The BEST episodes of Song Exploder
Every episode of Song Exploder ever, ranked from best to worst by thousands of votes from fans of the show. The best episodes of Song Exploder!
Get inspired as musicians dig deep into the creative process of songwriting and reveal their intimate thoughts in a series based on the hit podcast.
#1 - R.E.M. - Losing My Religion
Season 1 - Episode 3 - Aired 10/2/2020
No obvious chorus plus a lead mandolin and handclaps equals the least likely chart-topper of the '90s. R.E.M. looks back at the life-changing track.
#2 - Nine Inch Nails - Hurt
Season 2 - Episode 3 - Aired 12/15/2020
Broken-down sounds, damaged vocals and naked emotion make a chilling coda to a blockbuster LP as Trent Reznor talks about transforming pain into art.
#3 - Lin-Manuel Miranda - Wait For It
Season 1 - Episode 2 - Aired 10/2/2020
In his quest to capture Aaron Burr's voice, Lin-Manuel Miranda finds his lines on the subway. Many breathless choruses later, can he relate to Burr?
#4 - Dua Lipa - Love Again
Season 2 - Episode 1 - Aired 12/15/2020
When a bad breakup spills into the studio, Dua Lipa finds release in high-drama strings, throwback analog synths and memories of her parents' faves.
#5 - Alicia Keys - 3 Hour Drive
Season 1 - Episode 1 - Aired 10/2/2020
Far from her newborn son, Alicia Keys collaborates with Sampha, who has just lost his mother. Together, they give a longing melody life.
#6 - Natalia Lafourcade - Hasta la Raíz
Season 2 - Episode 4 - Aired 12/15/2020
After stepping back from stardom, Natalia Lafourcade rediscovers her roots, which are planted deep in Veracruz and the rhythm of huapango folk music.
#7 - The Killers - When You Were Young
Season 2 - Episode 2 - Aired 12/15/2020
Eager to beat the sophomore album slump, the Killers dusted off three chords to capture their desert home of Las Vegas — and mine for pop anthem gold.