Today’s guest, Fly Anakin, is no stranger to delivering albums that leave a distinct imprint on the listener. As seen on past records like Frank that envelop you in dusty old soul records and introspection, and FlySiifu’s that welcomed you into this record shop concept with two homies who enjoy trading bars over some sick jazz rap instrumentals. But on his latest album, (The) Forever Dream, Fly Anakin takes a noticeably different approach. Opting not to follow a distinct concept or theme, Frank traded pre-meditated forethought for a more free-wheeling approach, allowing for the album to reveal itself through fun studio sessions with the album’s executive producer, Detroit legend Quelle Chris. The results of this approach were terrific, as this new album sees Fly Anakin operate with so much freedom, embracing new sounds and collaborators, resulting in an incredibly loose and dynamic album that manages to push all the right buttons, balancing spontaneity with expertly crafted cohesion. In this episode, we dive into how Frank's relationship with Quelle was formed, the effortlessly natural collaborative process creating this new album, and much more! The Plug (0:45). The Interview (2:44). Frank’s feelings towards the release of (The) Forever Dream (4:58). Frank touring with his partner, bbymutha (7:09). The formation of Fly Anakin and Quelle Chris’ relationship (11:48). What makes Quelle special as an artist and collaborator (16:50). How Quelle and Fly Anakin are ‘opposites’ (22:27). Creative decision-making responsibilities between Fly Anakin and Quelle (24:13). The musical direction of (The) Forever Dream (26:30). Fly Anakin’s mindset when creating (The) Forever Dream (30:42). The heartfelt and open nature of (The) Forever Dream (35:00). Why Fly Anakin feels his latest album is his best (39:54). The key collaborations on (The) Forever Dream (43:18). The thinking behind Quelle executive producing (The) Forever Dream (45:22). Upcoming projects / tour dates / merch, including a project with Real Bad Man (49:23). Buy/stream (The) Forever Dream here: https://flyanakin.bandcamp.com/album/the-forever-dream  Follow Fly Anakin on Twitter here: https://x.com/flyanakin  Follow Fly Anakin on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/flyanakin/?hl=en  Intro/Outro beat by: BLOODBLIXING -- Fiending for some more quality rap content? Visit the RMPP website: https://rmpp.squarespace.com/ Want to support and help us grow? Become a RMPP Patron, and gain access to exclusive content: https://www.patreon.com/therapmusicplugpodcast  Looking to connect? DM me @rapmusicplugpod on Twitter and Instagram, or shoot me an email at qlctv.podcast@gmail.com

Few artists epitomise the word, ‘prolific’, quite like today’s guest, Blu. Hailing from Los Angeles, this West Coast legend has truly done it all, delivering countless records that span the sounds of soulful boom bap, lo-fi, avant-garde electronic hip-hop, and more. And in 2025, Blu is not letting up… expecting to drop another 3 albums this year. The first of which is titled, Forty, and is fully produced by the great August Fanon. This new album dropped April 18th, and Blu joins me today to discuss the making of what he dubs his 'grown man' album, along with covering other key aspects of his legendary career, such as delving into experimental cutting-edge sounds, his strong lasting relationship with Exile, and much more. Blu is a legend, listen to this episode… what more do you need me to say?! The Plug (0:41). The Interview (2:35). The most essential Blu releases (3:54). Blu’s approach to collaborating with producers (8:20). How Blu maintains consistent creative inspiration (14:21). Blu’s affinity to the lo-fi hip-hop sound (18:14). Blu’s bold experimental risk-taking appetite (22:06). Blu’s long-lasting relationship with Exile - RMPP patron q from Jorden (25:25). The correct pronunciation of August Fanon’s name (29:29). The lyrical focus of Forty (30:56). How August Fanon and Blu built the sound for Forty (33:19). The collaboration-heavy approach to Forty (40:35). 3-4 new projects to expect from Blu in 2025 (43:02). Blu’s shift away from production in recent years (44:43). Buy/stream Forty here: https://thenewcolorblu.bandcamp.com/album/forty  Follow Blu on Twitter here: https://x.com/HerFavColor  Follow Blu on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/bluherfavcolor/?hl=en  Intro/Outro beat by: BLOODBLIXING -- Fiending for some more quality rap content? Visit the RMPP website: https://rmpp.squarespace.com/ Want to support and help us grow? Become a RMPP Patron, and gain access to exclusive content: https://www.patreon.com/therapmusicplugpodcast  Looking to connect? DM me @rapmusicplugpod on Twitter and Instagram, or shoot me an email at qlctv.podcast@gmail.com

