The Rap Music Plug Podcast

What makes a rap duo special is more than just the quality of beats and rhymes. It’s more than even the stylistic fit between the two elements. The secret sauce lies in a personal bond that extends beyond the music That’s what today’s guests, New York-based duo Gabe ‘Nandez and Preservation, have in common. With Gabe’s track record of sharp lyricism and a distinct voice, I knew that pairing him with a musical savant like Preservation would yield strong results (said producer has created masterpieces with yasiin bey, billy woods, Ka, Marci, and more). But even with that said, they completely blew me away, exceeding the lofty expectations I had for them on their new collaborative album, Sortilège. In this episode, we dive into their personal relationship, their musical chemistry, the magic of the late great Ka, myth-making through rap, and the creative process behind their stellar new record. Finally, for folks in Toronto, I have a special treat for you... I will be hosting an evening of amazing hip-hop and experimental music featuring cross-country acts that include: Wave Generators, jesse the Tree, NAHreally, GhostboyRJ, and bridge of sand. Join us on October 16th at BSMT 254 - tickets on sale now, buy here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/rmpp-presents-wave-generators-jesse-the-tree-nahreally-live-in-toronto-tickets-1672174632339?aff=oddtdtcreator  The Plug (1:11). The Interview (3:05). The genesis of the Gabe x Preservation collaboration (4:50). The spiritual connection between Sortilège & Aethiopes (8:04). What made Ka special (12:23). The recording process for Sortilège (17:50). The influence of mythology on Gabe’s writing (22:58). The idea of transformation explored on Sortilège (29:48). Gabe’s ‘surfer dude’ vibe (34:00). The stylistic fit between Gabe & Preservation (38:48). Specific musical choices Preservation made to complement Gabe’s style (43:07). Importance of current events on war-focused lyrics on Sortilège (47:18). Upcoming projects / tour dates / merch (52:18). Buy Sortilège and merch here: https://backwoodzstudioz.com/collections/preservation-gabe-nandez-present-sortilege  Follow Gabe 'Nandez on Twitter here: https://x.com/GabeNandez  Follow Preservation on Twitter here: https://x.com/mondieumusic  Follow Gabe 'Nandez on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/champiyawn/  Follow Preservation on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/mondieumusic/  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

How I’d describe my tastes in music would be such that, I don’t care too much about what emotion is conveyed, I just care that there IS an emotion being shared to begin with. Whether it be portrayals of depression, bliss, and everything in between, I want my music to make me feel something. On top of that, I’m partial to more intense displays of emotion, because I’m a dramatic emotional guy, what can I say? That’s why the music of today’s guests, Sunmundi and Sasco, really speaks to me, because what they created on their latest album is a wondrous achievement in putting true heartfelt passion on to wax. The young and talented New York-based duo joined the show to discuss how their relationship formed, their natural creative chemistry, and the artistic approach behind their incredible new collaborative album, Contacting. I was pleased to co-host this conversation with friend of the show, an accomplished journalist with pieces in Pitchfork, The Guardian, Bandcamp, and more. So listen on to hear about how one of 2025’s essential records was created, and why you need to have Sunmundi and Sasco firmly on your listening radar from here on out. The Plug (0:38). The Interview (2:30). Reactions to the strong positive response to Contacting (4:20). How Sunmundi and Sasco connected (7:49). How Contacting came to be (9:31). The musical direction for Contacting (13:18). Sunmundi & Sasco’s shared intuition that conceptualized Contacting (17:46). Sunmundi’s hyper-expressive rap style (21:27). Creating music as ‘a vessel’ (28:49). Future music from Sunmundi & Sasco (33:00). The post-production work for Contacting (35:54). The core statement Contacting is communicating (38:33). Buy/stream Contacting here: https://sasco.bandcamp.com/album/contacting  Follow Sunmundi on Twitter here: https://x.com/sunmundi  Follow Sasco on Twitter here: https://x.com/sascomusic  Follow Sunmundi on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/sunmundimusic/  Follow Sasco on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/sascomusic/  Intro/Outro beat by: BLOODBLIXING Photo credit used in episode artwork by @suchi__mane on Instagram -- 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

