Adam Butler and Paul Spann celebrate their birthdays while reflecting on aging and the evolution of hip-hop. They discuss the importance of authenticity in the industry, the subjective nature of the 'big three' in hip-hop, and the role of black media in cultural representation. The conversation also touches on the competitive landscape of hip-hop, the influence of older artists, and the impact of protests and activism in media. Later, they delve into Nicki Minaj's controversial statements about Don Lemon, Black QB's and Celebrity love children. Tune In!

Chapters
00:00
Celebrating Birthdays and Reflections
02:55
The Importance of Authenticity in Media
05:43
Navigating the Landscape of Black Media
08:42
The Big Three in Hip Hop: A Discussion
11:31
The Evolution of Hip Hop Rivalries
14:15
The Future of Hip Hop and Its Artists
22:49
The Evolution of Hip Hop and Its Icons
24:50
Cultural Shifts in Hip Hop
26:28
Artistry and Authenticity in Hip Hop
28:25
The Impact of Industry Standards on Creativity
30:20
The Role of Older Artists in Today's Hip Hop
32:12
The Importance of Diversity in Hip Hop
34:27
The Influence of Media and Public Perception
37:00
Controversies Surrounding Public Figures
41:19
Nicki Minaj's Influence and Controversies
44:17
The Evolution of Female Rap and Rivalries
47:09
The Complexity of Celebrity Worship
49:31
Navigating the Disappointment of Idolization
53:33
Protests and the Right to Disrupt
59:21
The Intrigue of Alleged Paternity and Public Figures
01:06:48
The Burden of Celebrity and Family Connections
01:09:43
The Complexities of Fame and Personal Relationships
01:10:36
Sports Reactions: Empathy vs. Criticism
01:14:23
Double Standards in Sports: A Racial Perspective
01:24:07
The Ongoing Conversation on Race and Expectations in Sports

Support the show

Today on the MSR Pod, Adam rolls solo for the first half of the show, diving into how Stephen A. Smith represents a larger issue in today’s content creation landscape.

Later in the episode, Paul and Nargis join the show to unpack Adin Ross’s ongoing lack of respect for Black women and discuss Glasses Malone’s response to the situation. It’s a wide-ranging conversation touching on media, accountability, and culture. Check it out.

Support the show

Today on the MSR Pod we dive into the culture wars, the streets, and the sounds shaping our moment.

First up: The Golden Globes stirred controversy after One Battle After Another snagged big wins and a vocal segment of the Black community erupted online that Ryan Coogler’s Sinners deserved top honors instead. We unpack the backlash, the broader conversation about representation, and what this debate says about where film culture is today.

Then we shift to music , J. Cole just announced his new album The Fall Off and fans are buzzing. We talk reaction, expectations, and what this next chapter might mean for his legacy.

Finally, we break down the ongoing ICE protests in Minneapolis and beyond. A recent federal immigration enforcement surge — and several controversial shootings involving ICE agents — has sparked mass demonstrations, clashes with law enforcement, and nationwide activism. We contextualize the unrest, the political fallout, and what protest movements are calling for as tensions continue.

Support the show