The New Exchange with Ken Grand-Pierre

So here’s the thing: last year we released these radio playlists that were companion pieces to the usual podcast episodes. These playlists were centered on the music scenes of specific countries, with the biggest being focused on the music of my adopted home country of Ireland. Naturally, because of the scope of those playlists, I couldn’t include all the music I wanted to include: enter in today’s bonus episode. Throughout this broadcast you’ll experience some of the most dynamic musicians that Ireland has to offer, along with a chat between two old friends of mine: BBC and SiriusXM presenter Phil Taggart and Other Voices presenter and Fight Like Apes frontwoman MayKay. They are two vital voices of Irish music, along with being friends I deeply respect and admire.

It comes up pretty early on in this podcast: but Jesse Boykins III is the kind of person that people smile about when they hear his name. I’ve seen it happen numerous times throughout the years, both across the US and abroad. Sure, much of that has to do with how celebrated Jesse is as an artist, but so much of that love also has to do with how Jesse exudes generosity, candor, and affection towards the world. From Grammy nominations to collaborating with Vic Mensa, Steve Lacey Calvin Harris, and more…Jesse’s done a lot. But his latest offering is the most important step forward in his career: New Growth. Its Jesse’s fifth album, his most realized and honest depiction of who he is, where he’s been, and where he’s hoping to go. It’s an R&B album that reminds you that the limits of the genre are boundless, and the ways Jesse incorporates sounds like West African Folk, Brazilian Samba, and electronica are just incredible. That’s the sonic component of the album, lyrically New Growth traverses the nuances of being a human being. The good, the bad, the inspiring, the embarrassing; it’s a body of work that aims to encapsulate and convey so much of what makes us….well, us. We chat about all of that on today’s podcast, along with Jesse’s focus on creating safe spaces for creatives to evolve.

Our first bonus episode of season 7 is another chat I’ve been dying to have for a long time and I love that it happened under these circumstances. You see, Denai Moore is a British-Jamaican artist I’ve gotten to know over the years through her music (which is fucking excellent by the way). We do chat about her music career across this podcast, but we also chat in-depth about how she’s grown into a chef and author of a cookbook; Plentiful: Vegan Jamaican Recipes to Repeat. Plentiful is Denai’s first cookbook, and it’s such a triumph. Along with being beautifully designed, it was also written with a level of ease in mind for the reader. With an air of authenticity and encapsulating Denai’s unique voice, it’s just really something else. Throughout this episode, we chat about how the book came to be, how Denai’s passion for cooking is rooted in her Jamaican heritage, and the joys of using creativity to learn more about yourself.

Say hello to Cristal, Alisa, Katie, and McKenna. There are a few episodes this season that I’ve been wanting to make since way back in season 1 and this is one of them. The Aces are a rock band from Utah that I’ve been privileged to have gotten to know over the years. They made their first album here in New York, and I fondly remember witnessing the hard work, tenacity, and just creative abandon they had throughout making that body of work. Since then, they’ve released two more albums, have toured the world, and have also become role models to women and queer people worldwide. The latest album, I’ve Loved You for So Long, specifically explores their journey as not just a band, but also individuals who grew up in a restrictive small town. They’re very open about how they’re on this journey of continuously trying to navigate the world while still figuring out who they are and what they want to say. And the beauty of that is how they let their fans in on that; how they’re very intentional in making people know that they’re not alone. We chat about all of that on today’s podcast and yeah, it is my absolute pleasure to introduce you to The Aces.

Welcome back to The New Exchange podcast and to very the beginning of season 7. I am beyond excited to share these talks with you, starting with a guest I’ve been dying to have on here for a long time. Seye Adelekan is a Nigerian-British artist who’s toured with Lana Del Rey, Emeli Sandé, KT Tunstall, and Paloma Faith; though he is best known as a prominent live member of Gorillaz’s touring party. I first saw Seye onstage at Governors Ball way back in 2014, performing alongside Damon Albarn. Since then, I’ve been a fan, and seeing his growth as an artist over the years has been something special. Along with being an in-demand touring musician, Seye has also started to release his own solo music. His latest songs have so far explored various shades of human emotions, while also being draped with this tone of intimacy and expansiveness that speaks to his years of experience as an artist. On this premiere episode of the podcast, Seye shares with me his experiences of finding refuge in creativity amidst navigating sobriety, embracing his cultural roots, and also what happens when you start believing in yourself.

