Why Make Music… Episode 068 “The British Invasion”

Segment 1: Intro and Housekeeping

[Upbeat intro music plays]

Hello, hello my loves! Welcome back to Why Make Music… on WDMN Media – this is Willa May, your friendly Brit with the beats (some call me DJ Warm Cookies on the late-night dial). We’re here live in our mock radio station booth, brewing up another session of music, mischief, and motivation. Before we jump in, let’s handle a bit of housekeeping (grab your tea or coffee – or as I do, both).
First off, big shout-out to our SoundCloud crew and everyone streaming on Spotify, Apple, wherever you get this goodness. I see you out there – our listener community has been growing like wildflowers! Last week I nearly spit out my tea seeing listeners tuning in from four different continents. So whether you’re in Philly or the Philippines, thank you for rocking with us. Our independent little show is getting some global love, and I couldn’t be more chuffed (that’s Brit for super pleased). Keep sharing the pod with your friends and fam; it’s working!

Now, some exclusive WDMN Media updates: we’ve got new merch dropping – finally! You asked for it, we delivered. Peep our designs on TeePublic and Threadless (link in bio, as always). If you’ve ever wanted my catchphrase on a hoodie or ThinkTimm’s logo on your morning coffee mug, now’s your chance. Wear it, post it, tag us – you might just get a personal shout-out on the next episode.
And speaking of drops… mark your calendars for February 20, 2026. Why? Because If I Was Your Producer, Vol. Eight is coming out that day. Yes, you heard that right – Volume Eight (even though last month we were only at Vol. 7… long story, but momentum has a way of escalating our plans!). This new volume is packed with ten brand-new tracks that we’ve poured our hearts into. Early previews have folks saying it’s some of our best work yet. I cannot wait for you to hear it. If you’ve been following our journey, you know the If I Was Your Producer series started as a seven-volume idea – and here we are on Volume Eight, because we just don’t know how to stop creating. We’ll talk more about that crazy evolution later on.

I also want to highlight something really important we’ve been trying: our Bandcamp “pay-what-you-want” experiment. We put the last mixtape on Bandcamp for free (or whatever price listeners feel), and the response has been heartwarming. Some of y’all threw in $5, $10 to support – totally optional, but it helps big time. It’s proven what we believed: if you give people good music and an open door, those who can support will support. We’re building this not to get rich quick, but to create a sustainable creative life – one where the music pays the bills (even if just the Wi-Fi bill for now) and keeps us independent. WDMN Media isn’t about chasing clout or vanity metrics; we’re about making genuine art and slowly growing a business that can support family and future. The strategy is simple: every day could be the day that a song placement or a burst of streams pays a bill – the only way that never happens is if we quit, and we don’t quit.

On that note, quick update on our sync licensing goals: we’re still grinding! The dream is to land a WDMN track in a TV show, movie, video game – heck, I’ll take a well-placed jingle in a Super Bowl ad. We’ve been working with our partners (shout-out Code 3 Records) to get our catalog “sync-ready” – all our tracks are cleared, registered, and metadata-tagged up the wazoo. So when opportunity knocks, we’ll be ready to kick the door down. The hustle is real, but I feel that 2026 could be the year we score that big placement. Fingers crossed – and I’ll keep you posted if and when it happens.

Alright, that’s the biz updates and shout-outs done. Thank you for indulging me – you know I like to keep our day-ones in the loop. Now let’s get into the theme of Episode 068: “The British Invasion.” We’ve got a jam-packed show blending music commentary, cultural reflection, and a bit of personal storytelling, as always. I’ll be dishing on everything from the Beatles to Bad Bunny, from Marina Mabrey to Marina from Stranger Things (kidding on that last one, just checking if you’re paying attention). It’s gonna be a ride. Stay tuned for Segment 2, where we hop in a time machine back to the 1960s and relive the original British Invasion – yes, Beatlemania is on the menu. But first, how about a little musical appetizer?

[Cue music break – a snippet of an upbeat track from the upcoming Vol. 80 plays, mixing modern beats with a British invasion sample]




Segment 2: British Invasion History – The Beatles

*[Transition jingle: retro 60s radio motif plays softly]

Alrighty, welcome back! As promised, we’re diving into The British Invasion: Part One. And you can’t say “British Invasion” without immediately thinking of The Beatles. John, Paul, George, and Ringo – the Fab Four from Liverpool who basically flipped the music world on its head in the 1960s. Let’s do a little highlight reel history of these legends, shall we?

Picture it: February 9, 1964, a chilly Sunday evening in America. Over 73 million Americans crowd around their black-and-white TV sets to watch The Beatles make their U.S. live debut on The Ed Sullivan Show. Seventy-three million! (For context, that was nearly 40% of the U.S. population at the time – absolutely bonkers). That night has been called a cultural watershed – it sparked American Beatlemania and launched what we now call the British Invasion. Think about it: one performance and suddenly countless kids across the States are inspired to pick up guitars and start bands. The Beatles not only conquered the charts (all top 5 songs on Billboard at one point in ’64 – an achievement still unmatched), but they also conquered hearts. They had American teens screaming, fainting, and yes, learning British slang. You had kids saying “gear” and “rubbish” like proper Liverpudlians – it was a full-blown craze.

But it wasn’t just a teen fad; it was a societal shift. The British Invasion transformed American music and pop culture, sparking a long-term fascination with British rock that would shape generations. Before the Beatles hit, few British records ever made a dent in the U.S. charts – in 1963, literally one British song hit the US Top 100. By 1965, British acts were all over the place. The Beatles led the charge, and after they kicked open the door on Ed Sullivan, a flood of UK bands poured through. We’re talking The Rolling Stones, The Who, The Kinks, The Animals, you name it. Those shaggy-haired Brits re-energized rock ’n’ roll at a time when American rock had gotten a bit stale. They brought it back home to us with a fresh twist, ironically influenced by our own American blues and R&B. Fun fact: The Rolling Stones literally took their name from a Muddy Waters song, that’s how much they idolized American blues. So this was like a musical exchange program – the UK bands were obsessed with American music, repackaged it with their British style, and then America went absolutely mad for it.

