In this episode, we uncover the extraordinary rise of OneRepublic, led by the unstoppable Ryan Tedder—one of the most resilient and influential bands of our generation.
Ryan Tedder isn’t just the frontman of OneRepublic; he’s a songwriting and producing mastermind behind some of the biggest hits for artists like Beyoncé, Adele, and Taylor Swift. But the story of OneRepublic is far more than just success—it’s about overcoming near defeat.
The band was on the brink of collapse after being dropped by their record label just before their debut album was set to launch. Faced with a make-or-break decision, Ryan and the band chose to bet on their talent and push forward, embracing the uncertainty. That pivotal decision transformed everything. Apologize became a worldwide phenomenon, and what could have been the end of their journey turned into the beginning of something monumental.
In this conversation, Ryan reflects on that defining moment, the hard lessons learned, and OneRepublic’s evolution from a band on the verge of failure to global superstars. We dive into the creative process behind their biggest hits, how Ryan juggles his role as both a band leader and one of the music industry’s top songwriters, and the drive that has kept OneRepublic at the top for years.
This episode goes beyond the music—it’s a story of persistence, reinvention, and the power of believing in yourself. OneRepublic’s journey is proof that when faced with adversity, the right choice can change everything.
*Behind The Wall Exclusive Community: https://patreon.com/user?u=32350478&utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink
Where You Can Find More of OneRepublic
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/5Pwc4xIPtQLFEnJriah9YJ?si=F9GNC6FISRCt1WbgedvLWQ
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/onerepublic/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@OneRepublic
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@onerepublic
Thank you to the people who helped me bring this episode to life, couldn't have done it without you!
- Creative Director: Ryan Bell
- Editors: Danial Yahaya, Noah McGuire
- Thumbnail Designer: Asif, Rikard
- My friends and family: You know who you are ❤️
I’m so grateful for everyone who has pushed and supported me on this journey. It’s a privilege to serve as the Founder, Host, and Creative Lead of this project—and to share these stories with all of you!
Where You Can Find More of Daniel
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DanielsWall
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@danielswall
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/danielwall/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/@danielsecretwall
Playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7zub00BWq11qjXx2aMM0b2?si=271e0a80a4c54a6a
A huge thank you to Ryan Tedder and OneRepublic for Going Behind The Wall with us! Your story of resilience, creativity, and perseverance is an inspiration, and I can’t wait to share it with the world.
0:00 - Intro
4:05 - Songs You Might Know Ryan Tedder From
5:07 - The Story of OneRepublic's Beginning
7:02 - The Timbaland Production Deal
10:45 - Was it Difficult to Find Success As A Band
15:13 - Apologies after a Hit Song
19:24 - How Ryan Dealt with Panic & Depression
27:15 - How "Apologize" Was Made
35:25 - Signing with Timbaland
37:58 - Why "Apologize" Almost Destroyed OneRepublic
40:46 - The Song That Saved OneRepublic's career
44:51 - Which Song Connects Most With Ryan
47:25 - Does Ryan Tedder Know When Songs Are Hits
58:29 - Using Failure as Motivation
1:02:07 - Which Songs Were Accidents
1:07:34 - Fin