David Farnor | On 18, Sep 2020

Update: Volume 2 arrives on Netflix on 15th December 2020.

Netflix is bringing the podcast Song Exploder to the screen in a new documentary series.

The podcast by Hrishikesh Hirway gets musicians to take apart their own songs and, piece by piece, tell the story of how they were made. First airing in 2014, it has gone on to grow an audience worldwide. Now, it’s getting the Netflix treatment.

From Hirway and Morgan Neville, each episode of Song Exploder will see some of the world’s biggest musicians reveal how they brought one of their songs to life. The series weaves together in-depth interviews, archival footage, and raw recordings as each artist breaks down their song, layer by layer, sharing intimate insight into the personal inspiration behind the music and lyrics.

Artists lined up for the first season will include: 15-time Grammy Award winner Alicia Keys, who breaks down 3 Hour Drive from her 2020 album ALICIA; Pulitzer Prize-winning composer, lyricist, and actor Lin-Manuel Miranda, who delves into the creation of Wait for It from Hamilton; Rock & Roll Hall of Famers R.E.M. who open up about the influences behind the life-changing track Losing My Religion; and Grammy-nominee Ty Dolla $ign, who discusses the inspiration behind LA, the personal opening track from his album FREE TC.

Song Exploder is produced by Tremolo Productions. Hrishikesh Hirway, Morgan Neville and Caitrin Rogers serve as Executive Producers and Dominic Musacchio serves as Co-Executive Producer. The series premieres on Netflix on 2nd October.

Here’s a trailer:

 

Song Exploder is available on Netflix UK, as part of an £9.99 monthly subscription.

 

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