The Culture Decides

It has been BRICK, but the music? Heating up.This episode of The Culture Decides, join me, Li, as I breakdown:🔥 Gunna sold-out MSG: stage presence, breath control, influence & why the respect needs to be LOUD.🏆 Grammys + Super Bowl symbolism: powerful political statements, cultural messaging, and why these stages matter.👀 The lowlights: industry reactions, misplaced outrage, and when timing ruins the message.🔁 On Repeat / On The Radar: Don Toliver & Loe Shimmy, Lil Uzi, Wale & Leon Thomas, Youngn MH, SpacemanUFO and more.🎧 Underground Spotlight (LIVE REACTIONS): Mani Jurdan, Young Reese Dude, Valenti, Juice Lord, Ruciano & Killah H2O Da Don, and King Shampz’s Hustler’s Renaissance Vol. 1.📀 Mainstream Reviews:21 Savage – What Happened to the Streets?French Montana x Max B – Coke Wave 3.5A$AP Rocky – Don’t Be DumbLet me know your favorite part of this episode and what's on your playlist now!Music Submission FormSubscribe & like this episode on YouTubeFollow & download on your favorite podcast platformStay tuned by following on Instagram & X/Twitter, or TikTokThank you for tuning in!Disclaimer:The opinions expressed on this podcast are solely those of the host and do not necessarily reflect the views of my employer, any artists, record labels, or affiliates. All music discussed is reviewed for the purpose of commentary and criticism, and I do not claim ownership of any images, songs, or recordings. Any references to copyrighted material fall under fair use, and this podcast is intended for educational and entertainment purposes only.I encourage listeners to support the artists discussed by purchasing or streaming their music through official channels. The content of this podcast is intended for mature audiences, and listener discretion is advised.

West Philly’s own King Shampz joins The Culture Decides to talk bars, independence, and building momentum outside the system.We dive into his freestyle roots, the impact of his “Bars From The Block” series, and the mindset behind his latest EP, Hustler’s Renaissance Vol. 1., Shampz breaks down his creative process, working alongside his brother through Dead Wrong Records, and why artists can’t rely on the algorithm to define their movement.This episode is about ownership, consistency, and sharpening your craft on and off the mic.🎧 Listen now and tap in with King Shampz (@king_shampz)Let me know your favorite part of this episode and what's on your playlist now!Music Submission FormSubscribe & like this episode on YouTubeFollow & download on your favorite podcast platformStay tuned by following on Instagram & X/Twitter, or TikTokThank you for tuning in!Disclaimer:The opinions expressed on this podcast are solely those of the host and do not necessarily reflect the views of my employer, any artists, record labels, or affiliates. All music discussed is reviewed for the purpose of commentary and criticism, and I do not claim ownership of any images, songs, or recordings. Any references to copyrighted material fall under fair use, and this podcast is intended for educational and entertainment purposes only.I encourage listeners to support the artists discussed by purchasing or streaming their music through official channels. The content of this podcast is intended for mature audiences, and listener discretion is advised.

From Brooklyn’s Coney Island to the Mic, Ruciano joins The Culture Decides.On this episode, I sit down with Brooklyn rapper Ruciano for a real conversation about freestyling, pain, pride, culture, and consistency. This interview is a follow-up to Episode 17, where I reviewed his “Hard To Smile” freestyle on Blockwork TV, a raw, heartfelt performance that captured personal struggles, street realities, and emotional honesty.We get into freestyling, growing up in Brooklyn, and navigating hip-hop without losing yourself. No gimmicks. No over-explaining. Just culture, bars, and perspective.Follow Ruciano on Instagram: @ruciano_Stream his music on your favorite platform! #TheCultureDecides #HipHopPodcast #MusicPodcast #ArtistInterview #RapInterview #IndieHipHop #NYCHipHop #BrooklynRap #underground #RucianoLet me know your favorite part of this episode and what's on your playlist now!Music Submission FormSubscribe & like this episode on YouTubeFollow & download on your favorite podcast platformStay tuned by following on Instagram & X/Twitter, or TikTokThank you for tuning in!Disclaimer:The opinions expressed on this podcast are solely those of the host and do not necessarily reflect the views of my employer, any artists, record labels, or affiliates. All music discussed is reviewed for the purpose of commentary and criticism, and I do not claim ownership of any images, songs, or recordings. Any references to copyrighted material fall under fair use, and this podcast is intended for educational and entertainment purposes only.I encourage listeners to support the artists discussed by purchasing or streaming their music through official channels. The content of this podcast is intended for mature audiences, and listener discretion is advised.

