The Earworm Podcast

Patrick Cloud & Bryan Clark
  • 5.0 (6)
  • Arts
  • Updated Weekly

Earworm is the podcast that gets stuck in your head for all the right reasons. Hosted by Bryan Clark — artist, producer, engineer, music doctorate, and sonic architect to artists around the world — and Patrick Cloud, a New Orleans native whose career spans global music industry sales, directing sales for festival and event video production, podcast direction and production, and ownership of a creative management company, Earworm is where music industry knowledge meets genuine passion for the craft. Every episode, Bryan and Patrick dig into the trends shaping the modern music industry, celebrate the albums that matter, geek out over gear and guitars, and sit down with the producers, engineers, and artists who are actually doing the work. Bryan brings the academic chops and worldwide studio perspective. Patrick brings the New Orleans soul, the industry hustle, and the kind of energy that only comes from a city that treats music like oxygen. Whether you're a working musician trying to find your sound, a music lover who wants to understand what goes on behind the glass, or just someone who wants two guys who actually know what they're talking about to make you laugh and teach you something — Earworm is your show. Informative. Irreverent. Occasionally ridiculous. Always music. https://www.instagram.com/theearwormpodcast/ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61588628882466 https://www.youtube.com/@the-earworm-podcast https://theearwormpodcast.buzzsprout.com www.bryanclarkmusic.com www.modernmusicmasters.com www.cloudcreativemgmt.com

Episodes

  1. The Earworm Podcast - Episode 12 The Past, Present, and Future of Recorded Music

    6d ago

    The Earworm Podcast - Episode 12 The Past, Present, and Future of Recorded Music

    Patrick and Bryan take a journey through the complete history of recorded music—from the first known sound recording in 1860 to the cutting-edge plugin technology shaping modern productions. Along the way, they explore Thomas Edison's phonograph, Emil Berliner's gramophone, a working 1908 Edison Model B, and a century-old Victrola, revealing how each innovation forever changed the way we capture and experience music. The conversation follows the path through magnetic tape, the birth of Ampex, the genius of Les Paul, and the rise of vinyl, cassettes, and early home recording systems that brought professional production within reach of everyday musicians. The episode then fast-forwards into the digital revolution, examining how DAWs, plug-ins, and modern software transformed the recording process while asking an important question: has technology made music better, or simply easier to create? Patrick and Bryan dive into the evolution of classic studio gear into digital recreations, discuss the creative possibilities of today's plugin ecosystem, and spotlight the next generation of audio tools from Briarwave. Whether you're a recording enthusiast, gear nerd, or music history buff, this episode connects more than 160 years of innovation into one fascinating story of how recorded music became what it is today. Support the show Support the page and join the Wormhole!!  Donate to https://www.buzzsprout.com/2598511/support to help us do more!! Cool gear giveaways to begin soon! https://www.instagram.com/theearwormpodcast/ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61588628882466 https://www.youtube.com/@the-earworm-podcast https://theearwormpodcast.buzzsprout.com www.bryanclarkmusic.com www.modernmusicmasters.com www.cloudcreativemgmt.com

    1h 12m
  2. The Earworm Podcast - Episode 11 There's a Wal-Mart in my Studio?

    Jun 30

    The Earworm Podcast - Episode 11 There's a Wal-Mart in my Studio?

    This week for episode 11, Patrick and Bryan take a field trip to the new recording studio inside the Franklin, Tennessee Walmart called Create-It Studio, where they ask the obvious question: just because you can track a record between the garden center and frozen foods, should you? The conversation uses the studio as a springboard into a bigger discussion about how music has shifted from an ownership economy to a streaming economy, why artists increasingly rely on touring and vinyl sales, and whether convenience has come at the expense of craftsmanship. The episode also dives into the rise of algorithm-driven listening, AI-generated music, and why vinyl continues to thrive in a digital world. Patrick and Bryan make the case that music is more than disposable content—it’s an art form worth collecting, supporting, and experiencing intentionally. (And yes, if you're buying socks, mulch, and tracking vocals in the same trip, you've officially embraced modern music.) https://www.create-it-studios.com/ Support the show Support the page and join the Wormhole!!  Donate to https://www.buzzsprout.com/2598511/support to help us do more!! Cool gear giveaways to begin soon! https://www.instagram.com/theearwormpodcast/ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61588628882466 https://www.youtube.com/@the-earworm-podcast https://theearwormpodcast.buzzsprout.com www.bryanclarkmusic.com www.modernmusicmasters.com www.cloudcreativemgmt.com

    55 min
  3. The Earworm Podcast - Episode 10 Amp Stamp! The interview w/ John Capito BLACK TAPE AMPS!

