Live From Mars

I'm now live on Substack! Every week, I'm sharing two pop music newsletters, exclusive album reactions and written reviews, early access to all YouTube reactions, and so much more. Check it out at https://vinylbymars.substack.com/.Sabrina Carpenter’s seventh album Man’s Best Friend is here — just one year after Short n’ Sweet. In this episode of Live From Mars, Alex is joined by Sabrina superfan and resident expert Nick Palmai to break down the album track-by-track.We cover everything:• How Man’s Best Friend compares to Short n’ Sweet• Our first reactions and favorite tracks (“Tears,” “House Tour,” “When Did You Get Hot?”)• The hits, misses, and standout lyrics• Whether this album came too soon after Sabrina’s breakout era• Predictions for first-week numbers, surprise singles, and what comes nextIf you’re a Sabrina Carpenter fan, you don’t want to miss this deep dive.TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@vinylbymarsInstagram: http://instagram.com/vinylbymarsYouTube: https://youtube.com/@vinylbymarsLFM: https://linktr.ee/livefrommarspodSubstack: https://vinylbymars.substack.com/To provide feedback, please fill out this survey: http://bit.ly/livefrommars-survey Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Taylor Swift has officially announced her 12th studio album The Life of a Showgirl and I’m breaking down everything we know so far. From her surprise New Heights podcast appearance to the visuals and tracklist to the long-awaited reunion with Max Martin and Shellback, this episode dives into why TS12 feels like a turning point in her career.I’ll also cover the Sabrina Carpenter feature, whether this is a return to 1989-style pop or a brand-new reinvention, and answer your fan-submitted questions about the sound, singles, deluxe editions, and if Taylor will tour again.Plus, I’m officially launching my Substack. Free subscribers get my Now Spinning newsletter every Friday with New Music Friday highlights, while paid subscribers unlock full album reviews, uncut reaction videos, Twitch archives, exclusive interviews, and access to the Life on Mars Discord. Join at vinylbymars.substack.com.Chapters:0:00 -- Intro and Europe trip recap1:35 -- My Substack announcement7:36 -- Taylor’s "The Life of A Showgirl"21:21 -- Answering Your Taylor QuestionsSubstackSpotifyApple PodcastsTikTokInstagramYouTubeX (formerly Twitter)To provide feedback, please fill out this survey: http://bit.ly/livefrommars-survey Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We’re heading into August, which means the Grammy eligibility deadline is just around the corner. On this episode of Live From Mars, I’m breaking down the state of the 2026 Grammy race across the Big Four categories: Album of the Year, Record of the Year, Song of the Year, and Best New Artist.From frontrunners like Kendrick Lamar’s GNX and Lady Gaga’s Mayhem to under-the-radar picks like Miley Cyrus and Ravyn Lenae, I walk through who’s favored to win, who deserves to be in the conversation, and who might get snubbed. I also explain the confusing eligibility rules, talk about late entries like Sabrina Carpenter’s upcoming Man’s Best Friend, and yes — I address the Alex Warren situation.Topics covered:Grammy eligibility window explainedAlbum of the Year: Kendrick vs Gaga vs the fieldRecord of the Year: Why “Luther” might sweepSong of the Year: Could Billie Eilish’s “Wildflower” surprise?Best New Artist: Is it Rosé’s year — or will someone else break through?My personal picks, hot takes, and what to watch for nextTimestamps:00:00 - Intro + Grammy eligibility timing04:20 - Album of the Year: frontrunners, dark horses, and my pick14:44 - Record of the Year: Kendrick, Gaga, Billie, and "APT"19:35 - The Alex Warren beef explained21:06 - Song of the Year: “Wildflower,” “Abracadabra,” and what’s eligible24:47 - Best New Artist: Rosé, Addison Rae, Ravyn Lenae, and moreIf you're into pop music, artist narratives, or just want to sound smart come Grammy night, this one’s for you.Follow Mars:TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@vinylbymarsInstagram: http://instagram.com/vinylbymarsYouTube: https://youtube.com/@vinylbymars/Live From Mars: https://linktr.ee/livefrommarspodTo provide feedback, please fill out this survey: http://bit.ly/livefrommars-survey Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on Live From Mars, Alex is joined by returning guest Nick Palmai to unpack Justin Bieber’s surprise new album SWAG. From the rollout and first impressions to the features, lyrical content (or lack of it), and how this record fits into Bieber’s larger discography, they dive into everything. The album is cohesive, moody, and full of bold choices... some of which work, and some that definitely don’t.Alex and Nick debate whether SWAG is a Journals spiritual sequel, a SZA-inspired vibe album, or just a chaotic mixtape in disguise. They also get into THAT Sexyy Red feature, the confusing interludes, the Michael Jackson and Usher comparisons, and why this era of Bieber might be his most interesting yet -- even if it's not his best.Topics covered:The surprise SWAG rollout and how it caught fans off guardIs this Bieber’s Journals 2.0? Or something else entirely?The influence of SZA, Daniel Caesar, Dijon, and Carter LangStrong tracks (“Daisies,” “Walking Away,” “Devotion”) vs. weak onesSexyy Red’s feature on “Sweet Spot”Album structure: interludes, voice memos, and the overstuffed tracklistLyrical repetition and why Bieber still feels emotionally guardedThe Michael Jackson/The Weeknd comparisonsWhere this album fits in Bieber’s career and male pop in 2025Timestamps:00:00 – Intro01:28 – Welcoming Back Nick08:50 – First Impressions of SWAG16:50 – The Songwriting of SWAG21:16 – Interludes, voice notes & filler tracks28:59 – Today's Male Pop Stars34:47 – Our Favorite Tracks40:32 – SWAG's Lasting ImpactFollow me:TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@vinylbymars Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vinylbymarsYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@vinylbymarsNew Music Friday playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7fbLRhODukVyre2zTFMQG0?si=e9fcd379355647aeTo provide feedback, please fill out this survey: http://bit.ly/livefrommars-surveyTo provide feedback, please fill out this survey: http://bit.ly/livefrommars-survey Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on Live From Mars, Alex unpacks a massive week in pop music—from Lorde’s industrial new album Virgin, to wild moments at Glastonbury, Olivia Rodrigo album rumors, Beyoncé's floating car scare, and more. This episode combines a full review of Virgin with New Music Friday highlights and a breakdown of the week’s biggest music news.Topics covered:New Music Friday picks: Lorde’s Virgin, Jessie Murph’s “Heroin,” and RAYE & Mark Ronson’s “Grandma Calls The Boys Bad News”Full review of Lorde’s Virgin album: top tracks, themes, standout lyrics, and how it compares to Solar PowerGlastonbury moments: Charli XCX sets the Brat curtain on fire, Matty Healy takes jabs at Taylor Swift, and Lewis Capaldi returns to the stageOlivia Rodrigo’s next album: what we know (and don’t) about OR3 so farTaylor Swift’s surprise “Shake It Off” performance in NashvilleBeyoncé’s Cowboy Carter tour scare in HoustonSabrina Carpenter’s album cover controversy and why she’s a marketing geniusTimestamps:00:00 – Intro01:31 – Lorde's Virgin Review14:21 – New Music Friday Highlights18:37 – Glastonbury 2025 Recap25:41 – Olivia Rodrigo's 3rd Album29:21 - Taylor Swift's Surprise Performance31:14 – Beyoncé's "16 Carriages" Car Accident32:15 – Sabrina Carpenter's New Album Cover Follow me:TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@vinylbymarsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/vinylbymarsYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@vinylbymarsNew Music Friday playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7fbLRhODukVyre2zTFMQG0?si=e9fcd379355647aeTo provide feedback, please fill out this survey: http://bit.ly/livefrommars-survey Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on Live From Mars, Alex shares his picks for the best songs of 2025 (so far)—including bangers from Lady Gaga, Miley Cyrus, SZA, Ariana Grande, and more. Plus, a quick New Music Friday recap and the chaotic rollout of Sabrina Carpenter’s surprise new album Man's Best Friend.Topics covered:Quick hits from a quiet New Music Friday: Kehlani, Mark Ronson & RAYE, Hannah JadaguSabrina Carpenter's surprise album announcement + the internet’s meltdown over the cover