The fiery no hold-barred spirit that today’s guests, Infinity Knives and Brian Ennals, showcase in each and every track of theirs, is something that you can expect to hear in this conversation. As fierce truth-tellers and creators of bold clashes of sound, we had a sprawling conversation that covered everything from bad faith criticism, their ambitious sound and unique group dynamic, the difficult process involved in making their new album, A City Drowned in God’s Black Tears, and much more. ... And as a reminder, if you’re in Toronto on April 17th, PremRock + friends will be performing at BSMT 254 with some DJ support from yours truly!! Tickets found here: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/premrock-friends-live-tickets-1279555287309?utm-campaign=social&utm-content=attendeeshare&utm-medium=discovery&utm-term=listing&utm-source=cp&aff=ebdsshcopyurl  The Plug (0:49). The Interview (2:14). The Ennals family history (2:52). Being throttled by the algorithm, and their political subject matter (9:03). Bad faith criticism (12:09). The dark place that A City Drowned in God’s Black Tears (17:52). How the creation of ACDIGBT intertwined with King Cobra (22:53). Brian’s unfiltered approach to rap (28:37). Knives’ composer-led approach to production (35:45). The non-rap songs on ACDIGBT (45:20). The background behind the USSR-inspired track, “Тревога/Trevoga” (50:58). When Infinity Knives will be moving back to South Africa - patron q from rap man gavin (52:42). The background behind a specific eyebrow-raising line off of King Cobra - patron q from Fick (54:29). Examining the 87% statistic claimed on ACDIGBT (1:04:41). Upcoming projects / tour dates / merch (1:06:59). Buy/stream A City Drowned in God's Tears here: https://infinityknives666.bandcamp.com/album/a-city-drowned-in-gods-black-tears  Follow Infinity Knives on Twitter here: https://x.com/infinitykniives  Follow Brian Ennals on Twitter here: https://x.com/BrianEnnals  Follow Infinity Knives on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/infinityknives/  Follow Brian Ennals on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/brianennals/  Intro/Outro beat by: BLOODBLIXING -- Fiending for some more quality rap content? Visit the RMPP website: https://rmpp.squarespace.com/ Want to support and help us grow? Become a RMPP Patron, and gain access to exclusive content: https://www.patreon.com/therapmusicplugpodcast  Looking to connect? DM me @rapmusicplugpod on Twitter and Instagram, or shoot me an email at qlctv.podcast@gmail.com

Listening to the latest album of today’s guest, PremRock, is more than just a great experience. It feels like spending time with an old friend. That saying, coined by the great Dan-O of Freemusicempire, couldn't be more spot on a descriptor for PremRock’s latest opus, Did You Enjoy Your Time Here…? PremRock’s lyrics are immaculately written, treating the listener with melancholic existential reflections that have a way of grounding you in a lucid state of calm, On top of that, the guest list is an all-star cast of collaborators we’ve grown to know and love in the Backwoodz universe, who provide the canvasses and guest verses to elevate this album to indelible heights. Did You Enjoy Your Time Here…? is one of the best albums of the decade. So it’s of course an honour to have the man of the hour, PremRock, here to speak on his mindset creating this latest album, how vulnerability is his superpower, and much more! Andddd… if you’re in Toronto on April 17th, join us at BSMT254 to see him and friends perform this album live! Your boy might also be making his DJ debut that night too, so it’ll be a night to remember! Tickets: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/premrock-friends-live-tickets-1279555287309?aff=oddtdtcreator  The Plug (0:51). The Interview (3:08). The backstory of the album title, Did You Enjoy Your Time Here…? (4:58). PremRock’s mindset when creating DYEYTH (8:11). The making of “Receipts” with billy woods (16:24). The initial spark that inspired PremRock’s love for writing - patron q from Joshua Davis (36:13). How PremRock carves out brain space to create, while also balancing a day job - patron q from Ryan aka LEVITATOR (40:13). The musical tone and focus of DYEYTH (44:18). The key producers / beats that set the foundation for the sound of DYEYTH (49:46). Areas of artistic growth PremRock is most proud of (58:34). PremRock’s upcoming show in Toronto + other tour dates, and projects to look out for (1:05:23). Buy/stream Did You Enjoy Your Time Here...? here: https://planetpremrock.bandcamp.com/album/did-you-enjoy-your-time-here    Follow PremRock on Twitter here: https://x.com/PlanetPremRock  Follow PremRock on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/premrock/?hl=en  Intro/Outro beat by: BLOODBLIXING -- Fiending for some more quality rap content? Visit the RMPP website: https://rmpp.squarespace.com/ Want to support and help us grow? Become a RMPP Patron, and gain access to exclusive content: https://www.patreon.com/therapmusicplugpodcast  Looking to connect? DM me @rapmusicplugpod on Twitter and Instagram, or shoot me an email at qlctv.podcast@gmail.com

Fat Ray is a true Detroit hip-hop OG, who embodies everything that makes this scene so special. The grit, distinct style, and appreciation of hip-hop is always on display when you put a Fat Ray track on. Having created music for multiple decades now, Fat Ray has been a mainstay in Detroit’s scene dropping certified heat, collaborating with the likes of Elzhi, Dilla, his fellow Bruiser Brigade brethren, and Black Milk... who collaborated with Ray on his new AOTY-contender of a record, Food from the Gods. In today's episode, Fat Ray drops jewels on how he stays so effortlessly authentic as a man and an artist, the beautiful ugly of Detroit hip-hop, his strong relationship with Black Milk, and the inspired creation of Food from the Gods. The Plug (0:58). The Interview (2:19). The evolution of Detroit’s hip-hop scene (8:27). How Detroit influences Fat Ray’s art (16:47). Fat Ray’s writing process (19:25). Fat Ray’s experience with Bruiser Brigade (22:02). How Black Milk and Fat Ray initially linked up (25:47). Black Milk’s special level of “cool” (28:17). What Fat Ray wanted to get off his chest and show listeners on Food from the Gods (35:07). The sonic approach of Food from the Gods (39:24). Why now was right time to get back with Black Milk and create Food from the Gods (46:11). What Fat Ray has grown as an artist throughout his career (49:15). Upcoming projects / tour dates / merch from Fat Ray (54:46). Buy/stream Food from the Gods here: https://blackmilk.bandcamp.com/album/food-from-the-gods  Follow Fat Ray on Twitter here: https://x.com/fatraymotorboy?lang=mr  Follow Fat Ray on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/fatray1/?hl=en  Intro/Outro beat by: BLOODBLIXING -- Fiending for some more quality rap content? Visit the RMPP website: https://rmpp.squarespace.com/ Want to support and help us grow? Become a RMPP Patron, and gain access to exclusive content: https://www.patreon.com/therapmusicplugpodcast  Looking to connect? DM me @rapmusicplugpod on Twitter and Instagram, or shoot me an email at qlctv.podcast@gmail.com