Some people are just born to be in front of a mic, blessed with such charisma, cultural intellect, and communication prowess. That immediately makes listeners hang on their every word. That’s the kind of guy who is joining us for the 200th episode of The Rap Music Plug Podcast, none other than Richmond Virginia’s own, $ilkMoney. $ilk’s commanding mic presence, impossibly malleable flow, and artistic vision has made him one of rap’s rising stars from the moment he burst on to the scene as a member of Divine Council. Now firmly in the spotlight as a solo artist, he’s given such dense rewarding work, album after album, and has outdone himself with his latest opus, WHO WATERS THE WILTED GIVING TREE. In this episode, we discuss recent comments he’s made about Tyler, the Creator and André 3000 that have caught some attention, his free-form psychedelic approach to rap, and the inspiration behind his electric and deeply thoughtful new album. Also, I’d be remiss not to share a quick thought about this milestone of 200 episodes. Because as much as I’ve run this thing as a one-man show… I did not get here alone. I wouldn’t be here without the patrons whose kind support and engagement in the RMPP community have powered me through many nights burning the midnight oil brainstorming or editing an episode. I wouldn’t be here without all the artists who trusted me to discuss their work and points of view. And I wouldn’t be here without everyone who’s ever listened to even one episode of this show. I’ve had the opportunity to have real conversations with people who I feel make some of the greatest art I’ve ever heard. It’s been an unexpected journey so far, and a legitimate dream come true. This is my baby, and I’m blessed to share their 200th day of existence with $ilkMoney, who made for one of the most entertaining episodes ever on the RMPP. I hope you enjoy. Thank you so much. The Plug (0:41). The Interview (3:09). $ilkMoney’s non-music interests (4:22). The inspiration behind $ilk’s unique song / album titles (9:37). $ilkMoney on his recent comments towards Tyler, The Creator and André 3000 (16:17). How rap gave $ilkMoney gave him a sense of purpose (25:22). Maintaining creative freedom and authenticity in the music industry (29:35). $ilk’s desire to be ‘as free-form as possible’ in rap (34:35). Psychedelia in $ilk’s art (38:30). $ilkMoney’s viscerally elastic flow and songwriting (44:54). How the idea of ‘the giving tree’ inspired $ilkMoney on his new album (53:31). The degree of vulnerability from $ilkMoney on WWTWGT (1:00:17). The sonic world of WWTWGT (1:08:45). Upcoming projects / tour dates / merch from $ilkMoney (1:11:31). Buy/stream WWTWGT here: https://silkmoney.bandcamp.com/album/who-waters-the-wilting-giving-tree-once-the-leaves-dry-up-and-fruits-no-longer-bear  Follow $ilkMoney on Twitter here: https://x.com/CUUMMONEY  Follow $ilkMoney on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/silkbooty/?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 a society as broken as today’s, where the power gap between regular working people and the ruling class is expanding on a daily, finding a way to navigate your life and career is challenging. Particularly, when you aim to live your life according to your moral compass, in a way that shows solidarity with those in need, and combats oppressive systems. That’s one of the reasons why artists like today’s guest, DJ Haram, are important… because they pave a different path that takes the power back. This is the kind of impact that would be vital on its own, but is amplified when in the hands of an artist as skilled as Haram, who blends club, dance, hip-hop, electronic, and noise into a uniquely electrifying mixture. She’s been responsible for some of the most cutting-edge music in recent years, as 1/2 of 700 Bliss with Moor Mother, lacing experimental rappers like E L U C I D and billy woods with wildly creative beats, and is now fully coming into the spotlight as a solo artist with her fantastic debut solo album on Hyperdub, titled Beside Myself. This was a very fascinating and fun conversation that hopefully demystifies one of the most interesting figures in all of music. The Plug (1:17). The Interview (3:25). The initial response to Beside Myself (5:47). DJ Haram’s affinity for defying convention and norms (10:03). How Haram engages in ‘media manipulation’ (19:25). The role of an artist (27:41). Blending Middle Eastern sonics with experimental dance, electronic, hip-hop music (40:33). DJ Haram’s inspiration to use her voice more on Beside Myself (46:45). The central statement behind Beside Myself (53:37). The dynamic sound of Beside Myself (1:02:11). The connection between Armand Hammer and DJ Haram (1:07:41). Upcoming projects / tour dates / merch (1:11:25). A recent sign of hope for DJ Haram (1:12:30). Buy/stream Beside Myself here: https://djharam.bandcamp.com/album/beside-myself  Read DJ Haram's Substack here: https://substack.com/@punchlinemaiden  Follow DJ Haram on Twitter here: https://x.com/premiumharam  Follow DJ Haram on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/djharam/  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

