Written, Directed, and Edited by Ryan Dirgins

This project was completed in collaboration with the Wesleyan University College of Film & the Moving Image, under the guidance of professional DP Alejandro Salinas-Albrecht.

Edited by Ryan Dirgins

"The ray of sunshine that is Drew Barrymore joins us on the music game show today. Drew rose to fame Rose to fame as a child with E.T. (1982) and led an extremely successful multi-decade acting career with defining roles in films like E.T., The Wedding Singer, and Charlie’s Angels before becoming an Emmy-nominated daytime talk show producer and host of The Drew Barrymore Show. A hugely knowledgeable music fan, as proven in this video, she talks us through the different genres of music she resonated with throughout all phases of her extremely interesting life. Enjoy!"

Edited by Ryan Dirgins

"K-pop has become a global cultural phenomenon over the last few years. Once a popular Korean subculture in South Korea in the 1990s, it now frequently dominates global music charts. Today we have Em on the game show; a self-proclaimed “retired K-pop stan.” This is our first time having a contestant choose K-pop as their genre, so we have a lot to learn!"

Edited by Ryan Dirgins

"Norwegian filmmaker Joachim Trier joins the music game show to show off his knowledge and to explore the deep connection between music and film. He explains how he wants his films to hit you in the heart the same way music does. He breaks down his approach to needle drops, talks about using music in the writing room, and reflects on the soundtracks of Reprise, The Worst Person in the World, and his new film Sentimental Value. Along the way, he dives into music videos as an art form, his past as a pro skater, and his excessive vinyl collection."

Edited by Ryan Dirgins

"I had an incredible time with Lily Allen on the music game show. She shared her favorite artists of the moment, what she grew up listening to, and the inspirations that have shaped her music. We also got to talk about some of her favorite collaborations, like working with Mark Ronson."

Edited by Ryan Dirgins

"An absolute dream episode with the alternative rock icon and Smashing Pumpkins frontman Billy Corgan. He told us his favorite guitarists and ’90s bands, traced the influences behind what he called "the greatest bands of all time," and broke down why a new rock resurgence is brewing right now. He shared what he loves listening to, from classic country to West Coast jazz, and incredible stories like performing with David Bowie. You don't want to miss this one."

Edited by Ryan Dirgins

"We get this request all the time, so we were especially excited to make an episode on Brazilian music with João from Rio de Janeiro. He gave us a full crash course in the cultural history of Brazilian music—how bossa nova and samba fused global influences, why music is so central to Brazilian identity, and how today's movements like sertanejo, pagode, and funk carry the tradition forward. We talked about some of the most iconic Brazilian artists, but what songs would you add to this playlist?"

Edited by Ryan Dirgins

"We mixed it up this time with two of the greatest producers in hip-hop history, Hit-Boy and The Alchemist, to revisit their most iconic beats and collaborations. They broke down the craft behind their sound, talked about their inspirations, and told unbelievable stories about working with artists like Kendrick and Drake. You don't want to miss this one."

Edited by Ryan Dirgins

"We had the world-renowned pianist Lang Lang on the music game show, and it was pure magic. From classical masterpieces to unexpected pop surprises, he showed us that great music knows no boundaries. Watch as one of the most celebrated pianists of our time takes on the ultimate music trivia challenge and proves his ear is just as sharp as his technique."

Edited by Ryan Dirgins

"It was a true honor to have Mariah Carey on the music game show. The vocalist, songwriter, and chart-topping hitmaker shared stories from her mother’s background as an opera singer to her groundbreaking hip-hop features and legendary collaborations. She revisited the memories behind “All I Want for Christmas Is You,” “Always Be My Baby,” and the "Fantasy" video, and we talked about her brand-new album Here For It All—including the track “Play This Song” with Anderson .Paak. Hearing directly from one of the best-selling artists of all time and a defining voice in modern music made this episode unforgettable. Enjoy!"

Edited by Ryan Dirgins

"Wyclef Jean lit up the music game show as one of our favorite guests yet. The legendary Fugees co-founder, rapper, and producer brought his signature charisma and dance moves as we put his music knowledge to the test. We talked about some of his collaborations, inspirations, and favorite tracks. He also has a single dropping this Friday September 19, "Back From Abu Dhabi" feat. French Montana and Rick Ross. You don’t want to miss this one."

Edited by Ryan Dirgins

"Having Jon Batiste on Track Star was nothing short of life-changing. One of the most entertaining and passionate guests we’ve ever had, Batiste lit up the show with his deep love for music. From breaking down theory and history to geeking out over jazz, R&B, and soul classics, he took us on a journey that was both deeply emotional and electrically entertaining. Batiste broke out into dance, song, and nearly shed a few tears just from hearing the songs. At the end he was so moved that he insisted we switch roles and he interviewed me. This episode pushed Track Star to a whole new level, and if you’re a true music lover, it’s an absolute must-watch."

Edited by Ryan Dirgins

"Finn Wolfhard blew us away with some indie tunes on today’s episode of the music game show on the streets of NYC. The Stranger Things star definitely knew his stuff and took us on a tour through alternative music history from the 60s to the 2010s. We talked about his band, The Aubrey’s, and he gave us some insight into his musical inspiration and favorite tracks. We hope you enjoy this episode as much as we did!"

Edited by Ryan Dirgins

"John C. Reilly was such a joy on the music game show. We played him some oldies from the Great American Songbook in honor of his new album as "Mister Romantic." We got to speak about the romance of life, and he gave us some invaluable life lessons. He also held his own identifying some of the most frequently covered songs of all time. Enjoy!"