    Jun 23

    The Earworm Podcast - Episode 10 Amp Stamp! The interview w/ John Capito BLACK TAPE AMPS!

    John Capito joins Patrick and Bryan for a deep dive into the fascinating world of guitar amplifiers, tracing the lineage of iconic amp designs that shaped modern music. From the chime of the AC30 to the roar of the Plexi and the warmth of the Tweed Bassman, John unpacks the sonic DNA behind the sounds that defined generations of players. Along the way, he shares his unlikely path from automotive technician to one of Nashville's most respected amp builders and repair experts, working alongside artists such as Jack White and Moose Brown while developing a reputation for chasing tone at the highest level. The conversation explores the art and science of amplifier design, the mysteries of vintage vacuum tubes, and the challenges facing today's tube amp industry following global supply disruptions. John discusses why great guitar amps are built for inspiration rather than accuracy, how customization often comes down to understanding the individual player, and why some of the best sounds are discovered by accident. Whether you're a gear fanatic, a guitarist searching for your signature tone, or simply curious about the technology behind the music, this episode offers a rare look inside the minds of the people who keep the world's greatest amplifiers singing. Find John's incredible Black Tape Amps at www.blacktapeamps.com Support the show Support the page and join the Wormhole!!  Donate to https://www.buzzsprout.com/2598511/support to help us do more!! Cool gear giveaways to begin soon! https://www.instagram.com/theearwormpodcast/ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61588628882466 https://www.youtube.com/@the-earworm-podcast https://theearwormpodcast.buzzsprout.com www.bryanclarkmusic.com www.modernmusicmasters.com www.cloudcreativemgmt.com

    1h 4m
  4. The Earworm Podcast - Episode 9 Can Fender Copyright Cool?

    Jun 16

    The Earworm Podcast - Episode 9 Can Fender Copyright Cool?

    In Episode 9 of The Earworm Podcast, our hosts Patrick and Bryan explore Fender’s recent legal victory against a Chinese counterfeit manufacturer and use it as a springboard to examine one of the most influential rivalries in music history: Fender versus Gibson. The conversation traces the evolution of the electric guitar, from Leo Fender’s practical, repair-friendly designs to Gibson’s handcrafted approach, highlighting how iconic instruments like the Telecaster, Stratocaster, and Les Paul helped shape modern music. Along the way, Patrick and Bryan discuss the innovators behind these legendary guitars and the technological breakthroughs that changed the industry forever. The episode also takes a closer look at the history of intellectual property disputes in the guitar world and the controversy surrounding Fender’s recent cease-and-desist actions against builders producing Fender-inspired instruments. Through the lens of guitar history, Patrick and Bryan explore the balance between protecting innovation and encouraging creativity, raising thoughtful questions about ownership, competition, and the collaborative evolution of the instruments that continue to define popular music. https://www.npr.org/2010/07/14/128496104/freddie-king-and-the-harsh-business-of-the-blues https://es.pinterest.com/pin/7670261843696013/ https://es.pinterest.com/pin/67905906871157927/ https://guitar.com/features/opinion-analysis/how-les-pauls-log-guitar-changed-everything/ https://www.les-paul.com/mary-ford/ https://flypaper.soundfly.com/discover/truth-lawsuit-era-guitars/ Wire and Wood  Mixdown Magazine https://foundation4schoolmusic.org/lifetime-achievement-award/lifetime-achievement-award-les-paul/ Support the show Support the page and join the Wormhole!!  Donate to https://www.buzzsprout.com/2598511/support to help us do more!! Cool gear giveaways to begin soon! https://www.instagram.com/theearwormpodcast/ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61588628882466 https://www.youtube.com/@the-earworm-podcast https://theearwormpodcast.buzzsprout.com www.bryanclarkmusic.com www.modernmusicmasters.com www.cloudcreativemgmt.com

