Malcolm Gladwell recently recorded a live edition of his Broken Record podcast at the Cherry Lane Theatre in New York City, bringing together conversation and live performance for an intimate audience. The evening featured singer-songwriter Drew Holcomb, a Memphis native who has spent two decades building a career with his band, The Neighbors.
The episode explores Holcomb’s early musical development and how growing up in a strict Christian household shaped his exposure to music. With limited access to secular artists, Holcomb was influenced by the few non-religious musicians he was permitted to hear, forming the foundation of his songwriting voice. The conversation also covers a pivotal period in Holcomb’s life: the loss of his brother, which prompted a crisis of faith and ultimately led him to leave seminary to pursue music full-time.
During the taping, Holcomb performed stripped-down versions of several of his songs, offering listeners a raw look at his craft. The episode also includes a moment of spontaneity as Holcomb shares his admiration for Bruce Springsteen, performing a portion of “Highway Patrolman” with background vocals from Gladwell.
The event captures the dynamic blend of storytelling, reflection, and live musicianship that has become a hallmark of Broken Record, highlighting both the personal and creative evolution of Holcomb’s career.
