Shows
"What's Good?" W/ Charlie TaylorEp.324 - "Bringing You Into My World" W/ RyderAnother interview for you to step to! For this one I am joined by Music Journalist & "In Search Of Sauce" alum Miki Hellerbach to elevate the conversation with Kingston-Upon-Hull born and London-based producer Ryder. With his first of a series of EPs "RYDERHOOD" dropping this Friday, (not the 28th!) we talk about his beginnings, learning production independently; moving to London; Miki & Ryder get in the producing weeds; the state of the UK music scene and of course, his Top 5. Miki's AuthoryThank you for listening! If you want to contribute to the show, whether it...2025-04-231h 06
Diggin' In The DigitsAn Interview W/ London-Based Producer RyderHello DITD listeners! Charlie here. As a bonus for this week, I have an interview for you to step to! I - along with "In Search Of Sauce" alum, Music Journalist Miki Hellerbach - talk to Ryder who broke out a few years back with his now iconic #Skeptacore series. Now, he's dropping a new series of EPs named "RYDERHOOD", the first edition dropping this Friday. In this interview which is dropping simultaneously over on the "What's Good?" feed, we talk his beginnings in the North of England, being self-taught on production, his genuine success at the tender age...2025-04-231h 06
MiddayNews Wrap: The future of PreaknessThe 149th running of the Preakness Stakes is tomorrow at Pimlico Race Course, the historic, but dilapidated, track that is now owned by the state of Maryland. Del. Sandy Rosenberg joins me to talk about the future of horse racing, and what we can expect over the next few years at Pimlico and the surrounding Park Heights neighborhood. (Photo by Miki Hellerbach)Email us at midday@wypr.org, tweet us: @MiddayWYPR, or call us at 410-662-8780.2024-05-1718 min
In Search Of SauceEp.67 - Steven 'Lenky' Marsden & Touring BurnoutOn this episode of ISOS: Miki brings a oral history on Steven "Lenky" Marsden and how his "Diwali Riddim" owned 2003; and Brandon brings a book review-reporting hybrid on the rising numbers of touring artists suffering from burnout and other mental health issues.TIMESTAMPS & ARTICLESMiki's Pick - (6:06) "The Diwali Riddim: Creator Steven ‘Lenky’ Marsden Explains How a Beat No One Wanted Became the Sound of 2003" By J'Na JeffersonBrandon's Pick (22:22) - "‘Snorting your way through it catches up with you’: The mental health toll on touring musicians" By Nick DuerdenThanks for liste...2023-04-1944 minIn Search Of SauceEp.65 - TikTok Virality, Chris Brown & Vic MensaOn this episode of ISOS: Miki brings a trendy piece on how female artists in Hip-Hop have used TikTok to their advantage; Tyler brings a piece on why women keep working with Chris Brown and host Brandon brings a Q&A with Vic Mensa.ARTICLES & TIMESTAMPS:Miki's Piece: (1:40) "TikTok Is Making Space For Today's Women in Rap to Thrive" By Njera PerkinsTyler's Piece: (19:25) "Why Do So Many Black Women Keep Working With Chris Brown?" By Hanna PhiferBrandon's Piece: (33:41) "Vic Mensa: From Bad Boy to Good Man" By Jade Gomez2023-03-0858 minIn Search Of SauceEp.64 - YoungBoy NBA & SZAOn this episode of ISOS: Tyler brings a profile of SZA (helmed by friend of ISOS Danyel Smith) & Miki caps off with a profile on YoungBoy NBA.ARTICLES & TIMESTAMPS:Miki's Pick - (6:46) "The Secret Life, House Arrest And Rebirth Of YoungBoy Never Broke Again" By Meaghan GarveyTyler's Pick - (29:47) "SZA’s Ruination Brought Her Everything" By Danyel SmithThanks for listening! Be sure to help support the show by sharing, rating, reviewing and reading the pieces talked about. Support the writers & everyone that helps make this show possible. If you’re an inde...2023-02-2255 minIn Search Of SauceEp.61 - pgLang, Alpha Males & 2022On this episode of ISOS: Host Miki brings a piece on pgLang founders Kendrick Lamar & Dave Free talk their next chapter; Tyler brings a piece on misogyny and "Alpha Male" fandoms and Brandon brings a piece looking back at 2022 within the scope of live music.ARTICLES & TIMESTAMPS:Miki's Pick - (12:27) Kendrick Lamar’s New Chapter: Raw, Intimate and Unconstrained by Mitchell S. JacksonTyler's Pick - (33:48) It’s a New Year, Let’s Leave ‘Alpha Male’ Rap Fandom Behind By Andre GeeBrandon's Pick - (51:24) 2022 Was A Weird And Often Bad Year To Be A Concert...2023-01-111h 12In Search Of SauceEp.58 - BTS, Detroit & TicketsOn this episode of ISOS: Elliot brings a piece on BTS' hiatus announcement; Miki brings piece on the rising Detroit rap scene and Tyler introduces a "Last Week Tonight" segment on tickets.ARTICLES & TIMESTAMPS:Elliot's Pick - (6:32) "South