Bringin' it Backwards

What happens when you're the first in your family to chase a dream everyone else kept secret? On this episode of Bringin' it Backwards, Adam Lisicky sits down with Indian singer-songwriter and producer Nikitaa—an artist who grew up in Mumbai surrounded by music, yet never saw anyone actually turn their passion into a career. That is, until she decided to break the mold. From early poetry scribbled in a black diary, to piano lessons she begged her mom for, Nikitaa opens up about leaving home for Los Angeles with more ambition than a plan, stepping into LA's music scene wide-eyed, and debuting music that unexpectedly racked up thousands of streams and editorial playlist placements. Hear her talk about weathering cultural expectations, why she learned to produce and engineer her own tracks during the pandemic, and the deeply personal, vulnerable stories behind her upcoming album—including the healing power she found in telling her own truth through songwriting. This is not just a conversation about music. It's about risk, being your own advocate, the joy (and terror) of finally being seen, and learning to trust your voice—especially when you're the very first one in your family to use it. If you're someone looking for road-tested insight on finding authenticity in your music career, hit play and subscribe to Bringin' it Backwards wherever you get your podcasts.

On this episode of Bringin' It Backwards, Adam Lisicky sits down with Doobie, an artist whose raw blend of rock and hip hop—and brutally honest storytelling—has built a dedicated fanbase. Born and raised in Columbus, Ohio, Doobie shares how a childhood filled with his mom's eclectic music—from Metallica to Tupac—sparked his love for genre-bending sounds. He opens up about writing poetry as a kid, turning those words into rap verses, and eventually teaching himself beat-making and engineering in high school. The conversation digs deep into how one chance encounter with a local DJ completely changed his career, how touring with Jelly Roll and Yelawolf shaped him as an artist, and the wild, almost-derailed journey behind his breakout track "When the Drugs Don't Work"—a song that exploded on YouTube and changed his life overnight. Doobie gets vulnerable about his battles with addiction, finding purpose in recovery, and pushing his music head-first into a bold, rock-driven direction ("Early Bird Gets the Whiskey" is just the beginning). If you're an aspiring musician (or just love real stories from artists on the rise), you'll find plenty of inspiration—and unfiltered truth—right here. Stick around to hear advice you won't get anywhere else, and don't forget to subscribe to Bringin' It Backwards for more backstage stories from today's most compelling artists.

What does it really mean to grow up in a household where songwriting isn't just a passion—it's the family business? On this episode of Bringin' It Backwards, Adam Lisicky sits down with rising Nashville artist Cecilia Castleman for a raw, insightful look into her journey from Franklin, Tennessee's cow fields to the brink of her debut album release. From picking up a guitar at age six (instead of a twenty-dollar bill for the mall) to landing a publishing deal at eighteen, Cecilia Castleman and Cecilia Castleman share how a musical family, relentless work ethic, and a willingness to keep her art sacred shaped not only her sound, but the way she moves through the industry. She opens up about backseat sessions with her songwriter mom and philosophical kitchen-writing with her dad, the years-long process of choosing which "secrets and thoughts" would finally make it onto her first record, and even what it felt like to work with legendary producer Don Was after years of dreaming. In this conversation, you'll hear stories of fighting perfectionism, the struggle to stay true when comparison sneaks in, and the vulnerable process of turning personal experience into shareable art. Whether you're an aspiring musician or just a fan of great storytelling, this episode peels back the layers on what it takes to forge a musical career when "making it" means being both tough and totally yourself. Tune in to hear Cecilia Castleman's advice for artists learning to "hold your ground," her reflections on the highs and lows of chasing the dream, and why sometimes the right guitar riff and an honest lyric is all you need. Don't forget to subscribe to Bringin' It Backwards on your favorite platform and follow @BringinBackPOD for more inspiring interviews!

