible collaborations with writers and producers who help bring their music to life. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s guest is the ultimate overachiever in pop music—producer, songwriter, artist, and, let’s face it, the reason half your favorite albums sound the way they do. From crafting massive hits with Taylor Swift, Lorde, and Lana Del Rey to fronting his own band, Bleachers, he’s a master at blending raw emotion with anthemic hooks that stick. Whether he’s digging into suburban nostalgia or redefining modern pop, his fingerprints are all over the sound of the last decade. Oh, and did we mention he’s a three-time Producer of the Year Grammy winner? No big deal. And as if that’s not enough, we couldn’t think of a better guest to celebrate our 200th episode. He’s the heart, the brain, and the relentless energy behind it all. And The Writer Is…Jack Antonoff! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week’s guest is one of the biggest names in the songwriting world. Her hard work, perseverance and reverence for songwriting have taken her from all an all-star to superstar. From nominations including Songwriter of the Year to multiple #1 songs with multiple artists, this writer’s current run is something few writers in the history of music have done. Not only that, this writer is also back to releasing her brilliant music as an artist. Inspiring songwriters everywhere, this guest is someone we all want to root for. And The Writer Is…Amy Allen! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week’s guest is a prolific pianist, composer, songwriter, and producer. Hailing from Canada, this writer began his piano studies at the ripe age of three years old. Raised by an Italian-Canadian father and a French-Canadian mother, our guest grew up with various musical influences. After studying performance and classical piano and completing a Bachelor of Arts degree in composition and piano performance, our guest began his career as a session musician, in-house producer, arranger, and composer. Known for his captivating piano skills, this writer is a sought-after collaborator who has worked with stars such as Celine Dion, Sarah Brightman, Josh Groban, and Miley Cyrus. And The Writer Is…Stephan Moccio! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s guest became hooked on music after he found a guitar in the trash, and taught himself how to play. This DIY attitude and fascination with music landed him in the Berklee College of Music where he honed his writing, production, and instrumental skills. After mastering the guitar and becoming immersed in record production, he started to tour and record with legendary artists such as Lauryn Hill, Alicia Keys, J. Cole, H.E.R., Mac Miller, and Anderson .Paak. One thing led to another, and our guest found himself producing and writing on massive records, becoming the go-to guitarist for stars, and locking in six Grammy nominations over the years. His story proves that passion and perseverance can take you far in the music industry. And The Writer Is…Jeff “Gitty” Gitelman! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s rising star has gracefully navigated the crazy world that is viral fame. Influenced by Jazz, Folk, R&B, and everything in between, this guest is a young master at storytelling. After posting her original releases and covers to SoundCloud, YouTube, and later TikTok, her career exploded. A few albums and critically acclaimed collaborations later, this guest has proved that she belongs in the conversation for music’s brightest star, and is a leader in the modern singer-songwriter movement. And the writer is…Lizzy McAlpine! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s guest is the secret weapon behind some of pop’s most heart-wrenching, scream-along anthems. With a knack for tapping into raw, soul-baring emotions, he’s crafted hits that feel like they’re ripped straight from your journal—if your journal had hooks that got stuck in everyone’s head. Whether he’s working with fresh voices or pop royalty, he knows exactly how to make songs that pull you in and don’t let go. He’s a master of making you cry, dance, and hit replay a thousand times. And The Writer Is…Dan Nigro! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.