Video animation by: Big Flowers Intro/Outro beat by: BLOODBLIXING The Plug (0:43). The Interview (1:49). As a longstanding champion of the music from today’s guest, it’s been such a rewarding experience to witness the growth and incredible artistic vision found on Temple Needs Water. Village Needs Peace, a new collaborative album by Real Bad Man and Lukah. This highly conceptual record left a huge mark on me, providing brilliant moving lyricism, and dazzling with its wonderous musical palette. Lukah joins the show to illustrate how him and Real Bad Man crafted his magnum opus, and one of the frontrunners for Album of the Year. Knocking out Permanently Blackface on the heels of finishing Temple (2:17). The main themes of Temple Needs Water. Village Needs Peace. (5:47). The emotional centerpiece of Temple, “The Burial” (16:57). How Real Bad Man crafted the sound for Temple, incorporating live instrumentation (22:07). The greatness of Real Bad Man (30:44) Collaborations on Temple (32:22). The elevated songwriting and singing on Temple (37:25). Lukah’s upcoming albums with Preservation and Statik Selektah (40:55). Buy Temple Needs Water. Village Needs Peace. here: https://realbadman.bandcamp.com/album/temple-needs-water-village-needs-peace  Follow Lukah on Twitter here: https://twitter.com/biglukah?lang=en  Follow Lukah on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/biglukah/?hl=en  -- 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

Video animation by: Big Flowers Intro/Outro beat by: BLOODBLIXING The Plug (0:40). The Interview (2:08). An iconic rap album is more than just beats and rhymes. It’s the interludes, the cover artwork that set the foundation for the image we as listeners associate with the music. All of those elements combined, when done exceptionally well, are the ingredients to leaving a true lasting impact on the game. Today’s guests, DøøF and NCL-TM, are determined to leave a similar level of imprint on the underground with their series of NCL​-​D​Ø​Ø​FUS albums. In this episode, we get insight into what sparked this duo to form, why they mesh so well creatively, and learn about how their new album, BULLETPROOF KUFFLINX, further builds on NCL​-​D​Ø​Ø​FUS world they have created. The spark for the NCL-DØØFUS pairing (2:53). The secret sauce that makes the NCL-DØØFUS work (8:19). The musical world of NCL-DØØFUS (13:02). How being in Barcelona impacted what DøøF (18:39). The vintage sound signature of BULLETPROOF KUFFLINX (25:16). How BULLETPROOF KUFFLINX connects to the other NCL-DØØFUS records (38:57). Upcoming projects / merch / tour (51:44). Buy BULLETPROOF KUFFLINX here: https://safdoofus.bandcamp.com/album/ncl-d-fus-3-bulletproof-kufflinx  Follow DøøF on Twitter here: https://twitter.com/757doofus  Follow NCL-TM on Twitter here: https://twitter.com/UNCLETiMband  Follow DøøF on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/757doofus/  Follow NCL-TM on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/ncl_tm/  -- 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

Video animation by: Big Flowers Intro/Outro beat by: BLOODBLIXING The Plug (0:49). The Interview (3:31). Nourished by Time is an artist who is on pace to becoming one of my favourites… of all time. After dropping Erotic Probiotic 2, an album that made my top 5 of 2023, Nourished by Time’s stock has risen tremendously. And not just in my personal musical world. On the heels of recently signing to XL, his unique blend of retro synthpop, classic R&B, rock and hip-hop flavours has been growing in popularity by the day. I was blessed to have Marcus of Nourished by Time on the show, just a day after his new EP, Catching Chickens, just released. In this episode we discuss his approach to songwriting, thoughts on his current rise in recognition, the impact of Erotic Probiotic 2, and his incredible new EP, Catching Chickens. Nourished by Time is quickly shaping up to be a generational talent, so you do not wanna miss this episode. Marcus’ self-belief in his art (3:38). The political consciousness in Nourished by Time’s music (7:28). The emotional impact of creating music (17:26). Nourished by Time’s musical ear (20:07). How hip-hop informs Nourished by Time’s music (27:17). How musical schooling helped Marcus’ artistic development (33:04). The lasting impression of Erotic Probiotic 2 (40:24). What Nourished by Time’s music says about himself as a person (43:19). Marcus’ mindstate creating Catching Chickens (47:07). The recording process of Catching Chickens (56:53). The sound direction of Catching Chickens (58:40). Nourished by Time’s upcoming album, The Passionate Ones (1:02:28). The Super Bowl chances of the Baltimore Ravens in the 2024-25 season (1:06:00). Support Nourished by Time's music here: https://nourishedbytime.bandcamp.com/   Follow Nourished by Time on Twitter here: https://x.com/nourishedbytime?s=20  Follow Nourished by Time on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/nourishedbytime_/?hl=en   -- 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