Pink Siifu has been on a mission to create some of the most forward-thinking art in all of music. His eclectic ear had led him down some incredibly fruitful rabbit holes. And on his latest record, BLACK’!ANTIQUE, his latest masterstroke pushes his GUMBO'! genre-fluid ethos to new extremes. With another terrific album under his belt, Siifu’s legacy is on a special trajectory. In today’s episode, the Birmingham native speaks on how he’d like to be remembered, the unique energy of BLACK’!ANTIQUE and why he’s so proud of it, and much more. Pink Siifu is everything you want in an artist, so listen on and learn more about a legend in the making. The Plug (0:37). The Interview (1:50). Initial reception of BLACK’!ANTIQUE (2:08). The unique sonic identity of BLACK’!ANTIQUE (12:00). The significance of how the ‘black antique’ idea inspires the creation of Siifu’s latest album (16:29). The importance of family in Pink Siifu’s music (32:01). How Pink Siifu views his legacy (36:12). The deep collaboration process on BLACK’!ANTIQUE (37:52). Why experimenting with sound and collaboration inspires Siifu (44:00). Future sounds Siifu wants to explore (49:20). Upcoming projects to look out for from Pink Siifu (55:29). Buy/stream BLACK’!ANTIQUE here: https://ronee.bandcamp.com/album/black-antique  Follow Pink Siifu on Twitter here: https://x.com/PinkSiifu  Follow Pink Siifu on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/pinksiifu/  Intro/Outro beat by: BLOODBLIXING -- Fiending for some more quality rap content? Visit the RMPP website: https://rmpp.squarespace.com/ Want to support and help us grow? Become a RMPP Patron, and gain access to exclusive content: https://www.patreon.com/therapmusicplugpodcast  Looking to connect? DM me @rapmusicplugpod on Twitter and Instagram, or shoot me an email at qlctv.podcast@gmail.com

Few artists embody the full spectrum of rap, quite like today’s guest on the show - Ghais Guevara. Through breakout records in Black Bolshevik and There Will Be No Super-Slave, Ghais has made a name for himself with fiercely political lyricism, and a bold left-field sound. On his latest album Goyard Ibn Said, Ghais expands his scope, incorporating sounds of trap music and drill, flexing his songwriting muscles that leads to legitimate hits as a result, while staying true to his political worldview and creative expression. In today’s episode, Ghais speaks on how he and other politically-minded rappers are perceived and treated by rap listeners, what inspired the musical direction for Goyard Ibn Said, and expands on the commentary on the pitfalls of the entertainment industry explored within the album, and much more. Ghais is a rising star in the making, you do not wanna miss this! The Plug (0:50). The Interview (2:27). Ghais’ recent signing to Fat Possum and the initial reception Goyard Ibn Said (3:03). Ghais’ perspectives on how politically-minded rappers are perceived and treated by rap fans (6:52). What inspired the musical direction of Goyard Ibn Said (16:12). The impact of producing the bulk of Goyard Ibn Said with little to no samples (21:45). The thinking behind the two-act structure of Goyard Ibn Said (25:20). Key messages Ghais wanted to get across to the listener on Goyard Ibn Said (27:20). Diving into “Critical Acclaim” and the recent string of events exposing the entertainment industry (29:49). How Ghais navigates an inherently oppressive industry while maintaining his integrity (36:04). Ghais’ evolution as a songwriter (38:03). Upcoming projects / tour dates / merch (42:13). Buy/stream Goyard Ibn Said here: https://ghais.bandcamp.com/album/goyard-ibn-said  Follow Ghais Guevara on Twitter here: https://x.com/GhaisGuevara  Follow Ghais Guevara on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/ghaisguevaraobligatory/?hl=en  Intro/Outro beat by: BLOODBLIXING -- Fiending for some more quality rap content? Visit the RMPP website: https://rmpp.squarespace.com/ Want to support and help us grow? Become a RMPP Patron, and gain access to exclusive content: https://www.patreon.com/therapmusicplugpodcast  Looking to connect? DM me @rapmusicplugpod on Twitter and Instagram, or shoot me an email at qlctv.podcast@gmail.com

