Tame One and “Haagen-Dazs”
“Haagen-Dazs,” a track Tame One and El Da Sensei recorded with The Boulevard Connection, captures the essence of an era.
Tame One and “Haagen-Dazs” Read More »
Hurricane G’s “Milky”
“Milky” is a testament to Hurricane G’s sharp Nuyorican voice, and a flow that swayed on and off beat with rope-a-dope grace.
Hurricane G’s “Milky” Read More »
Twenty Years of Eminem’s “Lose Yourself”
I recently spoke with The Ringer for a story about the 20th anniversary of Eminem’s “Lose Yourself,” which has become a pop landmark and perennial “jock jam.”
Twenty Years of Eminem’s “Lose Yourself” Read More »
To Sleep with Anger
The Charles Burnett film To Sleep with Anger has recently re-emerged this month via prominent samples in two songs.
To Sleep with Anger Read More »
Here Come the Big Steppers
Memorably deployed by Kendrick Lamar, the phrase “big stepper” usually means what it suggests. But it has also led to some surprising interpretations.
Here Come the Big Steppers Read More »
Who’s Afraid of Youngboy NBA?
A recent Hits graphic omitted Youngboy Never Broke Again, the second-highest streaming artist of the year.
Who’s Afraid of Youngboy NBA? Read More »
Rap Slips to 28%
Two recent stories on the decline of rap music’s overall market share have generated some concern in industry circles.
Surviving L.A.
An L.A. Times feature gathers opinions on a bleak trend that has claimed the lives of PnB Rock, Pop Smoke, Nipsey Hussle, and many others.
Ye’s White Lives
Kanye West’s alt-right stunts at Paris Fashion Week have drawn self-righteous condemnation from the fashion world and beyond.
Fake News on O-Block
In a story jointly published by the Chicago Reader and The Triibe, coverage of developments at Chicago’s O-Block is scrutinized.
Fake News on O-Block Read More »
Coolio’s Sound Master Crew
Contrary to reports, L.A, rapper Coolio’s career began in the mid-80s, when he floated through several short-lived electro-rap ensembles.
Coolio’s Sound Master Crew Read More »