artAlex’s full list of the 10 best songs of 2025 (plus a bonus!)Why Abracadabra and Something Beautiful are tied for song of the yearThe comeback of fun Drake? (Yes, I'm shocked too)A case for Addison Rae and a deep cut from DjoTaylor Swift similarities, Ariana, SZA, The Weeknd, HAIM, Selena Gomez, and moreTimestamps:00:00 — Intro + Catch Up01:31 — New Music Friday Highlights06:59 — Sabrina Carpenter’s Man’s Best Friend Controversy13:15 — The Best Pop Songs of 2025 (So Far)Follow & support the show:Life on Mars (New Music Friday Playlist): https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7fbLRhODukVyre2zTFMQG0?si=f39baf34c7754f2fListen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0V8opmfEyH3U7MJSTrsHH6Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/live-from-mars/id1717556594Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@vinylbymarsFollow Alex on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@vinylbymarsFollow Alex on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vinylbymarsTo provide feedback, please fill out this survey: http://bit.ly/livefrommars-survey Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on Live From Mars, Alex shares one of the wildest weeks in his pop music life: going record shopping with Joe Jonas, meeting Miley Cyrus, and seeing The Weeknd’s After Hours 'Til Dawn tour. Plus, a full breakdown of Addison Rae’s surprisingly strong debut album Addison, Sabrina Carpenter’s new single “Manchild,” and an in-depth conversation with Sony Music Publishing’s SVP of A&R and Survivor 48 castaway Thomas Krottinger. From Olivia Rodrigo’s publishing journey to how artists actually get paid, this episode covers it all.Topics covered:• Addison Rae’s debut album Addison — standout tracks and whether it lives up to the hype• Sabrina Carpenter’s “Manchild” — is this another hit or just a viral detour?• Behind the scenes of Alex’s interview and record store hang with Joe Jonas• Meeting Miley Cyrus and the story behind “Pretend You’re God”• Full concert recap of The Weeknd’s After Hours 'Til Dawn stadium tour• Interview with Thomas Krottinger: Olivia Rodrigo’s early songwriting talent, how music publishing works, why the song is the most important part of the industry, how artist deals are structured, the importance of finding a good publishing partner, and how the business has shifted post-TikTokTimestamps:00:00 - Intro & Wildest Week Ever01:29 - Addison Rae Album Reaction02:16 - Sabrina Carpenter’s “Manchild”04:00 - Record Shopping w/ Joe Jonas06:23 - Meeting Miley Cyrus07:43 - The Weeknd Stadium Tour Recap10:23 - Introducing Thomas Krottinger14:36 - Music Publishing 10120:14 - Signing Olivia Rodrigo26:21 - The Future of the Music Industry37:50 - Thomas' Survivor ExperienceFollow & support the show:• Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0V8opmfEyH3U7MJSTrsHH6• Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/live-from-mars/id1721474129• Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@vinylbymars• Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vinylbymars• Follow on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@vinylbymarsTo provide feedback, please fill out this survey: http://bit.ly/livefrommars-survey Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This was one of the biggest music weeks in a long time. Taylor Swift now officially owns her masters—her first six albums are finally hers—and Miley Cyrus just dropped what I truly believe is the best album of her career. I break it all down in this week’s episode.We get into the full Taylor masters timeline, the $360M deal, what this means for the re-records, and whether Reputation (TV) is actually off the table. Plus: my review of Something Beautiful, Lorde’s raw return, and Addison Rae proving she’s more than a TikTok star.In this episode:Taylor Swift’s masters: full backstory + what happens nextMiley Cyrus Something Beautiful review + top 3 tracksLorde’s “Man of the Year” breakdownAddison Rae’s comeback with “Fame is a Gun”Chapters:00:00 - Welcome to Live From Mars02:01 - Miley Cyrus' Something Beautiful 12:44 - Addison Rae's "Fame is a Gun" 17:51 - Lorde's "Man of the Year"20:00 - Taylor Swift Buys Back Her Masters33:39 - Next Week's Sneak PeekFind me on:Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0V8opmfEyH3U7MJSTrsHH6Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/live-from-mars/id1720430294YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@vinylbymarsTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@vinylbymarsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/vinylbymarsX (Twitter): https://twitter.com/vinylbymarsTo provide feedback, please fill out this survey: http://bit.ly/livefrommars-survey Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on Live From Mars, Alex (still recovering from a cold!) shares a full breakdown of Beyoncé’s Cowboy Carter tour stop in NYC — from the visuals to the vocals, the weather chaos, and why Blue Ivy might’ve stolen the show. Plus, New Music Friday highlights from Renee Rapp, Joe Jonas, and Julia Michaels.Topics covered:Renee Rapp’s bold new single “Leave Me Alone” and upcoming album Bite MeJoe Jonas’ first solo album in 14 years (Music for People Who Believe in Love) — is it worth the wait?Julia Michaels’ comeback EP Second Self and her signature clever songwritingA full review of Beyoncé’s Cowboy Carter stadium show, including standout moments, surprises, and why it’s a must-see tourTimestamps:00:00 - Intro & Welcome Back01:22 - Reneé Rapp's "Leave Me Alone"04:19 - Joe Jonas' Return07:15 - Julia Michaels' New EP09:34 - Cowboy Carter Dominates17:22 - Wrap Up & Sneak PeekFollow & support the show: 🎧 Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5QjD6rq8H6XnF4BvMFlYVb 🍎 Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/live-from-mars/id1714282199 📺 Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@vinylbymars 📸 Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vinylbymars 🎵 Follow on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@vinylbymarsTo provide feedback, please fill out this survey: http://bit.ly/livefrommars-survey Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on Live From Mars, I’m diving into a packed New Music Friday featuring Miley Cyrus, The Weeknd, and Calvin Harris — plus, I take you inside the Something Beautiful visual album premiere hosted by Miley and Spotify.Then I’m joined by fellow music content creator Nick Fry (@nicksmusictaste) for a chaotic and honest deep dive into the albums you called 10/10. We’re reviewing your favorite “no-skip” records and deciding which ones truly deserve the title.Episode Highlights:Miley Cyrus’ new single More to Lose + a behind-the-scenes look at her visual album eventFirst reactions to new tracks from The Weeknd, Calvin Harris, and moreMusic news: Lorde’s Ultrasound Tour, Renee Rapp’s new era, and Miley’s commercial momentGuest segment: Reviewing fan-submitted 10/10 albums — from Folklore and Melodrama to Blackout, ANTI, Renaissance, and moreChapters:00:00 - Welcome + New Music Friday rundown03:08 - Miley Cyrus Something Beautiful visual album experience & "More to Lose" reaction06:55 - New music from Calvin Harris and The Weeknd10:50 - Music news from Lorde and Renee Rapp12:00 - Guest Nick Fry joins: Reviewing Your No-Skip, 10/10 Albums44:15 - Final thoughts + where to find Nick online💬 What’s your 10/10 album? Drop a comment or tag me on TikTok/IG @vinylbymars.—🎧 Follow Live From Mars on Spotify | Apple Podcasts📲 Follow me: TikTok | Instagram | YouTube⭐️ Like the pod? Leave a 5-star review — it helps a ton!To provide feedback, please fill out this survey: http://bit.ly/livefrommars-survey Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on Live From Mars, I’m breaking down Ed Sheeran’s nostalgic new single “Old Phone,” the issue with his long promo campaign, and why Maroon 5’s “Priceless” featuring LISA left me completely underwhelmed. Plus, Jorja Smith enters her rave era, and I share thoughts on the final leg of Charli XCX’s Brat Tour in Brooklyn—my first time seeing her live.I also unpack the deluxe edition of Selena Gomez & Benny Blanco’s I Said I Loved You First, Lorde’s Virgin album reveal and streaming stats for “What Was That,” and why the Song of the Summer race feels unusually stale in 2025.For the deep dive, we talk everything Lady Gaga and her record-breaking Copacabana Beach performance: the setlist, Brazilian cultural tributes, her evolving confidence since Coachella, and the massive post-show spike across her entire catalog.Topics