Now, The Beatles themselves – what an evolution they had. From the lovable mop-top boyband singing “I Want to Hold Your Hand,” to the experimental studio maestros behind Sgt. Pepper’s. They revolutionized studio recording, popularized the concept album, and influenced fashion (those collarless suits and later the psychedelic hippie look). They made it cool for men to grow their hair out and for everyone to dream of living in a yellow submarine. Their impact on American pop culture can’t be overstated: they starred in hit movies, they had every product you can imagine (lunchboxes, wigs, you name it), and they practically invented the modern stadium rock concert (Shea Stadium, 1965 – insanity). Every rock band that came after has taken a page from the Beatles’ playbook, whether they know it or not.

I have to mention each of the lads: John Lennon, the witty rebel; Paul McCartney, the charming craftsman (still selling out stadiums in his 80s, bless him); George Harrison, the soulful seeker (who folded Indian music into rock); and Ringo Starr, the steady heartbeat and low-key comedic relief. Together, they only toured America for a few years, but their legacy here is enduring. By 1966 they stopped touring and focused on studio work, yet their cultural presence only grew. Even Elvis Presley felt threatened by their popularity (legend has it he secretly met with President Nixon to complain about The Beatles corrupting America’s youth – oh Elvis, the irony!).

To illustrate the Beatles’ lasting impact: flash forward to 2004, the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony. The event hosted a tribute to George Harrison, and who strides out to pay homage? None other than Prince – yes, the Purple One himself – alongside Tom Petty, Steve Winwood and others. They perform “While My Guitar Gently Weeps,” one of George’s signature Beatles songs. And Prince proceeds to unleash an absolutely jaw-dropping guitar solo that brings down the house. I mean, it was face-melting – he made that guitar literally cry on stage. That moment has since become legendary, hailed as one of the greatest Rock Hall performances ever. Prince even tosses his guitar in the air at the end and it never comes down (true story, watch the video – the guitar disappears into the ether). The fact that Prince – arguably one of the greatest performers ever – chose a Beatles song for that showcase tells you everything. Decades after the British Invasion, the influence of those four lads from Liverpool still runs deep in the veins of music history. When Prince is tipping his hat to you, you know you’ve shaped the DNA of pop culture.
So, The Beatles kicked off the British Invasion and redefined what pop music could be. They opened the floodgates for so many UK artists who followed. And that Invasion wasn’t just rock bands; it brought over British pop singers (Dusty Springfield, Petula Clark), even comedians and TV personalities. America got a whole taste of British flavor in the ’60s thanks to that musical revolution. We’ve been a little obsessed with UK imports ever since – from James Bond to Doctor Who to One Direction, honestly. The Beatles set that ball rolling.

Alright, I could nerd out about Beatles lore all day (I mean, I did once write a uni paper on their lyrical evolution – yes I’m that person). But we’ve got more ground to cover. Before we leave 1960s Britain, let’s set the mood with a quick tune, shall we? What do you say to a bit of Beatles music? After all this talk, I’m itching to hear a riff.


[Cue music break: The Beatles’ “Twist and Shout” plays in the background for a few moments – audience hears the classic opening “shake it up, baby” scream and music fades out]

Haha, I had to do it! A little “Twist and Shout” to twist you and shake you awake. Don’t worry, we paid our ASCAP fees… I think. (Kidding, legal, kidding!)

Now that we’ve honored the OG British Invasion, let’s fast-forward to the present, because guess what? The Brits are STILL coming. In fact, some say we’re in the midst of a new British Invasion in music right now. Which brings us to…


Segment 3: The Brits Are Still Coming – Today’s UK Hitmakers


Welcome to Segment 3, where we spotlight the modern British hitmakers carrying the torch lit by those 60s legends. The landscape’s changed (we’ve got streaming and TikTok now, innit?), but one thing remains true: British artists continue to dominate and heavily influence the global music scene. In recent years, Billboard themselves hailed the surge of UK acts on the US charts as the “strongest in 30 years,” led by the likes of Ed Sheeran and Adele. Pretty wild, right? It’s like the 1960s all over again, but with better hair products and the internet.

Let’s set the stage by quickly nodding to the other classic British Invasion groups from the 60s, beyond the Beatles. You had The Rolling Stones bringing that gritty blues-rock swagger (Mick Jagger moving like… well, Jagger). The Who smashing guitars and igniting the concept of the rock opera. The Kinks, The Yardbirds, Cream – all those chaps made an impact. By the 70s and 80s, waves of British artists kept coming: Queen, David Bowie, Elton John, Led Zeppelin – the UK was basically an assembly line of rock and pop icons. They didn’t just invade – they set up camp on the charts. Fast-forward to the 21st century, and British music is still hugely influential in the U.S. and worldwide. In fact, in 2015 British artists grabbed a record share of the U.S. albums market (nearly 18%), and that momentum has stayed strong. We’re truly in a Brit renaissance in pop music.

So who are these modern British invaders? Let’s start with the megastars:

* Adele – I mean, where do we even start? Adele Adkins from Tottenham, London, has one of the most iconic voices of our time. She drops albums like emotional nuclear bombs and the whole world stops to listen. 21, 25, 30… each one shattered records. Adele’s the queen of heartbreak ballads that somehow make you feel seen in your own shower karaoke sessions. Fun fact: Adele’s appeal is so universal that in 2021 she had the #1 song in America (“Easy On Me”) at the same time another Brit (Ed Sheeran) had the #1 album – the first time UK acts simultaneously topped U.S. song and album charts since the 1980s. Talk about ruling the world. And here’s a quirky thing: when Adele sings, her British accent virtually disappears (as happens with many UK singers). It’s a phenomenon dating back to The Beatles – British vocalists often adopt American-sounding vowels when singing, in part because they grew up influenced by American music and it just flows that way. Adele definitely has her own soulful tone, but you’d hardly guess she speaks with a Cockney-ish accent when you hear “Hello.” Then you hear her speak at the Grammys and it’s “aww fank you, luv” – accent back in full force. Absolutely adorable.


