How OneRepublic Accidentally Became The Most Viral Band

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: patreon.com/us...
Where You Can Find More of OneRepublic
Spotify: open.spotify.c...
Instagram: / onerepublic
KZbin: / @onerepublic
TikTok: / 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
KZbin: / @danielswall
TikTok: / danielswall
Instagram: / danielwall
Facebook: / @danielsecretwall
Playlist: open.spotify.c...
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.

[@DanielsWall]

Huge thank you to Ryan Tedder and OneRepublic for sharing your incredible journey with us! Your story is not only inspiring but packed with valuable insights for artists, musicians, and creatives everywhere. Over 16 years ago, OneRepublic was dropped by their label just two months before their debut album was set to release. For most people, that would be the end-but not for Ryan Tedder. Instead, he turned that setback into fuel, and today, OneRepublic is one of the biggest bands on the planet. 🌍 Even though this episode was recorded a little while ago, the wisdom and gems Ryan shares about his and OneRepublic’s journey remain timeless for anyone chasing their dreams. 🙌 I’ve always looked up to Ryan, not just for his music, but for his resilience. His story isn’t just about writing hit songs, it’s about fighting through doubt, setbacks, and rejection to find your place. Sitting down with him for Behind The Wall is incredibly personal, because his journey is one that’s inspired my own. 🙏When I got laid off from my job, Ryan’s story was one of the first ones I remembered. Right then and there, I made a vision board of all the people I wanted to talk to, Ryan was the first person I put on it. Now here I am getting to chat with him for the second time, but this time about the story that inspired me from the beginning! Since our conversation, Ryan has continued to wow us all-writing some of the world’s biggest hits for artists like Tate McRae, Taylor Swift, John Legend, BLACKPINK, Reneé Rapp, Sam Smith, Madonna, TXT, Justin Timberlake, Lisa, Katseye, Bon Jovi, and even put out a brand new OneRepublic album, Artificial Paradise! Be sure to check it out everywhere along with their new music video "Sink Or Swim": kzbin.info/www/bejne/r6q3hmSLrppomZo 🎶

[@Infraredx]

this is huge ryan tedder is such an icon . thanks for this dog.

[@laters.gators.]

yesss LOVE RYAN❤❤❤🙌🏻💋

[@davidmueller9342]

You let him breathe to get the story across.

[@michellecourtney780]

Please have a small table to for the people who you are interviewing to put their drinks on with a coaster, it doesn't do well for everyone watching to see others put drinks on expensive and beautiful vintage musical instruments

[@Infraredx]

@@michellecourtney780 i agree actually

[@the-banana-man]

All your KZbin shorts finally brought me here. Worked like a charm

[@AccordingtoVee]

😂😂Same, like I had no choice. I was curious to just watch the full interview cause I was being bombarded by the shorts. 😅

[@T4TAT23]

Same 😭😭🤣🤣🤣

[@stephensullivan1011]

Right haha same

[@MrDayoMoran]

Same 😂

[@brooklynbailey3925]

So true! I was so intrigued and I’m so glad I watched the whole thing

[@mharley3791]

It’s dope that Timbaland didn’t take anything of the publishing. Considering how grimy the industry can be it’s nice to know there are good people.

[@dessertsandmore-r9t]

Columbia records: can you please sign again? Ryan:it's too late TO apologize I said it's too late😉

[@amyx231]

Wasn’t it it’s too late to apologize?

[@googlynihal1702]

😂😂😂

[@manste8728]

Swear they dropped liam aswell or I'm I tripping. Glad he told them deuces they are better off

[@Imjonbell]

I like that Ryan is still passionate and obsessive of his craft. Hes a machine.

[@darrenwilson9895]

Legend man love all their albums but that first one still still amazing great piece🔥🔥 no lie one of my favorite debuts in music

[@jimmywashere5931]

I don't wanna wait sucks balls tho not gonna lie

[@SEVENKAYNE]

why isn't this like 7 hours lol, love this

[@RandalC-hy5ke]

HAHAHAHAHAHAHAGAHAGAGA

[@rmak2950]

Not fair 😕

[@ldr408]

Apologize was my favorite song as a kid!! What a talented songwriter!! So humble for the guy that wrote Beyoncé’s biggest international hit!!