Today’s guest, Open Mike Eagle, is the most multi multi-hyphenate you will ever come across. The Chicago native, now LA-based rapper has compiled a legendary catalogue of uniquely idiosyncratic rap and has followed his passion to other mediums as well. TV, YouTube, Twitch streaming, and podcasting are all forms of expression Mike knows well.  His career has been deeply inspiring to myself and other creatives, showing what you can accomplish if you empower yourself to pursue your passions to the fullest extent. In this episode, you will learn about Mike’s take on making a living as a creator and the mission statement that has informed his artistic journey, authenticity in rap music, the ambitious idea inspiring his new album, Neighborhood Gods Unlimited, and much much more. All of these interesting thoughts will be shared by one of the art form’s most clear and insightful thinkers. So it goes without saying that this episode is a must-listen for any fan of Open Mike Eagle, and any fan of rap music, period. This was a true honour to be a part of, so stay tuned for one of the most fascinating conversations hosted on the RMPP to date. The Plug (0:46). The Interview (3:03). The mission perspective for Open Mike Eagle as an artist (3:42). The most challenging obstacles to making a living as a creator (10:01). The most ‘successful’ moments of Mike’s career (16:30). The emotional closeness of Mike’s music (19:50). Mike’s affinity for vulnerability in his art (23:44). How Mike found himself as an artist (27:22). The concept behind Neighborhood Gods Unlimited (32:00). The personal nature of NGU’s subject matter (36:33). The intersection of humour and discomfort in Mike’s music (40:38). The responsibility of contextualizing your own work as an indie artist (46:52). The songwriting and melodic focus on Neighborhood Gods Unlimited (50:48). The tranquil soundscape of Neighborhood Gods Unlimited (55:33). The influence of Mike’s work in Previous Industries on NGU (57:51). Upcoming creative projects / tour dates / merch (59:46). Future Cavanaugh music - RMPP patron q from Ajay (1:01:49). Open Mike Eagle’s legacy (1:02:32). Buy/stream Neighborhood Gods Unlimited here: https://openmikeeagle.bandcamp.com/album/neighborhood-gods-unlimited  Support all things Open Mike Eagle here: https://linktr.ee/openmikeeagle  Follow Open Mike Eagle on Twitter here: https://x.com/mike_eagle?lang=en  Follow Open Mike Eagle on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/open_mike_eagle/?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 recent years, the Canadian hip-hop scene, particularly in Montreal, has been growing in size and quality. Backxwash, today’s guest, may be the scene’s most captivating act. Sporting an eclectic sound that pulls from metal, industrial noise, trap, horrorcore conscious hip-hop, and pop... Backxwash can, and really has done it all. Her latest record, Only Dust Remains, showcases the latest evolution of Backxwash’s artistry, featuring boldly melodic songwriting, climactic hooks, and a lucid meditation on death. In this episode, we walk through her artistic journey, key influences on her musical style, the importance of identity in her music, and the making of her magnum opus, Only Dust Remains. The Plug (0:46). The Interview (2:00). Her musical journey from Zambia to Montreal (3:36). The creative community in Montreal (7:26). Trans representation in hip-hop (12:46). Blending rap with heavier styles of music (18:42). Production inspirations for Backxwash’s genre-bending style (21:54). The extended break between Only Dust Remains and His Happiness (29:39). The musical vision for Only Dust Remains (32:56). The narrative arc of Only Dust Remains (35:34). The inspiration behind the melodic sound of Only Dust Remains (40:54). The core message behind Only Dust Remains (45:18). What Backxwash learnt by creating her new album (48:40). The philosophy behind this new chapter of Backxwash’s career (52:12). Upcoming projects / tour dates / merch from Backxwash (55:55). Future sound Backxwash would like to explore (57:26). Buy/stream Only Dust Remains here: https://backxwash.bandcamp.com/album/only-dust-remains  Follow Backxwash on Twitter here: https://x.com/backxwash  Follow Backxwash on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/backxwash/?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

Nothing gets me more psyched than an artist maximizing their potential, fulfilling the promise of their talent. A notable thing about this dynamic is that, in the vast majority of times, these times when I get amped that an artist finally delivered the project they were capable of, typically comes years and years into an artist’s career. This is precisely what separates today’s guest, shemar, from the pack, as the Brooklyn rapper-producer, still in his early 20s with only a few full projects under his belt, delivered what I feel will go down as not only a defining record of 2025, but a seminal record within this current youth movement of boundary-pushing hip-hop in the New York underground scene. In today’s episode, we discuss shemar’s poetry background, E L U C I D's influence on his artistic development, and the lyrical and musical inspirations found within his excellent new album, emerge "n" see. The Plug (1:09). The Interview (3:05). The relationship between shemar and Child Actor (4:25). The importance of this current scene of underground hip-hop (7:53). shemar’s approach as a rapper (9:57). The influence of shemar’s poetry background on his rap style (14:40). E L U C I D’s influence on shemar’s artistic development (19:34). The personal subject matter of emerge “n” see (26:23). The mutually beneficial relationship between producing beats and creating raps (28:58). The development of shemar’s political understanding (31:57). The inspiration of shemar’s political messaging on emerge “n” see (37:30). The experimental sound direction of emerge “n” see (41:16). The challenge of rapping to the experimental beats on emerge “n” see (45:11). shemar’s consistent boundary-pushing appetite - RMPP patron q from Evan (50:44). The exploration of gender identity on emerge “n” see - RMPP patron q from Kosey (54:06). Upcoming projects / tour dates / merch from shemar (58:17). A shemar x Hester Valentine collab project coming soon? (1:00:34). Buy/stream emerge "n" see here: https://shemar1.bandcamp.com/album/emerge-n-see Follow shemar on Twitter here: https://x.com/shemar_aa  Follow shemar on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/shemar.alexander/?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

