Superstar producer Greg Wells on his hitmaking career
Get the full intelligence
Search transcripts, export clips, track mentions, and explore all topics from “Superstar producer Greg Wells on his hitmaking career” inside PodZeus.
In this re-aired episode of Q with Tom Power, acclaimed Canadian record producer Greg Wells reflects on his remarkable journey from a shy church kid in Peterborough, Ontario, to one of the most influential producers in global pop music. Wells shares intimate stories from his early days playing piano and organ in church, his formative experiences with artists like Katie Lang and Celine Dion, and the pivotal moment when he chose to become a producer rather than a touring musician. He recounts the behind-the-scenes drama of producing OneRepublic's mega-hit 'Apologize,' where he convinced a skeptical band to record a song that defied their rock identity, ultimately launching both the band and his career—though he remained uncredited for years. The conversation then turns to his most personal project: purchasing and transforming an old Anglican church in Winterton, Newfoundland, into Trinity Hall, a world-class studio and performance space. Inspired by a dream-like moment with his daughter, Wells created Silly Cove Records, a nonprofit label that supports local Newfoundland artists and channels all profits to community causes. His mission is rooted in gratitude, legacy, and the transformative power of music, which he sees as a form of magic that uplifts individuals and communities.
Music can be a life-changing force—Wells' own life was transformed at age 3.5 by seeing Jesus Christ Superstar.
Success isn't just about hits; giving back to your roots can be the most meaningful achievement.
The most powerful creative decisions often come from intuition, not logic—Wells bought a church based on a gut feeling.
True wealth isn't money—it's the ability to empower others through art and community.
Even the biggest producers can be invisible—Wells didn't get credit for 'Apologize' for years.
…and 3 more takeaways available in PodZeus
Introduction and the Order of Canada Surprise
“I could cry talking about it. What was really meaningful to me is that it has nothing to do with the music business. It's not like an accolade for anything I've done career-wise.”
From Church Pianos to Musical Awakening
Wells traces his musical roots to his childhood in Peterborough, where his love for music began in the church. He recalls the profound influence of organist Barbara Scott, who nurtured his early talent, and his early exposure to music through films like Jesus Christ Superstar and shows like Soul Train, which ignited his passion for performance and rhythm.
The Turning Point: From Touring to Producing
“I didn't really know what I was doing as a songwriter then. And she knew that. But I guess she could tell something. There was some sort of kernel of possibility in there beyond just me being a musician for hire.”
Breakthroughs: Aerosmith, Celine Dion, and the 'Apologize' Mutiny
“I said to the guys, look, let's give it a shot. It's my job as your producer to... If it sucks, we will all know it and it won't leave the studio.”
Wicked, MIDI, and the Art of the Impossible
Wells reveals his experience as music producer on the film Wicked, where he had to create fully MIDI-based tracks to allow flexibility during filming. He describes the challenge of mixing vocals recorded on set with boom mics, calling it an 'ass-kicking' process, and praises Cynthia Erivo’s performance as transcendent.
“I'm not sure I have an answer... But it's paying tribute to my ancestors. That feels great. Like there's wealth. People often think money is wealth. Trust me, it is not.”
“I could cry talking about it. What was really meaningful to me is that it has nothing to do with the music business. It's not like an accolade for anything I've done career-wise.”
“I said to the guys, look, let's give it a shot. It's my job as your producer to... If it sucks, we will all know it and it won't leave the studio.”
Host
Guest
Greg Wells
person
Tom Power
person
Newfoundland and Labrador
other
Winterton
place
Trinity Hall
other
Silly Cove Records
other
Katie Lang
person
OneRepublic
other
Aerosmith
other
Order of Canada
other
Charlotte Cornfield cried when she heard Feist's vocals on her song
Q with Tom Power • 24m • 4/1/2026
Shamier Anderson says he was born to play Ben Johnson
Q with Tom Power • 24m • 4/1/2026
How Adam Sturgeon went from being a pro hockey player to a rock musician
Q with Tom Power • 23m • 4/2/2026
Amanda Peet asks the hard questions about facelifts, validation and death
Q with Tom Power • 24m • 4/2/2026
Chantal Kreviazuk is reclaiming her most famous hits for other artists
Q with Tom Power • 40m • 4/3/2026
Get the full intelligence
Search transcripts, export clips, track mentions, and explore all topics from “Superstar producer Greg Wells on his hitmaking career” inside PodZeus.
Start discovering podcast insights today
Start with a 7-day trial and explore a growing catalog of popular podcasts. No credit card required.
No credit card required • 7-day trial • Cancel anytime
