Pop singer-songwriter Maggie Lindemann joins Adam to share how Lana Del Rey’s landmark album Born to Die sparked her creative journey. Maggie opens up about falling in love with Lana’s cinematic world, relatable storytelling and signature Old Hollywood-meets-Tumblr vibe—and explains how that influence shaped her own music.

In this episode:

• How Born to Die inspired Maggie’s angsty, alt-pop sound
• Nostalgia, performance nerves, and Tumblr-era fandom
• Why Lana Del Rey’s persona and visuals shifted pop culture
• Thoughts on pop stardom, authenticity, and growing as an artist
• Maggie’s new album I Feel Everything out October 17, 2025

About Maggie Lindemann:

A Dallas-raised, LA-based artist best known for her viral hit “Pretty Girl,” Maggie is praised for her raw lyrics, pop-punk attitude and boundary-pushing style. With over 1.6 billion streams and projects like Suckerpunch, she’s carving a bold new lane for Gen-Z pop.

About Born To Die:

Lana Del Rey’s Born to Die (2012) fused cinematic pop, hip-hop and nostalgia, spawning hits like “Video Games” and “Blue Jeans.” The album redefined pop stardom, charted for over 500 weeks and continues to influence a generation.

The Spark Parade is a podcast that dives deep into the films and albums that have inspired today’s creative icons. Hosted by Adam Unze, each episode features a unique conversation with an artist about their chosen film or album, and how it sparked their artistic journey.

Follow us on social media:

Instagram/Bluesky/TikTok: @sparkparade

Subscribe, rate, and leave a review wherever you listen!

For more info, visit: www.thesparkparade.com

Copyright © 2025 The Spark Parade. All rights reserved.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Grammy-winning country singer-songwriter Cam joins Adam for an intimate conversation about her Spark: the Indigo Girls’ acclaimed album All That We Let In.

Cam explores her journey from discovering the Indigo Girls at choir camp, to wearing out her copy of the album, to becoming friends and collaborators with Emily Saliers herself. The episode delves into the ways this folk-rock classic continues to shape Cam’s songwriting, activism and sense of community in country music and beyond.

Episode Highlights

• Cam’s first encounter with the Indigo Girls and the everlasting impact of All That We Let In
• How the Indigo Girls’ harmonies and activism shaped Cam’s creative voice
• Stories about meeting her heroes, collaborating with Emily Saliers, and friendship in the music industry
• A conversation on family, identity, and what it means to create from a place of authenticity
• Insights into Cam’s new album "All Things Light" and her musical evolution
• 
  

About Cam:

Cam is a Grammy-winning, genre-bending country singer-songwriter known for her emotionally charged storytelling and acclaimed hits like “Burning House,” “Diane,” and “Redwood Tree.” She is a celebrated solo artist, songwriter for stars like Beyoncé and Sam Smith, a global touring act, and a passionate advocate for diversity in music. Cam won a Grammy in 2024 for her contributions to Beyoncé’s album "Cowboy Carter," continuing her legacy as a voice for inclusion and innovation.

About Indigo Girls & All That We Let In:

The Indigo Girls’ 2004 album All That We Let In is celebrated for its stunning harmonies, personal lyricism, and blend of folk, country, and rock influences. The album showcases the duo’s enduring commitment to activism, storytelling, and musical risk-taking, featuring standout tracks like “Perfect World,” “Dairy Queen,” and the beloved title track.

The Spark Parade is a podcast that dives deep into the films and albums that have inspired today’s creative icons. Hosted by Adam Unze, each episode features a unique conversation with an artist about their chosen film or album, and how it sparked their artistic journey.

Follow us on social media:

Instagram/Bluesky/TikTok: @sparkparade

Subscribe, rate, and leave a review wherever you listen!

For more info, visit: www.thesparkparade.com

Copyright © 2025 The Spark Parade. All rights reserved.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Award-winning comedian, writer, and actress Chanel Ali joins host Adam to talk about her Spark—Alan Parker’s 1980 musical drama Fame. Chanel discusses how the film shaped her creative journey, from childhood dreams of performing to the realities of making it as an artist in New York City. The conversation covers ambition, life lessons, arts education, and what it takes to chase success both on stage and off.