2024 was a year of maintenance and solidifying the foundation. While the show didn’t 5x in year over year growth, as it did from 2022 to 2023, the arrow has still been pointing up with some big artists joining the show, increased viewership and positive feedback. In particular, the RMPP patron group has grown to the largest its ever been, which has honestly been the biggest one of my most proudest achievements of my life. The community has progressed to a point where it’s become a staple of my life, and hopefully the patrons of this show feel the same way. 2024 was proof that this show is here to stay, and will be a fixture in indie rap media for years to come. To the RMPP patrons, as well as the rest of you listeners who support the show with your time and attention... thank you for entrusting me with this privilege to rap music plug podcast for you. You are greatly appreciated. So now, without further ado... let’s talk about what music defined my 2024, and hand out some awards along the way. Welcome to the 5th Annual RMPP Awards. Share your feedback on what you’d like to see on the RMPP in the future! Complete this 2-minute survey here: https://forms.gle/ApTNot34UZtAfwE36  The Plug (0:21) The 4th Annual RMPP Awards intro (3:15). Best Rap in a Supporting Role (4:42). Hook of the Year (6:38). Beat of the Year (8:07). Song of the Year (9:28). Producer of the Year (11:41). Rapper of the Year (13:10). Top Albums of the Year structure (15:17). The RMPP 25: my top 25 albums, inclusive of all genres (15:52). The full categorized list of the RMPP's Top 100 Albums of 2024 can be found here: https://rmpp.squarespace.com/episodes/186-5th-annual-rmpps  Listen to my piece on Why Lawd? here: https://rmpp.squarespace.com/episodes/cp-why-lawd-a-cautionary-tale-of-f-up-a-good-thing   Final reflection (23:53). Intro/Outro beat by: BLOODBLIXING -- Fiending for some more quality rap content? Visit the RMPP website: https://rmpp.squarespace.com/ Want to support and help us grow? Become a RMPP Patron, and gain access to exclusive content: https://www.patreon.com/therapmusicplugpodcast  Looking to connect? DM me @rapmusicplugpod on Twitter and Instagram, or shoot me an email at qlctv.podcast@gmail.com

Earnestness is a hard thing to pull off in music. As much as listeners like to think we know the artists we listen to as actual people, we don’t. Most of the time, we’re simply left to whatever we hear in the music, to get a feel for if someone is being honest and authentic with how they think and feel. In the social media and AI age, it’s getting harder and harder to have trust in the media we consume, and take things at face value. However, with today’s guest, NAHreally… it’s actually quite easy. It’s clear to me that NAHreally is as honest and personable a rapper, as they come. NAHreally, Massachusetts-native now living in Jersey City, first came on my radar through some nice features before really making an imprint on my mind with his collaborative album with Irish-producer, The Expert, on BLIP, one of the best albums of the year He’s back with a self-produced new album, Secret Pancake, and joins us today to discuss the seamless creative process for this new album, how it differed from the creation of BLIP, his uniquely down-to-earth approach to rap, distinct flow, and much, much more. The Plug (0:38). The Interview (2:17). The creation of the Secret Pancake album artwork (2:57). Top 5 rapper hands - RMPP patron q from Dan-O of Freemusicempire (7:47). NAHreally’s creative process - RMPP patron q from Rhino (11:44). Major influences on NAHreally’s rap style (17:32). The creative chemistry between NAHreally and The Expert on BLIP (19:48). NAHreally’s approach to social commentary in music (23:47). The importance of being ”relatable” to NAHreally (29:35). The approach to creating Secret Pancake (34:20). NAHreally’s mindstate when creating Secret Pancake (38:01). The production direction on Secret Pancake (43:10). Upcoming projects / tour dates / merch (47:32). NAHreally’s thoughts on the upcoming NFL playoffs (51:07). Buy/stream Secret Pancake here: https://nahreally.bandcamp.com/album/secret-pancake  Follow NAHreally on Twitter here: https://x.com/_nahreally_  Follow NAHreally on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/_nahreally_/  Intro/Outro beat by: BLOODBLIXING -- Fiending for some more quality rap content? Visit the RMPP website: https://rmpp.squarespace.com/ Want to support and help us grow? Become a RMPP Patron, and gain access to exclusive content: https://www.patreon.com/therapmusicplugpodcast  Looking to connect? DM me @rapmusicplugpod on Twitter and Instagram, or shoot me an email at qlctv.podcast@gmail.com

In the 11th edition of the Conversation Pieces series, which aims to shine a light on some inspired gems of creativity in hip-hop that I’ve encountered, we discuss what I'm calling 'pure creative inspiration'. This is the precise feeling I got when I recently first listened to Da Devil's Playground, and discovered the alchemy of Memphis rap. This discovery catalyzed an ensuing series of events that steered me in a more positive direction in life, as I approached the end of 2024, which showed me that even the smallest doses of creative inspiration can make a world of difference. The Plug (0:21). The Conversation (2:38). Intro/Outro beat by: BLOODBLIXING Stream Da Devil's Playground here: https://open.spotify.com/album/4LlnC8CVKG3hpOqOd1Bwmi?si=FTrJZ_5vTRSrQqXg6vHNbA  -- Fiending for some more quality rap content? Visit the RMPP website: https://rmpp.squarespace.com/ Want to support and help us grow? Become a RMPP Patron, and gain access to exclusive content: https://www.patreon.com/therapmusicplugpodcast  Looking to connect? DM me @rapmusicplugpod on Twitter and Instagram, or shoot me an email at qlctv.podcast@gmail.com