    1h 17m
  5. The Earworm Podcast - Episode 8 Audio Sushi at The Murch Table SOUND DESIGN

    Jun 9

    The Earworm Podcast - Episode 8 Audio Sushi at The Murch Table SOUND DESIGN

    In this episode of The Earworm Podcast, Patrick Cloud and Bryan Clark explore the fascinating history of sound design in film, from the era of silent movies and live theater musicians to the invention of Foley artistry and the groundbreaking work of legendary sound designer Walter Murch. Along the way, they examine how humans interpret sound and music through learned “codes,” discussing everything from language and cultural influences to the psychological and emotional connections that shape our musical tastes. The conversation also dives into the revolutionary impact of films like Star Wars, which pushed sound design into new creative territory and forever changed how audiences experience cinema. The episode closes with a deep dive into the relationship between musical influence and creativity, challenging listeners to explore unfamiliar genres and uncover the “source code” behind great art. Featured listening selections include Frank Zappa’s “Night School,” an introduction to the ancient Indian Carnatic tradition of Konnakol, and Kraftwerk’s pioneering electronic classic “Numbers.” Through these examples, the hosts encourage listeners to broaden their musical vocabulary, sharpen their listening skills, and discover how innovative sounds continue to shape modern music and media. https://transom.org/wp-content/uploads/2005/04/200504.review.murch_.pdf https://monoskop.org/images/6/6d/Chion_Michel_Audio-Vision.pdf https://starwars.fandom.com/wiki/The_Sounds_of_Star_Wars Support the show Support the page and join the Wormhole!!  Donate to https://www.buzzsprout.com/2598511/support to help us do more!! Cool gear giveaways to begin soon! https://www.instagram.com/theearwormpodcast/ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61588628882466 https://www.youtube.com/@the-earworm-podcast https://theearwormpodcast.buzzsprout.com www.bryanclarkmusic.com www.modernmusicmasters.com www.cloudcreativemgmt.com

    58 min
  6. The Earworm Podcast - Episode 7 BEEP BOOP Synth Happens

    Jun 2

    The Earworm Podcast - Episode 7 BEEP BOOP Synth Happens

    On this episode of The Earworm Podcast, Bryan and Patrick trace the evolution of the synthesizer—from the room-sized Teleharmonium and Hammond B3 organ to the groundbreaking instruments that shaped modern music. Along the way, they explore the pioneers of electronic sound, including Raymond Scott, Bob Moog, and the innovators who transformed experimental technology into musical tools. The conversation dives into iconic synths like the Minimoog, ARP 2600, Yamaha CS-80, Prophet-5, Oberheim OB-X, Jupiter-8, and DX7, breaking down the sounds behind classic recordings from Rush, Vangelis, Cyndi Lauper, and countless others. The hosts also explain the fundamentals of synthesis, discuss the arrival of MIDI and FM synthesis, and examine how today's software and AI-powered instruments continue to build on the innovations that changed music forever.   Refs: https://moogfoundation.org/remembering-synthesizer-innovator-don-buchla-1937-2016/ https://www.moogmusic.com/ https://oberheim.com/ https://sequential.com/ https://www.korg.com/us/products/synthesizers/ https://usa.yamaha.com/products/music_production/synthesizers/index.html https://www.digitalmellotron.com/ https://www.facebook.com/BobMoogFoundation/posts/remembering-inventor-thaddeus-cahill-on-his-birthdaythaddeus-is-widely-credited-/10157363651908479/ https://120years.net/the-telharmonium-thaddeus-cahill-usa-1897/ https://120years.net/the-telharmonium-thaddeus-cahill-usa-1897/ https://modularsynthesis.com/hammond/m3/m3.htm https://www.soundonsound.com/techniques/synthesizing-tonewheel-organs-part-1 https://www.nwpianogallery.com/?product=hammond-b3-organ-w-leslie-122-tone-cabinet https://variety.com/2024/film/global/ben-burtts-vision-award-ticinomoda-locarno-1236105358/ https://www.kjzz.org/the-show/2025-02-24/meet-the-oscar-winning-sound-designer-behind-iconic-noises-like-the-star-wars-light-saber Support the show Support the page and join the Wormhole!!  Donate to https://www.buzzsprout.com/2598511/support to help us do more!! Cool gear giveaways to begin soon! https://www.instagram.com/theearwormpodcast/ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61588628882466 https://www.youtube.com/@the-earworm-podcast https://theearwormpodcast.buzzsprout.com www.bryanclarkmusic.com www.modernmusicmasters.com www.cloudcreativemgmt.com