Video animation by: Big Flowers Intro/Outro beat by: BLOODBLIXING The Plug (0:55). The Interview (2:26). These days, homebase for me musically is calming, grounded music that allows me to weather some of life’s recent storms in my personal life. And so the music of sleepingdogs, the duo comprised of andrew and jesse the tree, has been some of my most played as of late. The way they capture the blues, and articulate their existential thoughts and introspective musings is truly powerful stuff. On top of that, these impactful messages are packaged with a ton of melody, tender vocals, and rock-infused production that makes their songs hit that much harder. andrew and jesse’s chemistry is remarkable; they are a match made in heaven, and they join the show to explain why their pairing works so well, how they approached the creation of their recent solo works, and their brand new sleepingdogs album, will we ever dance again? sleepingdogs origin story (3:36). The sleepingdogs creative chemistry (7:22). How jesse and andrew are similar as people (16:49). The sleepingdogs sound (23:32). What andrew is most proud of with don’t forget me bluest. (31:01). The intent behind Not Fade Away (36:49). Not Fade Away’s production (39:08). Key inspirations and topical focuses of will we ever dance again? (41:44). How sleepingdogs’ chemistry grew creating will we ever dance again? (48:06). The evolution of sleepingdogs’ sound on their new LP (51:33). Favourite songs off will we ever dance again? (56:20). Upcoming projects from sleepingdogs (58:32). Stream/buy will we ever dance again? here: [link coming on March 14] Follow jesse on Twitter here: https://twitter.com/jessethetree401?lang=en  Follow andrew on Twitter here: https://twitter.com/andrewwwdotnet?lang=en  Follow jesse on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/jessethetree/?hl=en  Follow andrew on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/searchableandrew/?hl=en  -- 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

Video animation by: Big Flowers Intro/Outro beat by: BLOODBLIXING The Plug (0:39). The Interview (2:07). Throughout my life, music has consistently been a vital channel for me to process emotions and make sense of the world. Very few artists have allowed me to explore the darkness and melancholy swirling around in my head quite like Sadistik. Since the moment I first heard Sadistik’s music over a decade ago, I was taken aback by his beautifully-poetic and vulnerable approach to creating hip-hop music. He also had a knack for collaborating with producers who understand his artistic vision - creating moody, dark, and cinematic soundscapes for his words, working with the likes of Blue Sky Black Death, Kno of CunninLynguists fame, and most recently Maulskull, the producer for his latest opus, Oblivion Theater. In today’s episode we dive into Sadistik’s affinity for the darker things in life, his writing process, and the makings of his great new album with Maulskull, Oblivion Theater. Sadistik’s affinity for darker subject matter (2:36). The personal experience of creating such emotional and heavy music (9:46). Origins of Sadistik’s interest in horror, human psyche, and filmmaking (12:31). How Sadistik discovered his signature sound (20:41). Sadistik’s writing process (24:45). Sadistik and Kno’s creative connection (30:45). The production vision for Oblivion Theater (34:36). Key inspiration behind Oblivion Theater (37:12). Oblivion Theater’s messaging (40:17). Major rap influences for Sadistik (46:46). Upcoming projects / tour dates / merch (50:39). Stream/buy Oblivion Theater here: https://sadistik.bandcamp.com/album/oblivion-theater   Support Sadistik here: https://www.sadistikmusic.com/  Follow Sadistik on Twitter here: https://x.com/IAMSADISTIK?s=20  Follow Sadistik on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/sadistik/  -- 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

