Counter-Melodies

Today’s guest is the one and only Christina Perri! The voice behind “A Thousand Years”, “Jar of Hearts”, and more joins Anthony and Jonathan for an unforgettable conversation about love, loss, and wild career twists. From Twilight superfan to penning the biggest song from the Twilight soundtrack, Christina shares how she manifested her dream into reality — hint: a particular tattoo played a role in this. She opens up about the whirlwind rise of her career, her surprising Disney connections, and how she's using her voice to create lullabies, children's books, and magical moments for fans. And don’t miss the ultimate Disney-themed game that puts Christina’s love of Disney classic movies to the test! Episode Breakdown: 00:00 - She’s here! Christina Perri enters the kitchen. The hosts welcome Christina and dive straight into Twilight allegiances and werewolf vs. vampire debates​. 03:20 - Twilight superfan to soundtrack star. Christina reveals how being a die-hard Twilight fan led her to frame book covers in her apartment and, eventually, write A Thousand Years for the Breaking Dawn soundtrack​. 10:30 - From waitress to viral sensation. Christina tells the story of how Jar of Hearts unexpectedly premiered on So You Think You Can Dance and changed her life forever​. 17:45 - The wedding band dream team. Christina reveals her dream lineup for a supergroup of wedding artists, featuring Ed Sheeran, John Legend, and more​. 24:00 - Lullabies, love, and legacy. Christina reflects on her lullaby albums and how her version of You Are My Sunshine unexpectedly went viral on TikTok and became her second-most streamed song​. 32:40 - Disney adult dreams come true. From singing Forever Young at Disneyland’s World of Color to her upcoming tribute to Richard Sherman, Christina's love for Disney hits new heights​. 48:20 - Game time: Disney Blind Rankings. The ultimate Disney soundtrack showdown — can Christina rank iconic soundtracks like The Lion King, Moana, and Frozen without knowing what’s next? Chaos, tears, and laughter ensue​. 1:06:30 - The legacy of A Thousand Years. Christina reflects on how one song turned into a timeless anthem for weddings, how it returned in Breaking Dawn Part 2, and how it continues to bring new opportunities, like her upcoming children’s book​. 1:12:00 - What’s next for Christina? From children’s books to TV shows, Christina shares what’s ahead, including a special appearance at a Disney tribute concert honoring the Sherman Brothers​. Follow Christina’s Journey: Stay connected with Christina’s latest music, lullabies, and family fun on all socials @ChristinaPerri. Socials: Follow the hosts for more fun content!@AnthonyGargiula@JonathanTilkin@CounterMelodiesPod Listen and Watch: https://tinyurl.com/CounterMelodiesPod Credits:Executive Producer/Showrunner/Editor: Louis GargiulaConsulting Producer: Renee Colvert

She’s here. Rachel Platten has arrived! The multi-platinum artist behind hits like “Fight Song” and “Stand by You” sits down with Anthony and Jonathan for a soul-stirring, laugh-filled conversation. From her early a cappella days to her 13-year grind before fame, Rachel shares the raw truth about persistence, self-discovery, and songwriting. She reveals how she ended up performing with Taylor Swift on the 1989 tour, reflects on her most personal songs, and shares the inspiration behind her newest album, “I am Rachel Platten”. Plus, stick around for a game of "Fight, Flight, or Freeze," where Rachel decides which karaoke go-to songs she’d be willing to take on! Episode Breakdown: 00:00 - Rachel Platten is here! The iconic singer-songwriter enters the chat and talks about her start in a cappella. 04:00 - From a cappella nerd to NYC bandleader. Rachel recalls her first moments of musical inspiration and forming a band in college. 12:00 - Life on tour. The truth about 13 years of van tours, smoky bar gigs, and finding her voice. 18:00 - Birth of Fight Song. Rachel reveals how the song came to life after moments of self-doubt and why she knew it would change lives. 28:00 - The Taylor Swift moment. How Rachel ended up on stage with Taylor during the 1989 World Tour. 32:00 - The ups, downs, and evolution of fame. Rachel gets real about the pressure of fame, parenthood, and reclaiming her career after time away. 40:00 - I Am Rachel Platten. Behind-the-scenes of her new album, her Nashville recording process, and her mission to encourage new artists. 48:00 - Girls. Rachel discusses her song for her daughters, the legacy she hopes to leave them, and the power of a mother’s love. 53:00 - Game time: "Fight, Flight, or Freeze." Rachel, Anthony, and Jonathan debate which iconic pop songs are worth the risk to sing live. 1:00:00 - What’s next for Rachel? Her upcoming tours, halftime shows, and why she’s more grounded than ever. Follow Rachel’s Journey: Stay updated on Rachel's new album, tour dates, and more on all socials @RachelPlatten and visit RachelPlatten.com. Socials: Follow the hosts for more fun content! @AnthonyGargiula @JonathanTilkin @CounterMelodiesPod Listen and Watch: CounterMelodiesPod.com Credits: Executive Producer/Showrunner/Editor: Louis Gargiula Consulting Producer: Renee Colvert