covered in this episode: Ed Sheeran’s “Old Phone” + Play rollout breakdownMaroon 5’s “Priceless” ft. LISA + the problem with empty K-pop collabsJorja Smith’s “The Way I Love You” rave momentCharli XCX’s Brat Tour finale reviewSelena Gomez & Benny Blanco’s deluxe: standout tracks + what’s workingLorde’s new album Virgin + early success of “What Was That”Song of the Summer 2025: Why it’s wide openDeep Dive: Gaga’s Copacabana concert — impact, scale, and streaming liftChapters/Timestamps:00:00 – Welcome + What’s Coming This Episode02:05 – Ed Sheeran’s “Old Phone” + Album Rollout06:20 – Maroon 5’s “Priceless” ft. LISA09:35 – Jorja Smith’s “The Way I Love You”12:45 – Charli XCX’s BRAT Tour Finale (Brooklyn)15:20 – Selena Gomez & Benny Blanco Deluxe Reactions19:05 – Lorde’s “What Was That” + VIRGIN Announcement21:30 – Song of the Summer 2025 Rundown23:50 – Deep Dive: Lady Gaga at Copacabana Beach26:10 – Final Thoughts + What’s Coming Next WeekFollow Live From Mars: https://linktr.ee/livefrommarspodFollow on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@vinylbymarsFollow on Instagram: https://instagram.com/vinylbymarsFollow on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/user/abm0896To provide feedback, please fill out this survey: http://bit.ly/livefrommars-survey Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on Live From Mars, we’re breaking down Lorde’s long-awaited return with her new single What Was That — how it fits into her discography, its early success, and why it has fans divided. Plus, I’m sharing quick reactions to other New Music Friday standouts including Benson Boone, Samia, and Joe Jonas.Then for our deep dive, we explore how the touring landscape has shifted post-Eras Tour, including the early controversy around Katy Perry’s Lifetimes Tour, Sabrina Carpenter and Dua Lipa’s evolving strategies, and a critical look at Beyoncé’s Cowboy Carter tour launch.Where do pop concerts go from here — and is Beyoncé too legendary to be relatable?Topics covered in this episode:Lorde's What Was That review + lead single rankingStreaming performance of Lorde’s new single so farNew Music Friday picks: Benson Boone’s Mystical Magical, Samia’s Carousel, Joe Jonas’ Heart by HeartThe Katy Perry Lifetimes Tour controversy and execution critiquesSabrina Carpenter’s mini-Eras energy on tourBeyoncé’s Cowboy Carter tour: what low ticket sales tell us about the future of pop iconsThe future of live touring after the Eras Tour phenomenonChapters / Timestamps:00:00 – Welcome + Personal Intro (100K celebration)01:30 – New Music Friday Intro02:00 – Lorde’s What Was That Review09:00 – Ranking Lorde’s Lead Singles12:30 – New Music Friday Highlights (Joe Jonas, Benson Boone, Samia)17:30 – Deep Dive: Touring After the Eras Tour19:30 – Katy Perry’s Lifetimes Tour Critiques22:00 – Sabrina Carpenter and Dua Lipa Touring Strategies25:00 – Beyoncé’s Cowboy Carter Tour and Touring ReflectionLike what you hear?Make sure you’re following Live From Mars on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you listen!If you enjoyed the episode, leave a 5-star rating or review — it helps the show grow and keeps the conversations going.Stay connected:TikTok: @vinylbymarsInstagram: @vinylbymarsYouTube: VinylByMarsSpotify Playlists: Follow hereTo provide feedback, please fill out this survey: http://bit.ly/livefrommars-survey Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

One year later, we’re revisiting Taylor Swift’s The Tortured Poets Department in an unfiltered deep dive into its rollout, reception, and legacy. Was the double album drop a mistake? Which songs still hit hardest? And how does it stack up in Taylor’s discography today?I’m joined by viral Swiftie and returning guest Nick Palmai (@nickpalmai) to break it all down — from our dream rollout (with trailers + music video concepts) to the songs we’ve grown to love (or skip). Whether you’re a die-hard Swiftie or still on the fence about TTPD, this episode has something for you.We discuss:The one-year anniversary of Taylor Swift’s The Tortured Poets DepartmentWhy the 31-song release may have hurt the album’s impactJack Antonoff vs. Aaron Dessner: who delivered the better production?What songs have aged well… and which we’ve forgottenFan-submitted questions: Grammy