Inspired by Shel Silverstein: MidaZ the Beast, Mavi
December 18, 2021
Recent album covers for MidaZ the Beast and Mavi have drawn inspiration from Shel Silverstein’s 1974 book, Where the Sidewalk Ends.
ALL: Opening Acts
Notable 20th Century Hip-Hop Books
November 9, 2021
A list of great hip-hop books from the early years of the genre.
Cover Art Gems: Ghostshrimp and Audio Recon
November 6, 2021
Audio Recon answers a few questions about its vinyl reissues featuring illustrations by Ghostshrimp.
Cover Art Gems: Meek Mill, Expensive Pain
September 22, 2021
Meek Mill is rendered in a thug’s dreams and nightmares. Artwork by Nina Chanel Abney.
Ten Posse Tracks by Female Rappers
August 13, 2021
A list of great collaborations between female rappers.
Freddie Gibbs & Madlib vs U2
July 7, 2021
The Record Store Day pressing of Freddie Gibbs & Madlib’s Piñata ’84 has art inspired by a design Island Records used in 1983 and 1984.
Top 10 Songs About H.E.R. (Hip-hop in its Essence is Real)
April 10, 2021
A list of songs inspired by the idea that hip-hop is a woman.
The Whispers’ Social Conscience
March 11, 2021
In the 70s, the L.A. vocal troupe established a reputation for thoughtful and topical soul — an era often overlooked today.
Gamble & Huff in the 60s
March 9, 2021
The 50th anniversary of Philadelphia International affords the opportunity to revisit the early history of a duo who defined classic soul.
Early Rap Full-Lengths (1980-1982)
March 1, 2021
A list of every rap full-length released between 1980 and 1982.
Top 10 Wu-Tang Albums: Second Wave (1997-2000)
February 1, 2021
A list of the best of Wu-Tang Clan’s second era (starting with their second album).