Video animation by: Big Flowers Intro/Outro beat by: BLOODBLIXING The Plug (0:46). The Interview (2:46). Few things have been more important to me in my life than hip-hop music. Growing up, I lacked identity and a sense of community. So as I continued to listen to more and more hip-hop music in my teens and early 20s, it quickly became a key vessel for me to learn about the world and connect with a culture, and ethos that I resonated with. And yet, as an Indian guy, it was rare that I ever saw someone who looked liked me that was contributing to this artform that I loved so much. It was hard to see how I fit in, if at all. This all changed once I heard the music of Heems, known for his work in Das Racist, Swet Shop Boys, and as a solo artist. Hailing from Queens, NY, Heems has successfully injected his Indian roots into a brand of witty, thoughtful rap... and invariably helped me see that there was space for people like me in hip-hop after all. So I’m pleased to welcome Heems, as well as Chicago-based producer Lapgan to the show, who produced the wonderful instrumental album History from last year, as well as the new collaborative album with Heems, LAFANDAR. In today’s episode, we talk about incorporating Indian culture into hip-hop, Heems’ new venture Veena, and the making of this incredibly creative new album, LAFANDAR. Heems’ experience ingratiating himself in hip-hop culture (4:00). Importance of desi representation (7:37). Heems’ legacy (13:52). The inspiration behind Heems’ new venture, Veena (20:04). The features on LAFANDAR (28:58). Inspiration behind Lapgan’s 2023 instrumental album, History (32:28). The untapped potential of Indian music in hip-hop sampling (36:30). The LAFANDAR listening experience (43:21). The musical direction behind LAFANDAR (52:09). Heems’ witty, often hyper-referential, raps on LAFANDAR (56:46). The natural creative relationship Heems and Lapgan (59:21). The political focus in Heems’ music (1:00:48). Upcoming projects / merch / tour dates (1:03:26). Support Veena and LAFANDAR here: https://www.veena.nyc/  Support The Olive Tape (feat. Heems), which was compiled to raise funds for humanitarian aid in Palestine here: https://theolivetape.bandcamp.com/album/the-olive-tape  Follow Heems on Twitter here: https://twitter.com/HIMANSHU  Follow Lapgan on Twitter here: https://twitter.com/lapganMusic   Follow Heems on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/nehrujackets/?hl=en  Follow Lapgan on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/lapganlapgan/?hl=en  -- 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

Video animation by: Big Flowers Intro/Outro beat by: BLOODBLIXING The Plug (0:21) For me, 2023 was the year of “oh wow, thank you”. This was a refrain I found myself more or less saying, time and time again. It signified a genuine gratitude for whatever nice thing some other person said to me, virtually, or IRL… but also signified that I was genuinely taken aback by the love, and that it has been an odd thing to adjust to. It’s one thing to receive praise for something you’re successful at. It’s another thing entirely to receive praise for something you’re successful at that also actually means a lot to you. This has been my experience with this podcast this year. Thank you for listening… words cannot describe my gratitude. In the spirit of gratitude, I will dive into detail into defined my 2023… through the lens of my favourite music, and hand out some awards along the way. Welcome to the 4th Annual RMPP Awards!!! The 4th Annual RMPP Awards intro (1:59). Best Rap in a Supporting Role (3:13). Hook of the Year (6:57). Beat of the Year (8:39). Producer of the Year (10:45). Rapper of the Year (12:52). Top Albums of the Year structure (16:06). The RMPP 25: my top 25 albums, inclusive of all genres (18:49). The full categorized list of the RMPP's Top 100 Albums of 2023 can be found here: https://rmpp.squarespace.com/episodes/163-4th-annual-rmpps Final reflection (36:15). -- 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

Video animation by: Big Flowers Intro/Outro beat by: BLOODBLIXING The Plug (0:48). The Interview (1:53). The living embodiment of all that is great about Detroit hip-hop - distinct sound and originality in spades - represents Bruiser Wolf to a tee. Bruiser Wolf is part of the Danny Brown-led collective, Bruiser Brigade, home of some of the most forward-thinking hip-hop coming out of Detroit. Wolf is known as one of the funniest rappers alive, with a voice unlike anyone else’s. In today's episode we discuss the creative decisions involved in his distinct artistic approach, having faith in his career as an artist, Bruiser Brigade, and how he created his excellent new album, My Story Got Stories. Bruiser Wolf's writing process (2:52). Bruiser Wolf’s approach to humour (7:57). Bruiser Wolf’s faith in his music career (17:00). How Bruiser Wolf connected with Bruiser Brigade (24:18). Influence of Danny Brown (26:24). The Bruiser Brigade environment (30:31). Bruiser Wolf’s initial reaction to finally dropping My Story Got Stories, 36 hours after its release (33:21). The My Story Got Stories listening experience (40:20). The stories Bruiser Wolf wanted to share on My Story Got Stories (45:18). How Bruiser Wolf improved on his craft through creating My Story Got Stories (48:19). Upcoming music / tour dates / merch from Bruiser Wolf (50:59). Bruiser Wolf’s Rams-Lions NFC Wildcard prediction (that was eerily accurate) (55:41). Support Bruiser Wolf and buy My Story Got Stories here: https://bruiserwolf.com/  Follow Bruiser Wolf on Twitter here: https://x.com/theebruiserwolf?s=20  Follow Bruiser Wolf on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/_bruiserwolf/?hl=en  -- 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