nominations, visuals, and moreChapters:00:00 — Intro & Nick returns03:00 — What the release night felt like06:30 — Has the album aged well?10:15 — Our dream rollout strategy (and a music video multiverse)18:45 — Jack Antonoff vs. Aaron Dessner moments24:00 — What songs grew on us most27:45 — Should TTPD have been nominated for AOTY?31:30 — Cut one track from the album34:30 — Best/Worst/Fave picks39:30 — Final thoughts: what’s stuck with us after a yearLISTENER QUESTION:What’s your Best/Worst/Fav song picks on The Tortured Poets Department? Has your opinion changed in the past year?Follow Alex:TikTokInstagramYouTubeSpotifyTo provide feedback, please fill out this survey: http://bit.ly/livefrommars-survey Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Lana Del Rey, Lady Gaga, Charli XCX, and Bon Iver—oh my. This week on Live From Mars, Alex (aka Mars, aka @vinylbymars) dives into the biggest moments from Coachella 2025 and the best of New Music Friday. From Lana’s orchestral country pivot to Gaga’s career-defining headlining set, it’s a full-on pop culture breakdown you don’t want to miss.In this episode: • Lana Del Rey’s “Henry, come on” — a sweeping, poetic Americana ballad and the mysterious unraveling of her next album. • Bon Iver returns with SABLE, fABLE — a two-part album that blends indie folk with R&B, and is a worthwhile return to the Bon Iver we all fell in love with. • Lady Gaga’s Coachella set stuns the world — theatrical, gothic, unhinged in the best way. Is this her best performance in over a decade? • Charli XCX brings Brat to the desert with surprise guests Billie Eilish, Lorde, and Troye Sivan — and ends her set with a powerful, vulnerable message. • Plus, underrated song picks from Humble the Great, Talia Rae, and a Crux check-in with Djo.If you’re a pop fan, festival lover, or just here for the cultural tea, this is your recap of the week!Chapters: 00:00 - Introduction to Live from Mars and Coachella Highlights 00:57 - New Music Friday: Lana Del Rey’s “Henry, come on” 06:55 - Bon Iver’s Return: SABLE, fABLE Review 10:30 - Coachella Highlights: Lady Gaga & Charli XCX 13:04 - Lady Gaga’s Career-Best Performance? 20:32 - Charli XCX’s Raw Minimalist PowerNext week: A special Taylor Swift's The Tortured Poets Department anniversary episode is coming, and Alex wants your voice memos. Got a hot take or burning question? Email vinylbymars@gmail.com and be part of the show.Follow Alex:TikTokInstagramYouTubeSpotifyTo provide feedback, please fill out this survey: http://bit.ly/livefrommars-survey Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week’s Live From Mars is packed! Alex (aka Mars, aka @vinylbymars on TikTok and Instagram) dives into the latest New Music Friday releases, breaks down the perfect release timing for a potential Song of the Summer, and answers your AMA questions in celebration of hitting 100,000 followers on TikTok!  In this episode:Miley Cyrus returns with Prelude, Something Beautiful, and End of the World—is she entering another avant-garde era?Joe Keery (yes, Steve Harrington from Stranger Things) drops a stunning new album under Djo—why The Crux feels like his most emotional work yet.Ed Sheeran's back with Azizam and a brand new concept era—what we think of “Play” so farIs April the best month to drop a Song of the Summer? A deep dive into past hits, new contenders (Drake, Sabrina Carpenter, Miley), and streaming trends.Your ultimate Record Store Day 2025 guide—what to know, how to prep, and the top releases to hunt for.A special Ask Me Anything segment tackling his most anticipated concerts of 2025, the truth about VinylTok in 2025, no-skip albums, what's next for Taylor Swift in 2025, and more!Whether you're here for chart talk, new releases, or getting to know Alex better, this episode is your one-stop shop for all things pop.Chapters:00:00 - Introduction01:58 - Record Store Day Tips & Tricks05:27 - When to Release a Song of the Summer Contender10:31 - Miley Cyrus' "Something Beautiful"15:23 - Ed Sheeran's "Azizam"18:12 - Djo's "The Crux"21:15 - Ask Mars Anything26:01 - The State of VinylTok in 202529:00 - Two No-Skip Albums34:08 - Taylor Swift's 2025 ReleasesChime in! What’s your pick for 2025’s song of the summer? What are you planning to grab on Record Store Day? Drop a comment