Hip-hop has been a whirlwind! Cardi B’s continuous momentum has the culture buzzing, new releases are flooding in, and there’s plenty of news to break down. Catch up with me on this episode as I cover highlights and lowlights, underground artists you need to hear, and full project reviews of Elcamino’s MINO and Hit-Boy & The Alchemist’s Goldfish.Underground Artist FeaturedE King & Ricio ReadyRuciano Reuben Vincent Let me know your favorite part of this episode and what's on your playlist now!Music Submission FormSubscribe & like this episode on YouTubeFollow & download on your favorite podcast platformStay tuned by following on Instagram & X/Twitter, or TikTokThank you for tuning in!Disclaimer:The opinions expressed on this podcast are solely those of the host and do not necessarily reflect the views of my employer, any artists, record labels, or affiliates. All music discussed is reviewed for the purpose of commentary and criticism, and I do not claim ownership of any images, songs, or recordings. Any references to copyrighted material fall under fair use, and this podcast is intended for educational and entertainment purposes only.I encourage listeners to support the artists discussed by purchasing or streaming their music through official channels. The content of this podcast is intended for mature audiences, and listener discretion is advised.

Safe to say this summer has been drama-filled! It didn’t stop the music from pouring out though. From highly anticipated albums to Young Thug’s leaked jail calls, the media and the culture has been in a frenzy! Join me while I tap into what’s been going on, new music from The Culture to vibe with, and a full project review for Joey Bada$$’ “Lonely at the Top”Underground Artists Featured:Trxgger_TE King & Ricio ReadyCaptain Brick Vinnie-DangerousThought ProvokahSYYoung Reese DudeTimestamps:Reminders/Updates - 00:02:41News - 00:04:55On Repeat/On Radar - 00:08:41Underground Artists Reviews - 00:21:23Joey Bada$$ - Lonely At The Top - 00:53:22Let me know your favorite part of this episode and what's on your playlist now!Music Submission FormSubscribe & like this episode on YouTubeFollow & download on your favorite podcast platformStay tuned by following on Instagram & X/Twitter, or TikTokThank you for tuning in!Disclaimer:The opinions expressed on this podcast are solely those of the host and do not necessarily reflect the views of my employer, any artists, record labels, or affiliates. All music discussed is reviewed for the purpose of commentary and criticism, and I do not claim ownership of any images, songs, or recordings. Any references to copyrighted material fall under fair use, and this podcast is intended for educational and entertainment purposes only.I encourage listeners to support the artists discussed by purchasing or streaming their music through official channels. The content of this podcast is intended for mature audiences, and listener discretion is advised.

This summer has been filled with back to back drops and a mixup of competiton. It seems like everyone is either on tour and has something to address. Join me as I talk through some highlights for Tyler, The Creator, Drake’s continued ICEMAN rollout, new artists worth listening to, and compare Benny the Butcher’s Summertime Butch 2 vs Freddie Gibbs’s Alfredo 2. Who is really serving em up the best?Intro/Updates - 00:00:15 Agenda - 00:01:51Reminders/Updates - 00:03:40News - 00:06:01On Repeat / On Radar - 00:12:28Music Submission Reviews - 00:14:15Summertime Butch 2 vs Alfredo 2 Reviews- 00:34:20Who had the better project? - 01:24:54Let me know your favorite part of this episode and what's on your playlist now!Music Submission FormSubscribe & like this episode on YouTubeFollow & download on your favorite podcast platformStay tuned by following on Instagram & X/Twitter, or TikTokThank you for tuning in!Disclaimer:The opinions expressed on this podcast are solely those of the host and do not necessarily reflect the views of my employer, any artists, record labels, or affiliates. All music discussed is reviewed for the purpose of commentary and criticism, and I do not claim ownership of any images, songs, or recordings. Any references to copyrighted material fall under fair use, and this podcast is intended for educational and entertainment purposes only.I encourage listeners to support the artists discussed by purchasing or streaming their music through official channels. The content of this podcast is intended for mature audiences, and listener discretion is advised.