Episode Highlights:

• Chanel’s early connection to Fame and the performing arts
• How Fame influenced her self-discovery and artistic drive
• Lessons from arts education and navigating the entertainment world
• How grit, perseverance, and community have helped Chanel thrive
• Candid anecdotes about ambition and making her own opportunities
• 
  

Quick Chanel Ali Facts:

Chanel Ali is a stand-up comedian, writer, and actress based in New York City. She was named one of Deadline’s 15 Comedians to Watch in 2025 after the breakout success of her one-woman show Relative Stranger, which premiered at the 2024 Edinburgh Festival Fringe and toured internationally. Chanel’s credits include MTV’s Girl Code, TruTV’s Laff Mobb’s Laff Tracks, Starz’s Night Train with Wyatt Cenac, Netflix’s Dash & Lily, Comedy Central’s Taking the Stage and Speak Up, and Food Network’s Food Debate!. See Chanel live at Soho Playhouse, September 17–28.

Quick Fame Facts:

Fame (1980) is a musical drama directed by Alan Parker. The movie follows a group of students at New York City’s High School of Performing Arts and chronicles their struggles and triumphs. Fame won Academy Awards for Best Original Song and Best Original Score, and inspired a TV series, stage musical, and global performing arts movement.

The Spark Parade is a podcast that dives deep into the films and albums that have inspired today’s creative icons. Hosted by Adam Unze, each episode features a unique conversation with an artist about their chosen film or album, and how it sparked their artistic journey.

Follow us on social media:

Instagram/Bluesky/TikTok: @sparkparade

Subscribe, rate, and leave a review wherever you listen!

For more info, visit: www.thesparkparade.com

Copyright © 2025 The Spark Parade. All rights reserved.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

UK pop sensation Mimi Webb chats with Adam about her Spark: the timeless romantic comedy How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days. Mimi reveals how the film’s witty banter, unexpected twists, and real emotional moments shaped her love of rom-coms—and inspired her own songwriting, including her new track “Romcom.”

Episode Highlights:

• Why How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days is Mimi’s go-to comfort movie—and her favorite for breakups
• Kate Hudson & Matthew McConaughey’s iconic chemistry, improv scenes, and rom-com legacy
• The magic of New York City, unforgettable fashion moments, and surprising behind-the-scenes stories
• How the film’s twisty romance and comedic vulnerability fueled Mimi’s creativity and belief in real movie moments
• The influence of rom-com fantasy and unexpected love stories on Mimi’s sophomore album Confessions (out September 12th)

Quick Mimi Webb Facts:

Mimi Webb is a multi-platinum British singer-songwriter, known for her powerhouse vocals and deeply personal lyrics. After global success with singles like “Good Without” and “House on Fire,” she’s back with her sophomore album Confessions, dropping September 12th. Mimi has earned BRIT Award and Ivor Novello nominations, and stands out for her honest storytelling and captivating live performances.

Quick Movie Facts:

How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days (2003) is a beloved rom-com directed by Donald Petrie. Magazine writer Andie Anderson (Kate Hudson) and ad exec Ben Barry (Matthew McConaughey) face off in a hilarious battle of wills—uncovering love in all its unpredictable glory. Set against glamorous NYC backgrounds with iconic scenes (that yellow dress!), the film remains a must-watch for romantic comedy fans worldwide.

The Spark Parade is a podcast that dives deep into the films and albums that have inspired today’s creative icons. Hosted by Adam Unze, each episode features a unique conversation with an artist about their chosen film or album, and how it sparked their artistic journey.

Follow us on social media:

Instagram/Bluesky/TikTok: @sparkparade

Subscribe, rate, and leave a review wherever you listen!

For more info, visit: www.thesparkparade.com

Copyright © 2025 The Spark Parade. All rights reserved.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Australian music sensation G Flip sits down with Adam to explore the surprising source of their creative spark: Pixar’s beloved animated film Cars. G Flip shares how watching Cars with their dad became a powerful family tradition, why Lightning McQueen’s journey resonated so deeply, and how Pixar’s emotional storytelling helped shape their identity—both as an artist and as a person.

Episode Highlights:

• The impact of Cars on G Flip’s childhood and their special bond with their dad
• How Pixar classics like Cars and Toy Story inspired G Flip’s music and emotional openness
• Reflections on growing up non-binary, safe spaces for self-expression, and the value of showing emotion
• Road trips, Route 66, Radiator Springs, and the real-world inspiration behind Pixar’s attention to detail
• Lessons from Lightning McQueen: humility, fame, and the importance of community
• Making music, touring, and the role of family support in G Flip’s journey

About G Flip:

G Flip is an award-winning, non-binary singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist from Melbourne. Known for their energetic performances and heartfelt anthems, they’ve built a global fanbase and continue to break ground for LGBTQ+ voices in pop and alternative music.