[@SeattleFira]

Columbia records dropping all these bands really hurt the scene. It tanked a lot of bands that got signed in the early 2000’s and finally got to major labels. Wild time

[@djinspector1]

They Dropped: One Republic, Katy Perry, and The Jonas Brothers 🤯 Somebody definitely opened a high window on a windy day

[@hollylauver4778]

All the Right Moves came from PERSEVERING love these dudes

[@DRBella93]

literally my fave song till this day!

[@debreaction6280]

I love this song, but as a foreigner I never really understood the lyrics 🫣

[@annsu6997]

Apologise and counting stars are two of the most beautiful songs ever!!!! And the group are amaizing 😊😊

[@User1924-se]

Same with I lived

[@quinkim1]

mad respect to Timbaland @40:01 and i really enjoyed this interview!

[@b1e2t]

I could be wrong but I believe OneRepublic at that time were mostly dubbed as an alter rock band, which I think is kinda true if you listen to the 2 first albums. I find what ultimate shifts them to becoming a pop rock band is when they released their album: Native. I'm glad Ryan and OneRepublic is becoming more mainstream as a band in its entirety rather than just one or two hit songs and everything else is forgotten, especially since they have been around for nearly 2 decades, and it felt that they were still underrated. A lot of pop hits (Halo, Bleeding Love, Maps) that we know and love were actually written/produced by Ryan Tedder, who has written hit (and catchy) songs for Beyonce, Adele, Taylor Swift, Maroon 5, Ariana, etc. - and somehow is still criminally underrated. So its really nice that the boys are finally getting musical recognition they deserve, and knowing that Ryan remains to be passionate and honest with his craft.

[@lucasdantas120]

Ryan has such an amazing life story. I would love to hear all of this bts of every song. He is one of the best songwriters around the world who has worked for his place and deserves all. I am hoping for an 7 hour conversation. He's such an inspiration!

[@hanba-t3f]

Ryan would be a perfect coach on the voice, actually knows what he's doing in the industry

[@DanielsWall]

Fun fact, at one point he was supposed to replace adam levine on the voice, but instead decided to make his own show called Songland - be sure to check it out

[@hanba-t3f]

@@DanielsWall oh wow very interesting, great episode btw man big fan of your stuff

[@GMS8201]

Never been a fan of One Republic but really respect Ryan for being such a professional and caring about the craft. Wish more people would care like him

[@L4urTay]

I just want to spend a week listening to him talk about his life. Seriously impressed by him.

[@AdamRoberts11]

That hour absolutely flew by, Ryan Tedder is genuinely incredible

[@DaveCoolMusic]

Awesome video and OneRepublic are one of the best bands right now!!!! and how they told their story in your interview is very inspiring. Thank You again for making another great video!

[@DanielsWall]

Appreciate you for checking it out Dave! So happy this one connected with you! Ryan and OneRepublic's story is one of my favorites in all of music!

[@casandraogoe8394]

​@@DanielsWallI love OneRepublic

[@pearnpt]

I remember that he recommends a book on music industry and I was so impressed by how strategic he is. Now I can see he really do care not only for his band but for any artists he is working with. So much gratitude for what Ryan has done for music and culture. Thank you for the interview! (I just subscribed and gonna dig through your channel!)

[@mario11-12]

What was the book?

[@independence412]

what was the book

[@pearnpt]

@@independence412 it's called "all you need to know about the music business" by donald s. passman. he said it was his musical bible.

[@MURPHY-iii]

what was the book?

[@umeshgallage1]

What was the book? Guess we will never know 😂

[@L1STERINE]

I like how you let him speak for a long time. A lot of interviewers jump in and interrupt. Good content man, earned a sub from me!

[@sherlock7898]

I haven’t stuck with a lot of the bands from my childhood. But I have stuck with this one!

[@dystopichippy]

Same!

[@michellemoya]

Apologize still takes me back to when, I had to move to Paris for 3 months . That song comforted me & reminded me of the USA

[@jonathanedison]

Yeah I had a similar situation and it brings back alot of the emotions.

