Episode 508 features the New Old Heads diving deep into the massive Killer Mike and FD Signifier discourse. The panel unpacks Mike's recent Red Bull freestyle and Vic Mensa interview, debating whether moving like a capitalist is a valid survival strategy for black neighborhoods or a detriment to systemic change. We break down the clash between digital ideology and boots-on-the-ground activism, asking if video essays carry the same weight as community organizing. Finally, the crew completely roasts the racist Steam game "Hood Warfare 2," exposing the morbid reality of late-stage rapsploitation and digital blackface.
NOH 507 | "Now who's the boss?"
On this episode we talked about if 50 Cent rapping about gangster toughness or deep-seated fear, if gangster rap just conservatism disguised as street music, if the death of monoculture completely destroyed hip-hop's shared conversation, and more. Get the full two-hour show by becoming a $5 member on either Patreon or YouTube.
NOH 506 | "Respect the architect."
On this episode we talked about Reason saying Sampling Hip Hop should have an automatic clearance, Too Short apologizing for saying he'd go to a Diddy party when he gets out, Bomani Jones having questionable take about Babyface, and more.
NOH 505 | "Things done changed."
Episode 505 features the New Old Heads discussing Charlamagne Tha God's recent criticism of Rick Rubin interviewing Jay-Z for his new HBO docuseries. The panel debates if Rick Rubin was the right person to unpack Jay-Z's legacy, or if the music mogul purposefully selected an interviewer who wouldn't ask challenging questions. The crew explores how their core Hip Hop principles have evolved over the decades, shifting from protecting the underground subculture to accepting Hip Hop as a massive global entity. Finally, we break down Kendrick Lamar shattering the record for the highest-grossing rap tour in history, debating if true Hip Hop authenticity can still exist at a pop-star stadium level.
NOH 504 | "Strictly business."
Episode 504 features the New Old Heads reacting to Colin Kaepernick officially responding to Jay-Z's recent concert freestyle. The panel exposes the reality behind Roc Nation's performative NFL deal and breaks down how Jay-Z hijacked the protest movement for corporate gain. We discuss OutKast's holding company suing underground producer Ovrkast for trademark infringement, debating the necessity of legacy acts protecting their merchandise revenue. Finally, the crew breaks down the explosive podcast feud between Aries Spears and DJ Vlad, exposing the morbid reality of Hip Hop media platforms monetizing beef and dead artists for clicks.
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NOH 503 | "It's bigger than Hip Hop."
Episode 503 features the New Old Heads unpacking Macklemore getting booted from Ed Sheeran's stadium tour after Robert Kraft issued a strict ultimatum over the rapper's pro-Palestinian stance. The panel reacts to Rockwilder stating there is absolutely no difference between a producer and a beatmaker, debating if liner notes even matter in the WeTransfer era. Jay Moore compares Drake's massive streaming success to McDonald's, explaining why billions served still equates to mystery meat. We also draft our ultimate dream producer and artist collaborations for the modern era.
NOH 502 | "Sky's the limit."
Episode 502 features the New Old Heads discussing J Cole thanking God that Jay-Z and Roc Nation didn't rush his stardom when he was 24. The panel debates if modern labels even develop artists anymore and whether career longevity requires living a grounded life. We react to KRS-One proposing "Little Hip Hop" districts in major cities, debating if the idea will just lead to gentrification and displacement. The crew breaks down DJ Akademiks blasting Peter Rosenberg over Kanye West forgiveness, exploring where the line should be drawn between personal relationships and public accountability. Finally, we roast Fat Joe for claiming he is the "blackest" person in the room.
Episode 501 | "What's the price?"
Episode 501 features the New Old Heads reviewing the highly anticipated collaborative album from Erykah Badu and The Alchemist. We discuss Alchemist's organic studio process and debate if the stripped-down beats swallowed Badu's signature soul. The panel reacts to Keefe D officially being found guilty in the 1996 murder of Tupac Shakur, discussing why chasing internet clout led to his ultimate downfall. We debate if Kendrick Lamar winning the BMI Songwriter of the Year award for his "GNX" records proves his music is meaningful or just incredibly popular. Finally, the crew breaks down Mary J. Blige completely selling out for Suno AI and her infamous fast-food chicken commercial.
NOH 501 | "What's the price?"
Episode 501 features the New Old Heads reviewing the highly anticipated collaborative album from Erykah Badu and The Alchemist. We discuss Alchemist's organic studio process and debate if the stripped-down beats swallowed Badu's signature soul. The panel reacts to Keefe D officially being found guilty in the 1996 murder of Tupac Shakur, discussing why chasing internet clout led to his ultimate downfall. We debate if Kendrick Lamar winning the BMI Songwriter of the Year award for his "GNX" records proves his music is meaningful or just incredibly popular. Finally, the crew breaks down Mary J. Blige completely selling out for Suno AI and her infamous fast-food chicken commercial.
NOH 500 | Live At The 808
We celebrated episode 500 by recording a live show in front of an audience at Indy CD & Vinyl's The 808 venue. We talked about 500 episodes and then had guests come up and ask us questions.