Video animation by: Big Flowers Intro/Outro beat by: BLOODBLIXING The Plug (0:51). The Interview (2:08). As soon as you here the iconic, “HEY TONY” tag, you know you’re about to hear an absolutely banging beat. With me today is Tony Seltzer, a Brooklyn-based producer who’s known for his catchy ear-grabbing beats that feature hard drums and booming bass. Tony’s catalog casts a wide net, having worked with major-label artists, as well as artists on the cutting-edge of the indie scene. He's produced albums with the likes of WiFiGawd, Gabe ‘Nandez, and most recently, Wiki with 14K Figaro… one of the best albums of this past year. In this episode, Tony gives us insight into the development of his signature sound, the inspiring story about how he made the leap to being a full-time producer as his career, and the making of his great recent collab records in Pangea and 14K Figaro. Tony’s iconic producer tag (3:22). The signature Tony Seltzer sound (6:18). Advice on how other producers can find their signature sound (10:39). Tony’s production process (15:19). How Wiki impacted Tony’s career (19:37). Taking the leap to becoming a full-time artist (23:17). What makes a Tony x MC collab special (29:29). How Tony’s relationship with Gabe ‘Nandez formed to create Pangea (33:23). How Tony’s presence and production helped unlock Wiki’s vulnerability on 14K Figaro - RMPP patron q from Dan-O (37:02). What creating 14K Figaro meant for Tony on a personal and artistic level (40:32). Tony’s vision for 14K Figaro’s sound (43:44). Upcoming projects to look out for from Tony (48:37). Buy 14K Figaro here: https://wiksetnyc.bandcamp.com/album/14k-figaro  Support Tony Seltzer's music here: https://tonyseltzer.bandcamp.com/  Follow Tony Seltzer on Twitter here: https://x.com/tonyseltzer?s=20  Follow Tony Seltzer on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/tony_seltzer/?hl=en  -- 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

Video animation by: Big Flowers Intro/Outro beat by: BLOODBLIXING The Plug (0:44). The Interview (2:28). I love rap because not every collab needs to “make sense” on first glance. As long as the artists in question are on the same page artistically, know their strengths, and are willing to take risks and compromise when needed, the results can be great. This is precisely what we get with today’s guests, Uncommon Nasa and Guilty Simpson, on their latest collaborative album, Escalation. As highly respected veterans in their respective hometown hubs of hip-hop, they possess a strong connection as it relates to their perspectives on the craft, and how they approach making music. In today’s episode, this dynamic duo talks about key lessons they learnt from their careers (involving legendary artists like Dilla, Sean Price, and the original Def Jux crew), their artistic development, the Detroit hip-hop sound really, and the creation of their latest musically exhilarating collaborative album, Escalation. Current era of rap vs. pre-internet era of rap (3:32). Mainstream hip-hop scene (22:11). Key lessons Nasa learnt from his early days working on Def Jux projects (30:55). The Detroit hip-hop sound (46:02). It Was Written > Illmatic??? (49:55). Nasa’s experience mastering engineering, producing, and rapping (53:45). How Sean Price inspired Guilty (57:53). The sound of Escalation (1:04:23). How Guilty was challenged as an MC on Escalation (1:22:45). Primary lyrical themes of Escalation (1:29:12). Upcoming music / merch / tour dates (1:35:46). Buy Escalation here: https://uncommonrecords.bandcamp.com/album/escalation  Support Uncommon Records here: https://www.uncommonnasa.com/  Follow Guilty Simpson on Twitter here: https://twitter.com/guiltysimpson  Follow Uncommon Nasa on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/uncommonnasa/  Follow Guilty Simpson on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/guiltysimpson/  -- 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