It’s once again the time to announce a new season of the podcast and I am ridiculously excited about getting to share this news with you. Season 7 of The New Exchange will begin next week on March 19th, and to celebrate that announcement I’ve decided to do something differently. This broadcast you’re about to hear is in two parts.

The first part features the music of each musical guest I’ll have in season 7 and the second part is a new conversation with my buddies Steven Edelstone and Thomas Green. We had such a great time doing this last year that I knew we had to do it again. Be sure to subscribe to The New Exchange wherever you stream podcasts so you don’t miss out on this upcoming season.

Intro song is Dream by Swedish artist Joakim Karud.

And we arrive at the last playlist before the start of season 7. Japan was one of the first countries I thought of when I outlined the post-season broadcasts and it brings me a lot of joy getting to finally share the music from this incredible country with you. Like many around the world, I too have found myself deeply inspired by various Japanese creatives. From authors, filmmakers, and musicians, the level of creativity that has come out of Japan has been historically awe-inspiring. It truly feels like that sentiment cannot be overstated, and yet, for as prolific as Japanese art has become, there still is this air of mystery that shrouds it. So with that in mind, it was important for me to structure a playlist that spoke to the diversity of Japan. The artists I’ve chosen are vastly different from one another, hailing from areas such as Kobe, Fukuoka, Okayama, and Osaka. What unites them is a fierce desire to challenge the preconceived notions of Japanese life, to take a bird's eye view towards the various challenges, norms, and underpinnings of what makes everyday life in Japan unique. And of course, along with that mandate, these artists have excelled at making music that is downright exhilarating to listen to. I’ll be announcing season 7 in a few short weeks, I massively hope you enjoy this in the meantime.

Pictured in the artwork is ATARASHII GAKKO! Intro song is Dream by Swedish artist Joakim Karud.

You know what? It does feel right that the first playlist of the year would end up being a deeply personal one. If this is your first time checking out the podcast, then you might not know that my family hails from Haiti (aka one of the most culturally rich corners of planet Earth). Since achieving its independence in 1804, Haiti has become known as a vibrant creative hot spot that continues to mesmerize people globally. A major aspect of that outpouring of love is usually tied to Haitian music, which this playlist is all about celebrating. For the next 2+ hours, you’ll be hearing a myriad of fiercely talented Haitian voices, along with an interview with Michaël Brun, a returning guest to the podcast. Michaël was one of my favourite guests back in season 6 and it’s such a gift to welcome him back to further explore the qualities that make Haitian music so special. We also talk in-depth about Michaël’s BAYO festival, which is a day-long event that is all about celebrating the past, present, and future of Haitian music. Be sure to follow Michaël Brun on socials after this so you don’t miss out on upcoming BAYO news.

This broadcast is dedicated to my aunt Edith Marseille, may she rest in power.

Pictured in the artwork is Michaël Brun, guest of the pod and photographed by Nayquan Shuler. Intro song is Dream by Swedish artist Joakim Karud.

One last thing for ya before the new year ;)

It’s going to sound pretentious, but intentionality has become increasingly more important to me with every release. The reason I mention that is because this playlist you’re about to hear is wholly reflective of that (along with being as non-pretentious as it gets haha, this thing is full of pop bangers). Like, come on, it’s the winter time, it’s cold, dark, and dreary out and you know what? The last thing I think you need to hear is another somber acoustic tune. So instead, I’ve compiled a glorious antidote for you, a collection of songs where you can practically feel the sun rays hitting your skin with each track; featuring artists from various Latin American countries (such as Colombia, Mexico, Brazil, Argentina, etc). It’s a big aim of mine to highlight more artists from this section of the world, especially because I can’t overstate how so many people from these countries have beautifully enriched my life throughout the years. Even though all these countries are distinct from one another, music does (somewhat) bind them together and yeah, I’m more than sure this selection of songs is about to bring a smile to your face.