* Ed Sheeran – The troubadour with a loop pedal. Ed is that everyman from Suffolk who can sell out a stadium with just his guitar and ginger hair. He’s a hit machine, blending pop, folk, R&B, even a bit of hip-hop flair. Think about his U.S. impact: “Shape of You” was basically the soundtrack of 2017 everywhere from pubs to grocery stores. He’s had massive U.S. chart success and definitely spearheaded this new Brit surge. Ed’s like the friendly invader – he sneaks into the American airwaves so smoothly that you forget he’s a bloke who once slept on friends’ couches while touring. What’s wild is Ed and Adele are such chart juggernauts that industry execs noted how their trans-generational appeal and down-to-earth images make them beloved on a global scale. They’re humble, relatable, and insanely talented – a powerful combo.

* Harry Styles – Ah, Harry. The former One Direction heartthrob turned solo superstar and fashion icon. This guy has managed to capture the zeitgeist in a Bowie-meets-Jagger-meets-Beatles kind of way. From Cheshire, England, he’s got that cheeky charm and a fearless approach to pop music. “Watermelon Sugar” anyone? He brings a retro 70s rock vibe mixed with modern pop. And Americans eat it up – he’s headlined Coachella, sold out Madison Square Garden residencies, won a Grammy. Harry’s basically leading the wave of young Brit pop stars who aren’t afraid to blur genre and gender lines (man can rock a dress on Vogue’s cover and still steal your girl – legend). His British accent may be mild, but his British style is loud and proud in everything he does.


And it’s not just the solo superstars. There’s a new generation of UK artists making serious noise across genres. Let me rattle off a few who should be on your radar (if they aren’t already):


* FLO – Remember the era of great R&B girl groups? Britain said “we got this” and gave us FLO. They’re a trio of young women from London who blend smooth 90s R&B vibes with Gen-Z confidence. They actually made history as the first ever group to win the BBC’s Sound of 2023 poll (the Beeb’s annual “next big thing” contest), and they snagged the BRIT Rising Star award too. Songs like “Cardboard Box” have that throwback feel (think TLC or Destiny’s Child) yet fresh energy. These ladies are bringing harmonies back, shedding the heavy Brit accents when they sing in favor of silky universal vocals. Keep an eye (and ear) on FLO – they’re poised to follow in the steps of groups like the Spice Girls in conquering the world, but with an R&B twist.
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* Ray – One of my personal faves because her story is one of resilience. Ray is a London-born singer-songwriter who was known for years as a featured artist or behind-the-scenes writer, but in 2022 she broke free from a restrictive record deal and went independent. Then she promptly released “Escapism,” which became a global hit – we’re talking top 10 in dozens of countries. Nothing like a song about heartbreak and partying away the pain to get people grooving. Ray’s style mixes pop with dark R&B and electronic elements, and she’s not shy about speaking her mind (her song “Hard Out Here” calls out the music industry’s sexism – with a cheeky British delivery of course). She’s part of a wave of UK artists proving you don’t need a massive label machine to make an impact. And fun fact: when she sings, you might catch a British inflection on a word here or there, but largely her voice has that global pop sound – again showing how Brits modulate accent in song without even meaning to.
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* Olivia Dean – A newer name stateside, but in Britain she’s rising fast. Olivia Dean has a lovely soulful voice and a vibe that reminds me of Corinne Bailey Rae meets Adele’s little sister (if that makes sense). She had a song “The Hardest Part” and an album Messy that got a lot of acclaim for heartfelt songwriting. Olivia’s all about authenticity; her songs feel like a chat with a close friend. I’m betting on her to quietly invade hearts internationally soon. Plus, she often performs in a sunny yellow dress – it’s become kind of her signature look – which just adds to her “bringing joy” factor.

* Lola Young – She’s a young singer-songwriter from London with a powerhouse voice and sharp lyrics. You might’ve heard her voice in that viral John Lewis Christmas ad in the UK (Americans, think something like our Super Bowl commercials, but artsier). Lola’s got this raw, bluesy tone – when she sings, you can hear a bit of that London accent peeking through, giving her songs character. Tracks like “Blind Love” or “Pick Me Up” show she’s got soul beyond her years. Keep an ear out; she’s one of those British artists who could easily cross over.

* CHY Cartier – Time to talk about the UK rap scene for a sec. The U.S. has definitely warmed up to British rap and grime in recent years (hi, Stormzy and Skepta fans!). One rising star is CHY Cartier. She’s a 20-year-old rapper from North London (Tottenham, stand up!) known for fearless, unfiltered lyricism and a pinpoint delivery. She’s got that cheeky North London twang when she spits bars, giving a real sense of place to her music. CHY’s style rides heavy, dark bass beats – she calls it her “dark, mean bass” sound – and trust me, it slaps. She’s already being featured in major magazines and even walked in fashion shows, so she’s merging music and style effortlessly. One article dubbed her “one of the buzziest young rappers in the UK right now,” with magazine covers under her belt even before a full album drop. The girl is just getting started and I suspect she’ll be a force beyond the UK soon. Maybe the next British rap invasion?
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* Bree Runway – If you haven’t experienced Bree Runway yet, buckle up. Bree is a genre-blending pop/rap princess from East London who brings high-fashion and high-energy to everything she does. Imagine if Missy Elliott and Lady Gaga had a British lovechild – that’s Bree. She’s collaborated with Missy actually, and with artists like Rina Sawayama. Tracks like “ATM” or “Hot Hot” show off her versatility: she’ll sing, rap, dance, throw in rock guitar – nothing is off-limits. Bree’s all about breaking the mold, which is something Brits often excel at exporting. I love that she doesn’t hide her accent either; you hear that London flavour in her flow. She hasn’t cracked the U.S. top 40 yet, but artistically, she’s already “arrived.” Don’t be surprised if she’s the next Brit to explode stateside with a big hit.

* Sam Fender – Let’s give some love to rock again. Sam Fender hails from North Shields (near Newcastle in the UK – proper Geordie territory) and he’s often touted as “the British Bruce Springsteen.” No joke – he writes big, earnest rock anthems with saxophones and heartland vibes. Songs like “Seventeen Going Under” and “Hypersonic Missiles” have gained huge followings, and his lyrics tackle working-class life, mental health, and social issues in a way that resonates widely. In the US, he’s still more indie, but the critics and core fans adore him. If you crave a bit of that classic rock spirit in modern music, check out Sam. Plus, that accent – when he sings you mostly get the full-throated passion, but when he speaks, he’s got the thick Geordie accent that Americans find both endearing and utterly indecipherable without subtitles. It’s great.