Video animation by: Big Flowers Intro/Outro beat by: BLOODBLIXING The Plug (0:44). The Interview (2:08). On this show, I know I’ve used terms like "unique", or "one-of-a-kind" quite a bit to describe the artists I’ve had on this show. But I promise you, today’s guests truly embody these terms to the fullest degree. maassai and JWords, otherwise known as H31R, are a duo hailing from Brooklyn who sport an ingenious sound that blends electronics and drum n bass elements with hip-hop, supplied by producer JWords. These sounds are paired with confident, heady, and effortlessly fly rhymes from the MC of the group, maassai. Great in their own right as solo artists, together they are an entirely different beast. In this episode, we discuss their chemistry as a duo, the origin story of H31R, growth and maturation, as well as the making of their fantastic AOTY contender released under Big Dada, HeadSpace. H31R’s fanbase (3:10). Big Dada signing (5:12). H31R origin story and the inspiration behind this partnership (9:04). The vision for the H31R sound (11:28). The basis of maassai and JWords’ chemistry (13:22). How maassai and JWords push each other’s artistry to new places (16:48). How solo work feeds back into the H31R creative process (22:13). Inspiration behind the introspective lyricism on HeadSpace (24:23). Production approach on HeadSpace (33:04). The cohesive structure of HeadSpace (37:57). Key learnings from ve·loc·i·ty that they applied to HeadSpace (40:44). Favourite songs on HeadSpace (45:30). Upcoming projects / tour dates / merch (50:56). Support H31R's music here: https://h31r.bandcamp.com/music  Follow JWords on Twitter here: https://twitter.com/_jwords  Follow maassai on Twitter here: https://twitter.com/maassai_  Follow H31R on Twitter here: https://twitter.com/_H31R  Follow JWords on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/_jwords/  Follow maassai on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/maassai_/?hl=en  Follow H31R on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/_h31r/?hl=en  -- 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

Video animation by: Big Flowers Intro/Outro beat by: BLOODBLIXING The Plug (0:21). The Interview (1:57). So I’m kind of annoying when it comes to certain things with music. Albums where the last verse isn’t from the main artist? It just doesn’t feel right. Remixes? I’m oddly wed to the original. And finally, producer albums with a bunch of different rappers on it are another type of record, where I don't usually gravitate towards. I’m just such a concept and theme guy I guess. But I am a fair man... Today’s guest on the show, New York-based producer Blockhead, recently dropped an album that was so good it overcame my annoying biases with The Aux, released on Backwoodz Studioz. I caught up with the very talented and very funny and personable producer to understand how he’s approached collaboration with some of the genre’s finest lyricists in Aesop Rock and billy woods, discuss his perspectives on the current production landscape, and the makings of his terrific new album. How the production process differs on instrumental albums vs. working with rappers (3:31). Most important traits as a producer (8:02). How the act of creating music unlocks emotion (12:03). What Blockhead looks for in a rap collaborator (18:38). Blockhead’s take on the current hip-hop production landscape (21:40). How Blockhead’s relationship with woods came to be (30:52). The sound direction of The Aux (34:29). How the billy woods executive production hand guided the creation of The Aux (41:23). Blockhead on “challenging fans” with The Aux (46:12). The making of the electric RXKNephew feature on The Aux (53:49). Collaborations that surprised Blockhead the most - RMPP patron q from Jarvis (57:44). Blockhead’s favourite songs off The Aux (59:49). Upcoming music / tour dates / merch (1:01:28). Support Blockhead's music here: https://blockheadnyc.bandcamp.com/ Follow Blockhead on Twitter here: https://x.com/BlockheadNYC?s=20 Follow Blockhead on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/blockheadnyc/?hl=en  -- 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

Video animation by: Big Flowers Intro/Outro beat by: BLOODBLIXING The Plug (0:21). The Interview (1:49). To me, one of the things that impresses me the most about music is its ability to make me care about life experiences, perspectives, and topics that I either don’t know anything about, or have no relation to my current day-to-day life. Today’s guest, rapper-producer Pink Navel from Massachusetts, is a prime example of being so good at what they do, that they make me care about something I normally could care less about. This thing in question being video games, because on Pink Navel’s latest album fully produced by Kenny Segal, How to Capture Playful, the whimsical passion, lyrical and musical brilliance all combine to create one of the strongest albums of 2023 with video games as its core foundational subject. In this episode, Pink Navel dives into their expressive style of rap, Ruby Yacht, and the makings of their terrific brand-new album. Accessibility in Pink Navel’s music and speaking to different audiences in their music (2:28). The emotional experience creating rap music (5:32). The Ruby Yacht ethos (7:28). How R.A.P. Ferreira inspires Pink Navel (11:38). Pink Navel’s close relationship with their fans (14:54). Pink Navel’s perspective on internet culture (18:45). Centering How to Capture Playful around gaming (27:32). Making connections between video games and real-life (32:30). Kenny Segal’s production on How to Capture Playful (38:33). Pink Navel’s rapping performance on How to Capture Playful (43:03). Upcoming projects / tour dates / merch (45:30). Support Pink Navel's music here: https://pinknavel.bandcamp.com/music  Buy physicals of How to Capture Playful here: https://kennysegal.bandcamp.com/album/how-to-capture-playful-vinyl-tapes-preorder  Follow Pink Navel on Twitter here: https://x.com/pinknavelonline?s=20  Follow Pink Navel on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/dotdev_/?hl=en  -- 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

