Erykah Badu dropped her first project, 'Baduizm,' in 1997 to commercial success and critical acclaim. She was labeled the Queen of neo-soul, helping open doors for other female artists like SZA, Solange, and Janelle Monáe who didn’t fit within the traditional R&B box. So there was pressure on her sophomore effort, 'Mama’s Gun,' which turns 25 years old in November. Here we explore the project, which was an ode to her son Seven, who she had with Andre 3000. We discuss the pressure she felt following up 'Baduizm,' break down the songs on 'Mama’s Gun,' why she directs all of her music videos, the one artist she wants to work with, and what she thinks of the state of R&B and hip-hop today.

"Please Explain Hosted by Aria Hughes" is an explainer show about culture, fashion, and music that brings context, not confusion, to the internet.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The path to superstardom is much different than it was in the past. While social media and streaming made it easier for artists to build audiences without relying on record labels, or for songs to pop without radio play, it’s also created an oversaturated and fragmented music marketplace, making it even harder for songs and artists to be seen, heard, and impactful – which has led to a lack of superstars.

How do you define a superstar in 2025? What goes into making a superstar today? Are there any replacements for the “big three” in rap? What has led to the lack of superstars? Who are the next superstars?

We will explore this topic with Randall ‘Sickamore’ Medford, who currently manages Don Toliver and is the co-founder of Three Times Louder, a Brooklyn based production company that is focused on Brooklyn artists; Nikki Nelms, a renowned hairstylist whose clients include Janelle Monáe and Zoë Kravitz; Fullout Cortland, a talented choreographer who works with artists including Doja Cat and SZA; and Amanda Sabreah, who owns Thought Factory, a strategic advisor firm helping entrepreneurs and executives sharpen their positioning.

"Please Explain Hosted by Aria Hughes" is an explainer show about culture, fashion, and music that brings context, not confusion, to the internet

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.