    1h 19m
  7. The Earworm Podcast - Episode 6 Pedal Boards w/ Greg Walton Xact Tone Solutions

    May 26

    The Earworm Podcast - Episode 6 Pedal Boards w/ Greg Walton Xact Tone Solutions

    On episode six of The Earworm Podcast, Bryan and Patrick sit down with Greg Walton, founder of XTS, to explore the art, science, and obsession behind guitar tone. Greg shares his journey from guitar enthusiast and environmental consultant to building custom pedalboards and effects for some of the world’s top musicians. The conversation dives into the rise of boutique pedals, the founding of LA Sound Design and XTS, and how collaborations with artists helped shape the company into a respected name in the gear world. The episode also breaks down the psychology of tone chasing, the challenges of designing rigs for artists like The Edge and Carrie Underwood, and the creative process behind developing pedals like the Winford Drive. Along the way, the group debates underrated guitarists, dream “desert island” guitars, favorite records, and the evolving guitar community in Nashville. Equal parts gear deep-dive and musician hang, the episode celebrates the endless pursuit of inspiration through sound, creativity, and great playing. Check out www.xacttone.com for Greg and Barry's services and cool pedals! Support the show Support the page and join the Wormhole!!  Donate to https://www.buzzsprout.com/2598511/support to help us do more!! Cool gear giveaways to begin soon! https://www.instagram.com/theearwormpodcast/ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61588628882466 https://www.youtube.com/@the-earworm-podcast https://theearwormpodcast.buzzsprout.com www.bryanclarkmusic.com www.modernmusicmasters.com www.cloudcreativemgmt.com

    1h 40m
  8. The Earworm Podcast - Episode 5 Put Some Rank on It! GOATs?

    May 19

    The Earworm Podcast - Episode 5 Put Some Rank on It! GOATs?

    On episode five of The Earworm Podcast, Bryan and Patrick dive into the strange world of rankings, lists, and “greatest of all time” debates—especially in music. From Billboard charts and Rolling Stone album lists to Michelin stars and classic rock canon, the conversation explores how authority, perception, and cultural bias shape the way we value art. The hosts question whether subjective experiences like music, pizza, or guitars can ever truly be ranked objectively, while unpacking the psychology behind why audiences trust lists in the first place Episode 5 also examines how social proof, streaming culture, and editorial influence impact modern music discovery and legacy. Along the way, Bryan and Patrick debate what defines genres like rock music, discuss iconic examples ranging from James Cameron films to David Gilmour’s legendary Stratocaster, and break down why lists often say more about the people creating them than the art itself. Equal parts thoughtful and hilarious, the episode ultimately celebrates the joy of finding your own musical tribe instead of letting rankings decide for you. Support the show Support the page and join the Wormhole!!  Donate to https://www.buzzsprout.com/2598511/support to help us do more!! Cool gear giveaways to begin soon! https://www.instagram.com/theearwormpodcast/ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61588628882466 https://www.youtube.com/@the-earworm-podcast https://theearwormpodcast.buzzsprout.com www.bryanclarkmusic.com www.modernmusicmasters.com www.cloudcreativemgmt.com

