On this week’s episode, we talk all things carpentry as we react to Sabrina Carpenter’s brand new studio album, “Short ’N’ Sweet.” In true Pop Theory fashion, we cover it track-by-track talking about our favorite lyrics, production moments and overall which ones hit and which ones miss. We may even have a confession from Zach about his take on the album!

But before we get into our carpentry era, we begin the episode by answering some of the questions from the listeners of the pod. We dive into topics like what were the first pieces of music that we purchased with our own money, our favorite R&B songs, our thoughts on lesbian culture in pop music and more. SPECIAL THANKS to all the listeners who took the time to submit their questions!

The Sabrina Carpenter Episode

DJ John Michael returns to the pod to discuss several moments in pop music in recent weeks.

First we take a dive into “Die With A Smile” the brand new duet between Lady Gaga and Bruno Mars.

After, we have a great discussion on queer artists in pop music, specifically highlighting the talented ZEE MACHINE and the release party for his EP “Can I Be Honest...?”

From there we discuss fame and personal boundaries as it was highlighted by Chappell Roan.

We also may or may not give some controversial takes on some of the biggest hits the world has ever seen!

Queer Pop, Fame & Lady Gaga

Get ready for your mind to be blown:  Christina Aguilera’s debut album is officially TWENTY-FIVE years old!  On this brand new episode of POP THEORY, Jeff and Zach do a track-by-track reminiscing of “Christina Aguilera.”  

From the classics like “Genie In A Bottle”, “What A Girl Wants”, and “Come On Over Baby (All I Want Is You)” to album cuts like “So Emotional”, “When You Put Your Hands On Me” and “Love Will Find A Way” we leave no stone left unturned.  We even revisit a special bonus track during our now FAMOUS segment, “Songs We Don’t Talk About Enough.”

Additional topics include Britney's "In The Zone" and "Blackout" as well as our first reactions to Katy Perry's latest single, "Lifetimes."

Xtina's Debut Turns 25

DJ John Michael returns to discuss all the important questions currently permeating the pop music zeitgeist.  Who will be featured on Charli XCX's rumored "Brat" remix album?  Will Chappell Roan ever release "The Subway?"  Will Tyra Banks ever put "Shake Ya Body" on streaming?  When will JADE release the follow up to "Angel Of My Dreams?"  Plus, Zach tasks Kelly Rowland to put out a forgotten banger onto streaming.

Charli, Chappell & Jade

On this week's episode we take a dive into the current climate of music releases in 2024.  From feeling overwhelmed and overstimulated to feeling horny with anticipation, we talk about all the main pop girlies of the moment.  We reflect on releases from earlier this year like "Cowboy Carter," current releases like "Brat" and it's anticipated remix album companion, and future releases from Kylie Minogue, Lady Gaga and Katy Perry.  We even sprinkle in some love for Janet Jackson and Missy Elliott for good measure.

Main Pop Girlie Talk

DJ John Michael returns for our first "three-way" episode!  On this episode of POP THEORY, the boys discuss all things Katy Perry's return with her new single "Woman's World."  Did the song live up to our expectations?  Are we excited for the album?  What are our thoughts on Dr. Luke's involvement?  All is revealed in this VERY juicy episode.

The Katy Perry Episode

We are back from summer break, baby!  Jeff makes his triumphant return to the pod and is ready to talk all things "brat."  Speaking of triumphant returns, we also take a dive into Kesha's brand new single and first release as an independent artist, "JOYRIDE."  We also sprinkle some love to 2005 "dad rock," Robyn, and our beloved Lenny Kravitz.

Brat Summer & Kesha

On this episode of POP THEORY, DJ John Michael is BACK with a BRATitude to talk all things Charli XCX and her new album "Brat."  We do a track-by-track of the deluxe album, talk about dream collaborations and remixes and even discuss some of our favorite lesser known Charli XCX tracks.

The Brat Episode

On this very special episode of POP THEORY, we are joined by the incredible Devin Way!  The Geminis were strong in these ones as we talk all things music from Tori Kelly, Kelly Clarkson and Beyoncé to Becky Hill, David Archuleta, and Tanner Adell.  Devin answers the infamous "Desert Island" question and also recalls his love of American Idol.

Tori Kelly Put Us In PURGA-TORI!

On this episode, Peloton's DJ John Michael returns to help Zach celebrate Gloria Estefan's magnum opus "gloria!"  The colossal album that fuses latin dance pop with electronica, disco, and hip-hop celebrated it's 26th anniversary in the world and it's time to give this album the flowers it rightfully deserves.  In this episode we do a track-by-track including it's singles "Heaven's What I Feel," "Oye," "Don't Let This Moment End" and "Cuba Libre" as well as dive into it's slew of remixes, megamixes, and medleys.

Glory for Gloria Estefan's "Gloria!"

POP THEORY (@poptheory) · Zencastr

POP THEORY (@poptheory)

Follow pop music enthusiasts, Jeff Beach and Zach Rickel (aka @afunctioninggay on Instagram®) as they go on an unhinged deep dive of all things POP music. Remember that artist/song you loved from the early 2000's that fell into obscurity? Yeah, they do too- and they are here to celebrate them with you! Tune in each week as this duo reviews everything new in pop music and culture, little known facts about your favorite artists, under-appreciated deep cuts from your beloved pop divas and many laughs along the way.

Episodes air every Tuesday.