As soon as you press play on Genuine Dexterity, the new album by k-the-i??? and Kenny Segal, released on Backwoodz Studioz, you immediately hear why this album was indeed called what it was called. k-the-i???’s raw technical skill was put on full display, as he delivered crazy rhyme schemes, intricate flows, and strong moments of personal reflection. On the production side of the coin, Kenny Segal crafted an immensely impressive soundscape that features his trademark hard drums, bass, alongside splashes of dissonant noise, and other experimental weirdness. Through today’s conversation with our guests, k-the-i?? and Kenny Segal though, you come to learn that this album title of Genuine Dexterity extends to the album’s creation as well. In this episode, we learn more about the immediate connection and effortlessly natural creative process of Genuine Dexterity, what prompted k-the-i??? to return to the rap scene with his first full-length rap album in a long while, the key influences that guided the album’s direction, and much more. The Plug (0:44). The Interview (2:39). RMPP Listening party reaction (2:49). What prompted k-the-i??? to make Genuine Dexterity first full-length rap release in over a decade (3:50) - patron q from TreDoes. Kenny’s first experience with k-the-i???’s music (12:12). Why Backwoodz Studioz felt like the right home for Genuine Dexterity (17:40). Kenny Segal’s thinking behind the noisy dissonant sound direction for Genuine Dexterity (20:51). Kenny Segal’s signature sound (23:55). k-the-i???’s rhyming approach on Genuine Dexterity, and the LA influence on his style (34:09). k-the-i??? and Kenny Segal reminiscing about living in Boyle Heights (54:03). Upcoming projects / tour dates / merch (1:01:46). Buy Genuine Dexterity here: https://backwoodzstudioz.com/collections/genuine-dexterity-by-kenny-segal-k-the-i  Follow k-the-i??? on Twitter here: https://x.com/kthei  Follow Kenny Segal on Twitter here: https://x.com/kennysegal   Follow k-the-i??? on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/applesauce9mm/?hl=en  Follow Kenny Segal on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/kennysegal/?hl=en  Intro/Outro beat by: BLOODBLIXING -- Fiending for some more quality rap content? Visit the RMPP website: https://rmpp.squarespace.com/ Want to support and help us grow? Become a RMPP Patron, and gain access to exclusive content: https://www.patreon.com/therapmusicplugpodcast  Looking to connect? DM me @rapmusicplugpod on Twitter and Instagram, or shoot me an email at qlctv.podcast@gmail.com

On paper, the combination of Cavalier and Child Actor felt like a match made in heaven. Child Actor’s dynamic psychedelic production is a natural fit for Cavalier’s malleable rap delivery and cerebral lyrical approach. But for a collaboration to really work, and be something that is special, more than just the measurables have to align. There needs to be a like-minded musical philosophy and innate chemistry for truly great music to manifest. This certainly was the case with these two, as they put together a stellar body of work in CINE, which is absolutely one of the best albums of 2024. Cavalier and Child Actor are here with me today to talk about why their creative relationship was so fruitful, the backstory to some of CINE’s most intriguing songs, and much more! The Plug (1:27). The Interview (2:46). Initial reaction to CINE’s release so far (2:54). The initial vision for CINE (6:38). Cavalier and Child Actor’s creative chemistry (15:14). Cavalier’s prolific 2024 (22:28). How the close collaborative experience aided Child Actor’s production process (29:06). The challenge of rapping on Child Actor’s beats (36:19). Primary themes and messages of CINE (44:04). The story Child Actor aimed to tell on CINE (50:10). The concept of masculinity and romance in Cavalier’s music (1:04:45). Upcoming projects / tour dates / merch (1:14:38). Buy CINE here: https://backwoodzstudioz.com/collections/cine  Support Cavalier here: https://cavwins.com/  Follow Cavalier on Twitter here: https://x.com/Cavwins  Follow Child Actor on Twitter here: https://x.com/chldactr  Follow Cavalier on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/cavwins/?hl=en  Follow Child Actor on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/chldactr/?hl=en  Intro/Outro beat by: BLOODBLIXING -- Fiending for some more quality rap content? Visit the RMPP website: https://rmpp.squarespace.com/ Want to support and help us grow? Become a RMPP Patron, and gain access to exclusive content: https://www.patreon.com/therapmusicplugpodcast  Looking to connect? DM me @rapmusicplugpod on Twitter and Instagram, or shoot me an email at qlctv.podcast@gmail.com

In the wake of the recent passing of Brownsville’s Ka, I’ve decided to go against my policy and publicly share what was previously a RMPP patron-only review that I recorded for the last album within his storied career, The Thief Next to Jesus. It only feels right to share this with the world, with the hope that Ka’s wonderful art becomes essential listening to any and all hip-hop lovers. Since he’s passed, I’ve had a hard time collecting my thoughts to describe what this man’s impact was on me. What I landed on was speaking to what was always underneath Ka's impressive artistic craftsmanship, which is what really made him standout. What made him special was the kind soul that animated all of his work. Ka represented humanity, compassion, and understanding to the fullest extent So while his loss feels immense, Ka really left it all on the field... leaving behind a massive catalog of beautiful art for us to sit with forever. Now, what I feel we must do as lovers of hip-hop is ensure that Ka will never be forgotten, so that he can continue to serve as a spiritual and artistic North Star for generations to come. Rest in Peace Ka. Reflecting on Ka's passing (0:00). The Plug (3:22). The Full Review (5:21). Stream The Thief Next to Jesus here: https://open.spotify.com/album/4fmC67uHti9BxWUNAUb6wy  Intro/Outro beat by: BLOODBLIXING -- Fiending for some more quality rap content? Visit the RMPP website: https://rmpp.squarespace.com/ Want to support and help us grow? Become a RMPP Patron, and gain access to exclusive content: https://www.patreon.com/therapmusicplugpodcast  Looking to connect? DM me @rapmusicplugpod on Twitter and Instagram, or shoot me an email at qlctv.podcast@gmail.com