[@Chibbykins]

'Had to' move to Paris...what a hardship lmao 😂

[@Jobros1love1dream4]

I love that he accepted to have another interview with you and that he really likes to talk with you...i mean it's 1 hour video..and you are so on point with your questions always and allow people to speak and explain without interrupting...it's so refreshing and i genuinely wish you all the success in what you are doing...can't wait for more videos with other songwriters

[@godsfoolboy]

fantastic interview! can’t wait for many , many , many more! i’m hoping for max martin, louis bell, and jack antonoff one day!

[@cc82828]

andrew watt too

[@godsfoolboy]

@@cc82828 hell yeah watt is also a genius. john cunningham is another brilliant mind i’d love to see interviewed.

[@cc82828]

@@godsfoolboy ok ima check him out

[@Xande.TheQuietOne]

Thank you Daniel for making this happen and Ryan for sharing so much with us!! Thank you!!

[@weightingramsss]

I love this podcast/series so much. It would be awesome to see some rappers or hip hop artists on here also. I feel like the way you ask questions and research who you’re interviewing would disarm any ego

[@OR3Omusic]

im so glad im here... im inspired

[@CaseyChisholmOfficial]

Anyone else hate seeing the drink balanced on the rhodes

[@oama2009]

No one noticed it until you pointed it out. This also happens in many things in life.

[@comedycrackhead]

Ryan’s got the cash 😂

[@savagefridays]

Yes. I’m panicked

[@JoshuaReichMusic]

It's product placement he owns the drink company!

[@jasmine31-v3u]

Everything you mentioned is owned by him

[@JohnTurri]

@1:07:00 “December or January” 😂 I’m guessing you guys worked something out in releasing this episode today; thank you for doing so. It was so great! 🎉

[@DanielsWall]

Hey John - Thank you so much for watching! I'm so happy to hear that this interview connected with you! We are always working hard to shine a light on the people and stories behind music, movies, and media. For the release of this episode, it ended up getting pushed back and back. Timing for releases can sometimes shift, but we’re glad we could finally share this episode today-and even happier that you enjoyed it! The song Ryan is referring to in that moment was “10:35” by Tate McRae and Tiësto. This song ended up reaching #3 on the Dance & Electronic charts and since then, Ryan has gone onto produce and co-write Tate’s biggest album yet, including her biggest hit yet “Greedy” and her most recent single, “It’s OK I’m OK.”Although this conversation was recorded some time ago, OneRepublic and Ryan Tedder’s journey is packed with timeless gems and invaluable lessons. We knew we had to release it for every artist, musician, and creative out there. Thanks again for tuning in and excited for you to see more! 🥳🚀🙌🎶

[@stephensullivan1011]

Holy crap so this interview is from like a year ago lol

[@ilikeyouabit2]

@@stephensullivan1011 He refers to the year being 2022 at one point. 10:35 came out in Novmber 2022. So I guess October(?) 2022.

[@shalynncarden3056]

Yes , thank you to Ryan Teddar and One Republic for Sharing y'all's Awesome journey. Don't forget to enjoy Your families and LIFE . The moments I miss the MOST , my kids growing up and Holiday's with our family and friends. Man , I miss my kids being Little. Little league games , Karate classes , dance 🩰 performances . water gun fights , Ice skating in Gatlinburg, TN. Going roller skating with the kids , helping at baseball practice. Awards ceremonies at their schools.

[@mhagenn]

The 'I LOVE YOU DAD

[@TpyoQueen]

He seems happier in this video than what I've seen him in other interviews.

[@bt4582]

Amazing interview Daniel and Ryan!!!! Loved hearing all the background and struggles of someone that is so uber incredibly talented. Such an amazing artist. Thank you Daniel great job!!!

[@LF4q]

I appreciate how you let the artists speak. See a different side to them :)

[@joepike6460]

I love these interviews, could listen to Ryan’s stories all day

[@VictoriaK-Milen]

Oh my gosh! I love OneRepublic since I was thirteen years old (now I'm 28), I'm just such a huuuge follower, all of my teenage life, growing up, ups and downs, I lived throughout with OneRepublic's songs. God bless Ryan Tedder, he's making the lyrics that touch soul. My first band I've been listening to - a special one❤ holds a particular place in my heart for the rest of my life!