Pictured in the artwork is Elsa y Elmar, past guest of the pod and photographed by Espacio Crudo. Intro song is Dream by Swedish artist Joakim Karud.

Welcome to the off-season! Alright, so usually between seasons I share some extra conversations, but this time around, I wanted to try something different. Last season, each episode had a corresponding radio episode where I’d share the music of the featured country of the week. So that’s what we’ll be doing until March and the idea is to share the music of cultures that both mean a lot to me and that I’m simply curious about. This first broadcast is about Canada, a country that’s been very kind to me over the years. I feel very privileged that I can reflect on how the various music scenes in Canada have embraced me throughout my career and this playlist has been made to reflect the creative vitality of those artists. The plan is to release one of these broadcasts a month until we launch season 7 in March 2024.

Pictured in the artwork are Arkells, past guests of the pod and photographed by Scarlet O’Neill. Intro song is Dream by Swedish artist Joakim Karud.

A short explainer of what to expect between now and the launch of season 7 (March 2024).

Let’s be honest, if we had to make a list of the acts we’ve taken with us from our high school years into adulthood….the list would be pretty short. So imagine how trippy it feels for me to have not only done that with Ash (my favourite band) but that I’ve also found myself in a position to say they’re still making their most vital works. Their latest and eighth album, Race The Night, is full of a blistering spirit that’s simply awe-inspiring. I’m joined by Tim, Rick, and Mark to chat about the passion that went into making this album and the reasons why ultimately this album means so much to them.

Also, if you’re listening to this on Apple, Google, Deezer, or pretty much anything other than Spotify: I’ll be dropping some special radio episodes of the pod between now and the start of season 7 in 2024. Those types of episodes can only be streamed on Spotify, so be sure to subscribe to the podcast there as well!

And we’ve arrived at the last piece of The Passport Season. This companion broadcast is the largest I’ve done all season and it only makes sense that it’s reflective of the unbelievable talent found all across Ireland. For over a decade now, I’ve been perpetually amazed by the ways Irish musicians share their stories and the ways they put it all on the line to exert their creativity. It’s in my opinion that Ireland produces the best artists on earth and this broadcast you’re about to hear is my attempt at showcasing that. Getting to craft this season for you has been a real gift, a massive privilege, and yeah, I hope you find something special to enjoy across these six episodes and six companion pieces. There’ll be some more one-off episodes that’ll be coming out until we properly launch season 7 in March of 2024. Until then, welcome to Ireland, and see you in 2024. This is the sixth and final companion broadcast of The Passport Season.

Pictured in the artwork is Sorcha Richardson, guest of the pod and photographed by James Baldwin. Intro song is Dream by Swedish artist Joakim Karud.

Honestly, when it came to planning this season, I knew the finale had to be about my home, Ireland. But the end result has turned out to go well beyond what I expected. Ireland is a country that’s embraced me for over a decade now and I’m constantly gobsmacked by the amount of love and generosity I feel when I’m there. It’s a place that’s been crucial to both my professional and personal life, with both areas being connected due to the arts. The artists of Ireland are some of the most talented human beings on earth, with each artist embodying the ways that Ireland is a small, but mighty country. These artists constantly put it all on the line, they’re constantly pouring out their emotions in ways that amazes me again and again. There’s also a beautiful sense of creative diversity that’s growing throughout Ireland and it is my absolute privilege to tell you more about that.

Joining me today are four artists who beautifully showcase the diverse palette of creativity that Ireland has to offer. I’m joined by the stunningly talented Sorcha Richardson (4:36), God Knows (37:08), Ryan Vail (1:18:25), and Problem Patterns (1:52:27).

Also, next week I’ll be dropping part 2 of this finale, which will be a radio broadcast full of an unbelievable collection of Irish songs that I can’t wait to share with you. That radio broadcast will be dropping on September 25th and you’ll find that only on Spotify.