July is not only bringing the heat temperature wise, it’s been bringing the heat musically too! We’ve been getting new music left and right. Drake himself has been teasing “ICEMAN” and took the stage at UK’s annual fest, Wireless Festival. Join me as I unpack two highly anticipated drops: Clipse’s return after nearly 16 years with “Let God Sort Em Out” and Travis Scott with the crew on “JACKBOYS 2”!Let me know your favorite part of this episode and what's on your playlist now!Music Submission FormSubscribe & like this episode on YouTubeFollow & download on your favorite podcast platformStay tuned by following on Instagram & X/Twitter, or TikTokThank you for tuning in!Disclaimer:The opinions expressed on this podcast are solely those of the host and do not necessarily reflect the views of my employer, any artists, record labels, or affiliates. All music discussed is reviewed for the purpose of commentary and criticism, and I do not claim ownership of any images, songs, or recordings. Any references to copyrighted material fall under fair use, and this podcast is intended for educational and entertainment purposes only.I encourage listeners to support the artists discussed by purchasing or streaming their music through official channels. The content of this podcast is intended for mature audiences, and listener discretion is advised.

We’ve all had that parasocial moment—when an artist’s music feels personal, like they get you. But what happens when the idols start moving like incels? This week, on episode 13, I sit down with Kris Chesson, one half of the Bad Queers Podcast, to unpack the complicated rise and fall of some of hip-hop’s biggest names: Kanye West and Young Money's favorites, Drake, Nicki Minaj, and Lil Wayne. From Through the Wire to CLB, from the backpack era to MAGA flirtations and messy lawsuits, from Itty Bitty Piggy to Big Foot—this episode traces the cultural shift that turned these stars into ego-driven incels. Time to answer the question that’s been brewing for a decade: When did it all start to go left?Also on deck:A review of Brooklyn the Kid’s unapologetic anthem “Dyke Lee” Our personal timelines with Ye, Drizzy, Weezy, and NickiNo stanning. Just honesty.Because The Culture Decides.Follow Kris and the Bad Queers Podcast (@kris.chess / @badqueerspod)Let me know your favorite part of this episode and what's on your playlist now!Music Submission FormSubscribe & like this episode on YouTubeFollow & download on your favorite podcast platformStay tuned by following on Instagram & X/Twitter, or TikTokThank you for tuning in!Disclaimer:The opinions expressed on this podcast are solely those of the host and do not necessarily reflect the views of my employer, any artists, record labels, or affiliates. All music discussed is reviewed for the purpose of commentary and criticism, and I do not claim ownership of any images, songs, or recordings. Any references to copyrighted material fall under fair use, and this podcast is intended for educational and entertainment purposes only.I encourage listeners to support the artists discussed by purchasing or streaming their music through official channels. The content of this podcast is intended for mature audiences, and listener discretion is advised.

May was full of surprises! Rap battles rocked the east and west coast meanwhile Diddy’s world continues to unravel with shocking reveals. Join me as I recap May and review projects for Blxst, Youngn MH, Kai Ca$h, 450, & Aminé!Let me know your favorite part of this episode and what's on your playlist now!Music Submission FormSubscribe & like this episode on YouTubeFollow & download on your favorite podcast platformStay tuned by following on Instagram & X/Twitter, or TikTokThank you for tuning in!Disclaimer:The opinions expressed on this podcast are solely those of the host and do not necessarily reflect the views of my employer, any artists, record labels, or affiliates. All music discussed is reviewed for the purpose of commentary and criticism, and I do not claim ownership of any images, songs, or recordings. Any references to copyrighted material fall under fair use, and this podcast is intended for educational and entertainment purposes only.I encourage listeners to support the artists discussed by purchasing or streaming their music through official channels. The content of this podcast is intended for mature audiences, and listener discretion is advised.