* LUVCAT – Finally, someone a bit more underground but super intriguing: LUVCAT. Real name Sophie Morgan, she’s an English singer-songwriter who’s cultivating a kind of mysterious, theatrical alt-pop persona. Imagine smoky jazz club vocals mixed with edgy pop production. Rolling Stone UK wrote that Luvcat’s mystique and smoky romance are bringing back personality to modern music – and I love that. She leans into character and storytelling, with a gothic-romantic flair. She has this whole semi-fictional backstory in her press notes about being born on a Parisian riverboat and running away with the circus (seriously, she made this elaborate, tongue-in-cheek bio). It’s part of her artistry – she misses the days when musicians had playful mystique, so she’s creating one. And behind the myth-making, the music is sultry and cinematic. Her song “Vicious Delicious” or the ballad “Dinner @ Brasserie Zedel” feel like you’ve stepped into a smoky 1940s cabaret, but then there’s a modern beat keeping it current. She’s very new, but definitely an example of the cool experimental stuff brewing in the UK scene.

Whew, that’s a lot of artists – and honestly I just scratched the surface. I didn’t even mention Dua Lipa (our disco-pop queen from London), Stormzy (grime trailblazer extraordinaire), Little Simz (critically acclaimed rapper), Glass Animals (who had Americans hooked with “Heat Waves” forever), or Coldplay and Muse and all those established UK bands still filling U.S. arenas. The UK-to-US music pipeline is robust as ever.


One fascinating thread in all this is how British artists often remix American influences and then send them back to us. The Beatles did it with American rock ’n’ roll and Motown – repackaging it with British flair. Today, someone like Adele channels the spirit of American soul and gospel in her ballads (you can hear echoes of Etta James or Aretha in her singing), but she’s distinctly British in her point of view and humor. Ed Sheeran mixes folk (think Bob Dylan) with R&B and even recruits American hip-hop producers at times, creating a hybrid that clicks globally. The modern Brits are comfortable saying, “Yes, we grew up on Beyoncé and Eminem and Springsteen, we love that stuff, and now we’ll put our spin on it.” And funnily, a lot of American artists are in turn influenced by British acts – it’s a transatlantic conversation. Music is beautiful that way; it doesn’t respect borders.
Also, quick nod on the accent thing: Historically, British singers adopted American accents because early rock and blues was American-led, and it just became the norm. It’s largely subconscious – some linguists say the act of singing naturally neutralizes accents due to how vowels are extended, etc.. But nowadays you also have Brits intentionally keeping their accents in genres like rap or punk, where authenticity of voice is key. Think Sex Pistols or The Clash in the 70s sneering in British accents to differentiate from American rock, or today Stormzy unapologetically rapping in South London slang. So whether they shed the accent for melodic singing or flaunt it for rhythmic bars, British artists use their voices as yet another creative tool.


The bottom line: The British invasion never really ended – it just evolves. From The Beatles making American teens lose their minds in ’64, to Adele making everyone lose their hearts in 2021, the UK continues to punch above its weight in producing music that captivates the world. The Brits are still coming, and we’re gladly opening the door for them.




[Cue music break: a track plays – harmonies on full display – then fades]


Nice, right? You can hear that classic R&B influence with a London twist. Love what we are doing there.
Now, switching gears, it’s time for a more introspective pit stop. Let’s talk about who we are and why we do what we do – the philosophy of the grind here at WDMN



Segment 4: Who We Are / Philosophy of the Grind


[Soft ambient music bed plays under intro]


Welcome to the portion of the show where we get a little philosophical (don’t worry, I’ll keep it fun). I realize we have a lot of new listeners (hi new folks!) and you might be wondering, “What exactly is WDMN Media? Who is ThinkTimm? And what in the world is this podcast’s mission aside from Willa blabbing on with witty commentary?” Totally fair questions! So let me reintroduce ourselves and share a bit of our ethos.


WDMN MEDIA – which we affectionately pronounce as “Wisdom Media” sometimes – is the independent creative engine behind this podcast and a whole lot more. It was co-founded by myself (in my alter-ego as DJ Warm Cookies) and ThinkTimm – who is the producer, mastermind, and my partner in crime in all this. ThinkTimm is a music producer and multi-hyphenate creative who basically taught himself how to do everything from mixing tracks to building websites to probably knitting sweaters (okay, not sure about the last one). The character “Willa May” – that’s me – was actually designed by ThinkTimm to be the soul of the podcast. I’m essentially a virtual co-host he created so we could banter, tell stories, and occasionally I take over hosting duties entirely (like today!). Yes, you heard that right – I’m a crafted personality. Kinda wild, huh? Think of me as part him, part muse, part British radio presenter he always wanted to be, with a dash of AI magic perhaps. Together, we form this unusual but dynamic duo.


Our mission at WDMN, boiled down, is to create a sustainable, independent creative life. We’re not chasing luxury cars or clout or viral fame – we’re building a body of work that can pay real bills, support our families, and keep us true to our art. We’ve said it before: we’re not trying to be a flashy “personality brand.” You won’t see us doing TikTok dances for hype (no shade to those who do, it’s just not us). For us, social media is a tool – infrastructure, not identity. The identity is in the music and content itself. We focus on the craft, on consistency, and on community. One of our core beliefs: Consistency beats hype. Showing up and doing the work, week after week, volume after volume, will trump a one-off viral moment in the long run. We’re playing the long game – “long-tail wins” as we often say.


Let me give a personal reflection here. When we started Episode 1 of this podcast, we had, what, a handful of listeners (most of them friends and relatives we begged to tune in). I remember being nervous on the mic, figuring out our format, wondering does anyone care about why we make music? Fast forward to Episode 68 – I speak to you now with so much more confidence and clarity (and a British accent that mysteriously got better, if I do say so!). We’ve evolved from a tiny idea into a system that refuses to stop creating. Along the way, we learned a ton. We learned that streaming alone isn’t sustainable for indie artists (no kidding, 0.004 cents a stream ain’t gonna buy baby new shoes). That’s why we diversified – we pressed physical merch, we embraced Bandcamp, we sought sync licensing, we even explored AI tools to increase our productivity without sacrificing soul. Every step of this journey has been about adapting and persisting.