We’re nearing the end of this season and I can undoubtedly say these companion pods have been a major highlight for me. Getting to explore these countries in-depth through the music feels so right, and that feeling is immense when it comes to Germany. It was said loads of times throughout the episode, how what Germans chiefly care about is when artists challenge both themselves and their audiences. This selection of songs you’re about to hear reflects that beautifully. It’s full of artists who’ve melded their hunger for creativity with integrity and a deep desire to never be pigeonholed by genre. Each of these broadcasts has been crafted to showcase the multitudes of these countries and it feels like this one is the most overt in that mission. Welcome to Germany, my friends. Each episode of The Passport Season will have a companion broadcast, this is the fifth of six.

Pictured in the artwork is Milky Chance, guest of the pod and photographed by Anthony Molina. Intro song is Dream by Swedish artist Joakim Karud.

In just a few short decades, Germany has transformed into an epicenter of the arts. Whether it’s painting, writing, or music, artists from all over the world know that Germany is a place where your creativity can flourish. That reputation has led many to this European country, not just to create art, but also to appreciate it in a more tangible way. It’s also become a place where people can build a new life and start again; which is something we beautifully explore across this episode. I’ve been to Germany a few times throughout my life and crafting this episode made me appreciate the country in a new way. My favorite thing that I learned was that to Germans: the only rule of creativity is for artists to challenge themselves and the audience.

Joining me today are three artists who symbolize the eclectic creativity that Germany fosters. I’m joined by the unbelievably talented Wallis Bird (3:45), Milky Chance (45:40), and Meagre Martin (1:23:12).

Also, next week I’ll be dropping a radio broadcast that goes along with this episode. The playlist for that will be full of incredible German artists (along with other artists who call Germany home). That radio broadcast will be dropping on September 12th and you’ll find that only on Spotify.

RIP to Kieran (aka Profound Beats). The track you're hearing in the intro is his tune Twilight in Taipei.

Sulene is an accomplished songwriter, producer, performer, and composer from Cape Town who’s one of the most creative New Yorkers that I know. When I decided on featuring South Africa in this season, I knew it’d be important to explore the country considerably; especially since I’ve never been there before. One of the earliest talks I had for this season was the one you’re about to hear; where my friend Sulene teaches me about what it was like to grow up in South Africa and how her experiences there still impact her today.

Echoing the previous episode, it’s an absolute joy of mine to welcome you to South Africa. Throughout the years, it’s been my privilege to work with several South African artists and during those experiences, I’ve witnessed first-hand how profoundly imaginative these artists can be. This next companion broadcast is all about that, showcasing the multitudes of the imaginative minds of South African artists. The songs within this broadcast also reflect the unwavering passion towards storytelling that South Africans uniquely have; along with a love for expressing themselves in a lively fashion. I’ve lived with this playlist for a few months now and a major strength of it is how it transports your mind elsewhere. This is my gift to you, again; welcome to South Africa. Each episode of The Passport Season will have a companion broadcast, this is the fourth of six.

Pictured in the artwork is Desire Marea, guest of the pod and photographed by Tatenda Chidora. Intro song is Dream by Swedish artist Joakim Karud.

It’s pretty crazy, this episode marks the first episode of the season to feature a country I’ve yet to experience. South Africa is a nation full of history, home to over 60 million people, and is one of the most culturally diverse places on earth (12 languages are spoken regionally throughout South Africa). Along with these attributes, the music and art of South Africa is also profoundly rich; with artists constantly striving to explore their truth regardless of their circumstance. I’ve been privileged to witness the vigorous creativity of South African artists while working with them here in New York and getting to share a bit of that with you is a massive honor. 

Joining me today are four artists who’re exemplary of the uniqueness of South Africa, my friend Jean-Philip Grobler of the band St. Lucia (3:13), Desire Marea (44:03), Yugen Blakrok (1:17:57), and HONEYMOAN (1:54:54).

Also, next week I’ll be dropping a radio broadcast that goes along with this episode. The playlist for that will be full of striking South African artists who’re out of this world. That radio broadcast will be dropping on August 8th and you’ll find that only on Spotify.