Had to pop out and show 'em this month! Check out episode 11 for a recap of my experience at Kendrick and SZA's Grand National Tour stop at MetLife Stadium, top looks at the Met Gala, and album reviews for Ding Dong, Coco Jones, and Lefty Gunplay!Let me know your favorite part of this episode and what's on your playlist now!Music Submission FormSubscribe & like this episode on YouTubeFollow & download on your favorite podcast platformStay tuned by following on Instagram & X/Twitter, or TikTokThank you for tuning in!Disclaimer:The opinions expressed on this podcast are solely those of the host and do not necessarily reflect the views of my employer, any artists, record labels, or affiliates. All music discussed is reviewed for the purpose of commentary and criticism, and I do not claim ownership of any images, songs, or recordings. Any references to copyrighted material fall under fair use, and this podcast is intended for educational and entertainment purposes only.I encourage listeners to support the artists discussed by purchasing or streaming their music through official channels. The content of this podcast is intended for mature audiences, and listener discretion is advised.

Y'all know I had to do it BIG for episode 10! This one is a SPECIAL bonus episode. Youngn MH, hottest artist out of Flatbush, Brooklyn, stopped by to discuss his career so far and what's in store for us. Young about to turn up for NYC real soon!Check out his latest singles Impatient & Ice Spice! Follow Youngn MH & MONEY HUNGRY ENT on IG!Let me know your favorite part of this episode and what's on your playlist now!Music Submission FormSubscribe & like this episode on YouTubeFollow & download on your favorite podcast platformStay tuned by following on Instagram & X/Twitter, or TikTokThank you for tuning in!Disclaimer:The opinions expressed on this podcast are solely those of the host and do not necessarily reflect the views of my employer, any artists, record labels, or affiliates. All music discussed is reviewed for the purpose of commentary and criticism, and I do not claim ownership of any images, songs, or recordings. Any references to copyrighted material fall under fair use, and this podcast is intended for educational and entertainment purposes only.I encourage listeners to support the artists discussed by purchasing or streaming their music through official channels. The content of this podcast is intended for mature audiences, and listener discretion is advised.

On episode 9ine, I’m serving up updates on the industry including the latest on Drake vs UMG, new music on the way, and conclude with project reviews for the following:Alex Isley - WHEN (EP)Westside Gunn - HEELS HAVE EYES (EP)Davido - 5ive (Album)Let me know your favorite part of this episode and what's on your playlist now!Music Submission FormSubscribe & like this episode on YouTubeFollow & download on your favorite podcast platformStay tuned by following on Instagram & X/Twitter, or TikTokThank you for tuning in!Disclaimer:The opinions expressed on this podcast are solely those of the host and do not necessarily reflect the views of my employer, any artists, record labels, or affiliates. All music discussed is reviewed for the purpose of commentary and criticism, and I do not claim ownership of any images, songs, or recordings. Any references to copyrighted material fall under fair use, and this podcast is intended for educational and entertainment purposes only.I encourage listeners to support the artists discussed by purchasing or streaming their music through official channels. The content of this podcast is intended for mature audiences, and listener discretion is advised.

Welcome back! Festival season is here and the music industry has been heating up. Join me as I cover recent news, share songs on repeat, and project reviews for “We Owe You an Explanation” by PARTYOF2, “OMW2 Rexdale” by NAV, & “Deep Thoughts” by Lil Durk.Let me know your favorite part of this episode and what's on your playlist now!Music Submission FormSubscribe & like this episode on YouTubeFollow & download on your favorite podcast platformStay tuned by following on Instagram & X/Twitter, or TikTokThank you for tuning in!Disclaimer:The opinions expressed on this podcast are solely those of the host and do not necessarily reflect the views of my employer, any artists, record labels, or affiliates. All music discussed is reviewed for the purpose of commentary and criticism, and I do not claim ownership of any images, songs, or recordings. Any references to copyrighted material fall under fair use, and this podcast is intended for educational and entertainment purposes only.I encourage listeners to support the artists discussed by purchasing or streaming their music through official channels. The content of this podcast is intended for mature audiences, and listener discretion is advised.