One of the best things about starting this podcast has been the genuine connections I’ve been able to make with the artists that soundtrack so much of my life. A most recent example of this is can be found in my most recent trip to Chicago, where I had the pleasure of spending time with today’s guest, Frankie Jax No Mad. The warm and thoughtful personality that I witnessed in my time with Frankie Jax No Mad translates directly through his music. His extremely unorthodox production style and stream of consciousness rhymes are key markers of his style, which I feel have come together in its most complete package yet, on his latest album THANKS FOR UNDERSTANDING. In this episode, we discuss his journey from Kenya to the UK to finally LA, what inspires his distinct approach to rap, and the creation of his new album. If you're unfamiliar with Frankie, get hip now!! The Plug (0:35). The Interview (2:04). My recent trip to Chicago with Rich Jones and Frankie Jax No Mad (3:16). Frankie’s journey from Kenya, to the UK, and finally to America (8:18). Key influences throughout Frankie’s musical journey (14:29). Frankie’s writing process (18:16). Frankie’s uniquely unorthodox production style (23:26). How off-kilter production influences Frankie’s rap style (28:10). How THANKS FOR UNDERSTANDING stands out amongst Frankie’s discography (29:07). What listeners can takeaway from THANKS FOR UNDERSTANDING (32:21). Frankie’s future musical direction (36:17). Buy/stream THANKS FOR UNDERSTANDING here: https://nomadjax.bandcamp.com/album/thanks-for-understanding  Follow Frankie Jax No Mad on Twitter here: https://twitter.com/frankiejaxnomad  Follow Frankie Jax No Mad on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/frankiejaxnomad/  Intro/Outro beat by: BLOODBLIXING -- Fiending for some more quality rap content? Visit the RMPP website: https://rmpp.squarespace.com/ Want to support and help us grow? Become a RMPP Patron, and gain access to exclusive content: https://www.patreon.com/therapmusicplugpodcast  Looking to connect? DM me @rapmusicplugpod on Twitter and Instagram, or shoot me an email at qlctv.podcast@gmail.com

On the heels of their first Euro trip, today’s guests, phiik and Lungs/LoneSword, have seen their brand of innovative one-of-one rap garner its most success yet. They have impressed new crops of listeners with each and every passing day, who are spellbound by their lyrical wizardry, sharp sense of humour, and unique production choices. On their latest album Carrot Season, the phiik & Lungs world of rap expands to incorporate wrinkles of more traditional boom bap drums, but still with a contemporary twist, and still with the alien-level rap acrobatics we’ve come to know and love from the New York-based duo. In today’s episode, we discuss their thoughts behind their polarizing style of rap, working with producer savant OLASEGUN on Carrot Season, how the shift in sound from the Another Planet series to Carrot Season influenced their approach to their raps, and much more! The Plug (0:56). The Interview (2:26). The recent BIGGER THREE TOUR phiik & Lungs completed in Europe (2:34). phiik & Lungs’ perspective on polarizing audiences, and the infamous Top Shelf Premium freestyle (10:59). The heightened accessibility of Carrot Season (16:51). How important the value of doing something new and fresh is for phiik & Lungs’ creative process (20:39). Partnering with OLASEGUN on Carrot Season (25:18). The thought process behind the consistent beat switches on Carrot Season (29:57). How the drums and beat switches influenced phiik & Lungs’ rapping approach on Carrot Season (46:08). Upcoming projects from phiik & Lungs (57:19). Buy/stream Carrot Season here: https://powrecordings.bandcamp.com/album/carrot-season  Follow phiik on Twitter here: https://twitter.com/phiik_  Follow Lungs/LoneSword on Twitter here: https://twitter.com/big_dead_lung  Follow phiik on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/phiiik_/?hl=en  Follow Lungs/LoneSword on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/big_dead_lung/?hl=en  Intro/Outro beat by: BLOODBLIXING -- Fiending for some more quality rap content? Visit the RMPP website: https://rmpp.squarespace.com/ Want to support and help us grow? Become a RMPP Patron, and gain access to exclusive content: https://www.patreon.com/therapmusicplugpodcast  Looking to connect? DM me @rapmusicplugpod on Twitter and Instagram, or shoot me an email at qlctv.podcast@gmail.com

If I had to think of one word to describe today’s guest, E L U C I D, and his latest album, REVELATOR, it would be “fearless” in every sense of the word. Fearless in its sonic direction that infuses industrial noise, South Asian / Middle Eastern instrumentation and more, into this one-of-a-kind take on hip-hop. Fearless in its boundaryless, ultra-poetic vocal stylings. And also fearless in its subject matter that processes all of the darkness happening in this world, while never ceasing to lose faith in love and a better tomorrow. With REVELATOR, E L U C I D achieved something rare - total creative realization, where the lyrical messaging, the sound, the tone, the songwriting, all feel perfectly in tune with one and other... all building towards this overarching artistic vision that is so powerful and affecting. Just two days before the new album dropped, E L U C I D gives us an in-depth look into the making of REVELATOR, the genesis of its bold sonic direction, how the state of affairs in our world feed into this art, and so much more. After hearing this album 30, maybe 40 times now, as of the time of recording, I’m 100% comfortable saying that REVELATOR is my Album of the Year. And honestly, it is a contender for being one of the very best albums of the entire decade. This album and this artist are just that special, so you do not wanna miss this! The Plug (1:04). The Interview (3:09). Partnering with Fat Possum Records for such an experimental record (3:53). The philosophy behind the sound of REVELATOR (9:50). The distinct Indian Classical / Middle Eastern influence on the production of REVELATOR (16:30). The collaborative recording process of REVELATOR (18:01). How We Buy Diabetic Test Strips influenced the creation of REVELATOR (20:35). The key inspirations behind the poignant lyricism of REVELATOR (26:50). The sense of more direct and clear lyrical messaging on REVELATOR (29:54). What inspires E L U C I D to take risks and experiment in his art (40:00). What E L U C I D is most proud of, regarding the creation of REVELATOR (46:52). The upcoming E L U C I D x Sebb Bash album (52:04). Upcoming merch / tour dates from E L U C I D (54:00). Why E L U C I D always has that s*** on - RMPP patron q from TreDoes (56:48). Support REVELATOR here: https://fatpossum.com/products/revelator  Follow E L U C I D on Twitter here: https://x.com/elucidwho  Follow E L U C I D on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/cobratoof/?hl=en  Intro/Outro beat by: BLOODBLIXING -- Fiending for some more quality rap content? Visit the RMPP website: https://rmpp.squarespace.com/ Want to support and help us grow? Become a RMPP Patron, and gain access to exclusive content: https://www.patreon.com/therapmusicplugpodcast  Looking to connect? DM me @rapmusicplugpod on Twitter and Instagram, or shoot me an email at qlctv.podcast@gmail.com