    56 min
  9. The Earworm Podcast - Episode 4 Squeeze the Day! COMPRESSORS

    May 12

    The Earworm Podcast - Episode 4 Squeeze the Day! COMPRESSORS

    On episode four of The Earworm Podcast,  Patrick and Bryan dive into the world of audio compression, unpacking concepts like ADSR, decibel levels, and hearing protection while tracing compression’s origins back to early broadcast regulation in the 1930s. The episode explores how compression shaped music and radio, leading into the “loudness wars” of the ’90s and 2000s—an era defined by hyper-compressed, overly loud tracks that sacrificed dynamic range and musicality for perceived impact. What started as a competitive edge ultimately led to listener fatigue and a broader industry reassessment of sound quality. From there, the conversation breaks down the mechanics of compression in an approachable way, using the “TAKAR” framework (threshold, attack, knee, ratio, release) and vivid analogies from nightclubs to red carpet chaos, to explain how compressors shape sound. The boys also compare analog vs. digital compression, discuss handling fast transients like drums, and emphasize the importance of dynamic range in creating emotional depth. The episode closes with a practical turn, highlighting hearing protection strategies—including custom ear molds and smart use of noise-canceling tech and underscoring that great sound starts with preserving your ears. Let's get mild! Support the show Support the page and join the Wormhole!!  Donate to https://www.buzzsprout.com/2598511/support to help us do more!! Cool gear giveaways to begin soon! https://www.instagram.com/theearwormpodcast/ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61588628882466 https://www.youtube.com/@the-earworm-podcast https://theearwormpodcast.buzzsprout.com www.bryanclarkmusic.com www.modernmusicmasters.com www.cloudcreativemgmt.com

    1h 5m
  10. The Earworm Podcast - Episode 3 Loud Noises! Krakatoa and the Pistol Shrimp Po'Boy

    May 5

    The Earworm Podcast - Episode 3 Loud Noises! Krakatoa and the Pistol Shrimp Po'Boy

    In this episode, Bryan and Patrick dive deep into the science of sound — starting with history's loudest recorded event: the 1883 eruption of Krakatoa, which reached over 180 decibels and was heard 3,000 miles away. From there, they explore how decibels actually work, debunking the common myth that a 100-watt amp is twice as loud as a 50-watt one — spoiler: it's only a 3dB difference. The guys also get into nature's wildest audio weapons, including the pistol shrimp's 218-decibel snap, and wrap up with a look at how sound has been weaponized through technology like LRADs. Ear protection not included. Bryan's new record just hit too.  Check it out!  https://music.apple.com/us/artist/madrigals-for-mongrels/1771659673 Support the show Support the page and join the Wormhole!!  Donate to https://www.buzzsprout.com/2598511/support to help us do more!! Cool gear giveaways to begin soon! https://www.instagram.com/theearwormpodcast/ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61588628882466 https://www.youtube.com/@the-earworm-podcast https://theearwormpodcast.buzzsprout.com www.bryanclarkmusic.com www.modernmusicmasters.com www.cloudcreativemgmt.com

    59 min
  11. The Earworm Podcast - Episode 2 Have Yachts or Have Nachts

    Apr 28

    The Earworm Podcast - Episode 2 Have Yachts or Have Nachts

    On Episode 2 of The Earworm Podcast, Bryan Clark and Patrick Cloud dive into the smooth, meticulously crafted world of yacht rock—breaking down its origins, defining traits, and the artists who made it iconic. From the late ’70s through the mid-’80s, this era delivered some of the highest production value in recorded music, with pristine sound, sophisticated arrangements, and contributions from elite session players and engineers. The guys explore what makes the genre tick, including its harmonic complexity, polished aesthetic, and distinct sonic choices. They also look at why yacht rock faded, pointing to the industry shift in the ’80s—MTV’s visual dominance, the rise of MIDI-driven production, and changing listener tastes with the emergence of hip-hop. Still, the genre has found new life in recent years, resurfacing through playlists, reunion tours, and a tongue-in-cheek cultural revival that celebrates its unmistakable vibe. The conversation turns to songwriting, contrasting the darker, more nuanced storytelling of Steely Dan with the heartfelt, accessible style of Michael McDonald and Christopher Cross. The episode wraps with a candid critique of their AI-generated theme song—landing somewhere in the realm of “off-brand Billy Ocean”—while acknowledging that, even if it misses the mark, AI still has a place as a fun and accessible creative tool. Playlist: https://music.apple.com/us/playlist/earworm-episode-2-yacht-rock/pl.u-MDAWX7JIW2ylVd Support the show Support the page and join the Wormhole!!  Donate to https://www.buzzsprout.com/2598511/support to help us do more!! Cool gear giveaways to begin soon! https://www.instagram.com/theearwormpodcast/ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61588628882466 https://www.youtube.com/@the-earworm-podcast https://theearwormpodcast.buzzsprout.com www.bryanclarkmusic.com www.modernmusicmasters.com www.cloudcreativemgmt.com

