Milestone Mixtape: Young the Giant’s Sameer Gadhia on His Favorite Songs

As the lead singer of the alternative rock band Young the Giant, Sameer Gadhia has been topping the charts with celebrated songs like “Cough Syrup,” “Superposition” and others tracks made by the group.

Two decades since the band’s conception, the first-generation Indian American frontman from Irvine, California, is the father of two children and host of the SiriusXM podcast, “Point of Origin.” Available on the SiriusXM app and all streaming platforms, “Point of Origin” sees Gadhia interviewing alternative musicians of color about their careers to challenge the stereotypes about race and music genres. Gadhia has interviewed artists like Brittany Howard, Dreamer Isioma and NoSo. 

Gadhia stopped by Character Media to create a “Milestone Mixtape” of all his favorite and most memorable tracks. From songs that remind him of his family to songs that bring him back to college, here are Gadhia’s most meaningful songs. Watch the full video above! 

First favorite song?

In My Place – Coldplay

Song that made you want to start making music?

“Airbag” – Radiohead

Song that reminds you of home/your parents?

“Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough” – Michael Jackson

Song that reminds you of college?

“Sunrise” – Yeasayer

Song that got you through a hard time in your life?

“Twilight” – Elliot Smith 

Song that reminds you of your Young the Giant bandmates?

“Gobbledigook” – Sigur Ro’s

Song that feels like falling in love?

“Edge of the Ocean” – Ivy

Song you can’t wait to share with your kids?

“Machine Gun Funk” – The Notorious B.I.G. 

Song that makes you feel excited for the future of alternative music?

“Many Times” – Dijon 

Favorite song of yours/the band you love to perform? 

“Mind Over Matter” – Young the Giant

Find Gadhia’s full “Milestone Mixtape” playlist below!