When thinking about today’s guest, it reminds me of that famous Shakespearian saying, “what’s in a name?” Since for certain artists, their name can be completely meaningless, having no bearing on the kind of music they make, or has no insightful backstory for how the name came about. But for ØKSE, our guest in today’s episode, their name actually says a lot about their art, and what they stand for. ØKSE means Axe in Danish, which is also Ashe; the life-force that runs through all things, living and inanimate. It’s a current or flow, a groove that initiates can channel so that it carries them along their road in life. This is beautifully symbolic name perfectly encapsulates what makes this experimental jazz group so damn great. Throughout their self-titled debut album, released on Backwoodz Studioz, there’s a special energy that is bottled up in each song that makes the listening experience truly invigorating. ØKSE is a 4-person group, comprised of NYC based drummer Savannah Harris, Danish saxophonist Mette Rasmussen, Haitian electronic musician Val Jeanty, and Swede Petter Eldh on bass, synths and sampler. This worldwide supergroup of musicians brought their specific influences to the table, creating a musical vision that defies any and all convention With me today is 3 of the 4 bandmates, Savannah, Mette, and Petter. Additionally Dash Lewis, talented writer for the likes of Pitchfork, HipHopDX, The Guardian, PassionWeiss, helped me co-host this interview once again, as he did in the last episode… and just like the last episode, this is a conversation you do not want to miss! We dive into the intriguing backstory behind the band’s formation, their artistic north star, the Backwoodz Studioz connection, and their unique approach to blending avant-garde jazz with hip-hop on their fantastic new album… which is absolutely one of the best records of the year. The Plug (0:44). The Interview (3:28). The band’s formation (5:15). Backstory of ØKSE’s connection with Backwoodz Studioz (7:53). The philosophical ‘north star’ behind ØKSE’s music (18:29). The recording process of ØKSE (22:01). Mixing studio and live creation on ØKSE (29:28). The thought process behind adding vocalists to ØKSE (33:19 ). Core messages from ØKSE (39:04). Follow-up ØKSE album? - RMPP patron q from Ryan aka LEVITATOR (42:08). Upcoming solo works from the band members (44:27). Support ØKSE here: https://backwoodzstudioz.com/collections/okse?srsltid=AfmBOoqyiTu1wL3FyAWbXJNT60uvA0wsplRSBi6R_2TDadZDsSCkLCYy   Follow ØKSE on Twitter here: https://x.com/OOKSEOOKSE  Follow ØKSE on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/o__kse/  Follow Dash Lewis on Twitter here: https://x.com/gardenerjams?lang=en  Follow Dash Lewis on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/gardenerjams/?hl=en  Intro/Outro beat by: BLOODBLIXING -- Fiending for some more quality rap content? Visit the RMPP website: https://rmpp.squarespace.com/ Want to support and help us grow? Become a RMPP Patron, and gain access to exclusive content: https://www.patreon.com/therapmusicplugpodcast  Looking to connect? DM me @rapmusicplugpod on Twitter and Instagram, or shoot me an email at qlctv.podcast@gmail.com

The worlds of electronic and ambient music have been guests within the world of hip-hop for a long time now. Artists like Travis Scott have successfully integrated these two previously separate guests into hip-hop to great effect. Though at its core, the music of a Travis was hip-hop first, with other ambient and electronic sounds added into the mix on top of that. But with the music from today’s guest, Yungwebster, the math has changed. New York’s Yungwebster shows us what it sounds like when ambient music is the fundamental foundation, with hip-hop weaved as an addition. This leads to music, such as Yungwebster’s latest self-titled album from 2023, which is a one-of-a kind exploration of what is being dubbed “ambient rap”. It boasts thick washed out synths, cavernous basslines, and beautiful ethereal vocals evoking some of the prettiest moments of the cloud rap era. Yungwebster’s melodic auto-tuned vocals serve as an instrument, fully submerged into the beat, yet still making an impact with its songwriting pop that is reminiscent of the best work of a Future or Young Thug. To learn more about something so exciting and wholly fresh, I invited Dash Lewis, talented writer (Pitchfork, HipHopDX, The Guardian, PassionWeiss, and more) to co-host this conversation with Yungwebster, bringing his refined knowledge of electronic music to the table. Listen to this episode to familiarize yourself with an artist that is surely like nothing else you’ve heard before! The Plug (0:53). The Interview (3:03). The intersection between ambient and rap in Yungwebster’s music (5:47). How Yungwebster linked up with premier electronic music label, sferic (8:49). Yungwebster’s key influences in the ambient space (12:33). Yungwebster’s mindstate when creating Yungwebster (14:21). Yungwebster’s instrument-like vocals (17:11). The inspiration behind the different time-shifted versions of songs on Yungwebster (21:40). How Yungwebster nurtured a global network of producers on his self-titled album (24:39). Yungwebster viewing himself as an ambient artist first (27:34). Other ambient rappers Yungwebster recommends (29:20). Upcoming projects from Yungwebster (30:34). Buy/stream Yungwebster here: https://sferic.bandcamp.com/album/yungwebster  Follow Yungwebster on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/yungwebster_/    Follow Dash Lewis on Twitter here: https://x.com/gardenerjams?lang=en  Follow Dash Lewis on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/gardenerjams/?hl=en  Intro/Outro beat by: BLOODBLIXING -- Fiending for some more quality rap content? Visit the RMPP website: https://rmpp.squarespace.com/ Want to support and help us grow? Become a RMPP Patron, and gain access to exclusive content: https://www.patreon.com/therapmusicplugpodcast  Looking to connect? DM me @rapmusicplugpod on Twitter and Instagram, or shoot me an email at qlctv.podcast@gmail.com

