APME Los Angeles 2024

"Switched On Pop," a co-production of Vox Media Podcast Network, and New York Magazine and Vulture, is a podcast that has studied the making and meaning of popular music for over ten years. Hosted by musicologist Nate Sloan and songwriter Charlie Harding, “Switched on Pop” delves into the intricacies of hit pop songs, offering a unique blend of academic insight and industry experience. Through engaging discussions with leading artists, songwriters, and producers, Sloan and Harding deconstruct Top 40 hits to uncover the magic behind their sound and their significance within our culture. This lecture, inspired by the podcast, aims to equip music educators with the tools to bring "a-ha" moments into their classrooms, using pop music as a dynamic teaching tool. By exploring the anatomy of hit tracks, analyzing songwriting techniques, and understanding modern pop’s deep historical roots, educators can foster a deeper appreciation of music among students, making music theory and appreciation both fun and relevant in today's digital age.