Call It What It Is – Episode Featuring Natasha Bedingfield Released on May 12, 2025 by iHeartPodcasts

Introduction: Bridging Music and Friendship In this vibrant episode of Call It What It Is, hosted by Jenna Ushkowitz, acclaimed singer-songwriter Natasha Bedingfield joins as a special guest. Known for her empowering hits like "Unwritten," Bedingfield delves into her creative process, the evolution of the music industry, and the profound impact of friendship and vulnerability in her life and career.

The Genesis of "Unwritten" Natasha Bedingfield opens up about the heartfelt origins of her iconic song "Unwritten." She shares, "It was a very honest and real moment, especially writing with Daniel. It wasn't trying to be something; it just was." ([07:17]) The collaboration with Daniel allowed her to infuse personal experiences and genuine emotions into the song, making it resonate deeply with listeners across generations.

Evolution of the Music Industry Transitioning to the broader landscape, Bedingfield discusses the significant transformations in the music industry over the past two decades. She remarks, "The way content is consumed has changed so drastically, giving new life to songs from years ago with fresh audiences." ([05:58]) This shift highlights the enduring relevance of her music and its ability to connect with both old fans and new listeners alike.

Vulnerability and Empowerment in Creativity A central theme of the conversation revolves around the balance between vulnerability and empowerment in the creative process. Bedingfield emphasizes, "The vulnerability is something everyone feels, but the strength is what we all need." ([34:34]) This duality is essential for authentic storytelling in music, allowing artists to convey genuine emotions while also fostering a sense of empowerment both for themselves and their audience.

Social Media’s Role in Modern Creativity The duo explores the impact of social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram on music promotion and fan engagement. Bedingfield shares her fondness for TikTok, noting how it has fostered connections with fans who create dance routines to her songs. "TikTok has like booktok, TikTok Mental health. It doesn't have to be dance moves all the time," she explains ([38:09]). This adaptability of platforms allows artists to reach diverse audiences and foster a more interactive relationship with their fans.

Personal Reflections and Rapid-Fire Insights In a heartfelt rapid-fire segment, Bedingfield reflects on personal growth and industry experiences:

• Biopic Casting: "I feel like Kate Winslet would be amazing to play me." ([40:47])
• Advice to Younger Self: "Wait a few years and there'll be a song that will really relate to you. Lighten up and have fun." ([41:04])
• Dream Collaboration: "I would love to collaborate with Eminem." ([41:37])
• Theme Song for Life: "That's what I'm trying to write. I've got a really cool song that I think is the new theme song for me." ([41:49])
• Surprising Fact: "Many American fans are surprised that I'm English and that I was homeschooled from 11 till 17." ([42:11])

These insights offer listeners an intimate glimpse into Bedingfield's personality, aspirations, and the thoughtful considerations behind her artistic endeavors.

The Power of Music and Community The conversation underscores the universal power of music to evoke emotions and create a sense of belonging. Bedingfield shares, "Singing feels so great with other people. It's the feeling of dancing that brings us into our higher selves." ([35:34]) This sentiment highlights how collaborative efforts and shared experiences in music can transcend individual performances, fostering a collective spirit of joy and connection.

Conclusion: Embracing Authenticity and Collaboration Natasha Bedingfield's appearance on Call It What It Is is a testament to the enduring power of authentic storytelling and collaboration in the arts. Her reflections on vulnerability, the evolving music industry, and the importance of genuine connections provide valuable insights for both creators and consumers of music. As the episode wraps up, Bedingfield leaves listeners inspired to embrace their own creative journeys with honesty and optimism.

Notable Quotes:

• "The vulnerability is something everyone feels, but the strength is what we all need." — Natasha Bedingfield ([34:34])
• "TikTok has like booktok, TikTok Mental health. It doesn't have to be dance moves all the time." — Natasha Bedingfield ([38:09])
• "Singing feels so great with other people. It's the feeling of dancing that brings us into our higher selves." — Natasha Bedingfield ([35:34])

Key Topics Discussed:

• Origins and creative process behind "Unwritten"
• Changes in the music industry's landscape
• Balancing vulnerability and empowerment in creativity
• Impact of social media on music promotion and fan engagement
• Personal growth, aspirations, and reflections on fame

Whether you're a long-time fan or new to Natasha Bedingfield's music, this episode offers a profound exploration of the artist's journey, the intricate dance between emotion and artistry, and the ever-evolving dynamics of the music world.