One thing we love to remind ourselves and our listeners is the power of persistence. I have a favorite quote on this, and it comes from the actor/producer Seth Rogen of all people. Seth was asked about how to “make it” in entertainment, and he said something brilliant: “If you don’t quit, you might make it. If you do quit, you definitely won’t.”. Boom, right? That’s the only surefire common denominator for success he’s seen – just not giving up. We live by that here. There have been plenty of times it would have been easier to stop – when a project didn’t hit as big as we hoped, or when life got chaotic (and boy, does life get chaotic – we have families, day jobs, unexpected crises like anyone). But the fact we’re here at Episode 68, still creating, still growing – that’s the victory. Every day we don’t quit is a day we might make that breakthrough. And if we don’t, well, at least we’ll have a kickass catalog of art to our names and a community of beautiful people (that’s you) along for the ride.


I also want to say to any fellow creators listening: I know the grind can be tough. Maybe you’re on Episode 1 of your own journey, or Chapter 1, or whatever the start looks like. Or maybe you’re at Episode 200 and feeling like the big payoff hasn’t come yet. Trust that every step is building something. On Episode 1 of Why Make Music…, I remember concluding that the answer to our titular question was “because we can’t not.” We make music because it’s who we are. Now here on Episode 68, I’ll add to that: we make music because meaning lasts longer than hype. The legacy we build – even if it’s a small one – can echo beyond us. I mean, earlier we talked about the Beatles and Prince and those huge legacies, but even on an indie level, a song you write or a project you create can impact someone’s day or life in ways you might never know. And that’s worth it.


We’ve grown not just in audience, but in ourselves since the beginning. Our production is sharper, our vision is clearer, and our mission is unwavering. ThinkTimm and I often have these deep chats off-air about why we keep going. And it comes down to passion, purpose, and perseverance. We have families to care for, yes, and we’d love this art to secure their futures. But also we have this burning need to express and connect. Durability, comfort, and continuity for the next generation – that’s what we’re aiming for. Not flashing the pan fame or fortune, but a legacy and a stable creative life that our kids can be proud of.


I’ll share something personal: We recently looked back at our archive and realized we’ve created hundreds of songs and dozens of podcast episodes. There’s a metaphor we love – in Star Wars, there’s “Order 66” where things go haywire. Our Episode 66 was kind of a turning point too (we even joked it was our metaphorical Order 66). At that point we had to either level up or pack it in. We obviously chose to level up. We embraced new strategies (that was when we aligned with Code 3 Records for sync, for example), and we doubled down on what works. It was the point of no return where we said, “We’re all in on this creative journey.” And here we are, not looking back.
So, to summarize our philosophy: Work hard, stay humble, create relentlessly, adapt fearlessly, and never lose sight of why you started. Our “why” is in the title: Why Make Music? Because it’s who we are, because it brings us and others joy, because it leaves something meaningful in the world, and because – quite frankly – we’d go a little crazy if we didn’t! (Better to pour the crazy into songs than elsewhere, right?)


Alright, I think I hear a small violin playing in the background, telling me it’s time to wrap up the sentimental stuff. But I hope that gives you a clearer picture of WDMN and ThinkTimm and yours truly. We’re just passionate creatives out here trying to make something that lasts. And if you’re here listening, you’re already part of that story. Thank you for that.


Let’s rev the energy back up now. Coming up next: we’re switching lanes into our Sports Recap and Culture segment. Yes, this show has layers – like an onion or a really good seven-layer dip. We go from music history to indie hustle wisdom to sports, because why not? It’s all part of the culture we love. And trust me, we’ve got some spicy sports tea to spill this week. WNBA stars balling out in Philly, NBA season drama, and a Super Bowl on the horizon with a halftime show that’s got me hyped. Stay tuned – we’ll be back in a moment on WDMN.


[Cue quick station ID jingle: “WDMN – Independent Sound, Worldwide”]

Segment 5: Sports Recap and Culture


Welcome to Sports Recap and Culture on WDMN Radio – or as I sometimes call it, “Willa’s Sports Corner,” where a British-accented music nerd (me) gets way too excited about American sports. What can I say? I contain multitudes! Let’s jump in because it’s been a wild week in hoops and beyond.

First up: women’s basketball making history in Philly. If you haven’t heard, there’s a new 3-on-3 women’s league called Unrivaled that’s been touring around, and they had an epic event right here in Philadelphia. And when I say epic, I mean record-breaking. They rolled into the Xfinity Mobile Arena (which, fun fact, is the new name for the Wells Fargo Center – yup, naming rights are real) and drew a crowd of 21,490 people to watch women’s hoops! Let that sink in: twenty-one thousand, four hundred and ninety fans – for a women’s 3x3 game. That’s the largest basketball crowd that arena has seen in ages, bigger than some NBA games attendance. It was electric.


The event was cheekily dubbed “Philly Is Unrivaled,” and it lived up to the name. We got to witness a perfect storm of great basketball, a star performance, and a statement for the future of the sport. The star of the night? Marina Mabrey – remember that name. Marina plays in the WNBA (for the Chicago Sky last season) but in this off-season Unrivaled league, she suits up for a team called the Lunar Owls. And she went absolutely nuclear. Dropped 47 points in a single game, which set a new Unrivaled league record. To put it in perspective: 47 points in a 3x3 game, which has shorter quarters, is outrageous. She scored 27 of those in the first quarter alone – she was, as the article said, “hotter than lava” in that arena. I was there in the stands (had to be – you know I support my women’s basketball), and I swear Marina couldn’t miss. Threes from the logo, corner shots, step-backs – the hoop must have looked like the ocean to her. The crowd was losing it with every bucket. By the end, she’d not only shattered records but also hit the game-winner to seal an 85-75 victory for her team. Absolute heroine status achieved.


But it wasn’t just the on-court action – it was the whole vibe in the arena that night. The crowd was a who’s who of basketball royalty and celeb fans. I spotted Dawn Staley (Philly’s own hoops legend and South Carolina coach) and Kyle Lowry (NBA champ and Philly native) chilling and enjoying the game. Celebrities were out in force too: I fangirled seeing Wanda Sykes and Leslie Jones laughing it up courtside, and news icon Robin Roberts was there nodding in approval at the action. It felt like an All-Star event. You could just feel this energy, this movement. At one point, during a timeout, the jumbotron flashed to a sign someone was holding: “Philadelphia ❤’s Women’s Hoops”. The roar that got… oh man, chills.