Video animation by: Big Flowers Intro/Outro beat by: BLOODBLIXING The Plug (0:21). The Interview (1:48). The ability to be authentically yourself is a superpower. It makes people feel more comfortable around you, and gravitate towards you because there is a certain solidness or realness about you that people can latch on to. This is a concept that 100% applies to music, and in particular rap, which is a type of music that is heavily based on the listener caring about the artist’s personality and character - not just their technical skill. Although it certainly is nice when both the skill and the authenticity are present, which is precisely the case with Portland rapper, Milc. Milc is one of the most talented and genuinely funny rappers out right now, who is making an increasingly large mark on the game. His recent run is punctuated by a string of collaborative records with talented producers, such as Televangel and goldenbeets. Milc joins the show today to talk about how he injects his personality into his music, his key influences, and the makings of his two most recent records from 2023, Horseradish and The Fish That Saved Portland. The backstory behind is simple, but dope rap name (4:13). Portland hip-hop scene (5:38). Injecting personality in Milc’s music (10:28). Sean Price, and other key influences for Milc (17:35). The warm welcome Milc has received from the current indie rap scene (22:16). The making of Horseradish with goldenbeets (23:49). The importance of shining a light on his hometown on The Fish That Saved Portland (27:39). Milc’s experience working with Televangel (33:33). How Milc has grown from Neutral Milc Motel to The Fish That Saved Portland (36:10). Upcoming projects / merch / tour dates (40:12). Buy/stream The Fish That Saved Portland here: https://televangel.bandcamp.com/album/the-fish-that-saved-portland   Follow Milc on Twitter here: https://twitter.com/MILCMANE  Follow Milc on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/milcmane/?hl=en  -- 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

Video animation by: Big Flowers Intro/Outro beat by: BLOODBLIXING The Plug (0:21). The Interview (1:46). For those who heard the last bonus episode I released, or follow me on Twitter, it should come to you as no surprise that I absolutely adore Leather Blvd., an album created by Pink Siifu and Ahwlee, as B. Cool-Aid. This was a record that did so much good to my spirit, helping me get through some really tough times this year. Therefore, I’m sure you can imagine how honoured I feel to welcome Pink Siifu to the show to not only dive into the creation of this masterpiece, but also discuss what he’s learnt from legendary musicians, his chameleon-like versatility as an artist, and how he approaches collaboration. We also get some insight into his brand new surprise album, that just dropped a day ago on Halloween, IT'S TOO QUIET…'!!, a collaborative record with Cincinnati's-own Turich Benjy, who also makes a special appearance towards the end of this conversation. So it goes without saying that you certainly won’t wanna miss this! How Siifu maintains his identity no matter what style of music he makes (2:14). Siifu’s trademark voice (5:05). The influence of D’Angelo and Erykah Badu on Siifu (8:37). The role Siifu hopes his music plays in helping those in need (13:19). Siifu’s mastery of collaboration (17:11). The feeling Siifu wanted listeners to takeaway from Leather Blvd. (19:53). The importance of expressing a diverse take on romance in Siifu’s music (26:00). The greatness of Ahwlee (27:51). The recording process of Leather Blvd. (29:28). Introducing Turich Benjy (32:54). Turich’s primary musical influences (34:15). The making of Ultrasound (35:51). What drew Turich and Siifu together (37:47). The musical experience of IT'S TOO QUIET…'!! (40:20). The chemistry between Siifu and Turich (46:09). Shout outs and upcoming work to look out for (50:21). Stream IT'S TOO QUIET…'!! here: https://open.spotify.com/album/17hUD5VessLUxX5pqBi2Av?si=Dc0eyUSkSf6mpiXk9234Zg  Follow Pink Siifu on Twitter here: https://x.com/PinkSiifu?s=20  Follow Turich Benjy on Twitter here: https://x.com/turichbenjy?s=20  Follow Pink Siifu on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/pinksiifu/?hl=en  Follow Turich Benjy on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/turichbenjy/?hl=en  -- 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