Korea stands to lose billions from making K-pop superstars BTS do military service" By Chloe TaylorMiki's Pick - (32:18) "THE PROMISE & PERSEVERANCE OF DETROIT RAP’S RISING STARS" By Neena RouhaniTyler's Pick - (51:24) "Tickets" by Last Week Tonight W/ John OliverThanks for listening! Be sure to help support the show by sharing, rati...2022-10-261h 08In Search Of SauceEp.56 - Music Loops, Kreayshawn & Kenny BeatsOn this episode of ISOS: Brandon brings a piece on music loops, host Elliot brings a retrospective on Kreayshawn and the "meme rap" era as a whole; and Miki brings a video where producer Kenny Beats talks on a multitude of subjects.ARTICLES & TIMESTAMPS:Brandon's Pick - (3:12) "How Music Loops Help Me Feel More Present" By Miguel OtárolaElliot's Pick - (20:28) "I Got The Internet Going Nutz: Kreayshawn and the 10th Anniversary of SOMETHIN’ BOUT KREAY’" By Jacqueline CodigaMiki's Pick - (46:11) "Kenny Beats on Community Building, Creativity, and the Art of Co...2022-09-281h 10In Search Of SauceEp.54 - Cheat Codes, Whisper Networks & MiamiOn Ep.54 of ISOS: Brandon brings an interview with Black Though & Danger Mouse, host Ryan brings a piece about Whisper Networks & Miki caps things off with a piece on power players in music migrating to Miami.ARTICLES & TIMESTAMPS:Brandon's Pick - (2:08) "Black Thought and Danger Mouse break down Cheat Codes, their hip-hop two-hander" By Todd GilchristRyan's Pick - (22:09) "‘People haven’t taken me seriously’: where the music and media industries have failed, whisper networks have provided solace and community" By Jumi AkinfenwaMiki's Pick - (41:06) "Why Are Music’s Power Players Moving to Miami?"...2022-08-171h 10In Search Of SauceEp.53 - NOT THE TWOS, Kid Cudi & "No Fear of Time"On this episode of ISOS: Miki brings an interview for recent Kendrick co-signee, NOT THE TWOS, Jashima brings a news piece on Kid Cudi changing artwork for his re-release of "A Kid Named Cudi", and Charlie brings a semi-review of Black Star's "No Fear of Time" that morphs into a love letter to RSS.ARTICLES & TIMESTAMPS:Miki's Pick - (7:35) "Meet NOT THE TWOS, The Artist Whose Debut Single Landed on Kendrick Lamar’s New Album" By Brenton BlanchetJashima's Pick - (26:47) "Kid Cudi Calls Fan ‘Bogus’ for Saying Original A Kid Named Cudi Artwork Is Bet...2022-07-201h 14In Search Of SauceEp.50 - Newsletters, UK Rap & The Eminem ShowOn this episode of ISOS: Host Brandon brings a shining example of how to do a newsletter. Charlie brings an essay on the current UK Rap landscape. And Miki brings a retrospective on Eminem's "The Eminem Show" as it turns 20.ARTICLES & TIMESTAMPS:Brandon's Pick - (5:38) "#136: Decadence And Disenchantment" By Todd L. BurnsCharlie's Pick - (22:06) "Amid a rash of cheesy samples, is UK rap running out of ideas?" By Will PritchardMiki's Pick - (39:43) "On The Eminem Show, The Rapper Sharply Skewered Society — But Lost Sight Of Himself" By Paul Thompson...2022-06-081h 01In Search Of SauceEp.49 - redveil, Chad Hugo & Bree RunwayOn this episode of ISOS: Brandon brings a profile on redveil, host Miki brings a piece on the legend Chad Hugo & Tyler caps it all off with a piece on Bree Runway.ARTICLES & TIMESTAMPS:Brandon's Pick: (5:15) "First Look Friday: redveil is the DMV’s Next Great Hope" By Josh SvetzMiki's Pick: (20:17) "In Search of Chad Hugo" By Jeff MaoTyler's Pick: (37:00) "Taking Flight: Bree Runway Interviewed" By Rahel AkliluThanks for listening! Be sure to help support the show by sharing, rating, reviewing and reading the pieces talked about. Support the wr...2022-05-1853 minIn Search Of SauceEp.48 - Will Smith, PJ Morton & Heba KadryOn this episode of ISOS: Host Elliot brings a video on Will Smith, Tyler brings a profile on PJ Morton, and Miki brings a piece he wished he wrote, covering Mastering Engineer Heba Kadry.ARTICLES & TIMESTAMPS:Elliot's Pick: (1:47) "TRAINWRECKORDS: Will Smith's "Lost and Found" By Todd In The ShadowsTyler's Pick: (18:29) "PJ Morton’s ‘Watch the Sun’ is a Full Circle Moment" By Jaelani TurnerMiki's Pick: (31:21) "Meet Heba Kadry, Mastering Engineer to the Indie Stars" By Allison HusseyThanks for listening! Be sure to help support the show by sharin...2022-05-0447 minIn Search Of SauceEp.44 - Bandcamp, Stevie Wonder & EARTHGANGOn this episode of ISOS: Ryan brings a commentary on Epic Games acquiring Bandcamp. Miki brings a piece highlighting Stevie Wonder's production chops and Tyler brings an interview with EARTHGANG.ARTICLES & TIMESTAMPS:Ryan's Pick: (5:12) "Epic Games, Bandcamp, and fandom for the ‘me’ generation" by Mark MulliganMiki's Pick: (23:55) "Stevie Wonder and His Dream