and let Alex know.Follow Alex: TikTok | Instagram | YouTube | SpotifyTo provide feedback, please fill out this survey: http://bit.ly/livefrommars-survey Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We did it — 100,000 followers on TikTok. A huge milestone, a huge thank you, and a huge episode to match.This week on Live From Mars, Alex reflects on the journey from faceless vinyl recs to full-blown music commentary, the wildness of hitting six figures in followers, and what’s coming next for the show (spoiler: it’s an AMA — so send those questions in!).Then we dive into a chart update packed with surprises — including a historic week for Kendrick & SZA, massive first-week numbers for Playboi Carti, and unexpected success from Gaga and Chappell Roan.But the real star of the episode? Ariana Grande’s Eternal Sunshine Deluxe: Brighter Days Ahead. With five brand-new songs and one extended version, this release just might solidify Eternal Sunshine as the best album of her career. From “Twilight Zone” to “Dandelion,” Alex unpacks every moment — vocally, emotionally, and sonically.In this episode, we cover:Hitting 100K followers & Alex's view on the journey to Mars so far5 years of Dua Lipa’s Future Nostalgia + the surprise release of the “Physical” Remix ft. Troye SivanLana Del Rey teasing her mysterious 10th studio album The Right Person Will StaySelena Gomez & Benny Blanco’s chart battle vs. Playboi Carti (and what their last-minute sales push says about the industry)Ariana Grande’s eternal sunshine deluxe: brighter days ahead – track-by-track breakdown, production details, emotional growth, and why “Twilight Zone” strikes such emotional and nostalgic chords with listeners📲 Follow me for more:TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@vinylbymarsInstagram: www.instagram.com/vinylbymarsSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/user/abm0896 💬 Drop your AMA questions via IG poll, broadcast channel, or comments!To provide feedback, please fill out this survey: http://bit.ly/livefrommars-survey Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Live from Mars, I’m breaking down the biggest stories in pop this week — from Kendrick Lamar dominating the charts to Lady Gaga’s Mayhem debuting at No. 1. But the spotlight is on Selena Gomez and Benny Blanco’s new album I Said I Love You First, and we’ve got a lot to unpack.We explore:• Billboard Chart Highlights – Why Kendrick is the name all over the Hot 100 and how Gaga just tied Janet Jackson for most No. 1 albums.• Mayhem by Lady Gaga – A breakdown of the album’s chart success, the Grammy conversation, and why “Abracadabra” might be her ticket to Record and Song of the Year nominations.• New Music Friday Picks – Jack Harlow & Doja Cat, Jonas Brothers, and Jon Bellion — the tracks worth your time.• Selena & Benny’s Joint Album – A deep dive into I Said I Love You First: the love story, vocal production issues, and whether it lives up to the hype.• Top Tracks from the Album – Why “Bluest Flame” and “Don’t Wanna Cry” are the standouts and what Charli XCX’s involvement adds to the mix.• The Vision Debate – Why this album plays it a little too safe and what it tells us about Selena’s current artistic confidence.• What’s Next in Pop – Ariana Grande’s Eternal Sunshine Deluxe: Brighter Days Ahead and the rising buzz around Miley Cyrus’ Something Beautiful.From personal milestones to massive releases, we’re diving into it all. Is I Said I Love You First a step forward for Selena Gomez? Or is she still playing it too safe? Let’s get into it.💬 Drop your thoughts in the comments! Did I Said I Love You First surprise you — or were the singles a red flag?👉 Don’t forget to SUBSCRIBE for more deep dives on the biggest new releases in pop music!