Today’s guest Real Bad Man, is an artist who has caught my attention in recent years because he checks two important boxes for what I typically gravitate to in music. The first box is that I’m an album guy. And when it comes to the type of albums I prefer, I’m a cohesiveness whore. I love it when an album has a consistent musical identity, with thoughtful sequencing and transitions that make the experience flow seamlessly from top to bottom. It’s for these reasons that Real Bad Man has impressed me because his respect for the album format is clear, creating cohesive full-length musical experiences with the likes of Boldy James, ZelooperZ, Pink Siifu, Lukah, Willie the Kid, and more. But as you will soon find out if you listen on, there’s more to Real Bad Man’s creative arc than meets the eye. In today’s episode, the LA-based producer enigma delves into his unique multi-disciplinary journey from art director at Stüssy to prolific producer, his love for the album format, the trademark RBM sound, working with Boldy James, and more! The Plug (0:55). The Interview (2:45). The genesis of the multi-media Real Bad Man creative project (2:52). How Real Bad Man returned to music with Real Bad Boldy (14:04). The cross-pollination within fashion design and music (21:16). Real Bad Man’s love for the album format (27:15). The trademark Real Bad Man sound (30:12). Producing the musically-rich, Temple Needs Water., with Lukah (35:41). The ideal collaborator for Real Bad Man (42:56). The special chemistry between Boldy James and Real Bad Man (47:32). What differentiates Conversational Pieces from past Boldy x RBM collabs (55:15). Upcoming projects / merch (59:59). Support Real Bad Man here: https://realbadman.com/  Buy/stream Conversational Pieces here: https://realbadman.bandcamp.com/album/conversational-pieces  Follow Real Bad Man on Twitter here: https://x.com/realbadman208?lang=en  Follow Real Bad Man on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/realbadman/?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 you have a catalog as deep and renowned as billy woods, finding a way to top your past work can be a difficult thing. But as has been the case with woods for many years now… the man did it again. It’s not like woods has reinvented himself on this latest album. His wry wit, sharp storytelling, and great ear for production are still present on this record. But now these elements are funnelled through an ambitious horror-themed experience shrouded in darkness, ripe with poignant political insight and introspection. All culminating in an album that has an argument for being the best of woods’ storied career. In today’s episode, woods provides colour to the inspiration for his new album, the horror influence, his take on being viewed as an abstract artist, pivotal moments of the album, and much more. woods is one of the most fascinating people to talk to on many subjects, such as music, politics, and sports. So listening to this episode is a no-brainer. Make sure you lock in and get a glimpse into the mind of a living legend. The Plug (1:10). The Interview (2:58). Being perceived by an increasingly large audience with different life experiences (3:18). How the idea and album title came to be (9:16). woods’ upbringing, and re-evaluating political perspectives of the past (11:21). Afro-pessimism and the humanity found in woods’ music (27:06). The unique methodology used to woods’ new album (34:34). What horror unlocks for woods as a writer (37:05). “Maquiladoras” and the meaning behind the concept of ‘amputation’ (49:08). The picture painted by “Dislocated” and why it was chosen as the final track (54:50). woods’ perspective on his music being labelled ‘abstract’ (1:00:45). The power of storytelling (1:08:26). Cultivating the horror surrealist atmosphere on the production / Marshawn Lynch vs. Shaun Alexander - RMPP patron q from Shaun Alexander (1:010:05). The importance of Willie Green to the creative process of the new album (1:19:10). woods’ trademark sports bars, Knicks playoff hopes, mobile QBs (1:21:45). woods’ upcoming book - RMPP patron q from Cian Walker and Joshua Davis (1:26:15). Upcoming Armand Hammer album, E L U C I D solo, and other Backwoodz work in 2025 (1:27:27). Support Backwoodz Studioz here: https://backwoodzstudioz.com/  Buy GOLLIWOG here: https://backwoodzstudioz.com/collections/billy-woods-golliwog  Follow billy woods on Twitter here: https://x.com/BackwoodzHipHop  Follow Backwoodz Studioz on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/backwoodzstudioz/?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

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 epitomize 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