Pop Waves

S Club 7 In this episode we explore the dark side of the bubblegum pop machine and what happens when you try to recreate the success of The Spice Girls. Follow us on Instagram and TikTok @popwavespod , or drop us an email at popwavespod@gmail.com . Join the conversation over on Substack we’d really love to hear from you! What are your memories of the years and artists we touched on in this episode...

Charli XCX From playing illegal raves as a teenager to playing two huge stadium tours back to back, Charli XCX has finally broken through into the mainstream with her unique electro-pop sound. In this episode of Pop Waves we go right back and explore where she came from and why we think Brat has finally given her her moment in the spotlight. Listen to !Franchesckaar! from Charli's first album! Nao...

FKA Twigs: Escaping the mundane FKA Twigs is an incredibly talented multidisciplinary artist whose work has been informed not only by her pain but her passion for pushing boundaries. In this episode of Pop Waves we look back at some of Twigs’ biggest influences and how they broke new ground as far back as the 70’s.  CW Timestamps Racism 10:01-10:49, racist abuse from Twilight fans (no details...

In today's episode we explore the post-brit pop, new millennium, reality TV induced perfect storm that shaped one of the UK's most influential girl bands. Watch: Pop Stars: The Rivals, Episode 1 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R9_Na9LkByY Read: The Independent article - https://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/music/features/girls-aloud-2024-what-will-the-neighbours-say-b2511399.html Lis...

We look at the lasting legacy of SOPHIE, an avant-garde producer who pushed the boundaries of pop music. Exploring her influence on hyperpop, her trans identity, and the profound mark she left on the music industry and queer culture. CW time stamps: 17:35-18:55: Discussion of reality TV show ‘There’s Something About Miriam’ 19:58-28:38: Discussion of gender recognition legislation and media covera...

We dispel the myth of Raye's "over night success" and dig in to the resilience she's shown in order to final be heard. CW time stamps: 11:15 - 13:05 and 14:07 - 16:20 contains mention of sexual assault and associated themes. There are no details or graphic descriptions but please skip this part if you'd prefer to avoid the topic. Listen to our companion playlist of all the tracks mentioned in this...

We dissect the pop landscape of the late 90's and early 00's to understand the Sugababes careers and the impact they had on pop music, with a healthy dose of nostalgia on the side! Listen to our companion playlist of all the tracks mentioned in this episode - Spotify Join our Patreon to add to the conversation and listen to join our bonus episode on the Sugababes solo projects and reunion - www.pa...

We explore how #MeToo, the BLM movement and that Oscar's selfie shaped Doja's career and her catapult to fame and analyse how she responded to joining the A list. CW time stamps: 8:20 - 10:44 contains mention of police brutality and the #BLM movement. There are no details or graphic descriptions but please skip this part if you'd prefer to avoid the topic. Listen to our companion playlist of all t...

Pop Waves is a brand-new podcast that promises to uncover the cultural undercurrents shaping the last 30 years of pop music.  Hosted by two friends who are deeply passionate about pop, Pop Waves will explore the fascinating intersections of the social, political, popular, and underground cultural landscapes, offering deep dives into how these elements have influenced the music and careers of...