About Cars:

Pixar’s Cars follows racecar Lightning McQueen as he finds friendship, love, and purpose in the small town of Radiator Springs. With stunning animation and memorable characters, Cars is an emotional ride for audiences of all ages.

The Spark Parade is a podcast that dives deep into the films and albums that have inspired today’s creative icons. Hosted by Adam Unze, each episode features a unique conversation with an artist about their chosen film or album, and how it sparked their artistic journey.

Follow us on social media:

Instagram/Bluesky/TikTok: @sparkparade

Subscribe, rate, and leave a review wherever you listen!

For more info, visit: www.thesparkparade.com

Copyright © 2025 The Spark Parade. All rights reserved.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Critically acclaimed singer-songwriter grandson joins Adam to explore his musical spark: Rage Against the Machine’s legendary album The Battle of Los Angeles. Grandson shares how this politically charged, genre-blending rock album influenced his journey from hip-hop-loving Canadian teen to international hitmaker—breaking down the record’s impact on his identity, artistry, and activism.

• Musical Origin Story: Grandson reveals how rock, rap, and guitar-driven hip-hop led him to Rage Against the Machine—and why The Battle of Los Angeles gave him permission to express vulnerability and anger authentically.
• Album Analysis: The discussion unpacks the complexities and evolution behind Rage’s third album, its uncompromising sound, and the creative rifts and powerful clarity that defined its production.
• Artistry and Activism: Grandson connects the explosive energy and political urgency of Rage’s music to his own career, from shaping his songwriting to inspiring civic engagement and progressive causes.
• Legacy and Motivation: Learn why The Battle of Los Angeles continues to be a call to action for listeners, pushing them to “get off the sidelines” and find agency, purpose, and community—even in the face of failure or industry pressure.
• 
  

Grandson is a boundary-pushing artist and activist, known for his fusion of rock, hip-hop, and electronic music. His breakthrough singles “Blood // Water” and “Dirty” turned him into a global sensation, and his bold lyricism has fueled collaborations with Tom Morello, Travis Barker, and other icons. Grandson’s records and electrifying live shows tackle urgent themes—from political upheaval to mental health—embodying the kind of social conviction that Rage Against the Machine pioneered. This tone is especially prevalent on his third album Inertia.

Released in 1999, The Battle of Los Angeles is Rage Against the Machine’s Grammy-winning third studio album. Its incendiary lyrics, innovative genre mashups, and relentless energy cemented Rage’s legacy as both musical and political disruptors. Featuring classics like “Guerrilla Radio,” “Calm Like A Bomb,” and “Testify,” the album remains a staple of protest, self-expression, and musical rebellion.

• A must-hear for fans of Rage Against the Machine, political music, and genre-blending rock.
• Grandson’s perspective is motivational, raw, and deeply personal—essential for music lovers, creators, and activists.
• The conversation explores how inspiration, courage, and self-expression tie art to real-world action.

The Spark Parade is a podcast that dives deep into the films and albums that have inspired today’s creative icons. Hosted by Adam Unze, each episode features a unique conversation with an artist about their chosen film or album, and how it sparked their artistic journey.

Follow us on social media:

Instagram/Bluesky/TikTok: @sparkparade

Subscribe, rate, and leave a review wherever you listen!

For more info, visit: www.thesparkparade.com

Copyright © 2025 The Spark Parade. All rights reserved.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Acclaimed pop songwriter and artist Bonnie McKee joins Adam to dive into her spark: the cult comedy classic Wayne’s World. Bonnie shares how the film’s humor, music, and fiercely independent spirit shaped her creative outlook—and why its soundtrack and lo-fi, DIY energy still fuel her work today.

• Wayne’s World & Childhood Inspiration: Bonnie discusses how Wayne’s World was a key part of her childhood, influencing her music, style, and approach to authenticity as an artist.
• Music, MTV, and Movie Soundtracks: Insights on how the film’s MTV-era aesthetic and legendary “Bohemian Rhapsody” scene inspired Bonnie’s own music and visuals.
• Staying True to Yourself: Candid conversation about creative independence, selling out, and the connection between public access TV and today’s YouTube/TikTok world.
• The Penelope Spheeris Touch: A look at the trailblazing direction of Penelope Spheeris, plus love for Cassandra’s underdog story and Tia Carrere’s musical breakthrough.
• From Soundtrack to Stage: Bonnie spills on how Wayne and Garth’s wild, quirky fandom mirrors her own as a super-fan, and why those 90s pop culture moments still hit so hard.