On this episode of Bringin' it Backwards, Adam Lisicky sits down with Calvin Langman of The Happy Fits for a candid, electric conversation about growth, vulnerability, and the wild ride from local family jams to viral indie stardom. Calvin—who grew up on a DIY farm in West Jersey surrounded by musical siblings—shares how he went from goofing off with parody songs inspired by Weird Al to writing the band's breakout EP during high school. What started as a passion project quickly skyrocketed as their DIY artwork accidentally landed them on Spotify's US Viral charts and brought offers from major labels. Calvin opens up about the pressure of early success, taking the leap to leave school for music, and how the band found a new sound after pivotal lineup changes. The episode dives into the making of The Happy Fits' newest album "Love Sick," revealing the creative process behind integrating female vocals and chasing honest, personal stories in songwriting. Calvin is vulnerable about navigating big life transitions—from sobriety to heartbreak and moving to Brooklyn—showing how all those moments fueled his songwriting and the band's explosive chemistry. Whether you're an aspiring musician or a fan, this episode is packed with advice on building a supportive team, embracing change, and staying true to your passion for music. Hit play and discover how The Happy Fits are stronger than ever—ready to kick off their new tour and share their next chapter with the world. Don't forget to subscribe to Bringin' it Backwards for more authentic stories from your favorite artists!

What happens when everything you thought your music career would be takes a sharp left turn—not once, but over and over again? On this episode of Bringin' it Backwards, Adam Lisicky sits down with the wildly talented Alexandra Savior for an honest, vulnerable conversation about reinvention, resilience, and staying true to her creative self through the ups and downs of the music industry. Alexandra opens up about her journey from rainy Vancouver, Washington to New York Fashion Week as a teenager—thanks to an unexpected shoutout from Courtney Love—and the whirlwind that followed: signing with Columbia, writing sessions in London, and nearly missing her high school graduation due to flights to L.A. and New York. She tells us what it was like to nearly become the "pop star" execs wanted, only to realize she needed to find her own path. Alexandra reflects on the challenges following her debut, riding the waves of being dropped by her label, and how a chance call from Danger Mouse and a creative partnership helped spark her next chapter. We dive deep into her latest project, Beneath the Lily Pad, where her songwriting explores personal themes like mental health, isolation, and searching for identity, all crafted in the most DIY way imaginable. From painting album covers in her kitchen to building a direct connection with fans through handwritten letters and custom merchandise, Alexandra's story is one of artistic integrity, vulnerability, and never giving up—even when the world shuts down. Get ready for an episode filled with music industry real talk, behind-the-scenes moments, and advice you won't find on TikTok. Hit subscribe, lean in, and listen to Alexandra Savior's incredible journey—only on Bringin' it Backwards.

Welcome back to Bringin' It Backwards, the podcast where legendary and rising artists share their stories before the stardom. In this episode, Adam Lisicky sits down with Elliot—better known as M.A.G.S.—to talk about reinvention, collaboration, and finding new creative life in familiar songs. A couple years after his album Destroyer made waves, M.A.G.S. returns to discuss his latest project, Creator—a reimagined record featuring ambient, genre-crossing versions of the original tracks. For the first time, he opened up his process to collaborators and crafted the entire album in just nine days, with each song emerging from a blend of spontaneous inspiration and experimentation in Chicago. Adam and M.A.G.S. dig into the impact of growing up in a musical family, the challenges of band life, and the transformation that comes with letting go of creative control. The conversation is packed with insights on collaboration, personal growth, and the delicate balance between career and passion. Plus, M.A.G.S. shares personal advice for aspiring artists and the excitement about opening for indie legends American Football. If you're hungry for real stories about artistic reinvention and chasing your creative spark, don't miss this episode. Be sure to subscribe to Bringin' It Backwards for more conversations that go way deeper than the music.

On this episode of "Bringin' It Backwards," Adam Lisicky sits down with Wesko, a country artist whose music journey is anything but typical. Growing up in a tiny town in eastern North Carolina with no musical lineage, Wesko didn't even pick up a guitar until he was 19—and that was just to find some therapy during a stressful period in his life. What started as late-night YouTube tutorials in his parents' backyard quickly turned into songwriting sessions, local gigs, and, eventually, viral TikTok moments that would help launch his career. Wesko shares how he went from working blue-collar jobs and going to college to signing with Warner Records—all while battling self-doubt and a literal hand injury right before signing his first big deal. He chats openly about building a fanbase from scratch through social media, playing to empty dive bars, and what it's like moving from home studios to recording with major producers in Nashville. Plus, you'll hear the stories behind his "Lost Boys" EP and his upcoming project, revealing why his music is all about real-life struggles, sacrifices, and the power of holding on even when life gets tough. If you're an aspiring artist looking for inspiration—or just a fan of honest, rootsy storytelling—you won't want to miss this conversation. Stick around to hear Wesko's best advice for breaking through, staying true, and never giving up.