📲 Follow me for more: TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@vinylbymars Instagram: www.instagram.com/vinylbymars Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/user/abm0896To provide feedback, please fill out this survey: http://bit.ly/livefrommars-survey Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How much do artists really make from streaming? Spotify just paid out $10 billion in 2024, but where does that money go—and is streaming actually sustainable for artists? In this episode of Live From Mars, Alex (@vinylbymars) sits down with Sam Duboff, Spotify for Artists’ Global Head of Marketing & Policy, to break down the newly released 2024 Loud&Clear report and what it means for artists, streaming, and the music industry.In this episode, we cover:The Truth About Streaming Royalties – How artists actually get paid (no, there’s no fixed per-stream rate)The Rise of Independent Artists – Why 50% of Spotify’s payouts go to indie and DIY musiciansSuperfans Are the Future – The 2% of listeners who generate 50% of merch salesThe Globalization of Music – How international collaborations are reshaping the industryWhat’s Next for Streaming? – The comeback of music videos, new artist tools, and morePlus, we dive into Lady Gaga’s Mayhem, the magic of Charli xcx and Lorde’s “Girl, so confusing remix,” and play Best, Worst, Fav with Lorde’s Melodrama.Read the full Loud&Clear report: spotify.com/loudandclearFollow Me:TikTok & Instagram: @vinylbymars | https://www.instagram.com/vinylbymarsListen to Live From Mars on Apple PodcastsListen to Live From Mars on SpotifySubscribe on YouTubeSubscribe, rate, and follow for more deep dives into music, streaming, and the industry’s biggest topics.To provide feedback, please fill out this survey: http://bit.ly/livefrommars-survey Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Lady Gaga’s Mayhem Album Review & Track-by-Track BreakdownLady Gaga’s new album Mayhem is here, and we’re breaking it all down! In this episode of Live From Mars, I’m joined by Seth Betzler for a deep dive into Lady Gaga’s 2025 return to pop.We dive into the road to this moment—how Chromatica left its mark, Gaga’s jazz era with Tony Bennett, the fallout from Joker 2, and the unexpected smash success of Die with a Smile. Plus, we unpack the Mayhem rollout: Did Disease truly serve as the “lead” single? How did Abracadabra’s massive Grammy premiere change the game? And why does the album’s grunge-inspired aesthetic not quite match the genre-blending sound Gaga delivered?Then, it’s time for a track-by-track breakdown—analyzing every song, from the industrial grit of Disease and Perfect Celebrity to the euphoric highs of Vanish Into You and Zombie Boy. And of course, we wrap things up with Best, Worst, Fav—choosing the best song, the weakest track, and our personal favorites from Mayhem.Is Mayhem a defining moment in Lady Gaga’s career, or just another unexpected pivot? Let’s talk about it.🎧 Listen now and let us know your thoughts on Mayhem!📲 Follow Alex: @vinylbymars on TikTok | Instagram📲 Follow Seth: @dramakingvinyl on TikTok | Instagram, @dramakingbooks on TikTok | InstagramTo provide feedback, please fill out this survey: http://bit.ly/livefrommars-survey Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Live from Mars, I’m joined by my dear friend Amanda (@amandasplaylist) to break down Tate McRae’s new album So Close to What. After my initial reaction stirred up some strong opinions, we’re diving deep into what makes this album work, where it falls short, and how Tate’s evolution as an artist impacts her place in pop music today.We explore:• Tate McRae’s Career Evolution – From You Broke Me First to Greedy and So Close to What, has she finally found her sound?• Best & Worst Songs – Why Sports Car, Two Hands, and Purple Lace Bra stand out, and which tracks miss the mark.• Tate as a Performer First – How her strength in dance and live performance shapes her music choices.• Production & Songwriting – Does So Close to What push pop forward, or does it play it too safe?• Where She Stands Among Pop’s Biggest Names – How Tate compares to Olivia Rodrigo, Sabrina Carpenter, Dua Lipa, and more.• Hot Takes & Fan Reactions – What the album means to different listeners and why pop music hits differently for everyone.From viral TikTok hits to her future in pop, we’re unpacking it all. Did So Close to What live up to the hype? Or is Tate still searching for her signature sound? Let’s discuss.👉 Don’t forget to SUBSCRIBE for more deep dives on the biggest new releases in pop music!📲 Follow me for more:TikTok | Instagram | YouTube → @vinylbymarsAmanda: @amandasplaylist on TikTok & InstagramTo provide feedback, please fill out this survey: http://bit.ly/livefrommars-survey Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.