David Archuleta is here! From his early days on American Idol to his journey leaving the LDS church and finding his voice in the LGBTQ+ community, David joins Anthony and Jonathan for an unforgettable conversation. From navigating faith, family, and fame to his love for raves and time on Hannah Montana, this episode is packed with inspiration, laughs, nostalgia, and heartfelt moments. Plus, a game of "American Idol or American Impostor" puts David’s memory to the test! Episode Breakdown: 00:00 - Highlights: David Archuleta enters! Reflections on American Idol, faith, and his journey since. 05:00 - Bratz Summer or Sabrina Carpenter Summer? David's surprising music inspirations. 10:00 - Held Together and Rather Be Lonely. The stories behind his latest songs. 20:00 - Leaving the church and family support. A heartfelt story about his mom's acceptance. 30:00 - Life after Idol. What fame felt like at its peak and how he found himself again. 40:00 - Raves, EDM, and free expression. Why David loves raves and how they helped him grow. 46:00 - Game time! "American Idol or American Impostor?" brings laughs and surprises. Follow David’s Journey: Keep up with David’s latest music, raves, and more on all socials @DavidArchie. Socials: Follow the hosts for more fun content! @AnthonyGargiula @JonathanTilkin @CounterMelodiesPod Listen and Watch: https://pods.to/countermelodies Credits: Executive Producer/Showrunner/Editor: Louis Gargiula Consulting Producer: Renee Colvert

Chrish, the king of chaotic humor and viral one-liners joins Anthony and Jonathan for an unfiltered deep dive into the world of Vine fame, TikTok-singing, and everything in between! From gospel choirs to the viral “Patricia!!!” scream that took the world by storm, this episode is packed with laughs, nostalgia, and even a game of the appropriately named, “Whose Vine Is It Anyway?" Episode Breakdown: 00:00 - A chaotic Vine era. Chrish shares stories of early Vine fame, a clementine-inspired viral hit, and surviving hometown rivalries. 10:00 - From singing servers to social stardom. Tales from a Tennessee steakhouse where singing waiters and questionable kitchen practices took center stage. 20:00 - Singing history unlocked. From church choir competitions to national awards, Chrish reveals the roots of his incredible vocal talent. 28:00 - Smosh shenanigans and influencer parties. Behind-the-scenes stories of Smosh collaborations and navigating Hollywood’s influencer scene. 36:00 - Chrish opens up about overcoming a “real-world” Vine bully and redefining his place in the digital world. 40:00 - Improvised songs and cursive singing. Chrish crafts a hilarious live song inspired by random kitchen objects. 44:00 - Game time! The hosts test Chrish’s Vine knowledge in "Whose Vine Is It Anyway?" with iconic clips and laugh-out-loud reenactments. Follow Chrish’s Journey: Keep up with Chrish's hilarious content on Instagram (@MistaChrish) and TikTok (@ChrishOffish). Socials: Follow the hosts for more! @AnthonyGargiula @JonathanTilkin @CounterMelodiesPod Listen and Watch: ⁠https://tinyurl.com/CounterMelodiesPod⁠ Credits: Executive Producer/Showrunner/Editor: Louis Gargiula Consulting Producer: Renee Colvert