Machines" By Jayson GreeneTyler's Pick: (41:18) "EARTHGANG's 'Ghetto Gods' looks for divinity in Atlanta's dichotomies" By Christina LeeThanks for listening! Be sure to help support the show by sharing, rating, reviewing and reading the pieces talked abou...2022-03-0956 minIn Search Of SauceEp.43 - Cash Cobain, Rave Scene & Earl SweatshirtOn this episode of ISOS: Host Ryan, Miki & Brandon bring pieces on producer Cash Cobain, the resurgence of Rave and a profile on Earl Sweatshirt. And if you're a regular listener, it's way too easy to guess who brought which piece.ARTICLES & TIMESTAMPS:Miki's Pick - (5:37) "I Made Beats With New York Drill Rap's Hottest Producer, Cash Cobain" By Abe BeameBrandon's Pick - (20:47) "Rave's Psychedelic Resurgence" By Maya-Roisin SlaterRyan's Pick - (36:20) "Free Thebe: Earl Sweatshirt Is Coming Into His Own" By Dhruva BalramThanks for listening! Be sure...2022-02-2358 minIn Search Of SauceEp.42 - Saba, Pink Siifu & Sean BankheadOn this episode of ISOS: Tyler brings an essay penned by Saba on ownership and independent business. Brandon brings an interview with Pink Siifu. And host Miki continues the video agenda, highlighting choreographer Sean Bankhead.ARTICLES & TIMESTAMPS:Tyler's Pick - (5:42) "Art, Ownership, and Business: An Essay" By SabaBrandon's Pick - (21:07) "Pink Siifu is one step ahead" By Thomas HobbsMiki's Pick - (33:54) "Sean Bankhead on His Creative Choreography & Working w/ Cardi B & Normani" By MTV NewsThanks for listening! Be sure to help support the show by sharing, rating...2022-02-0955 minIn Search Of SauceEp.41 - Quiet Storm, Preservation & Jay-Z/VerzuzOn this episode of ISOS: Miki continues the video agenda with a deep dive on "Quiet Storm" radio. Tyler brings a long read on Hip-Hop preservation and host Elliot brings a conversation starter on the odds to beat Jay-Z in a Verzuz.ARTICLES & TIMESTAMPS:Miki's Pick - (3:47) "Quiet Storm: How 1970s R&B changed late-night radio" By Vox EarwormTyler's Pick - (29:08) "The Race to Save Hip-Hop’s Lost Eras" By Mosi ReevesElliot's Pick - (49:49) "Can Anyone Beat Jay-Z At A Verzuz? We Lay Out The Odds" By David Dennis Jr.Th...2022-01-261h 15In Search Of SauceEp.38 - Maxo Kream, Olivia Rodrigo & "Morning View"On this episode of ISOS: Brandon brings a piece on Maxo Kream behind his new album drop "Weight of the World". Host Charlie brings a piece on Olivia Rodigo and her historical connection to Classical music. And Miki brings a retrospective on Incubus' "Morning View" turning 20.ARTICLES & TIMESTAMPS:Brandon's Pick: (4:54) "On 'Weight of the World,' Maxo Kream's world expands amid personal tragedy" By Christina LeeCharlie's Pick: (20:03) "‘Nothing in music is ever new’ says Olivia Rodrigo. And all these classical composers would agree." By Sophia Alexandra HallMiki's Pick: (37:46) "'Morning View' Turns 20" by Rach...2021-11-101h 02In Search Of SauceEp.36 - Hip-Hop Business, Monsune & Spirited AwayOn this episode of ISOS: Jashima brings the first Podcast to the Podcast, Miki brings a piece on a producer who made a big break on a Drake cut & Ryan brings another video essay, this time on the music of Studio Ghibli film "Spirited Away". ARTICLES & TIMESTAMPS:Jashima's Pick - (5:51) "The Business of Hip-Hop" By Hip-Hop Raised Me (Podcast By DJ Semtex Feat. Dan Runcie)Miki's Pick - (19:28) "How a Beatles-Obsessed Producer Helped Drake Make His Latest Gloomy R&B Hit" By Elias LeightRyan's Pick - (37:35) "EXAMINING: Spirited Away & "One Summer's Day" B...2021-09-2254 min
Breaking Atoms: The Hip Hop PodcastEp. 4: The Ruler's Back | The Ruler's Back: The Making of The Blueprint by Jay-ZIn this fourth and final episode, we’ll look at The Blueprint’s release date coinciding with the World Trade Centre attacks, the album’s critical success and commercial reception, its influence on the artists who came before and after and its enduring legacy 20 years on. Guest appearances by Andrew Barber, Young Guru, Just Blaze, Jayson Buford, Nuface, Oliver Wang, Jesse Bernard, Lily Mercer, Nicolas Tyrell-Scott, Dylan Green, Akaash Sharma, Miki Hellerbach, Shawn Setaro, Pain In Da Ass, Bink, Yemi Abiade, Thandie Sibanda, J’na Jefferson and Carl Lamarre 1:23 - Andrew Barber on...2021-09-0930 min
Breaking Atoms: The Hip Hop PodcastEp. 3: Never Change | The Ruler's Back: The Making of The Blueprint by Jay-ZIn this third episode, we’ll break down the second half of The Blueprint album, dive even deeper into the creative process and explore the relationships among some of the album’s key contributors. Guest appearances by Carl Lamarre, Jesse Bernard, Young Guru, Pain In Da Ass, Miki Hellerbach, Jayson Buford, Nuface, Shawn Setaro, Big Hass, Akaash Sharma, Just Blaze, Bink, Yemi Abiade, Nicolas Tyrell-Scott, Andrew Barber and Tony Dawsey 1:30 - Carl Lamarre on Kanye West making the beat for Heart of the City with DMX in mind 2:11 - Jesse Bernard on why Heart...2021-09-0935 min