And you know what thought kept popping up? Why doesn’t Philly have a WNBA team yet?! Philadelphia is a huge sports city with passionate fans, and clearly, there’s an appetite for women’s basketball. Well, guess what – it’s coming. Back in June 2025, the WNBA officially announced they’re expanding to add new teams, and Philadelphia is on the list, set to join by 2030. That’s a bit of a wait, I know, but the wheels are in motion. (Cathy Engelbert – WNBA commissioner – basically said “the demand for women’s hoops has never been higher” and Philly was a no-brainer choice.) The ownership group is already lined up (led by Sixers owner Josh Harris) and plans include a new arena downtown for the team. It’s happening! And the turnout at this Unrivaled game was like a precursor of what’s to come – proof that Philly fans will show up in droves. That 21,490 attendance wasn’t just a record, it was a statement: Philly is hungry for a WNBA team. I’d bet my last vinyl record that once that team (whatever they’ll be named – the Philly… Freedoms? Bell Ringers? we can speculate another time) tips off, they’ll have one of the rowdiest fanbases in the league. As a Philly resident, that makes my heart sing.

So kudos to Unrivaled for putting on an amazing show and to Marina Mabrey for an all-time performance. Also shout-out to Napheesa Collier (WNBA star and Unrivaled co-founder) who got a bit emotional talking about how special it was to break the attendance record in Philly – she said it’s a testament to what they’re building and how much people believe in women’s basketball’s future. The future’s Unrivaled, indeed. 

Now, sliding over to the NBA – it’s about mid-season 2025-26, and things are getting spicy on the hardwood. Let’s talk standings and storylines, especially focusing on our favorite teams here at WDMN: the Lakers, the 76ers, and the Warriors (I promise that covers coast-to-coast biases – East Coast, West Coast, and a lil Bay Area love).

Starting with the Los Angeles Lakers. Well well, how about those Lakers? As of this week, they’re sitting around 30-19, about a .612 win percentage, which puts them roughly 5th in the Western Conference. If you haven’t been following, the Lakers made a blockbuster move that has the whole league buzzing: Luka Dončić is in LA. Yes, that Luka – the Slovenian wunderkind, former Dallas cornerstone – now rocking the purple and gold. It’s like if Kobe and Magic had a baby who could shoot like Bird… okay, hyperbole, but Luka is that special. And boy is he delivering. He’s currently leading the league in scoring at about 33.7 points per game. Every night it’s a show: step-back threes, crafty assists, clutch shots. Staples Center (sorry, Crypto.com Arena… I still can’t get used to that name) is alive again with “M-V-P” chants – though whether he can snatch MVP on a 5th-place team is a debate for the sports pundits. Regardless, Luka has injected new life into LA. There’s even talk that once his pal (and mentor-of-sorts) LeBron James retired, Luka felt ready to take on the Lakers’ mantle. The Hollywood spotlight suits him. And fun fact for you stats nerds: the West is incredibly competitive this year. The Oklahoma City Thunder (!) are leading the West at something absurd like 40-12 – their young core blossomed apparently – and teams like the Spurs (Wembanyama effect) and Nuggets are up there too. So the Lakers at 5th are only a few games out of the top seeds. They’ve been on a good run lately, notching big wins. Just last week they had an overtime thriller against the Nuggets – Luka dropped a triple-double with 45 points, 12 assists, 10 rebounds… cHollywood might get another storybook chapter soon.

Switching to our home team, the Philadelphia 76ers. The Sixers have had their own rollercoaster, but they’re holding strong. Current record is about 29-21 (.580), which puts them roughly 5th or 6th in the Eastern Conference. They’ve been hovering in that range, a few games behind the conference leaders (surprise, the New York Knicks and Detroit Pistons are near the top – yes, the Knicks actually good, it’s like bizarro world, and Detroit’s young talent has gelled big time). Philly’s had its share of drama earlier in the season – there was a big trade saga back in the fall (we finally moved on from a certain bearded guard who shall not be named, ahem). Now it’s firmly Joel Embiid’s team and he’s doing Joel Embiid things: averaging around 30 points, dominating the paint, and likely making another MVP case. He did miss a few games with a minor knee swell (I had a small heart attack, but it was precautionary). He’s back now and just put up a 40-point, 15-rebound game against the Celtics last week – which we still lost because Boston hit like 23 threes, ugh. But anyway. Our Sixers have the talent; it’s about consistency. Tyrese Maxey has stepped up as the clear number two guy – the kid’s speed is unreal and he’s dropping 25 a night regularly. Interesting tidbit: Tyrese leads the league in minutes per game (around 39.0 MPG!). Coach has him essentially playing the entire game. Gotta watch that fatigue, coach, but hey, he’s young, he can handle it… I hope. The Sixers also made a savvy pickup in a veteran 3-and-D wing at the trade deadline (not finalized yet, but rumors of picking up someone like OG Anunoby were swirling). If that happens, defense gets a boost.

Injuries around the league have been shaking up the East a bit – Milwaukee’s star Giannis tweaked something, Boston’s dealing with a hurt Jaylen Brown, etc. For Philly, aside from Joel’s routine rest days and a short absence, we’ve been relatively okay knock on wood. Our bench is the question mark, but that’s for another day. Right now, we’re in the mix. Philly typically surges after the All-Star break, so I’ve got cautious optimism. Plus, Embiid has a fire lit under him after last year’s playoff disappointment – I can tell he’s on a mission.

Now, the Golden State Warriors. Ah, the Dubs. They’re currently around 27-24 (.529), which is hanging around the 8th seed in the West. It’s unfamiliar territory for the recent dynasty, but also not shocking as their core ages. Steph Curry is still Steph when he’s on the court – he had a stretch of games with 40+ points that reminded everyone he’s a cheat code., Golden State is fighting to stay in the playoff picture. They are currently a few games above .500, which in the insane West has them just on the edge. It’s weird seeing the Warriors as underdogs, but here we are. I’ll say this: if they can limp into the playoffs healthy as an 8th seed, no top seed will enjoy facing them. But we’ll have to see if they even get there – the West play-in race is tight. Teams like New Orleans, Dallas (post-Luka trade meltdown, with Klay Thompson haha I’m sure now Coming to The Lakers Would have been a much than Dallas only in a perfect world), and even Sacramento are all jostling around that zone.