MAX is in the kitchen! From his theatrical beginnings to his Nickelodeon days, YouTube viral covers, and co-writing for BTS, Max shares his journey with Anthony and Jonathan. Hear about falling in love with his wife while touring with Fall Out Boy, his wild Dolce & Gabbana shoot with Madonna, and what it was like being on Broadway with Ariana Grande. Plus, Max plays an epic game of “Sounds Like Gibberish” with a kitchen twist you won’t want to miss! Episode Breakdown: 00:00 - Co-writing for BTS. Max shares how he got into songwriting for K-pop and creating "Yet to Come" for BTS. 02:30 - Broadway beginnings. From being a swing in 13 with Ariana Grande to mid-show debuts, Max recalls his theater roots. 07:00 - Nickelodeon nostalgia. Singing "Sleigh Ride" with the Nickelodeon cast and starring in Rags and How to Rock. 12:00 - Meeting his wife. Touring with Fall Out Boy, first kisses, and love stories on the road. 18:00 - Viral YouTube days. Collaborating with Kurt Hugo Schneider, Zendaya, and Victoria Justice on iconic covers. 23:00 - Madonna’s “fetus boyfriend”? The crazy story of Max’s Dolce & Gabbana campaign and media frenzy. 29:00 - Glee auditions. Max reflects on almost landing a role in Glee (but losing out to Darren Criss). 34:00 - Songwriting and collaborations. Stories behind hits like "Lights Down Low," “Love Me Less” (featuring Kim Petras), and working with Lil Uzi Vert. 43:00 - Game time! Max tackles “Sounds Like Gibberish,” decoding hilariously cryptic titles of his own songs. Follow Max’s Journey: Stay updated on Max’s music, upcoming projects, and tour dates by following him on all socials @MaxMusic or just Google him (you’ll find him). Socials: Follow the hosts for more content! @AnthonyGargiula@JonathanTilkin@CounterMelodiesPod Listen and Watch: https://tinyurl.com/CounterMelodiesPod Credits: Executive Producer/Showrunner/Editor: Louis GargiulaConsulting Producer: Renee Colvert

Joshua Colley, Broadway’s own viral icon, is HERE. In this week’s episode, Anthony and Jonathan sit down with Josh to dive into his journey, from his first national tour to having his own Disney Channel Wand ID. From tales of fire alarms and belting out “The Schuyler Sisters” to his process of creating the voice of Captain Hook in “The Descendants”, this episode covers it all—plus, a special game of Disney impressions you have to hear to believe! Episode Breakdown: 05:00 - Growing up in theater. Josh reflects on his early days, from Les Mis to Newsies, and his supportive family’s role. 10:00 - The Les Mis journey. Josh talks about his role and shares stories of touring the country with his twin brother. 15:00 - Disney Channel memories! Josh reveals his reaction to making the Disney Wand ID—a true dream come true. 20:00 - Almost Dear Evan Hansen? Josh’s experiences auditioning for Evan and the challenges of the role. 25:00 - The infamous fire alarm! Josh tells an unforgettable story about accidentally setting off a hotel fire alarm while filming "Descendants." 30:00 - Viral Descendants moments. From Captain Hook's unique voice to TikTok moments with Trisha Paytas. 35:00 - The hook voice. Josh discusses how he developed Captain Hook’s voice and his inspiration behind it. 44:00 - The game: Hook, Line, and Sinker. Josh takes on Disney Channel lines in his best character voices, from Lumiere to Elmo. Follow Joshua's Journey: Stay updated on Josh’s upcoming projects, including original music, by following him @JoshRobertColley. Socials: Follow the hosts for more content! @AnthonyGargiula @JonathanTilkin @CounterMelodiesPod Listen and Watch: https://tinyurl.com/CounterMelodiesPod Credits: Executive Producer/Showrunner/Editor: Louis Gargiula Consulting Producer: Renee Colvert