Bonnie McKee is a gold-certified pop artist, legendary queer songwriter, and hitmaker behind ten #1 singles—including “Roar,” “California Gurls,” and “Teenage Dream” for Katy Perry, as well as chart-toppers for Britney Spears, Cher, Christina Aguilera, Taio Cruz, Ke$ha, and more. Her latest solo LP, praised by Variety, Rolling Stone, and People, showcases her signature blend of nostalgia, hooks, and bold storytelling. Bonnie is currently on tour—grab tickets and experience her high-energy live show!

Directed by Penelope Spheeris and released in 1992, Wayne’s World stars Mike Myers and Dana Carvey as rock-loving cable access hosts Wayne and Garth. The film became a pop culture sensation thanks to its iconic catchphrases, hilarious MTV-inspired visuals, and a soundtrack that catapulted Queen’s “Bohemian Rhapsody” back into the charts. A timeless ode to music fandom, authenticity, and the power of independent creators, it remains a must-see comedy for every generation.

• Perfect for fans of Bonnie McKee, 90s pop culture, movie soundtracks, and anyone passionate about the creative spark behind hit music.
• Insightful anecdotes on songwriting, industry authenticity, and how the movies we love leave a lifelong mark.
• Get a peek behind the scenes with one of pop’s songwriting legends as she breaks down the intersection of music, comedy, and personal inspiration.

Keywords: Bonnie McKee, Wayne’s World, pop songwriter, movie soundtrack, 90s comedy, MTV aesthetic, Bohemian Rhapsody, Penelope Spheeris, Katy Perry, podcast, music inspiration, music podcast, comedy film

Press play for a nostalgia-packed, musically inspired ride with one of pop’s boldest voices!

The Spark Parade is a podcast that dives deep into the films and albums that have inspired today’s creative icons. Hosted by Adam Unze, each episode features a unique conversation with an artist about their chosen film or album, and how it sparked their artistic journey.

Follow us on social media:

Instagram/Bluesky/TikTok: @sparkparade

Subscribe, rate, and leave a review wherever you listen!

For more info, visit: www.thesparkparade.com

Copyright © 2025 The Spark Parade. All rights reserved.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Adam sits down with rising country star William Beckmann to talk all about his spark: Robert Rodriguez’s iconic action film Desperado. William shares how seeing Desperado—filmed right in his hometown of Acuña, Mexico—had a massive impact on his music, style, and creative vision.

• A Hometown Connection: William recounts recognizing streets, bars, and even old teachers in Desperado, and what it’s like growing up near a famous movie set.
• Movie Magic Meets Real Life: Discover how William filmed a music video at the legendary Corona Club—home to the film’s most famous shootout—and how seeing family friends on screen brought the story to life.
• Creativity on a Budget: Learn about Robert Rodriguez’s scrappy, fearless approach to filmmaking, turning a seven-thousand-dollar indie film (El Mariachi) into a Hollywood cult classic, and why those clever creative choices inspire William’s approach to songwriting and stage shows.
• Style and Authenticity: Hear how Desperado influenced William’s signature look—blending mariachi flair with classic country style—and why having a unique personal brand matters in today’s music scene.
• The Power of Specificity: William and Adam dig into the art of saying more with less, what it means to find your voice, and how the smallest artistic details make the biggest impact.

William Beckmann is taking the country world by storm with his deep, timeless baritone and a modern twist on classic country storytelling. Raised in Del Rio, Texas, William blends American country, classic rock, and traditional mariachi influences into songs full of heart, nostalgia, and border-town swagger. His debut major label album Whiskey Lies & Alibis is out now on Warner Music Nashville, and he’s hitting the road for over 100 shows a year.

Directed by Robert Rodriguez and released in 1995, Desperado stars Antonio Banderas and Salma Hayek in a stylish, high-octane action movie that cemented Rodriguez’s signature look and established new standards for creative, low-budget filmmaking. Part of the director’s “Mexico Trilogy,” the film blends western drama, explosive action, and unforgettable style—making it a cult favorite for movie fans everywhere.

• Perfect for fans of William Beckmann, country music, movies, or anyone interested in the intersection of art, style, and storytelling.
• Packed with behind-the-scenes stories, creative inspiration, and practical wisdom on making your mark with limited resources.

The Spark Parade is a podcast that dives deep into the films and albums that have inspired today’s creative icons. Hosted by Adam Unze, each episode features a unique conversation with an artist about their chosen film or album, and how it sparked their artistic journey.

Follow us on social media:

Instagram/Bluesky/TikTok: @sparkparade

Subscribe, rate, and leave a review wherever you listen!

For more info, visit: www.thesparkparade.com

Copyright © 2025 The Spark Parade. All rights reserved.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.