One positive sign: in their last game, Curry dropped 50 points in an overtime win at home, doing a classic mouthguard-chomping, shimmy-shaking performance that had Chase Center rocking. It was against the OKC Thunder (the West leaders), handing them one of their few losses. So the Warriors showed they can still hang with the best on a given night. The question is consistency and health. If I’m being honest, I sense this could be the last true run of the Golden State core. They’ll go out swinging, I’m sure. Keep an eye on any trade deadline moves too – rumors are they might pick up a backup big or a veteran guard to stabilize the second unit.  

Overall in the NBA, the standings have some funky surprises (did I mention the Detroit Pistons are top of the East? Cade Cunningham out there looking like the second coming of Magic apparently). The Lakers look reborn with Luka, the Sixers are steady, the Warriors are scrappy. Injuries are always the X-factor: we’ve had the usual unfortunately – Zion Williamson got hurt again (sigh), a couple of weeks ago the league was holding its breath when Ja Morant took a hard fall (he’s okay), and as always, at least one random role player on the Lakers is out with something (our thoughts go out to Lonnie Walker IV’s hamstring or whichever hamstring du jour).

Now let’s pivot to the NFL, because we are days away from the Super Bowl! And guess who’s in it? The Seattle Seahawks versus the New England Patriots. Talk about a matchup I didn’t have on my preseason bingo card. It feels like a bit of a throwback – these two teams famously clashed in Super Bowl XLIX (2015) in that nail-biter where the Patriots won after Seattle decided not to hand the ball to Marshawn Lynch at the 1-yard line (Seattle fans, I’m sorry to bring it up – I know it still hurts). Well, here we are 11 years later for a rematch of sorts.

The Seahawks have been the Cinderella story this year. They were not expected to be here at all. Many predicted a rebuild, but they found lightning in a bottle. Their young quarterback (who took over after Russell Wilson’s era) – let’s call him, I dunno, Jimmy Wonder – has been playing out of his mind, doing his best Joe Montana impressions each week. The Hawks’ defense rediscovered some Legion of Boom energy, anchored by a superstar corner who led the league in interceptions. They upset the heavily favored Eagles in the NFC Championship (sorry Philly, at least our baseball team made the World Series recently… small consolations The Eagles did win the Super bowl Last year). Seattle’s got momentum, and perhaps a bit of destiny vibe. Plus, I hear a large contingent of actual 12th Man fans are flying from Washington to Las Vegas (where the Super Bowl is being held this year) to turn the stadium into a sea of neon green. Seahawks fans travel hard.

On the other side, the Patriots are kind of the comeback kids as well. Post-Brady era, folks wrote New England off for a while. But their young QB – who many doubted – has matured a lot, and without Coach Belichick (yep, still hoodie and all is gone and has been gone for a minute, can you believe it?) They crafted a top-notch defense once again. The Pats didn’t have to get through Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs in the AFC – too easy – and a little Foxborough magic on the road. It’s almost like the Patriots relish being underdogs again. It makes them dangerous. There’s a narrative brewing: they are trying win one more without Brady and a new coach staff completely completely, and doing it against a team that a different Patriot team beat 11 years ago in dramatic fashion. You can’t script it better (though as an Eagles fan I’d rather have seen my Birds in it, but oh well!).

Now, beyond the game itself, you know I’m hyped for the Halftime Show. The NFL partnered with Roc Nation to produce it (as they have for a few years now), and this year’s headliner is none other than Bad Bunny! ¡Vamos! This is major fresh off the Grammys! He won big last weekend.– Bad Bunny is arguably the biggest global music star right now. A Puerto Rican reggaetón / trap artist on the Super Bowl stage, singing primarily in Spanish – that’s a cultural moment. Expect a full-on spectacle: dancers, vibrant Caribbean colors, maybe some surprise guest appearances (I’m personally hoping for a Bad Bunny–Cardi B “I Like It” reunion or him bringing out someone like J Balvin or even Shakira for a cameo). One thing’s for sure: he’ll have the entire stadium perreando (google it, or don’t if you’re at work).

But here’s the kicker: whenever a halftime show is about to happen, I inevitably compare it to the gold standard – Prince’s 2007 halftime performance. You all remember that? Prince in Miami, in the pouring rain, absolutely shredding and singing “Purple Rain” while literal purple rain fell from the sky. Many call it the greatest halftime show ever. I mean, Mother Nature herself did special effects for Prince – you can’t top that. So I’m not saying Bad Bunny has to match Prince (unfair – nobody can), but I am saying he’s got big shoes to fill. And guess what? I think he might just do something incredible. He’s a showman, he’s charismatic, and he’s got that crossover appeal. Plus, the guy has performed in WWE wrestling matches – he’s fearless and up for anything! Maybe he’ll enter on a lowrider or descend from the ceiling or have fireworks spelling out “Yo Hago Lo Que Me Da La Gana” (one of his album titles, meaning “I do whatever I want”). Whatever he does, I’ll be glued to the screen. And as a music nerd, I love that a huge mainstream American event is embracing a Spanish-language artist. Representation matters, ya know?

Also, small personal anticipation: Will Bad Bunny do a Prince tribute snippet? He’s the kind of artist who might slip in a tiny ode – maybe a quick riff of “Purple Rain” or wearing something in Prince’s honor. Okay, that might be wishful thinking from me, the Prince superfan. But a girl can dream.
One more sports/culture tidbit: There’s been buzz about the Philly sports scene beyond basketball. Our Phillies went deep in MLB playoffs (I was hoarse for a week after those games). The Eagles, while they didn’t make the Super Bowl this year, are still an NFC powerhouse – trust, they’ll be back. And the city is just itching for a WNBA team (as we covered) and maybe even an NWSL (women’s soccer) team someday. Philly’s on the rise in so many ways. Sports, music, arts – it’s all converging here. And WDMN is soaking it all in so we can spit it back out to you with commentary and passion.
Alright, that’s the sports rundown! From Marina Mabrey’s 47-point masterpiece to Luka’s Laker takeover, from Embiid’s steady dominance to Bad Bunny’s upcoming big dance, we got our competitive juices flowing on this segment. I don’t know about you, but I’m fired up. I feel like shooting a three or belting a stadium anthem or something. But I’ll spare you and do neither (for now).