In this episode, Anthony and Jonathan chat with the incredibly talented Lindsey Stirling, diving deep into her journey from YouTube star to chart-topping violinist and everything in between. Lindsey shares the highs and lows—from her time on America's Got Talent to teaming up with power-house artists like Pentatonix and taking on Dancing with the Stars. She opens up about how her family influenced her love for music, the surprising path that led her to where she is today, and the balance between creativity and resilience that keeps her going. With laughs, real talk, and a few heartfelt moments, this episode is packed with inspiration and insight! Episode Breakdown: 00:00 - Intro and catch-up time! Anthony and Jonathan are back, and they’re ready to gush about Lindsey’s tour! 02:10  - THEME SONG and the greatest intro ever 05:00 - Lindsey reminisces about her early career— dancing, violin lessons, and a highschool band 11:00 - The Duality Tour Highlights - J & A’s favorite moments 15:00 - Mindfulness, Anxiety, and Breath work 18:00 - The AGT story redefined. Lindsey reflects on how America's Got Talent gave her more than just critique. 29:00 - Lindsey’s Humble Beginnings 33:00 - The Christmas spirit. A deep dive into Lindsey’s Christmas album and "Mr. Grinch" with Sabrina Carpenter. 38:00 - Violin or Viol-out game! Lindsey guesses which celebrities played which instruments growing up—featuring Meryl Streep, Gwen Stefani, and Thomas Jefferson! Follow Lindsey's Tour: Catch Lindsey Stirling on her Christmas Tour this December across the U.S. and Canada! Follow her @LindseyStirling. Socials: Follow the hosts and stay connected! @AnthonyGargiula @JonathanTilkin @CounterMelodiesPod Listen and Watch: https://tinyurl.com/CounterMelodiesPod The Team: Executive Producer/Showrunner/Editor: Louis Gargiula Consulting Producer: Renee Colvert

Ever wonder how “Victoria’s Secret” started from a TikTok in a tiny LA apartment? Anthony and Jonathan get all the details from singer-songwriter Jax as she spills her incredible story of viral fame, wild celeb collabs, and why she’s totally fine roasting trolls in her DMs. From a notorious Walmart Magcon tour to songwriting in hotel lobbies, this episode serves up all the cringe and glory of coming up as an artist in the social media age. Episode Breakdown: 00:00 Intro and chaos in the kitchen 00:50 Jax in the house (with cupcakes) 02:30 The infamous plain M&M debate 02:50 THEME SONG 03:00 Introducing Jax, our amazing guest! 06:20 Touring tales from cringey Magcon days 10:10 Getting serious: advice for young creators 14:00 “Stacy’s Mom” POV and viral success 20:30 The birth of “Victoria’s Secret” 26:00 Collaborations and TikTok growth 30:50 Writing and producing in a tiny LA apartment 34:10 The celebrity collab game 39:20 Guess That “Joe” Game (feat. JoJo SiwandaVision) 46:30 Too Young to be Old or Too Old to be Young game 49:20 Who’s “Joe” in Dear Joe? Follow Jax: Find Jax on TikTok, Instagram, Spotify, and more @Jax. Check out her debut album Dear Joe so she doesn’t have to sell photos of her feet! Socials: Follow the crew! ⁠@Anthonygargiula⁠ ⁠@Jonathantilkin⁠ ⁠@countermelodiespod⁠ Listen and watch here: ⁠https://tinyurl.com/CounterMelodiesPod⁠ Credits: Executive Producer/Showrunner/Editor: Louis Gargiula Consulting Producer: Renee Colvert

Imagine a world where Jesse McCartney, your fave chipmunk, almost starred in Camp Rock, and Beautiful Soul wasn’t the last song of his concerts! In this hilarious and nostalgic dive, Anthony and Jonathan sit down with Jesse McCartney to relive his career highs, lows, and wild detours. From The Masked Singer secrets to frosted tips with Dream Street, to the reason he’ll never hit the Dancing with the Stars stage (spoiler: it’s the dance moves), this episode has everything! Episode Breakdown: 00:00 Intro and vibes (Welcome to the kitchen!) 02:00 Teeth whitening and new songs? Only here! 04:30 THEME SONG 04:45 The most legendary Jesse McCartney intro ever 07:00 Beautiful Soul turns 20?! 11:00 NYC Radio Disney memories and HitClips nostalgia 15:00 Broadway, Soaps, and early career moves 18:00 Dream Street origins (and the frosted tips legacy) 20:00 Almost in Camp Rock—alternate universe unlocked 26:30 The Masked Singer mystery unraveled 30:00 Becoming Theodore in Alvin and the Chipmunks (and the truth about the singing) 36:00 Loving It or Leaving It game: Kingdom Hearts, LA vs. NY, and more Follow Jesse’s Tour: Catch Jesse McCartney’s All’s Well Tour through November 8th, across the U.S. and Canada! Follow him @JesseMcCartney Socials: Follow the crew! @Anthonygargiula @Jonathantilkin @countermelodiespod Listen and watch here: https://tinyurl.com/CounterMelodiesPod Credits: Executive Producer/Showrunner/Editor: Louis Gargiula Consulting Producer: Renee Colvert

Coming Tuesday, October 29th, 2024!