The March Madness continues! Join me as I cover highlights/lowlights, including Drake's ongoing saga with UMG, new singles and albums on repeat, plus album reviews for Insomnia by Money Man, Ghetto Children by Lil Bean, & the long-awaited album by Playboi Carti, I AM "MUSIC". Let me know your favorite part of this episode and what's on your playlist now!Music Submission FormSubscribe & like this episode on YouTubeFollow & download on your favorite podcast platformStay tuned by following on Instagram & X/Twitter, or TikTokThank you for tuning in!Disclaimer:The opinions expressed on this podcast are solely those of the host and do not necessarily reflect the views of my employer, any artists, record labels, or affiliates. All music discussed is reviewed for the purpose of commentary and criticism, and I do not claim ownership of any images, songs, or recordings. Any references to copyrighted material fall under fair use, and this podcast is intended for educational and entertainment purposes only.I encourage listeners to support the artists discussed by purchasing or streaming their music through official channels. The content of this podcast is intended for mature audiences, and listener discretion is advised.

We’re nearly halfway through the month and things have been off to a wild start. Join me as I cover Drake’s thrown out petition, upcoming albums, Doechii’s continuous success, Lil Tjay + Offset’s fall out, & more. Stay tuned for my review of The Outcome by ILL Tone Beats & Benny the Butcher’s music collective, Black Soprano Family.Let me know your favorite part of this episode and what's on your playlist now!Music Submission FormSubscribe & like this episode on YouTubeFollow & download on your favorite podcast platformStay tuned by following on Instagram & X/Twitter, or TikTokThank you for tuning in!Disclaimer:The opinions expressed on this podcast are solely those of the host and do not necessarily reflect the views of my employer, any artists, record labels, or affiliates. All music discussed is reviewed for the purpose of commentary and criticism, and I do not claim ownership of any images, songs, or recordings. Any references to copyrighted material fall under fair use, and this podcast is intended for educational and entertainment purposes only.I encourage listeners to support the artists discussed by purchasing or streaming their music through official channels. The content of this podcast is intended for mature audiences, and listener discretion is advised.

Feb was stacked with highlight moments for the Culture! From Kendrick sweeping the Grammys and crushing his Super Bowl performance, Vybz winning at the MOBO Awards, A$AP beating his case, to albums from some of our faves. This episode kicks off with the highlights and ends with reviews for Life is Beautiful and $ome $exy $ongs 4 U! TimelineIntro: 00:00:31Agenda: 00:00:58February Recap (highlights and the lowlights): 00:02:08J.Cole cLOUDS Review: 00:13:40Album Review Criteria: 00:18:58Life is Beautiful Review: 00:22:17Questions/Thoughts & Tea ahead of $ome $exy $ongs 4 U: 00:37:17$ome $exy $ongs 4 U Review: 00:51:25Final Thoughts on $$$ 4 U: 01:13:43Let me know your favorite part of this episode and what's on your playlist now!Music Submission FormSubscribe & like this episode on YouTubeFollow & download on your favorite podcast platformStay tuned by following on Instagram & X/Twitter, or TikTokThank you for tuning in!Disclaimer:The opinions expressed on this podcast are solely those of the host and do not necessarily reflect the views of my employer, any artists, record labels, or affiliates. All music discussed is reviewed for the purpose of commentary and criticism, and I do not claim ownership of any images, songs, or recordings. Any references to copyrighted material fall under fair use, and this podcast is intended for educational and entertainment purposes only.I encourage listeners to support the artists discussed by purchasing or streaming their music through official channels. The content of this podcast is intended for mature audiences, and listener discretion is advised.

Kendrick set the stage and the tone with Sunday’s Super Bowl Halftime Show! GNX was heard live for the first time and he had a performance full of symbolism and surprises like Samuel L. Jackson. This was one def for the Culture! Tune in for my highlight moments and listen to me unpack the show! TimelineIntro: 00:00:31Agenda: 00:01:30Pre-Halftime Show Highlights: 00:01:52Questions & Thoughts ahead of Show: 00:05:27Halftime Setlist/Performance Review: 00:07:38Favorite Part of the Show: 00:29:55Let me know your favorite part of this episode and what's on your playlist now!Music Submission FormSubscribe & like this episode on YouTubeFollow & download on your favorite podcast platformStay tuned by following on Instagram & X/Twitter, or TikTokThank you for tuning in!Disclaimer:The opinions expressed on this podcast are solely those of the host and do not necessarily reflect the views of my employer, any artists, record labels, or affiliates. All music discussed is reviewed for the purpose of commentary and criticism, and I do not claim ownership of any images, songs, or recordings. Any references to copyrighted material fall under fair use, and this podcast is intended for educational and entertainment purposes only.I encourage listeners to support the artists discussed by purchasing or streaming their music through official channels. The content of this podcast is intended for mature audiences, and listener discretion is advised.