Video animation by: Big Flowers Intro/Outro beat by: BLOODBLIXING The Plug (0:21). The Interview (2:05). As a 28 year-old hip-hop head, I’d like to say that I’m still somewhat young. So given this youth of mine, I haven’t been able to witness many of the greatest movements or waves in hip-hop history firsthand. I wasn’t even alive when Wu first jumped onto the scene. I could barely form sentences when Company Flow’s debut album dropped But that thankfully has not been the case with what Backwoodz Studioz, and in particular what today’s guests in billy woods and E L U C I D, have blessed listeners with so far in their careers. For over a decade now, I’ve been able to follow these two refine their craft and expand on their brand of phenomenally rich, creative, and thoughtful hip-hop music that scratches all of the itches I have in music. All of which is funneled into this style of rap that makes the term “one-of-a-kind”, feel somehow too generic of a descriptor for what these two really do. I’m pleased to have Armand Hammer on the show to discuss what makes their creative connection so special, the makings of one of the best albums I’ve ever heard (no hyperbole) in We Buy Diabetic Test Strips, and much, much more! Enjoy! Perspective on recent successes and acclaim (2:27). Perception of Armand Hammer’s growing fanbase (9:16). How woods and E L U C I D complement each other’s artistry (16:49). How the creative direction for an Armand Hammer album is established - RMPP patron q from TreDoes (24:52). The origin of the We Buy Diabetic Test Strips album title (25:41). The core themes of WBDTS (28:58). The catalyst for the live instrumentation backbone for WBDTS (38:27). The inspiration behind the very experimental and ambitious sound of WBDTS (43:13). Aspects of WBDTS that Armand Hammer were most proud of / found uniquely challenging (51:39). Armand Hammer’s favourite songs off WBDTS (1:02:00). Prominent use of vocal manipulation on WBTDS (1:06:57). What Armand Hammer would like their legacy to be (1:08:17). Shoutouts to other great music and collaborators within the Armand Hammer / Backwoodz multiverse (1:09:13). JPEGMAFIA’s pants / E L U C I D’s fashion trend forecast (1:12:36). Buy We Buy Diabetic Test Strips here: https://fatpossum.com/products/we-buy-diabetic-test-strips Support Backwoodz Studioz here: https://backwoodzstudioz.com/  Follow billy woods on Twitter here: https://twitter.com/BackwoodzHipHop Follow E L U C I D on Twitter here: https://twitter.com/elucidwho Follow billy woods on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/backwoodzstudioz/  Follow E L U C I D on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/cobratoof/?hl=en  Follow Armand Hammer on Twitter here: https://twitter.com/ArmandHammerNYC  Follow Armand Hammer on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/armandhammernyc/?hl=en -- 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

Video animation by: Big Flowers Intro/Outro beat by: BLOODBLIXING The Plug (0:21). Main Body of Discussion (2:06). The ability to have tough conversations about complex topics is an art. It requires not only a great deal of nuanced knowledge on a topic to speak thoughtfully on it, but it also requires a great deal of self-awareness and empathy. On The Golem of Brooklyn OST, Defcee successfully has one of these tough conversations with the community of white Jewish people he is a part of. He uses Adam Mansbach’s new novel as inspiration to depict thoughtful, and funny stories related to Jewish ideals and folklore in a contemporary context. Furthermore, Defcee levies criticisms that he has for his people, delivered from a place of love and understanding. This concept is bolstered by the mystical, tone-setting instrumentals from the one and only Messiah Musik, who joins me alongside Defcee to dig deep into the makings of one of the best albums of the year, bar none. Vast differences in how The Golem of Brooklyn was created vs. Trapdoor (3:48). Main themes of Adam Mansbach’s novel, and what inspired the soundtrack’s creation (8:18).  Adam Mansbach’s involvement in the creative process of the soundtrack (15:55). How the concept shaped Messiah’s approach to the soundtrack’s sound (18:13). The important conversation Defcee wanted to have with the Jewish community on The Golem of Brooklyn (22:50). The timing of sharing these perspectives related to Judaism and whiteness, given the context of the heightened attention on anti-Semitism in the current socio-political climate (30:46). What Defcee and Messiah took away from The Golem creative process, as it relates to their experience as white Jewish people (39:19). How much of The Golem of Brooklyn was based on the content of the book vs. personal experience (44:22). Favourite songs (45:53). Upcoming projects from Defcee and Messiah Musik** (54:02). **For insight specifically related to the next Defcee and Messiah Musik project, this is available as a patron-only exclusive! Become an RMPP patron to learn about the exciting new project these two have upcoming. Buy/Stream The Golem of Brooklyn OST here: https://defcee.bandcamp.com/album/the-golem-of-brooklyn-original-soundtrack  Follow Defcee on Twitter here: https://twitter.com/defcee  Follow Messiah Musik on Twitter here: https://x.com/theMessiahMusik?s=20  Follow Defcee on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/defcee/  Follow Messiah Musik on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/messiah_musik/?hl=en  -- 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