Intro song prod. by WAVY.

We can agree that nothing beats a day at the beach, right? The sight of the water, the laughter of strangers, the smell of the sea in the air…it’s wild how much that environment can make you feel good. Brazil is a country that’s famous for many things, chief among them being the 2,095 beaches throughout the country. Actually, this next companion broadcast of The Passport Season has been crafted as the perfect mix of songs for you to listen to as you head to the beach. Whether you’re in a car, a bus, or riding a skateboard; the songs you’re about to hear is going to perfectly set the summer mood for you. Big ups to my sister Nicole Almeida for helping me craft this playlist. Each episode of The Passport Season will have a companion broadcast, this is the third of six.

Pictured in the artwork are Nouvella, guests of the pod and photographed by Dan Pellicciari. Intro song is Dream by Swedish artist Joakim Karud.

The next episode of this season is about a country that reinvigorated me just a few months ago. Brazil is a part of the world that’s famous for its warmth, it’s vibrancy, and enthusiasm across its people, but I have to say; getting to experience that firsthand is really something else. Getting to go there, I got to experience some of the most overtly passionate people I’ve ever met and honestly, getting to share this episode with you is such a privilege. The trait that unites my guests is that even though they’ve all lived vastly different lives, they’re all exemplary of how Brazilian art tends to be an explosion of affecting colors that strive to embrace you. Joining me today are four artists who are amazing examples of that, my sister Nicole Almeida (3:18), Nouvella (41:35), Nonô (60:10), and my friends in Boogarins (1:34:40). Also, next week I’ll be dropping a radio broadcast that goes with this episode. The playlist for that will be full of incredible Brazilian artists that I know you’re going to love. That radio broadcast will be dropping on July 19th and you’ll find that only on Spotify.

Michaël Brun is a ridiculously talented DJ, producer, and songwriter from Haiti that’s perpetually manifesting his dreams. In a few short years he’s already collaborated with acts like Ed Sheeran, J Balvin, Maesgo, and honestly, the list is practically endless. Haiti is also the home country of my family, and getting to make this episode was a beautiful gift. Haiti is a prideful country where its citizens deeply care about community, working hard, doing right by people, and being mindful of how you present yourself to others. Throughout the art of Haiti, is this a continuous quality of how artists are fostering dignity through liberation; and that quality rests at the core of my conversation with Michaël.

After you hear our chat, be sure to check out Michaël’s upcoming BAYO dance parties that’ll be happening at MTELUS in Montreal on July 7th and Central Park Summerstage here in New York on July 22nd.

Wanna know what’s going to make your day better? A mix of stellar songs from France. Welcome to the next companion broadcast of The Passport Season. Throughout the last podcast, we explored how in French music there’s an alchemy of clear sophistication, joy of expression, and the multitudes of human emotions all melding into one. To further exemplify this, I’ve constructed this playlist of some of the most talented artists in France, and man…you’re going to fucking love this playlist. Each episode of The Passport Season will have a companion broadcast, this is the second of six.

Pictured in the artwork is Romane, guest of the pod and photographed by Pauline Darley. Intro song is Dream by Swedish artist Joakim Karud.

To call today’s episode personal would be a massive understatement. France is a country that’s become quite a second home to me, a sentiment I’m fortunate to feel about several places but it’s a very different beast when it comes to France. My family are Haitian and French, with our roots extending between the two countries for actual centuries. I, myself, have been going there quite regularly since I was twenty years old and my love for the country has grown from my interactions with people all throughout France.

A quality that unites all French artists is their ability to create art that’s sophisticated but melded with fun and deep emotion. Joining me today are four artists who are amazing examples of that, my friend Dan Black (3:28), Ibeyi (45:41), Romane (60:07), and my friend Ben l'Oncle Soul (60:25).

Also, next week I’ll be dropping a radio broadcast that goes with this episode. The playlist for that will be full of incredible French artists that I know you’re going to love. That radio broadcast will be dropping on June 27th and you’ll find that only on Spotify.

