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!