Breaking Atoms: The Hip Hop PodcastEp. 2: Takeover | The Ruler's Back: The Making of The Blueprint by Jay-ZIn this second episode, we look at The Blueprint’s creation, the marketing strategy ahead of its release, Jay-Z declaring war with Nas and Prodigy on the big stage and revisit an urban legend that refuses to rest. Guest appearances by Andrew Barber, Just Blaze, Young Guru, Pain In Da Ass, Yemi Abiade, Akaash Sharma, Bianca Gracie, Nicolas Tyrell-Scott, Lily Mercer, Miki Hellerbach, Carl Lamarre, Lily Mercer, Shawn Setaro, Carl Lamarre, Bink, Shawn Setaro, Thandie Sibanda and J’na Jefferson 1:00 - Andrew Barber on Eminem and Nelly’s success and the emergenc...2021-09-0935 min
Breaking Atoms: The Hip Hop PodcastEp. 1: Hola' Hovito | The Ruler's Back: The Making of The Blueprint by Jay-ZFrom Breaking Atoms comes our new original podcast series celebrating the 20th anniversary of Jay-Z’s sixth album, The Blueprint. In this first episode, we double back to a post-Millenium New York where triumph and tragedy were both served in ample amounts. We’ll look at Jay-Z ascending to the top of the Rap kingdom, Roc-A-Fella Records becoming a dynasty, more people than ever listening to what the South had to say and Hip Hop evolving into a Unicron-like commercial juggernaut. Guest appearances by Andrew Barber, Shawn Setaro, Oliver Wang, Nuface, Carl La...2021-09-0935 minIn Search Of SauceEp.34 - Bbymutha, André 3000 & Amy WinehouseOn this episode of ISOS: Miki brings in a personal essay from Christina Lee, (Peep our interview with Christina here) intertwining with Bbymutha's "Muthaland". Ryan brings another video essay, this time on how André 3000 writes about love. And host Soma brings in a retrospective on Amy Winehouse.ARTICLES & TIMESTAMPS:Miki's Pick - (5:33) "Bbymutha's 'Muthaland' Is Teaching Me That Status Isn't Everything" By Christina LeeRyan's Pick - (23:07) "How Andre 3000 Writes About Love" By PolyphonicSoma's Pick - (40:42) "Amy Winehouse’s Life—and Death—in the Media Glare" By Christine EstimaThanks...2021-08-251h 05In Search Of SauceEp.32 - Whitney Houston, SAULT & Album LengthsOn this episode of ISOS: Host Charlie brings in a piece on Whitney Houston's relationship with America. Miki brings a review on SAULT's new album "NINE". (Fun Fact: As of the day of this episode dropping, you have 66 days to spin until it leaves DSP's) And Brandon brings in a conversation starter about why albums are so damn bloated.ARTICLES & TIMESTAMPS:Charlie's Pick - (7:55) "Whitney Houston, American girl" By Constance GradyMiki's Pick - (26:36) "SAULT: NINE Album Review" By Tarisai Ngangura Brandon's Pick - (41:24) "Albums Are Getting Too Long" By Jessica McKinney2021-07-281h 08In Search Of SauceEp.31 - AURORA, Gucci Mane & "Real R&B"On this episode of ISOS: Soma brings a dreamy profile on Norweigan Alt-pop artist AURORA. Miki brings a lengthy piece on Gucci Mane and Tyler gets a conversation-starting piece on the state of modern R&B.ARTICLES & TIMESTAMPS:Soma's Pick - (9:52) "'Inspired By The Light And The Dark' Clash Meets AURORA" By Jessica FynnMiki's Pick - (28:49) "How Gucci Mane Rebuilt His Life — And Started Building the 'Walmart' of Record Labels" By Neena RouhaniTyler's Pick - (47:40) "‘Real R&B’ seemed like a lost art. Fresh voices have changed that — but is it enoug...2021-07-141h 09In Search Of SauceEp.30 - DOOM Immigration, Dean Blunt & Record CollectionsOn this episode of ISOS: Jashima brings an enlightening piece on MF DOOM and his battles with US Immigration. ISOS debutant Soma brings a review of Dean Blunt's new record "Black Metal 2". And host Miki brings a poetic piece on record collections and the trio talk about the vinyl they hold most dear. TIMESTAMPS & ARTICLES:Jashima's Pick - (12:45) "Untangling MF DOOM’s Lifelong Struggle With the U.S. Immigration System" By Noah YooSoma's Pick - (27:29) "The Fear Goes On: Dean Blunt’s Black Metal 2" By Eden TizardMiki's Pick - (47:03) "Home Is Where My R...2021-06-301h 08