Video animation by: Big Flowers Intro/Outro beat by: BLOODBLIXING Beginning of Episode (1:05). This edition of the Conversation Pieces series is the most ambitious and personal thing I've ever done. It almost felt a bit too close to home to put out publicly, but honestly... creating this was truly a prime example of that 'writing = therapy' trope. Leather Blvd. is an album that soundtracked the happiest time of my entire life. This record was chock-full of musical brilliance. But more importantly, Leather Blvd was so impactful to me, due to its raw expression of romance. Through the lens of a recent event in my personal life, I explore the bountiful emotional richness of this album, and how music is so intrinsically intertwined with real emotions, memories, and experiences that we have. I already thought that Leather Blvd. was a personal classic to me. But after the other night, it holds an even more special place in my heart, because it truly helped me heal in a time of need. This is the last bonus episode for a little while because an onslaught of big guests will be coming on the show in the next two months…. Buy/stream Leather Blvd. here: https://bcoolaid.bandcamp.com/album/leather-blvd  -- 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

Video animation by: Big Flowers Intro/Outro beat by: BLOODBLIXING The Plug (0:21). The Interview (1:49). There’s a reason why people say that traveling and seeing the world is good for you. It naturally expands your worldview and exposes you to different ways of living, and thinking. In other words, it makes you smarter and more interesting. Both things apply to today’s guest, NY-based rapper Gabe ‘Nandez. Gabe has spent much of his childhood and early adulthood living cross-continent, which has fueled his music with worldly perspective, and colourful multilingual elements. With one of the most rapper voice rapper voices you’ll ever hear, Gabe has delivered some of my favourite albums of the year. Pangea dropped months ago, fully produced by the electric Tony Seltzer. H.T. III, his latest album fully produced by argov, which just released today (September 20, 2023). Listen on to hear how Gabe crafted these recent albums, and the inspiring story about how music quite literally saved his life. How Gabe’s cross-continent childhood influenced his music (2:10). Incorporating French into Gabe’s music (7:14). Gabe priding himself on being unique (12:38). How it felt being featured on billy woods’ Aethiopes track, “Sauvages” (13:43). How Gabe cultivates confidence within himself (17:32). What inspired Gabe to pursue rap (21:12). How rap saved Gabe’s life (23:46). Working with Tony Seltzer on Pangea (27:48). The idea of “collective unconsciousness”, as it relates to the making of Pangea (31:25). The significance of H.T. III serving as the follow-up to Gabe’s debut album from 2014 (35:15). What inspired Gabe to link up with argov to produce the entirety of H.T. III (37:18). Lyrical themes on H.T. III (38:41). Upcoming / current work from Gabe (44:22). Support Gabe Nandez's music here: https://gabenandez.bandcamp.com/music  Follow Gabe 'Nandez on Twitter here: https://x.com/GabeNandez?s=20  Follow Gabe 'Nandez on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/p/CL7KKxDBEgK/  -- 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

Video animation by: Big Flowers Intro/Outro beat by: BLOODBLIXING Beginning of Episode (1:05). This edition of the Conversation Pieces series is a little different, and music-adjacent at best to be honest. In what was mostly a therapeutic exercise, I explored how my love for music was borne out of a dark place, and what that made me realize about myself. It may sound like a depressing listen, but I promise that it ends on a happy note. If you end up checking out this super rap music focused bonus episode… Don’t worry, we’ll be back to regularly scheduled programming with some amazing guests soon enough, I promise Thanks for listening to me publicly vent when no one asked; and I invite you to reflect on how music first became a major component in your life, maybe you’ll learn something new about yourself like I did. -- 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