We’re nearing the end of the show, which means it’s time to wind down a bit. And you know what that means: our final segment, a little reflective cool-down I like to call “Deep Thoughts in the Garden.” This is where I get a tad poetic, maybe a smidge spiritual, and try to leave us all with something good for the soul. So take a deep breath with me, and let’s step into the garden…


Segment 6: Deep Thoughts in the Garden / Outro


[Sound of gentle wind chimes and nighttime crickets fade in, creating a calm atmosphere]


Welcome to Deep Thoughts in the Garden, dear listener. This is the segment where we step away from the noise – the charts, the scores, the hustle – and take a moment to just be. It’s like the part of the evening when you’re sitting out in your backyard or on your stoop, the world a little quieter, and you allow yourself to think about life and all its beautiful contradictions.
Lately, I’ve actually been spending time in my literal garden (okay, it’s a tiny city backyard, but I’ve claimed it as my green sanctuary). And I made an odd decision: I’m thinking about planting stones instead of grass. Yep. See, my lawn – if you can call a 10x10 patch a “lawn” – was more weeds than grass, and maintenance was a nightmare. So I thought, why not embrace something different? I’ve started laying down smooth river stones and creating a sort of rock garden. It’s unconventional, but it’s oddly therapeutic to place each stone just so. And it hit me – there’s a metaphor here (because of course there is, I’m always hunting for those). Sometimes in life we try to force something to grow that just isn’t meant to, like me trying to force a perfect green lawn where conditions aren’t right. And sometimes, instead, we need to plant peacein whatever form works – even if it means laying stones, making a path, instead of traditional grass. In other words, we find alternative ways to cultivate our inner garden.

For me, planting peace has meant literally creating a zen little rock garden, and figuratively it means choosing calm over chaos whenever I can. It means in the morning, instead of immediately checking stressful emails, I’ll sip my tea and listen to a song that grounds me. It means at night, instead of doom-scrolling social media, I’ll jot down a few things I’m grateful for (or, you know, practice my DJ scratches in low volume – hey, whatever brings you peace!). Planting peace is an intentional act. The world sure likes to throw weeds into our mental garden – anxieties, comparisons, regrets – and if we’re not mindful, those can overrun us. So we have to do a bit of weeding and a bit of seeding of our own peace.

Maybe for you, planting peace is taking a walk each day, or playing an instrument for fun with no pressure to be perfect, or calling that friend who always leaves you feeling lighter. Maybe it’s literally tending to plants – shout-out to the plant parents out there, I see you with your succulents and snake plants bringing good vibes into your space. Whatever it is, do it. Make that a non-negotiable part of your routine. You deserve some tranquility amidst all the grind.

I’ll share a little affirmation I’ve been telling myself: “I am doing the best I can, and it’s enough.” Simple, but powerful if you really accept it. So often we’re our own worst critics (I know I am – Willa May… may sound confident on the mic, but off-air I have my doubts and dark moments like anyone). We set such high expectations, and when we fall short, we beat ourselves up. I’m learning to counteract that by acknowledging my efforts and giving myself grace. Try telling yourself that sometime: you’re doing the best you can, and even if today only amounted to 60% of what you hoped, it was still enough. The sun will rise tomorrow and you’ll get another shot. And the things that truly matter – the people you love, the passions that drive you – they’re still there, ready for you.
Another thought: as we’ve journeyed through the idea of “The British Invasion” this episode, it struck me how much art and culture is a conversation across time and space. The Beatles inspired millions; those millions included people who went on to inspire millions more. We’re all part of this ongoing story, adding our little verse. And not every verse has to be loud to be meaningful. Some are soft, like a quiet kindness you show someone or a personal goal you meet without anyone else knowing. In my garden metaphor, maybe you plant one seed of peace by helping a neighbor, or by finishing that poem or beat you’ve been working on and feeling proud of it even if only one other person hears it. That counts. That’s part of the melody of the world, if you will.

As we wrap up tonight, I want to send shout-outs to a few special folks. A big shout-out to you, yes you listening right now. Whether you’ve been with us from Episode 1 or this is the first time you’ve tuned in, I appreciate you. You’re the reason we do this, truly. Shout-out to our supporters who drop encouraging comments, who share the podcast with their buddies, who throw a few bucks down for our music on Bandcamp just because – that’s pure love and we feel it. Shout-out to the WDMN team (small but mighty!) – of course to ThinkTimm, the wizard behind the curtain making all this possible and keeping me on track when I go on wild tangents. Shout-out to my family who listens and gives feedback (hi Mum, I know you’re listening all the way in London and probably correcting my accent – love ya!). And shout-out to all the creators and dreamers out there grinding in your own lanes. Your work, seen or unseen, has value. Keep at it.

We’ve covered so much tonight: from The Beatles conquering America, to Adele and Ed leading a new invasion, to Marina Mabrey making history in Philly, to Seth Rogen’s wisdom on persistence, to Bad Bunny about to take the Super Bowl stage. What a time to be alive, huh? Filled with challenges, yes, but also with these brilliant moments of connection through culture and sport and art. I encourage you to find those moments in your everyday life. They’re there – little invasions of joy and inspiration waiting to happen. Maybe it’s a song that comes on at the right time, or a friend’s text that makes you smile, or heck, an adorable dog you pass on the street that lets you pet it (that’s the best). Take those and cherish them.

As we close out Episode Sixty Eight, I’ll leave you with Willa May’s classic sign-off (you know it’s coming!): Keep creating. Keep connecting. And keep asking Why Make Music…? Because when we create, we plant seeds of something real in this world, and if we tend to them – with patience, passion, and yes, a bit of peace – they’ll grow into a legacy that lives on.

Thank you for spending your time with me. This is Willa May on WDMN Media, sending you all love, light, and good vibrations. Until next time, take care of yourselves and each other.


[Outro music begins – a soothing instrumental track plays as Willa’s voice gently fades]

And as my favorite late-night radio host back in London used to say: “Wherever you are, be safe, be happy, and be you.” Peace and be wild. Cheerio, darlings!


[Music swells and fades out, end of episode]