Bruiser Brigade has been slowly but surely building a killer crew and catalogue of work - with us today are two of its rising stars. J.U.S is an entertaining and distinctly unique lyricist, producer, and engineer. Squadda B, formerly of Main Attrakionz fame, helped shape the dominating 2010s psychedelic cloud rap scene, and is still innovating and pushing his craft to new places as a solo rapper and producer. Together they’ve created one of 2024’s most wildly fun and entertaining records in 3rd Shift, an album that demands that you play it back to back to back... In this episode, they discuss life in the Bruiser Brigade, their strong synergy as a duo, and their approach to creating their fantastic new album, 3rd Shift. The Plug (0:57). The Interview (2:21). What prompted J.U.S’ focus on rapping (3:21). Squadda B’s ambitions in the latest chapter of his career (5:52). What inspired Squadda B’s recent move to joining Bruiser Brigade (9:43). J.U.S’ perspective on the success and growth of Bruiser Brigade (11:10). The special sauce that J.U.S and Squadda B bring to the Bruiser Brigade collective (15:11). The creative synergy between J.U.S and Squadda B (17:27). How J.U.S and Squadda B levelled up on 3rd Shift (20:16). Sonic experience of 3rd Shift and the Oakland-Detroit connection (23:03). How Squadda B’s production pushed J.U.S’ pen to new heights (35:01). Squadda B’s beatmaking process (38:18). Key takeaways from 3rd Shift (42:16). Upcoming projects / tour dates / merch (45:41). Stream 3rd Shift here: https://open.spotify.com/album/09pLRBbz0UprwveJpmImPT?si=sd6vuOPoQOGzJLnZZ7syAw  Follow J.U.S on Twitter here: https://x.com/i_am_j_u_s  Follow Squadda B on Twitter here: https://x.com/SquaddaB  Follow J.U.S on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/J_U_S/  Follow Squadda B on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/squaddab/?hl=en  Intro/Outro beat by: BLOODBLIXING -- Fiending for some more quality rap content? Visit the RMPP website: https://rmpp.squarespace.com/ Want to support and help us grow? Become a RMPP Patron, and gain access to exclusive content: https://www.patreon.com/therapmusicplugpodcast  Looking to connect? DM me @rapmusicplugpod on Twitter and Instagram, or shoot me an email at qlctv.podcast@gmail.com

As I get closer and closer to my 30s, mortality, the future outlook of society. and my fading youth are consistently ideas that are occupying my mind. So art that speaks to these topics in a thoughtful and insightful way have been especially appreciated as of late. But unlike other genres out there, rap is still quite young. Therefore, there isn’t necessarily a ton of artists out there who are even old enough to provide such an aged perspective. And among those who are, many of whom are the likes of Jay-Z, Nas... who’s primary wisdom seems focused more on wealth-building and respectability politics. That’s why the album we will be spotlighting in today’s episode, Reverberations of a Dead Man’s Ego, is such a breath of fresh air. The mature perspectives we get from Alaska on this album are thoughtful, provocative, and remarkably honest. And they are accompanied by some of the best production we’ve heard from producer steel tipped dove to-date. Listen on to learn about the making of this new album, the generational divide between Gen X and Gen Z, maturing with age, a sober outlook on the future of our society, and much more. The Plug (0:45). The Interview (3:10). Aaron Rodgers’ broken COVID brain (5:01). How Alaska and steel tipped dove’s relationship first formed, and what inspired it (7:58). The shared worldviews between Alaska and dove (15:59). Alaska breaks down a poignant line on “I Don’t Care No More” (19:46). The overarching sentiment of the heavy subject matter on ROADME (26:09). The future outlook for younger generations (31:16). The inspiration of the Reverberations of a Dead Man’s Ego title (38:13). Alaska and dove go back and forth on if ROADME is improvement on their debut (40:19). Favourite songs on ROADME (51:29). Upcoming projects / merch from Alaska and steel tipped dove (54:04). Buy Reverberations of a Dead Man's Ego here: https://thatrapperalaska.bandcamp.com/album/reverberations-of-a-dead-mans-ego  Follow Alaska on Twitter here: https://x.com/Alaska_Atoms  Follow steel tipped dove on Twitter here: https://x.com/steeltippeddove  Follow steel tipped dove on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/steeltippeddove/?hl=en   Intro/Outro beat by: BLOODBLIXING -- Fiending for some more quality rap content? Visit the RMPP website: https://rmpp.squarespace.com/ Want to support and help us grow? Become a RMPP Patron, and gain access to exclusive content: https://www.patreon.com/therapmusicplugpodcast  Looking to connect? DM me @rapmusicplugpod on Twitter and Instagram, or shoot me an email at qlctv.podcast@gmail.com