Welcome to Belgium. This is the first companion broadcast of The Passport Season and you’re in for a damn great time. For the next two hours, you’ll be getting a mix of unbelievably talented artists from Belgium, some of which we chat about on the premiere episode of The Passport Season. When I was plotting this season, it was clear to me that the art of these musicians would be crucial to share alongside each episode and yeah, I’m dead excited for you to hear this mix that I’ve prepped for you. Each episode of The Passport Season will have a companion broadcast, this is the first of six.

Pictured in the artwork is Glints, a guest of the pod and photographed by Usman Abdul. Intro song is Dream by Swedish artist Joakim Karud.

It’s finally time to announce season 6 of the podcast: The Passport Season. Six episodes, six different countries, and six additional radio broadcasts sharing music from each country.

To further explain how this season will work, I welcomed back my buddy Toby Tenenbaum to ask me about the who, what, when, why, and how of this different kind of season. 

Surprise! Before we start season 6 I wanted to share one more radio broadcast with ya. This one is a super loose chat with two of my best friends, Thomas Green and Steven Edelstone. Thomas is a radio producer, engineer, and audio wiz from Australia and Steven is a writer/editor who’s written for the New York Times, Billboard, Paste Magazine, and more. Most importantly; they both have amazing taste in music; which has resulted in quite possibly the best playlist you’ll ever find on the internet.

A reminder that season 6 of the podcast will be launching on May 30th. That season is called The Passport Season and I can’t wait for you to hear it.

Intro song is Dream by Swedish artist Joakim Karud

Welcome to the last off-season episode before the launch of season 6 (which will be announced very very soon!). Getting to finish off this series of talks with Nottingham-based singer-songwriter Yazmin Lacey feels like the perfect situation, and I’m proper excited about you falling in love with Yazmin’s music the way I have. Her debut album, Voice Notes, is the perfect blend of R&B, jazz, soul, and electronica; with Yazmin cooly singing about her insecurities and doubts. The Guardian’s 5-star review of the album describes it as “there’s so much to love and savor.” and hand-on-heart, they’re dead on about that. But what is it like to put yourself out there in such a direct fashion? Well, that’s what we explore on today’s podcast, along with the importance of building community and what the word “legacy” means to Yazmin. Also, it must be said, we also trade a fuckton of laughs (Yazmin Lacey is funny as fuck). 

Corniness be damned: you just gotta love when good things happen to good people. My brother (and returning pod guest) Abraham Alexander is having a stellar year, all off the back of hard work and authenticity. His debut album, SEA/SONS is a contemplation on loss, redemption, and anguish, but also light, joy, and most importantly; hope. In a time of perpetual algorithms, AI tech, and diminishing attention spans, SEA/SONS almost acts like an antidote to the coldness of the world, offering a gentle reminder of “hey, it’s ok to sit with your feelings for a bit.” Throughout this episode, we explore the stories behind the songs off the album, along with delving into Abraham’s own life story (and of course, we chat about the fact that my brother has Gary Clark Jr AND Mavis Staples on his debut album).

Naaz is a Dutch-Kurdish alternative pop singer that brilliantly exemplifies what this podcast is all about. I’d forgive you for mistaking this series as a podcast about music, after all, I do talk to a lot of musicians. But no, this series is really about humanity and you have to admit, behind every great song and every great album is some form of hardship, some form of adversity, and quite frankly; a lot of tough shit. Naaz is no exception to that, having not only dealt with the usual struggles of everyday life but also having to navigate cultural clashes, societal pressures, and inner self-doubt. However, the result of navigating those hardships is an invigorating debut album called Never Have I Ever. Creating this album was in many ways a lifeline for Naaz, with the central question being “Who do I want to be?” We explore that and more across our chat.

