Ear Buds Podcast

On Episode 33, the buds take a look back at the first half of 2026 and break down what has actually been working in clubs, online, and across the DJ world. The crew talks AI-generated music, SoundCloud’s download gate changes, new albums from Skrillex, Baauer, Sonny Fodera, Olivia Rodrigo, and FIFA Sound, plus the records showing up across streaming charts and nightlife. They also introduce Open Format Court with a USB stick vs. laptop debate and close out the episode by answering 10 questions about the year so far.

On this episode of Ear Buds, the buds sit down with DJ Ever, former Power 106 mixer and current Music Curator for Headliner Music Club, who brings a unique perspective from both radio and the DJ world. Ever pulls back the curtain on how radio playlists really work, what makes a great DJ edit, and the biggest mistakes DJs make when submitting music.

The buds sit down with Dex, a Nashville-based DJ and talent buyer who brings a unique perspective from both sides of the booth. From navigating a city known for country music to building a name in open format DJing, Dex breaks down what nightlife in Nashville is really like and how different crowds move compared to other markets. The crew also talks Coachella, festival season, and how those moments impact music, and what ends up working in clubs.

Devin Lucien pulls up to the pod to break down open format DJing, LA nightlife, and what’s really happening on dance floors right now. The buds break down crowd energy, the rise of house music, and the ongoing debate around open format DJing.

From Bad Bunny’s historic Grammy win to his Super Bowl halftime show, the impact is undeniable. Marty Rock joins the show to break down how Latin music moves across New York and where the culture is heading next.

Industry veteran James Hwang joins the buds to break down today’s NYC nightlife, from booking DJs and filling rooms to changing crowds and culture.

A focused look at Rick Wonder’s rise from open format roots to a signature New York dance identity. He breaks down his approach to edits, reading rooms, and finding new music, plus the crew covers the month’s top trends.

The buds celebrate two years of the pod with special guest DJ Spider! They cover everything from the MTV Video Music Awards winners and Song of the Summer nominees to the just-announced Coachella 2026 lineup — then dive into charts, throwbacks, quick picks, and 10 questions with Spider on what it takes to thrive as an open-format DJ today.

This month, the budders sit down with DJ Kaos—San Diego’s finest, Sirius XM selector, and the man running both the booth and the bookings. From throwing his own parties (Wish You Were Here), to touring with Pitbull, Kaos breaks down what it really takes to stand out in today’s open-format game. He shares tips for getting booked, how to move in your own market, and the dos and don’ts every DJ should know.

The buds catch up on what’s hitting in the clubs, on the charts, and in their cities—plus a few hot takes nobody asked for. This month, they’re joined by NYC legend Jason Smith—a DJ’s DJ who’s played everything from sweaty basement parties to the actual London Olympics. They chop it up about the love of the craft, what still keeps him fired up, and how he stays sharp in a scene that changes faster than a TikTok trend.

This month, the Buds chat with Brooklyn’s Mick! He shares his journey from nightclubs to private events, dropping gems on branding, set curation, and navigating high-end gigs. Plus, the latest must-hear edits and new songs to play in the clurb. Tune in!

This month, the Ear Buds crew connects with Atlanta's very own DJ EU to dive into the city's vibrant Latin music scene, club culture, and the global influence of chart-toppers like Bad Bunny. From ATL hip-hop anthems to reggaeton and bachata, they’re covering it all in this month’s episode—and even making a pit stop at the Waffle House.

The crew sits down with LA’s Bella Fiasco, celebrated for her iconic “444” parties. Bella shares her insights on how thoughtful music selection creates unforgettable nights and lasting impressions. She also highlights emerging club trends to watch for in 2025. Plus, the group dives into the growing movement of DJs bringing their vibe tocoffee shops. Don’t miss all this and more on this month’s episode.