[@ellwie]

I love Ryan’s vibe and all his stories. He’s such a good spoken person

[@wendybrown500]

I could listen to him tell these stories for hours.

[@jasmine31-v3u]

I need more Ryan's stories so bad

[@thejongbloeds]

We saw Republic play at Molly Malones☘️🍀☘️! 😂😂😂 It was awesome and we remember it clearly as we put the band as something to watch. 😮 And boy did we! ❤

[@obliviox]

Anyone else getting anxiety from the seltzer water on the vintage Rhodes keyboard?! 🤣

[@mschvs]

🙋

[@solothevibe]

Why TF they do this idk... Seen Busta with a glass on the mix console and lost it

[@precisionsoundworksstudio]

Good catch. I don’t think it’s open, though.

[@lilili2970]

Whyyyyyyy

[@secondbest2877]

I’m too busy feeling sick looking at that Smurf with multiple cysts over its face

[@HearthrobHeroes]

Ryan's stories are infectious. Great Job Daniel. Keep them coming.

[@shellyt556]

He seems pretty honest about breaking into the industry. Not very many people are this candid

[@Number1hunterhayesfa]

Thank you for allowing the space for artists to not only answer your questions but tell stories. I'm new to your channel, but it's so refreshing to not hear the person doing the interview constantly talking over the artist.

[@dylanbaer]

counting stars for best song of all time

[@DanielsWall]

Counting Stars is one of the best songs ever 100%

[@veronicagarette3355]

I really had no idea how much he shaped the music of my generation!

[@NickGranville]

Great interview! Ryan really has mastered the craft of writing catchy tunes. Respect

[@byamindpalace3051]

An Interview that Onerepublic fans must watch 👍🏻👏🏻

[@sdsamara]

Great interview. I love hearing creatives talking about their processes

[@maimohamed3590]

Whooo what a beautiful interview 🎉❤

[@TokenAsian-MTG]

My wife's and I's closing ceremony song was Good Life. Incredible song and still very relevant in my opinion.

[@khl1987]

Ryan Tedder wrote some of the best songs of this century

[@jongamali3398]

I dont agree that they become viral accidentally. He put in so much work in his music, he was relentless and tenacious. They really deserve this much success in their career!

[@BryanMotives]

I just watched the first one the other day so having him back already is really cool

[@DanielsWall]

The first interview with Ryan was one of my favorite interviews ever! What were you thoughts on this one Bryan?

[@thealterrmusic]

Let’s go I love Ryan Tedder he’s such a huge inspo thanks again for blessing us another episode Daniel. And also would love seeing Jon Bellion on the pod 🥹 hopefully soon 🤞. As a musician myself I love watching these as they are very helpful hearing the stories once again thanks brother ❤

[@phreanix23]

Timb’s integrity is a breath of fresh air

[@mjl5777]

would love an interview like this with nicole scherzinger she has one of the most interesting stories

[@happygokate8521]

Daniel is the most respectful person who interviewed artists. You can feel he really appreciated to hear their story

[@Pippi-rippi]

Talent and drive are insane. Much respect.

[@dreamymusic101]

this is maybe the greatest music industry/personality interview ever🫡

[@cc82828]

shoutout to all my music nerds out here. love this podcast

[@SongTellersOfficial]

Great interview… Ryans so insightful. Music as culture is an eye opener.

[@SHILLen15]

One of my favorite interviews

[@h20doctor]

Sweet that was keyboard, after selling my Roland S50 sampler... I use it as my main playing keyboard workstation... It's still got punch in 2024 ... I'd love to hear more studio talk with Ryan when it comes to his favorite Synths ... !!

[@Benjaqteim]

I’ll be waiting for the 4hr interview… I could be listening the whole day 🙌

[@Nonpfixion]

It's awesome to see that he still has a great passion for the craft. I really like hearing the older stories about music and the creative process.