Ever wondered what it's like to risk it all for your dream before you even finish high school? On this episode of Bringin' it Backwards, Adam Lisicky sits down with Simone Simons, powerhouse vocalist of the symphonic metal band Epica. Simone opens up about her humble beginnings in the Netherlands—where mandatory flute lessons unexpectedly led her to discover her own passion for singing. She shares how a twist of fate (and a "long-haired" crush) pulled her into the world of metal, and how, at just 17, she joined Epica and made the life-altering decision to drop out of school and chase a career as a touring artist. Simone reflects on overcoming stage fright, building Epica from the ground up, and the leap from supporting acts to global headliners. Plus, she discusses the band's journey to their ninth studio album "A Spiral," tapping into new creative processes, collaborating with the Prague Orchestra, and even balancing her own solo projects. If you're an aspiring musician or a fan curious about the real-life grind behind legendary bands, this conversation is packed with raw insights, honest advice, and a warmth that's as genuine as Simone's artistry. Hit play, subscribe, and join us to hear Simone Simons share what it really takes to bring your dreams backwards—and forwards—into the world.

What happens when you trade a neuroscience degree at UCLA for the unpredictable world of music? On this episode of Bringin' it Backwards, Adam Lisicky sits down with singer-songwriter Isabella Kensington—a rising artist whose million-plus TikTok following and viral covers are just the beginning of her story. Raised in London by American parents, Isabella shares how performing with Paul McCartney as a teen, choosing art over a "sensible path," and weathering breakups and self-doubt shaped her bold new EP, Not in a Dollhouse Anymore. From her earliest days harmonizing in the Capitol Children's Choir to navigating the pressure-cooker academic world and building a digital fanbase from scratch, Isabella opens up about the moments that tested her grit and ultimately led her to NYU's Clive Davis Institute. She gets real about the creative highs, the viral surprises, and those panic-inducing risks every artist faces when chasing their dream. Whether you're a musician fighting for your big break or just love stories of vulnerability and perseverance, this episode is packed with inspiration. Hit play, and bring it backwards with Isabella Kensington!

Ready for a dose of true backstage energy? In this episode of Bringin' it Backwards, Adam Lisicky welcomes rising pop powerhouse Madelline for a conversation packed with personal grit, creative breakthroughs, and the real story behind her genre-blending journey. From growing up in Connecticut surrounded by music and art, to boldly moving to Montreal to kickstart her songwriting career, Madelline opens up about how she carved her own path. She shares the highs and lows of learning instruments—from lugging her trusty flute through school bands to battling uninspiring piano lessons—and the vital push that came from embracing her theater kid roots. Madelline gives us the inside scoop on the viral success of her single "On a Different Wave," her leap into TikTok and Reels, and the game-changing decision to record "dopamine" in both English and French—highlighting how creative risks can open brand-new doors. Plus, she talks about launching her first writing camp, collaborating with producers and songwriters she loves, and illuminating the concept album she's currently building—one set to mark a bold new era in her artistry. If you're an aspiring artist or just love hearing what really goes into making music that connects, this is a conversation you won't want to miss. Hit play now, and subscribe to Bringin' it Backwards to catch every episode that reveals the real stories and practical insights behind the music you love!

