Jepha Howard of The Used on 25 Years, Sydney Opera House, and New Music
Jepha Howard of The Used on 25 Years, Sydney Opera House, and New Music
🎧 Watch the Full Interview
🎙️ Episode Overview
Jepha Howard ofThe Used returns toTeaser Talk for a candid conversation about what life looks like for the band after 25 years.
From revisiting classic records on a global tour to preparing for one of the most ambitious performances of their career at the Sydney Opera House, Jepha opens up about the band’s evolution, creative process, and what keeps The Used moving forward.
We also dive into the Emo's Not Dead Cruise, the band’s connection with My Chemical Romance, and a teaser fans will definitely want to hear - new music is in the works.
⚡ 25 Years of The Used - Then vs Now
Over two decades into their career, The Used are still evolving.
In the early 2000s, success meant landing a spot on Warped Tour or playing local festival stages. Today, success looks very different.
“Back then, we were just excited to play Warped Tour… now we’re playing the Sydney Opera House with a full orchestra.”
That shift highlights just how far the band has come - from grassroots shows to world-renowned stages.
🎻 The Sydney Opera House Show - A Career-Defining Moment
One of the biggest highlights from the episode is the band’s upcoming performance at the Sydney Opera House.
This isn’t just another show. It’s a full-scale production featuring:
A live orchestra
A full choir
Reimagined versions of The Used’s songs
Custom visuals and production
“This is the most incredible thing we’ve ever done as The Used.”
Jepha shares how intense preparation has been, from relearning songs to adapting arrangements for a completely new live experience.
🚢 Emo's Not Dead Cruise - Chaos, Nostalgia, and Deep Cuts
The Used recently headlined the Emo's Not Dead Cruise, bringing together fans and bands from the early 2000s scene.
The band delivered something special:
Three completely different setlists
Rare songs and B-sides
Deep cuts longtime fans rarely hear live
“We played stuff we don’t normally play… it was just as fun for us as it was for the fans.”
🤝 Why The Used Still Works After 25 Years
One of the biggest takeaways from this episode:
The Used are friends first, band second.
“We’re not just in a band together. We actually care about each other.”
This foundation allows them to:
Remove ego from the creative process
Be honest in songwriting
Maintain long-term chemistry
🎸 Keeping the Creative Spark Alive
The Used have never repeated the same sound record after record.
Jepha explains their longevity comes from:
Strong personal relationships
Continuous collaboration
Willingness to evolve
“I play a lot of our songs completely different live.”
🖤 The Emo Scene Legacy
Looking back, the early 2000s emo scene defined a generation.
But at the time:
“We were just trying to make it to the next show.”
That authenticity is part of why the music still resonates today.
🔥 The Used x My Chemical Romance - Full Circle Moment
The Used will share the stage with My Chemical Romance, creating a full-circle moment for fans.
“It’ll be cool to see those guys again and play a show together.”
What once felt like fan-driven rivalry has evolved into mutual respect.
👀 Teaser Talk Moment - New Music Coming
We always end with a teaser - and this one delivers.
👉The Used are working on a new record.
20–30 ideas already in progress
Early writing stages underway
Possible release: next year
“We’ve started writing… there’s a lot of ideas already.”
💬 Final Thoughts
This episode captures a band that continues to evolve without losing its identity.
From orchestral performances to new music, The Used are entering another exciting chapter.
🎧 Listen on Spotify
📢 Follow Teaser Talk
Stay connected for more interviews and exclusive content:
Instagram: @TeaserTalk
YouTube: Teaser Talk
TikTok: @TeaserTalk
Facebook: @TeaserTalk
