Episode 498 features the New Old Heads breaking down the truth behind Kendrick Lamar cutting off The Game, exposing how the 100 video shoot in Compton and the genius timing of "6:16 In LA" proved Kendrick was always 10 steps ahead. We also react to Drake warning his rivals that his "pen isn't dry," debating if his constant need for validation prevents him from establishing a fresh chapter. Finally, we analyze the absolute best argument against AI in Hip Hop, discussing why prompting a computer makes you a project manager, not a creative.
NOH 497 | "Men lie, numbers don't."
On episode 497 we talked about 9th wonder's statement on Sway saying we should give the youth some grace about learning about older music, a discussion on T-Pain talking about selling his catalogue that turned into a talk on legacy, and Sylvan Lacue talking about him rejecting a Roc Nation deal and if Jay is more business minded than culture minded. That and more.
NOH 496 | "Big bank."
Episode 496 features the New Old Heads (along with guest Brotha2daKnight) breaking down the internet beef between Memphis Bleek and Uncle Murda. We debate why older artists are trading their Hip Hop legacy for digital clout. We also discuss Big Daddy Kane demanding relentless originality from modern artists, unpacking why Tyler, The Creator and Kendrick Lamar represent the ultimate blueprint for longevity. Finally, we tackle the corporate push for AI in Hip Hop production and how generative tech threatens the future of real musicians.
NOH 495 | "Guess who's back."
On episode 495 we talked iShowSpeed performing at the World Cup closing ceremonies, Hip Hop sampling and if its appeal has changed, Post Malone potentially making a fusion rap/Hip Hop comeback, and more.
NOH 494 | "Buddy took a check."
Episode 494 features the New Old Heads breaking down Jay-Z's historic three-night anniversary residency at Yankee Stadium. We discuss his flawless execution of Reasonable Doubt and The Blueprint, and debate if the success of the concert proves that older Hip Hop legends can still draw massive stadium crowds. We also address DJ Funk Flex comparing Jay-Z's weekend to Kanye West's massive sold-out show in Albania, asking if cancel culture even exists anymore. Finally, we tackle Jay-Z's controversial freestyle subbing Colin Kaepernick, questioning if the billionaire is simply out of touch with the very criticism he is trying to defend against.
NOH 493 | "If the music is sick…"
Episode 493 features guest Brotha2daKnight joining the New Old Heads to debate American sociologist Tricia Rose's recent claim that hip hop now does more harm than good. We unpack whether the culture is truly toxic or if corporate capitalism is to blame for the aesthetics pushed to the forefront. We also discuss independent rapper Prof getting disqualified by Billboard after selling 30,000 physical albums and debate if the charts are rigged for major labels. Later, we react to a viral clip suggesting the NBA is actively trying to phase out hip hop-centric players to enforce corporate discipline, and we break down Cam'ron's statement about elite talent getting to do whatever they want.
NOH 492 | "If lyrics sold."
Episode 492 features guest Brotha2daKnight joining the crew to tackle Lupe Fiasco's ongoing criticism of Kendrick Lamar, debating whether hip hop history ultimately values the master artist over the master lyricist. We unpack the growing divide between internet commentators and actual creators, questioning if metrics are now being mistaken for real cultural expertise. We also break down Twista's recent tax issues, exploring whether the industry's aesthetic pressure to maintain an illusion of immense luxury leads to bad business and financial negligence. Finally, we debate Lauryn Hill's BET Living Legend Icon Award, her limited solo catalog, and the controversy surrounding the creative credits on Miseducation. For our members, we dive into a full reaction and review of the 55 CHREECE Last Shot submissions.
NOH 490 | "Ruthless to systems."
Episode 490 features guest Brotha2daKnight. The crew debates Soulja Boy’s controversial new move to open up a "Rapper University," questioning if it's a blatant cash grab or a legitimate educational platform for aspiring artists in the streaming era. We also unpack the intense backlash Jay-Z is facing for releasing the 30th-anniversary white vinyl of Reasonable Doubt exclusively at Target, exploring the realities of capitalism, boycotts, and selective outrage. Finally, we break down Lord Jamar's appearance on a Hip Hop-style Jubilee, analyzing his four major claims about Hip Hop: the shift from community to corporations, the death of MC talent shows for viral popularity, the debate over who actually created Hip Hop, and the true history of positive messaging in the golden era.
NOH 489 | "God loves ugly."
On episode 489 we talked about The Knicks and Donald Trump, Fat Joe comparing the Knicks' NBA Finals Run To 9/11, ReedMySole saying our culture's timeline is a mess, Jay Electronica not showing up to his tour dates, Future saying Jay-Z was a non factor in 1996, and more.
NOH 488 | "The jig is up."
This week we had a few different discussions on Jay-Z's Roots Picnic freestyle, Dame Dash's response, Talib Kweli calling out Tiny Desk, Conway The Machine airing out Griselda, andd more.