In Search Of Sauce"Unafraid Of Words" W/ Danyel SmithOn this special episode of ISOS, Miki, Jashima and Ryan interview Danyel Smith!Danyel is a legend of music journalism. She is the former EIC of Vibe magazine, the former culture editor at ESPN’s The Undefeated and the former editor of Billboard. Her writing has touched such publications as NPR, The Washington Post, and The New York Times. Right now, she’s working with Spotify and The Ringer, hosting a podcast by the name of Black Girl Songbook. Danyel spoke to the team about this new venture and how her career inside and outside of m...2021-06-161h 04In Search Of SauceThe Pulitzer Prize-Winning Episode: Music JournalismWhat would a Pulitzer Prize for Hip-Hop journalism look like? Brandon, Miki and Ryan dig into the answer on this episode. After having dissected the Pulitzer’s relationship with Hip-Hop last time out, we turn our attention to what the Pulitzers see as great music journalism.Each member picked a previous Pulitzer winner to research and to analyse what made their work worthy of the biggest prize in journalism, before seeing how the current landscape of Hip-Hop journalism matches up.RESOURCES:Miki's Winner: Frank Peters Jr.Brandon's Winner: Tim PageRyan's Winner: Ge...2021-06-021h 54
In Search Of SauceThe Pulitzer Prize-Winning Episode: DAMN.In our interview with Yoh Phillips last year, we discussed the possibility of winning a Pulitzer Prize for Hip-Hop journalism. Over the next 2 episodes, we will be breaking down what both Hip-Hop and journalism are in the eyes of the Pulitzers to determine what such a win would look like.In the first part of the series, we focus on Hip-Hop by taking a look at the only rap album to win the Pulitzer for music, Kendrick Lamar’s "DAMN." By looking at the selection process and the relationship between the Pulitzers and black art, we were ab...2021-05-191h 41In Search Of SauceEp.29 - Solange's Process, Sound of Metal & GriefOn this episode of ISOS: Miki brings in a technical piece all about Solange's recording engineer Mikaelin "Blue" Bluespruce and the equipment she uses to record. Host Brandon brings a piece on the recent litany of deaths that have happened in Hip-Hop. And Ryan brings in a piece about Academy Award-winning "Sound of Metal". ARTICLES & TIMESTAMPS:Miki's Piece - (14:58) "The Recording Gear, Sage, and Airbnbs Behind Solange's Modern Classics" By Keith Nelson JrBrandon's Piece - (31:03) "Rap & Death" By Yoh PhillipsRyan's Piece - (57:08) "A Deafening Glory: On Sound Of Metal And The Hell...2021-05-051h 29In Search Of SauceEp.28 - Genres, Toxic Fanbases & NFTsOn this episode of ISOS: Miki introduces a piece on Genre and how the litany of subgenres and the loose lines between them all are starting to blur the more mainstream genre labels. Ryan brings in a piece on fanbases and how their propensity to be toxic lives as long as the artist who 'leads' those fanbases say nothing about it. And lastly, Jashima, making her hosting debut, drops a newsletter centred around NFTs & the potential for Hip-Hop's use of the booming format.ARTICLES & TIMESTAMPS:Miki's Piece - (5:58) "Genre Is Disappearing. What Comes Next?" By Amanda...2021-04-211h 09In Search Of SauceEp.26 - Dua Lipa, Japanese City Pop & OdealOn this episode of ISOS: Host Brandon brings in a profile on pop superstar Dua Lipa. Tyler brings in a piece on "Japanese City Pop" that has been the latest abstract genre to swell in Internet popularity. And Miki brings in an interview with upcoming versatile British-Nigerian artist Odeal.ARTICLES & TIMESTAMPS:Brandon's Piece - (8:03) "Dancing in the Dark - How Dua Lipa ignored the trends, turned herself into a 'female alpha,' and delivered the modern disco classic we didn’t know we needed" By Alex MorrisTyler's Piece - (32:18) "The Endless Life Cycle of...2021-03-101h 11
In Search Of Sauce"It’s The Passion That Drives You" W/ NavjoshIn another bonus episode of "In Search of Sauce": Ryan, Miki and Brandon interview a staple of Hip-Hop Journalism, Navjosh! The founder of the legendary HipHopnMore blog. Navjosh has been reporting on Hip-Hop news and interviewing influential figures in the industry for over a decade. He spoke to the guys about the inception of the blog, the challenges of running an indie publication and the controversy that can come with reporting on celebrity news.Thanks for listening! Be sure to help support the show by sharing, rating, reviewing and reading the pieces talked about. Support the writers...2021-02-261h 41In Search Of SauceEp.25 - Mustafa The Poet, VanJess & Summer Of SoulOn this episode of ISOS: Host Miki brings an interview with Mustafa The Poet ahead of his debut project "When Smokes Rises". Tyler brings an interview with R&B duo VanJess, coinciding with their EP "Homegrown" that dropped in the past week. And Jashima brings a piece talking about Questlove's directional debut "Summer of Soul".ARTICLES & TIMESTAMPS:Miki's Pick: (8:18) "Mustafa’s Meditative Songs of