Ever wondered what it's like to go from a tiny hamlet in England to the heart of Manhattan—and then channel all those big feelings into powerful, honest music? On this episode of Bringin' It Backwards, Adam Lisicky sits down with Ella Rosa, an artist whose journey might just inspire you to rethink what's possible. Ella opens up about her move from Reading, England to New York City at age eleven, tackling the culture shock and homesickness that shaped so much of her early songwriting. She shares how classical training, opera, and musical theater led her to top-lining EDM tracks in New York's nightlife scene—sometimes sneaking out of the house to perform in clubs before she was even old enough to drive. From writing in packed studios as the only girl in the room to forging her own path with deeply personal songs, Ella paints a vivid picture of what it means to stay true to yourself as an artist. They dive into the release and impact of her breakthrough EP, Anxious Attachment Style, and chat about her latest singles—plus why she's obsessed with making music that makes you feel something and throwing parties that bring LA together. Whether you're figuring out your sound or just need a boost of creative affirmation, this conversation shows how embracing your weirdness is often the secret sauce in moving forward. Don't miss this candid, insightful episode—hit subscribe to Bringin' It Backwards and listen as Ella Rosa reflects on her rise, her honesty, and what she wishes every young artist knew.

On this episode of Bringin' It Backwards, host Adam Lisicky reconnects with Caroline Grace Vein (Blondestandard) for an honest, inspiring conversation about resilience, creativity, and the journey of an artist. Nearly three years after her breakthrough debut "Blue Eyes," Caroline opens up about navigating health challenges—including a diagnosis of Hodgkin's lymphoma just after graduating college—and how they shaped her music and perspective. She shares how those experiences led to a deeper, more authentic songwriting process, the evolution of her sound from bubblegum pop to alternative rock, and the impact of community and collaboration in her work. Caroline dives into the stories behind new singles like "California Dreams," "Freaking Out," "Ruin My Day," and her latest release, "Arms of Another," offering insight into the themes of vulnerability, strength, and connection that drive her artistry. Plus, Caroline reveals she's working on a new podcast to share her story even further, and gives advice to fellow aspiring musicians: stay true to yourself, focus on what you love, and let your art resonate authentically. Whether you're an indie musician, a fan of genuine artist stories, or looking for inspiration to overcome obstacles and pursue your passion, this episode is full of raw, empowering moments you won't want to miss. Listen to the full interview and be sure to subscribe to Bringin' It Backwards for more stories from legendary and rising artists!

Welcome back to Bringin' It Backwards, the podcast where we dig deep into the journeys that turned aspiring artists into legends—and where you get the inside story, straight from the source. On this episode, host Adam Lisicky sits down with Waylon Reavis of A Killer's Confession, a voice you might recognize from his iconic run fronting Mushroomhead. Waylon opens up about growing up in rural North Carolina, where the dream of becoming a musician seemed out of reach—until a jam session with friends at 15 changed everything. He walks us through the hard-earned steps from garage band rookie to joining Mushroomhead, the battles to earn respect as the "new guy" in a legendary group, and the leap of faith required to forge his own path with A Killer's Confession. In this raw, honest conversation, Waylon squashes rumors, shares candid advice for aspiring artists, and offers a behind-the-scenes look at the making of A Killer's Confession's new concept album, Victim One—an ambitious, psychological exploration tied deeply to his own experiences. You'll hear the story of how the album came to life, from creative roadblocks to Easter eggs that connect to earlier records. If you're an artist chasing your own breakthrough, or just love hearing what drives musicians past their toughest moments, this is a conversation you can't miss. Be sure to subscribe on your favorite podcast platform, give us a five-star review, and follow @BringinBackPOD on social media for more backstage stories from your favorite artists.

If you've ever wondered what happens when an artist goes all-in—risking comfort for creativity, clarity for chaos, and ultimately, artistic evolution—this episode of Bringin' It Backwards is for you. Adam Lisicky sits down for a long-awaited catch-up with Hannah Fairlight, the singer-songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, and actor whose journey takes us from her small-town roots to international adventures, reality TV twists, and standing ovations at iconic venues like CBGB's. Three years since her last visit (and the release of Muscle and Skin), Hannah returns to share what she's discovered since: motherhood, sobriety, and most importantly, a brand new album, Lone Wolf. In this deeply candid conversation, Hannah talks about the real stories behind reality TV, why saying "no" actually propelled her music forward, and how recording to tape in Nashville changed everything. She opens up about leaving behind the literal "album baby" era, focusing her energy on musical risk-taking, and the drive to create work that's not just for herself—but is sonically irresistible. Adam and Hannah dig into writing, surviving setbacks, finally getting to tour, and forging real connection both on stage and at home. Whether you're a new artist chasing your first show or a fan of unapologetically honest music, Hannah's story is proof: getting uncomfortable is where the real magic happens. Hit subscribe, follow @BringinBackPOD, and don't miss Hannah Fairlight's return, only on Bringin' It Backwards.