[@LayOut-s4m]

again top channel dude can’t wait for a finneas one ^^

[@fzq124]

I like how Daniel just had to bring up the hint of a question and Ryan was just ready to go with the complete History, Geography and Economics of the thing… 😅

[@terrylina.8366]

great interview, i never knew that apologize was written by him originally and the mainstream one was a remix

[@syntezjaofficial4240]

Didn't know Mercy was going to be the first single. Hope they will come back to playing it live, such a great song.

[@Charade_]

So much goodness - favorite line by Tedder - luck is what happens to people who show up and do the work 👏❤️ would love to know about those “wedding cakes” 🤔

[@yobwoc1000]

I recall hearing Ryan saying One Republic recorded some of the third album in Colorado Springs,. I now know the group spent much time in the city.

[@genjulie3703]

Stop and Stare is one of my favorite songs of all time!

[@SwordOfTheRaven]

I've been listening to alt rock since 93, and I am very much an African American guy, I followed that scene for a very long time stop thinking narrowly about people's taste based on how the look

[@erobinson1]

1:05:29 Ryan - When does this air? Daniel's inner thoughts - We're actually live streaming 😅

[@ariellesteinberg9863]

Saw clips of this on tiktok. Cannot wait to listen to the whole interview right now!!!

[@corymatthews6778]

Just discovered this channel this interview was amazing I’m def going back in the archives. New subscriber

[@jamesr2012]

Best band and song writer in the last 20 yrs .. My favourite band from day one .. ryan super vocalist... Hurry up qnd come to Ireland do a gig .. Also would love to see an acoustic special from one republic ❤

[@coltoncardinal313]

It sounds like such a high making and having hits from how he describes it. Definitely sounds like it’d be exhilarating.

[@marissas2251]

Ryan seems so down to earth

[@mrmusicknowledge6354]

Very very entertaining interview. Im glad he never gave up this man is so talented and i get a little emotional hearing all his struggles.

[@hiteshsharma8232]

Honestly, In current scenario I do not think i will call anyone but Ryan a Genius in Music industry. He is just so experienced and he said ears of a 15 year old girl. Though i do think he is very underated. I mean everyone who knows music, knows what powerhouse Ryan is but today's generation not really. I really believe artist like him carry the soul of music today, which is kinda getting rare in today's music.

[@Drew_Reviews]

brought here by youtube shorts, this interview is excellent! i'm really glad to have found this channel

[@afrosymphony8207]

its literally insane to watch him predict a smash and it actually turns out to be one.....omfg this dude is a god!!!

[@zulc251]

Daniel I loveeeee your channel! I found you yesterday and I’m bing watching every video right now 😊 I would enjoy it even more, if you cut in the songs… I find myself stopping the video and going to Spotify to listen to the song 😅

[@NNG1314]

Ryan is a huge inspiration to me and i am a huge fan of his band and music. My dream is to meet him one day ❤

[@gc679]

This was really really great! Do more of this please

[@jimmykarma5]

Ryan’s music is a blessing ❤

[@Zaly593]

Showcases still exist. Specially for Latin acts, they'll fly us out to Puerto Rico or Miami to see if our career is "worth investing"

[@TrendsetterMusicOnly]

Dreaming of working on hits with Ryan and people like him

[@ThomasLiljeruhm]

Super interesting video. Thank you!

[@Ozzzzzzzzzzzz-o2q]

OMG! Ryan Tedder!?❤❤❤❤❤❤❤

[@sonotonestudio]

Good job on the interview!

[@Popunkwillneverdie]

By the time he got to the studio that's where ryans story picks up

[@liste302]

in their recent album, some songs haven't even hit 1 million streams on spotify, while other songs on the same album have hit 1 BILLION streams. It's insane that nobody really cares for their album but only their singles

[@katieari]

Ryan Tedder is a music genius! 🙌🏽

[@LilNapbeats]

Love your interviews. Very inspirational for an upcoming music producer & i bet so for every aspiring musician!

[@markgnar7645]

Love these videos man! I’m a musicophile like you and learning all these behind the scene or little abstract things that makes a song or musician

[@ACCIO_music]

shoutout to Alesso "if i lose myself" that song is a banger and one of my favs

[@BLSXful]

There is no song I love more than angel of mercy. My most replayed song though I know nothing about it

[@cheekyweb8055]

Can’t wait to see him again 😂 I love hearing this man talk