Mourning" By Rawiya KameirTyler's Pick: (27:53) "VanJess Perfected Their Own R&B Sound on the ‘Homegrown’ EP" By Sri Rain StewartJashima's Pick: (37:04) "Questlove's 'Summer of Soul (… Or When the Revoluti...2021-02-1253 minIn Search Of SauceEp.24 - TikTok, Artist Visas & Your Old DroogOn this episode of ISOS: Jashima brings a piece on TikTok and how the Music Industry is getting real cosy with the booming platform. Ryan brings a piece on UK artists and how the end of Visa-free travel threatens their livelihoods. And host Miki brings an interview with Your Old Droog.ARTICLES & TIMESTAMPS:Jashima's Pick - (14:58) "How More TikTok Stars Can Succeed in the Music Industry" By Dan RuncieRyan's Pick - (32:58) "Solidarity Beyond Borders: Why Artist Visas Are More Than A Brexit Issue" By Fielding Hope, Mariam Rezaei and Stewart SmithMiki's Pick...2021-01-291h 17
In Search Of SauceEp.23 - Dumile, DOOM & The VillainWith the recent news of MF DOOM's passing, there wasn't really anything that hosts Brandon, Miki & Ryan wanted to talk about. So, all three pieces are about MF DOOM in one way or another. So strap in for some catharsis.ARTICLES & TIMESTAMPS:Miki's Piece - (14:09) "Hip-Hop Needs No Other Supervillain After MF DOOM" By Craig JenkinsBrandon's Piece - (38:26) "Hero vs. Villain: 'Rhymes Like Dimes'" By BlockheadRyan's Piece - (57:04) "Engraved, Not Unmarked: The Legacy of MF DOOM" By CineMasaiOTHER LINKS MENTIONED:Central Sauce's Conor Herbert's series of articles on...2021-01-151h 23In Search Of Sauce"Find Your Fire" W/ Thomas HobbsOn this episode of In Search Of Sauce Ryan, Brandon and Miki interview music journalist Thomas Hobbs! Thomas is a freelance extraordinaire having written for The Independent, The Guardian, the BBC, Okayplayer, Vice, Dazed and so many more. The guys discuss Thomas’ new podcast, Exit The 36 Chambers, as well as how he navigates the journalism industry as a freelancer.Thanks for listening! Be sure to help support the show by sharing, rating, reviewing and reading the pieces talked about. Support the writers & everyone that helps make this show possible. If you’re an independent writer and would like...2020-12-181h 54In Search Of SauceEp.21 - "Slowed & Reverb", Industry Plants & SadeOn this episode of ISOS: Tyler brings in a piece on the new "Slowed & Reverb" & how it potentially may be the next trend akin to "Lo-Fi" Hip-Hop. Host Ryan brings in a wide-ranging piece on the simple question "What Is An Industry Plant?". And Miki brings a retrospective on Sade's "Diamond Life" and the woman that holds the name.ARTICLES & TIMESTAMPS:Tyler's Pick - (10:15) "Lo-Fi Hip-Hop Has Become One Of The Internet’s Most Popular Subgenres; Is Slowed & Reverb Next?" By Elijah C. Watson Ryan's Pick - (31:17) "What Is an Industry Plant?" By Grant Rin...2020-11-271h 28
In Search Of Sauce"Do Not Be Dead in the Water" W/ Jermaine HallFor the fourth instalment of our ISOS journalist interview series Miki, Ryan, & Brandon trade words with LEVEL Magazine’s Editor In Chief, Jermaine Hall. Hall is the definition of a veteran in the game of music and cultural journalism heralding jobs at publications and companies like Vibe, The Source, BET, KING, and now LEVEL under the umbrella of Medium. Hall is the definition of a “finesser” as he has consistently found a place in the industry where he can execute his specific vision.The guys spoke to Hall about a wide array of topics. They go in-depth about...2020-11-201h 43In Search Of SauceStirring The Sauce, Vol. 1Welcome to “Stirring the Sauce,” an ISOS spin-off by the Central Sauce squad. Hosts Jashima Wadehra and Miki Hellerbach connect with writers to discuss sensational or timely topics, the intention of their piece and their reader’s reactions. Covering critiques, commentary and the implications of “headline culture,” Jashima and Miki break down the ingredients of the topic, talk to the journalists about their take and then share a short reflection. On the first edition, the hosts spoke with Elijah Watson from Okayplayer about his piece “What Is The Role of the Wealthy Male Hip Hop Pundit?”