On this episode of Bringin' It Backwards, Adam sits down with Zahna—a resilient rock artist whose journey is anything but typical. Born in Monterrey, Mexico, Zahna moved with her family to Ohio before spending a pivotal year in Mexico to reconnect with her roots. After settling in Texas, music quickly became her passion, from musical theater to high school battle of the bands. But Zahna's story goes much deeper than band stages and studio sessions. She opens up about facing—and overcoming—a serious genetic kidney disease, receiving a life-saving transplant from her mom, and navigating the toughest years of her life. Despite setbacks, Zahna turned pain into power, launching her solo career, independently releasing her acclaimed album Stronger Than Death, and—most recently—signing with Brian "Head" Welch's label (yes, from Korn!). In this candid conversation, Zahna shares the highs and lows of her artistic journey, the story behind her explosive single "Pile of Pills," and why authenticity is her greatest strength. If you're a musician hustling to make it or just love hearing what it really takes to chase your dreams, this episode is for you. Hit subscribe and listen in to hear Zahna's full story—and remember to rate and review Bringin' It Backwards wherever you get your podcasts!

On this episode of "Bringin' it Backwards," Adam and Tera Lisicky sit down with Gannon Fremin of Gannon Fremin and CCREV for an honest, down-to-earth conversation about chasing dreams, building a band from the ground up, and the realities of making it in the music industry. Gannon shares how growing up in a tight-knit, musical family in South Oklahoma shaped his early love for music—he didn't even realize playing guitar wasn't something every kid did! We dive into the roots of the band, from impromptu jams at family reunions to forming Cross County Revenue (the original CCREV), and talk about that pivotal moment when they signed with Warner Records after years of hustling as an independent act. Gannon opens up about the highs and lows: finding validation when things start picking up, the nerves of jumping into songwriting sessions with big-name writers, and learning to trust the process—even when it takes a decade. He gives us the real story behind viral hits like "Love Me Too" and "With or Without Me," and how strategic marketing combined with raw truth helped those songs reach new audiences. Whether you're an aspiring musician or just a fan of honest storytelling, Gannon's advice is simple but powerful: "The only way to lose is to quit." Ready for the kind of music industry story you don't hear every day? Hit play, and don't forget to subscribe to "Bringin' it Backwards" for more candid conversations with legends and rising stars.

What does it take to turn a love of music into a thriving band, and why do some artists find their truest path only when they let go of what they thought they wanted? On this episode of Bringin' it Backwards, Adam sits down with Oliver Pierce and Isaac Midleton from New Translations—a rising Nashville band whose journey defies convention and expectations. Oliver grew up in Kentucky, Isaac in Chihuahua, Mexico (where he met bandmate Ben), but fate brought them together on orientation day at Western Kentucky University. Both came from religious upbringings and backgrounds in musical theater, yet found themselves craving the creative freedom and authenticity that only music could offer. What started out as late-night writing sessions and long drives for studio time quickly turned into a bold leap—moving to Nashville alongside their bandmates, with zero industry connections and only a shared passion guiding the way. In this conversation, you'll hear how New Translations crafted their unique live show, what it was like to literally build their fan base from "20 people in Atlanta" to selling out Nashville's legendary venues, and the lessons learned from letting go of tightly held concepts in their songwriting. They open up about the challenges and victories of playing shows across the country, their distinctive approach to blending shoegaze and dance music, and why community matters more than the latest TikTok hit. Whether you're just starting your own music journey or fascinated by what it really takes to build a band from scratch, this episode is packed with honest advice and inside stories that don't usually make it to the stage. Listen in to hear New Translations' story—and don't forget to subscribe to Bringin' it Backwards for more candid conversations with legendary and rising artists.

