The 3rd Verse Podcast

In this episode of The 3rd Verse, we break down LaRussell’s viral take that he outgrew Lil Wayne’s music and whether the “no substance” claim holds up. We also review J. Cole’s The Fall-Off, analyze first-week sales, and discuss what it means for his Big 3 status. Plus, Baby Keem’s BOOMAN II mini doc and the rollout for CA$INO — what this era signals moving forward.

Baby Keem announces CA$INO with Kendrick Lamar attached, and we break down what Kendrick’s involvement really means for Keem’s career. Is this just collaboration or Kendrick stepping fully into his executive role and shaping the next phase of Keem’s trajectory? We also debate whether The Fall-Off cements J. Cole’s legacy. Is it a classic? Is it growth? Or is the title doing heavy lifting? And then there’s the controversy: Did French Montana take “Unforgettable” from Swae Lee — and why is the money conversation resurfacing now?

In this weeks episode we sit down with Steve Rifkind (@steverifkind), the legendary founder of Loud Records, for a wide ranging conversation on hip-hop history and resilience. He opens up about being bullied early in life, finding his footing in the music industry, and building one of the most influential labels of all time. Steve shares firsthand stories about his friendship with Tupac Shakur, signing Mobb Deep, the greatness of Kanye West, and discovering Three 6 Mafia. From industry risks to cultural impact, this episode captures Steve Rifkind’s wild journey through the backbone of hip-hop. Only on The 3rd Verse 🏆

In this episode of The 3rd Verse, we sit down with will.i.am for a deep, unfiltered conversation on hip-hop history, creativity, and legacy. Will shares untold stories about Eazy-E, the early days of the Black Eyed Peas, and pivotal moments alongside Jimmy Iovine. He reflects on his relationships with Eminem and Dr. Dre, and breaks down how inspiration from Fleetwood Mac played a key role in his decision to sign Fergie. Packed with rare insight, industry gems, and cultural context, this episode captures a side of Will.i.am and hip-hop history you don’t hear often.

The 3rd Verse breaks down the biggest moments in hip-hop! Album reviews, artist rollouts, producer debates, and real industry conversations. From A$AP Rocky’s Don’t Be Dumb to J. Cole’s The Fall Off, plus debates like Hit-Boy vs Mike Will Made-It and Top 5 producer of all time rankings.

Legendary producer Mark Batson discusses music, filmmaking, AI, and his journey working with Dr. Dre and other iconic artists. Industry stories, creative insight, and the future of art.

In this episode of 3rd Verse, the crew dives into a wide-ranging conversation covering culture, music, and personal stories. We break down our Top 5 favorite restaurants, debate the greatest sitcom theme songs of all time, and get into rare behind-the-scenes stories involving Eminem, 50 Cent, and Dr. Dre. Stat Quo shares an exclusive story from the “Godzilla” video with Juice WRLD, including working alongside Cole Bennett and Lyrical Lemonade, plus never-heard context from being inside the room with some of hip-hop’s biggest names. The conversation also expands into current events, touching on protests, social climate, and how culture and music intersect in real time. This episode blends humor, nostalgia, and real industry insight & the kind of conversations you don’t get anywhere else. Subscribe to 3rd Verse for weekly discussions on hip-hop, culture, media, and the stories behind the moments.

In this episode of 3rd Verse, the crew breaks down the industry plant conversation head-on, starting with Doechii’s new single with SZA 'girl, get up", which many view as a direct response to ongoing industry plant accusations. The discussion unpacks how artists are labeled, how fast success gets misread, and why having a business plan or early support doesn’t automatically make someone an industry plant. The conversation expands into the recent Doechii and Adin Ross controversy, examining how the beef started, how it played out publicly, and how the industry and media reacted to it. The episode also delivers real behind-the-scenes insight with DJ closing with a classic Kanye West “Through the Wire” story.

The 3rd Verse Podcast officially premieres fresh for the New Year! In this episode, Stat, DJ, and Justin talk the year that was, the year to come, and whether music executives are to blame for the state of Hip Hop.

TDE's MixedbyAli Details Classic Kendrick Recording Sessions, Dr. Dre's Mentorship & More