This is an episode I feel an immense sense of gratitude towards. SAIAH is a west-coast based musician that intrigued me with their authenticity and unapologetic approach to writing. I don’t think it’s breaking new ground by stating how in 2023 we live in a society that constantly asks us to be “perfect.” Honestly, in my opinion, the best artists are the ones that look at that and say “fuck that.” You see it with acts like Christine and the Queens, Turnstile and now enters SAIAH. Their music explores how humans can be petty, angry, pain-stricken, and simply; how a lot of us can be tragic figures within the stories of our lives. Within this episode, we chat about all of that, along with the ‘why’s’ that drive SAIAH’s art.

Isha Shah is a photographer, videographer + educator who’s easily one of the hardest-working people I’ve ever met. From touring with acts like Lewis Capaldi, Mahalia, and Enter Shikari, to building a unique approach to portraiture; Isha’s creativity is equally relentless as it is boundless. Beyond her visual skills, Isha is incredibly talented at speaking her mind, especially across social media. Across our chat, we explore why it’s important to speak out against prejudice in creative spaces and why it’s vital to support marginalized voices.

Big ups to my friends we feature on today’s broadcast: Mahalia, Haviah Mighty, De Staat, and Emotional Oranges.

Intro song is Dream by Swedish artist Joakim Karud

Tim Toda (Oh Wonder, HONNE, Coldplay) is a director of photography who’s an absurdly talented human being. They’re many qualities about Tim’s photography/videography that’s unique, but chief among them is his ability to convey intimacy in grandiose moments that feel out of this world. He’s also a person who believes that kindness and generosity are paramount, and during our chat, he delves into how those qualities make him better at his job. We also put on our fanboy caps to celebrate (and defend) the one and only Coldplay.

Big ups to my friends we feature on today’s broadcast: Overcoats (who’re touring soon), Kwame, Soda Blonde, Oh He Dead, KAYE, and Dan Black.

Intro song is Dream by Swedish artist Joakim Karud

Erica Campbell (NME, Spin, Spotify, Patreon) is a writer who’s actively challenging what you’ve come to expect from music journalists. Particularly, journalists who cover rock music. Originally hailing from the south of the US, Erica is living her best life in New York, jumping from concert hall to concert hall, interviewing artists, and making it seem easy in the process. But during our chat, we explore the inner resolve, determination, and self-love it takes to chase your dreams. We also get real about being black people operating in spaces that weren’t made with us in mind; all while sharing songs that we love in the process.

Big ups to my friends we feature on today’s broadcast: The 1975, Kimbra, Haviah Mighty, July Talk, and Ailbhe Reddy; who’re all currently touring!

Intro song is Dream by Swedish artist Joakim Karud

Welcome to the first episode of The New Exchange Radio. This has been a long time in the making and I won’t lie to you, it’s fucking terrifying. But it really is a simple equation: I love music, I love the people who make music and I want to share that love with you. This first episode is a collection of songs I fuck with that I know you’ll fuck with too. Some are by friends of mine, while others are by artists I’ve deeply admired from afar. On this debut episode, I’m flying solo, with future episodes featuring guests (aka super talented individuals I’m blessed to call my friends).

Just a reminder, season 6 of The New Exchange Podcast will be premiering May 2023. Also, as you’ve probably noticed, these radio broadcasts will only be living on Spotify. Full episodes of the podcast (new and old) will still be available where ever you stream podcasts (Apple, Google, Deezer, you get the point), while episodes of The New Exchange Radio will only be on Spotify.

It’s such a joy that the last bonus episode of the season is with an old friend of mine, the incomparable Ella Vos. Ella is a pop singer-songwriter who’s one of the most resilient people I’ve ever met. From intense heartbreaks to battling a cancer diagnosis while building her career….Ella’s been through a lot, and yet the way she’s able to be a shining light in the face of all this darkness has been mystifying to me. We recorded this episode a few days before she released music for the first time in two and a half years, and a lot of our talk centers around the experiences that inspired that music. From the internal work of reaching a place of self-acceptance to the ridiculous nonsense Ella has faced as a mother who operates within the music industry; this is a talk that reeks of humanity, the good and the bad.

Ella's new singles are called Glitter and Tears and Mountain, both songs are out now and can be found where ever you stream music. A new album will be coming out next year.