Tune in this week for a special bonus episode recapping the Grammys! Check out my highlight moments from this year’s show and my thoughts on some of the biggest winners, including Beyoncé, Kendrick, and Doechii! TimelineIntro: 00:00:31Top Moments at the Grammys: 00:04:30Award Nominations/Winners Review: 00:21:12R&B Awards: 00:22:30Rap Awards: 00:26:51Reggae: 00:38:18Jazz: 00:40:00Afrobeats: 00:40:26Country 00:41:15Let me know your favorite part of this episode and what's on your playlist now!Music Submission FormSubscribe & like this episode on YouTubeFollow & download on your favorite podcast platformStay tuned by following on Instagram & X/Twitter, or TikTokThank you for tuning in!Disclaimer:The opinions expressed on this podcast are solely those of the host and do not necessarily reflect the views of my employer, any artists, record labels, or affiliates. All music discussed is reviewed for the purpose of commentary and criticism, and I do not claim ownership of any images, songs, or recordings. Any references to copyrighted material fall under fair use, and this podcast is intended for educational and entertainment purposes only.I encourage listeners to support the artists discussed by purchasing or streaming their music through official channels. The content of this podcast is intended for mature audiences, and listener discretion is advised.

Join me on the second episode of The Culture Decides! Time to recap January’s crazy moments and album releases!TimelineIntro: 00:00:31Crazy Moments: 00:01:48Album Reviews: 00:12:58Central Cee - Can’t Rush Greatness: 00:17:12Hunxho - For Us: 00:24:20Jordan Adetunji - A Jaguar’s Dream: 00:28:31The Weeknd - Hurry Up Tomorrow: 00:31:50Let me know your favorite part of this episode and what's on your playlist now!Music Submission FormSubscribe & like this episode on YouTubeFollow & download on your favorite podcast platformStay tuned by following on Instagram & X/Twitter, or TikTokThank you for tuning in!Disclaimer:The opinions expressed on this podcast are solely those of the host and do not necessarily reflect the views of my employer, any artists, record labels, or affiliates. All music discussed is reviewed for the purpose of commentary and criticism, and I do not claim ownership of any images, songs, or recordings. Any references to copyrighted material fall under fair use, and this podcast is intended for educational and entertainment purposes only.I encourage listeners to support the artists discussed by purchasing or streaming their music through official channels. The content of this podcast is intended for mature audiences, and listener discretion is advised.

Welcome to the first episode of The Culture Decides! I'm your host Li and on this episode, I will be diving into how crazy 2024 has been within the music industry! A perfect episode to wrap up the EOY for my fellow music fans.Join me as I talk through rap beefs, crazy moments, an album review for SZA's LANA, and this year's top projects.TimelineIntro to The Culture Decides: 00:00:28Rap Beefs: 00:07:24Thug Free/Vybz Free: 00:44:19Sellout Celebs: 00:50:10Album Review for SZA's LANA: 01:08:00Top Music of 2024: 01:21:25Let me know your favorite part of this episode and what's on your playlist now!Music Submission FormSubscribe & like this episode on YouTubeFollow & download on your favorite podcast platformStay tuned by following on Instagram & X/Twitter, or TikTokThank you for tuning in!Disclaimer:The opinions expressed on this podcast are solely those of the host and do not necessarily reflect the views of my employer, any artists, record labels, or affiliates. All music discussed is reviewed for the purpose of commentary and criticism, and I do not claim ownership of any images, songs, or recordings. Any references to copyrighted material fall under fair use, and this podcast is intended for educational and entertainment purposes only.I encourage listeners to support the artists discussed by purchasing or streaming their music through official channels. The content of this podcast is intended for mature audiences, and listener discretion is advised.