    1h 13m

  12. Apr 20

    The Earworm Podcast - Episode 1 AI is Stupid, Art is Hard

    In Episode 1, Bryan Clark and Patrick Cloud dive into how AI is changing the music industry—and what that might mean for the value of music itself. With tools like Suno making it possible to generate full songs in seconds, the conversation centers on a simple question: if music becomes effortless to create, does it lose its worth? The episode itself leans into that idea, with both the artwork and music generated using AI, offering a real-time look at how these tools perform and where they fall short. The discussion moves beyond the tech into the bigger cultural shift—how constant access to music and near-zero cost have already changed the way people consume it. As AI accelerates that trend, the perceived value of music, and the appreciation for the human process behind it, may continue to erode. At the same time, the industry is starting to respond, with AI-generated artists entering the mainstream and raising new questions around ownership, creativity, and what it actually means to be an “artist.” This episode is a fun entry point into the podcast, but it also sets the tone for what’s ahead. We go video starting with Episode 4, so make sure to follow along and engage on your platform of choice to help build the channel. Follow & connect: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theearwormpodcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61588628882466 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@the-earworm-podcast Sources: https://www.suno.com https://www.billboard.com/pro/xania-monet-ai-artist-million-dollar-record-deal-what-mean/ Support the show Support the page and join the Wormhole!!  Donate to https://www.buzzsprout.com/2598511/support to help us do more!! Cool gear giveaways to begin soon! https://www.instagram.com/theearwormpodcast/ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61588628882466 https://www.youtube.com/@the-earworm-podcast https://theearwormpodcast.buzzsprout.com www.bryanclarkmusic.com www.modernmusicmasters.com www.cloudcreativemgmt.com

    1h 15m
  • 12 Episodes

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
6 Ratings

About

Earworm is the podcast that gets stuck in your head for all the right reasons. Hosted by Bryan Clark — artist, producer, engineer, music doctorate, and sonic architect to artists around the world — and Patrick Cloud, a New Orleans native whose career spans global music industry sales, directing sales for festival and event video production, podcast direction and production, and ownership of a creative management company, Earworm is where music industry knowledge meets genuine passion for the craft. Every episode, Bryan and Patrick dig into the trends shaping the modern music industry, celebrate the albums that matter, geek out over gear and guitars, and sit down with the producers, engineers, and artists who are actually doing the work. Bryan brings the academic chops and worldwide studio perspective. Patrick brings the New Orleans soul, the industry hustle, and the kind of energy that only comes from a city that treats music like oxygen. Whether you're a working musician trying to find your sound, a music lover who wants to understand what goes on behind the glass, or just someone who wants two guys who actually know what they're talking about to make you laugh and teach you something — Earworm is your show. Informative. Irreverent. Occasionally ridiculous. Always music. https://www.instagram.com/theearwormpodcast/ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61588628882466 https://www.youtube.com/@the-earworm-podcast https://theearwormpodcast.buzzsprout.com www.bryanclarkmusic.com www.modernmusicmasters.com www.cloudcreativemgmt.com

Information

  • Creator
    Patrick Cloud & Bryan Clark
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    12
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 2026 Cloud Creative Mgmt
  • Show Website
    The Earworm Podcast

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