Welcome back to Bringin' It Backwards, the podcast where rising and legendary artists share their real stories and spill the secrets behind their journeys to stardom. In this episode, Adam welcomes back singer-songwriter Cate Turner for an unprecedented fourth appearance—making her the reigning record holder for most visits to the show! Cate first joined us in 2021, and since then, her story has been anything but stagnant. We pick right up where we left off, diving into the whirlwind of the last few years: the release of her two-part EP, the deeply personal aftermath of losing her father, her transition from a major label to full independence, and how all of that shaped her music and identity as an artist. With Cate's signature honesty and humor, she talks about the reality of leaving Atlantic Records—what it means to no longer have the safety net (and, yes, the "Amex-wielding father" label experience), and the freeing but terrifying process of steering her own ship. Cate opens up about finding her confidence as an independent artist, the strategy behind splitting her album into two EPs, and the challenges of writing and releasing music after such a loss. We get into the nitty gritty—how she decided which songs went where, the vulnerable themes in tracks like "I Might," and why fan connection at live shows means more than any streaming statistic. Cate also shares her no-nonsense advice for aspiring artists: get out of your own head and trust yourself, even when everything feels uncertain. If you're an independent musician, someone who's gone through loss, or just a fan of Cate's refreshingly self-aware songwriting, you won't want to miss this conversation. So, tune in, hear Cate drop some real talk, and let her story inspire your own journey. And as always, be sure to subscribe, follow @BringinBackPOD, and check out the full episode wherever you get your podcasts.

From writing diss tracks in high school to racking up over 150 million streams on Spotify, Chri$tian Gate$ has carved out a lane of his own in the music world—powered by authenticity and a bit of bravado. On this episode of Bringin' it Backwards, Adam and Tera Lisicky take you backstage with Chri$tian as he shares how a childhood surrounded by music transformed into a songwriting obsession, and why building drama in school actually helped get his music heard. Chri$tian gets real about creating viral moments on TikTok, the keys to turning fleeting attention into loyal fans, and the relentless hustle behind breakthrough hits like "Numb" and his remix of "Overwhelmed." He opens up about navigating the business side of things—including the tough lessons learned from early label deals—and what it means to own your artistry as an independent musician. Listen in for the story behind his upcoming debut album "No Strings Attached," why he's always chasing growth, and the advice he'd give anyone who wants to make it in music: use YouTube, surround yourself with people who push you, and make music that means something to you first. Subscribe to Bringin' it Backwards and hear the full conversation, plus inspiring stories from more legendary and rising artists! Join this channel to get access to perks: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC0jmerkZAaeUZYDv0xPIB1A/join We want to hear from you! Please email YT@BringinitBackwards.com. https://www.bringinitbackwards.com/ • Subscribe on YouTube: https://bit.ly/BiBYouTubeSubscribe • TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bringinbackpod • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bringinbackpod/ • Twitter: https://twitter.com/BringinBackPOD • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BringinItBackwards/ • Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/bringinbackpod • Follow our Podcast: https://www.bringinitbackwards.com/follow/ #BringinBackPOD #music #interviews #shorts #zoom

From viral TikTok moments at Coachella to a billboard stunt that had the internet talking, IZZA's been turning heads with her creative, bold approach to pop music—and storytelling. In this episode of Bringin' it Backwards, Adam Lisicky sits down with Los Angeles-born IZZA as she shares her journey from growing up in Encino surrounded by music-loving parents, to diving into songwriting at age thirteen and studying music business at USC. IZZA opens up about the challenges of finding her feet as an independent artist, from teaching herself music production so she could make her own demos, to navigating a male-dominated studio world and creating her signature sound. You'll get the behind-the-scenes stories on her Coachella guerrilla performances—where she brought her own MIDI keyboard and filmed herself playing "Gentlemen"—and the infamous revenge billboard she put up outside her ex's apartment to promote her single. IZZA also teases her forthcoming EP, "Because I'm Blonde," and dishes on her recent "Sweat" single and video, which brings early 2010s pop vibes into the modern era. This episode's loaded with honest advice for aspiring artists about finding your own voice, building your own path, and staying true to your creative vision—even when the industry doesn't make it easy. Tune in to hear how IZZA is reshaping what it means to be a pop artist today, and don't forget to subscribe to Bringin' it Backwards for more inside stories from both legendary and rising artists.