...2020-11-161h 10In Search Of SauceEp.20 - SEO Journalism, #EndSARS & Flo MilliOn Ep.20 of ISOS: Host Brandon brings in a measured rant on "SEO Journalism" and how it waters the whole game down. Tyler brings an examination on artist/celebrities' roles in social movements, in this case, the continuing #EndSARS movement in Nigeria. Lastly, Miki brings a cover story on the rising star, Flo Milli.ARTICLES & TIMESTAMPS:Brandon's Pick - "SEO, ‘Billie Eilish, Tame Impala, Lizzo, and more,’ The Accelerating Decline of Music Journalism, and more" By Mike LesuerTyler's Pick - "Musicians Cannot Lead The #EndSARS Movement, They Can Join" By Wale OloworekendeMiki's Pick...2020-11-131h 13In Search Of SauceEp.19 - SoundCloud, Album Pricing & Mark BatsonOn this episode of ISOS: Jashima brings in a piece on SoundCloud and its bleak future as the hyped 'SoundCloud Rap' scene of the late 2010s starts to lose steam. Host Ryan brings in a piece on the price of an album and how some artists have taken it upon themselves to set their own market for their own music. And Miki brings in an interview with super-producer Mark Batson to ring in the release of his debut album.ARTICLES & TIMESTAMPS:Jashima's Pick: (4:38) "Can SoundCloud Survive as Rappers Depart?" By Sowmya KrishnamurthyRyan's Pick: (24:07) "How...2020-10-3053 min
In Search Of Sauce"Southern Hip-Hop Is A Lifestyle" W/ Christina LeeIn the continuation of our bonus series, where we get the sauce directly from the source. Miki, Ryan and Brandon interview Southern Hip-Hop specialist and podcasting pro Christina Lee. They discuss Christina’s emphasis on Southern Hip-Hop and her experience moving to Atlanta and studying cultural icons like OutKast. Through a conversation that spans from Open Mike Eagle to Jeezy, Christina gave us behind the scenes takes from NPR’s Southern-focused podcast, "Bottom of the Map" and her more current endeavour "Sum’n to Say", with Yoh Phillips and Jason (Jah) Leezy. As budding freelan...2020-10-231h 37In Search Of SauceEp.18 - Radio Airplay, Pop Smoke & Savage Mode IIOn this episode of ISOS: Elliot brings in a (two) piece on how labels get radio stations to play their music. (Spoiler alert: Money) Jashima brings a piece on the late Pop Smoke and how he repped New York and shaped the NY Drill scene. And host Miki brings in a review of 21 Savage & Metro Boomin's "Savage Mode II" by a young writer with bags of ability.ARTICLES & TIMESTAMPS:Elliot's Piece(s) - (8:40) "Pay-for-Play Was Banned From Radio — But Texts Reveal It May Still Be Thriving" & "‘Nobody Is Scrutinizing This’: How Labels Pay to Get Songs on the...2020-10-161h 16In Search Of SauceEp.17 - Flying Lotus, Women/Hip-Hop & Spillage VillageOn this episode of ISOS: "Debutant" Tyler brings a fascinating piece on Flying Lotus, Miki brings a piece on Women and what they deserve from Hip-Hop. And host Brandon gets his holy grail: A Rolling Stone piece all about Spillage Village.ARTICLES & TIMESTAMPS:Tyler's Pick: (9:53) "The Future According to Flying Lotus" By Jeff WeissMiki's Pick: (28:17) "What Do Black Women Need From Hip-Hop in 2020?" By David Dennis, Jr.Brandon's Pick: (53:49) "How Spillage Village Hunkered Down in Atlanta and Captured the Chaos of 2020" By Grant RindnerThanks for listening! Be sure to help...2020-10-021h 26
In Search Of Sauce"Start Saying It With Confidence" W/ Elliott WilsonFor our second ISOS journalist interview Miki, Ryan, and Brandon traded words with the goat, the legend, and Tidal’s current Chief Content Officer Elliott Wilson. The guys chopped it up first about the transition from the print magazine era (where Elliott was famously Editor in Chief at XXL) to the Internet or blog era (co-founder Rap Radar).Then Elliott brought an article to the podcast a la ISOS regular scheduled programming. The piece was ‘The Black Internet Gold Rush That Wiped Away $75 Million In 18 Months’ by Aliya S. King posted on Medium. The piece covered the above...2020-09-111h 11In Search Of SauceEp.15 - Open Mike Eagle, Southern Rap & Hot OnesOn Ep.15 of ISOS: Ryan brings in a piece all about Open Mike Eagle and his versatility on and off the mic. Miki brings in his favourite piece of the year so far, talking about the eclipsing stature of Southern Rap. And Brandon goes fanboy talking about T-Pain's 2nd attempt on Hot Ones.ARTICLES & TIMESTAMPSRyan's Pick - (6:40) "On being nimble while riding out uncertainty" By Christina LeeMiki's Pick - (27:46) "The South Is Rap's Past, Present And Future" By Briana YoungerBrandon's Pick - (57:25) "T-Pain Tastes Gas While Eating Spicy Wings" By Hot...2020-08-211h 23In Search Of Sauce"I Don't Take Selfies, I Write Articles" W/ Yoh Phillips (Part 2)Welcome to the second part of our interview with DJBooth’s Yoh Phillips. This is the first interview from our new bonus series where we talk to journalists about their journey with writing and overall journalistic philosophy. Yoh’s work with DJBooth and beyond fascinates us, so we had a great conversation about the man behind the words.LISTEN TO PART 1 IF YOU HAVEN'T ALREADY.Thanks for listening! Be sure to help support the show by sharing it, read the pieces talked about, support the writers & everyone that helps make this show possible. We appreciate you...2020-08-141h 18In Search Of Sauce"I'm Still Trying To Stab You" W/ Yoh Phillips (Part 1)Launching our new bonus interview series, Yoh Phillips joins us to talk all things writing. The Atlanta native is a senior writer for the music publication DJBooth, co-host of the "Sum’n To Say" podcast and co-creator of the "Rap Portraits" video series. His work epitomises everything we love about writing, so enjoy the first part of our deep dive into his process, philosophy and journey with words.Thanks for listening! Be sure to help support the show by sharing it, support the writer(s) & everyone that helps make this show possible. We appreciate you joining us as...2020-08-071h 39In Search Of SauceEp.14 - Lil Baby, Underground Rap & Tiny DeskOn this episode on "In Search of Sauce": Brandon brings a bulky profile of Lil Baby and flexes his knowledge on the concept of "Gonzo" Journalism. Ryan brings a breakdown of Underground Rap by a staple of Underground Rap. And host Miki brings a piece on the evolution of Tiny Desk from someone who's been part of it from early.PIECES & TIMESTAMPS:Brandon's Pick - (2:42) "The Remarkable Rise of Lil Baby" By Charles HolmesRyan's Pick - (24:13) "Did Underground Rap Bury Itself?" By HipHopDX/MursMiki's Pick - (45:40) "How NPR’s Tiny Desk Concert Be...2020-07-311h 11In Search Of SauceEp.13 - Streaming Pay, Jonah Yano & DeathOn this episode of ISOS: The Trio give their Top 5 Albums of 2020 so far. In this pandemic, artists are making another push for Streaming platforms to give them a bigger share of the pie. An interview with Canada-based Jonah Yano. (on a visually pleasing UI.) And staple scribe Yoh talks death while in a strip club.ARTICLES & TIMESTAMPS:Ryan's Pick - (12:02) "How Musicians Are Fighting for Streaming Pay During the Pandemic" By Andy CushMiki's Pick - (39:13) "Familial Bonds & Their Lasting Impact: A Conversation With Jonah Yano" By Adrian VargasBrandon's Pick - (55:51) "Every...2020-07-171h 19In Search Of SauceEp.12 - Deante' Hitchcock, RMR & Indie VenuesOn Ep.12 of ISOS - Miki delivers an interview with Deante' Hitchcock in light of his new project "BETTER". Brandon Hill brings an interview with viral sensation RMR and Boom debuts with a report on Independent Music Venues being threatened by COVID-19.TIMESTAMPS & Pieces covered in the show:Miki's Pick - (1:54) "A Conversation with Deante’ Hitchcock, The Sincere Dreamer" By Yoh PhillipsBrandon's Pick - (16:28) "RMR Is More Than a Mask and a Viral Moment" By Eric SkeltonBoom's Pick - (39:35) "90 Percent of Independent Music Venues May Close Due to COVID-19" By Torry Threadcraft...2020-07-031h 00In Search Of SauceEp.11 - Flawed Rappers, Tory Lanez & RTJ4On this episode of ISOS: Ryan kicks it off with a piece that connects Future, Medhane & Sheff G. Host Miki gives an electric interview with Tory Lanez. And Brandon brings a traditional review on the hottest Hip-Hop album right now, Run The Jewels' "RTJ4".TIMESTAMPS/ARTICLES:Ryan's Pick: (8:34) "3 Rappers Learning to Accept Their Flaws" By Dylan GreenMiki's Pick: (22:37) "Tory Lanez Is the New King of Raunch" By Craig JenkinsBrandon's Pick: (40:55) "Run the Jewels Bring the Noise Right on Time With ‘RTJ4’" By Jon DolanThanks for listening! Be sure to help...2020-06-191h 05In Search Of SauceEp.10 - Ice Cube, Shomi Patwary & The MottoOn episode 10 of "In Search Of Sauce": The trio first read out names of unarmed black people that have been murdered in the US since Eric Garner, to recognise the recent events.Host Brandon brings in a piece on why Ice Cube is long overdue for a Songwriters Hall of Fame induction. Ryan brings an interview with award-winning music director Shomi Patwary and Miki caps it off with a recognition of Elliott Wilson, in light of his new, more intimate venture, "The Motto".Brandon's Pick - (6:10) "Why Ice Cube Should Be A Future Songwriters Hall...2020-06-051h 11In Search Of SauceEp.9 - Rap Geopolitics, Little Richard & The CaveOn Ep.9 of ISOS: Debutant Miki comes through with a piece on Rappers as countries and breaking it down using everybody's favourite subject, geopolitics! (2:46)Brandon goes for a piece on the recently passed Little Richard and his influence on everybody that came after him. (28:22)Lastly, host Ryan taps into a video all about Kenny Beats' "The Cave" series and the trio give their favourite episodes. (48:28)Miki's Pick - "If Rappers Were Countries: Hip-Hop & Geopolitics" By Zachary SchwartzBrandon's Pick - "'I Majored In Mouth': How Little Richard Invented The Rock Star" By...2020-05-221h 20