Shows
K12ArtChat the PodcastEpisode 239 – Sean Justice, Marta Cabral, Andrea Kantrowitz – Modalities & Reimagining Materials through InquiryIn this episode, the Creativity Department talks to professors, educators, and artists Sean Justice, Marta Cabral, and Andrea Kantrowitz about how art educators can reimagine and reframe tools and materials using multi-modal learning techniques. For example, a simple change in terminology can be the catalyst to looking at a tool in a new light. Listen in and hear how utilizing a “material inquiry lens” can help students understand that materials can be used in a multitude of unique ways that aren’t necessarily conventional.
2025-12-1155 min
culture FYI'RSSerato with Sonny JamesWelcome to the Culture FYI’RS Podcast. Culture FYI’RS is a creative collaboration meetup held weekly at the FYI Campus in Los Angeles. Each week, we feature a fireside chat with a guest, showcase projects being worked on by members of the FYI community, and share product updates for FYI.AI, the creative collaboration app co-founded by will.i.am.Learn more about FYI:https://fyi.me/p/jointhemovementThis week, we dive into the multifaceted world of Sonny James, a dynamic DJ, producer, artist, and A&R...
2025-09-1541 min
The Questions Hip-HopMaking Illmatic - Clipse 'Lord Willin' w/ Kap KallousMaking Illmatic returns from a hiatus to The Questions Hip-Hop, as Sean Kantrowitz and MidaZ the BEAST are joined by emcee/artist Kap Kallous to explore Clipse's debut album 'Lord Willin' and attempt to trim the album down to its 10 best songs. How do you trim this LP down to 10 songs and does doing so help or hurt the album?
8:16 - 'Lord Willin' Background
20:55 - Album Ratings
28:33 - Intro
33:26 - Young Boy
40:23 - Virginia
48:51 - Grindin'
59:18 - Hot Damn feat Ab-Liva and Rosco P. Coldchain
01:04:44 - Ma I Don't Love Her feat Faith Evans
01:11:31 - FamLay Freestyle
01:16:56...
2025-08-111h 56
The Questions Hip-HopShawn (Setaro) + Sean (Kantrowitz) on Sean ("Diddy" Combs)Sean Kantrowitz connects with journalist/author/hip-hop podcast OG Shawn Setaro to talk about the ins and outs of covering the Sean "Diddy" Combs trial for Complex.
Patreon.com/thequestionshiphop
questionshiphop.com
youtube.com/thequestionshiphop
The Questions Hip-Hop: Instagram
Sean Kantrowitz: Instagram
Shawn Setaro: Instagram
2025-07-2857 min
The Questions Hip-HopEsthero (Can't Knock the Shuffle Classic)Originally broadcast on May 10 and May 17, 2021
Can't Knock the Shuffle features Sean Kantrowitz exploring the discography of an artist, and leaving it to an algorithm to choose which randomly-selected songs to ask the artist about. This classic episode features singer/songwriter and artist Esthero.
Songs:
"O.G. Bitch" (2003)
"Junglebook" feat Andre 3000...kind of ('Wikked Lil Girls,' 2005)
"Everything is Expensive" ('Everything is Expensive', 2012)
"Streetlights" (Kanye West, '808s and Heartbreak', 2008)
"Amber and Tiger's Eye" ('We R in Need of...
2025-07-211h 38
The Questions Hip-HopIndependent as F***: Ben Pedroche (Grown Up Rap)Sean Kantrowitz speaks with London-based author Ben Pedroche, whose book 'Independent as F***: Underground Hip-Hop from 1995-2005' offers a comprehensive overview of the albums, artists, 12" records, and labels that shaped the genre in its arguably most-potent decade.
Patreon.com/thequestionshiphop
questionshiphop.com
youtube.com/thequestionshiphop
The Questions Hip-Hop: Instagram
Sean Kantrowitz: Instagram
Ben (Grown Up Rap): Instagram
2025-07-0336 min
The Questions Hip-Hop2005 Draft w/ Justin Hunte and The Last MJThe second Draft episode of The Questions Hip-Hop podcast takes an in-depth deep dive into the year 2005. Sean Kantrowitz, MidaZ the BEAST, Justin Hunte (The Company Man) and The Last MJ (Don't Quote Me podcast) comb through the year 2005, selecting their picks for Best Mainstream Album, Best Independent Album, Best Beat, Best Emcee, Best Verse, Best Guest Feature/Verse, Best Producer, Best Album Cover, and Best Video. Buckle up and get ready for some hot takes, debates, and a thoughtful look back at what was happening in hip-hop 20 (!) years ago.
Patreon.com/thequestionshiphop
...
2025-06-162h 33
Dad Bod Rap Pod3 Bad Brothers A Beastie Boys Breakdown- Check Your Head with guest Sean KantrowitzAll summer long, Dad Bod Rap Pod is breaking down the Beastie Boys' legendary career in an album-per-episode miniseries. This week things start to get really interesting as the Boys build their own studio in LA so they can jam with Mario C at the boards and Money Mark on keys, crafting their pivotal album, the eclectic and electric Check Your Head.
DBRP hosts Nate LeBlanc, David Ma and Demone Carter are joined by hip-hop trivia king and fellow podcaster Sean Kantrowitz to discuss the Beasties picking their instruments back up, karaoke mics, the...
2025-06-121h 15
The Questions Hip-HopEl Da Sensei (Can't Knock the Shuffle Classic)Originally broadcast on June 7, 2021.
Can't Knock the Shuffle features Sean Kantrowitz exploring the discography of an artist, and leaving it to an algorithm to choose which randomly-selected songs to ask the artist about. This classic episode features El Da Sensei, the Newark rapper and members of Artifacts whose career spans several decades, groups, and solo projects.
Songs:
"Speakin'" ('Relax, Relate, Release', 2003)
"Live Noise" feat. Akrobatik (w/ The Returners, 'GT2: Nu World', 2010)
"Wrong Side of Da Tracks" (Artifacts, 'Between a Rock and a Hard Place', 1994)
"...
2025-06-091h 10
The Questions Hip-HopMaking Illmatic - Nas 'It Was Written' w/ Jamil HonestyMaking Illmatic returns to The Questions Hip-Hop, as Sean Kantrowitz and MidaZ the BEAST are joined by emcee/producer Jamil Honesty to deep dive into Nas's 'It Was Written' and attempt to scale the album down to its 10 best songs. How do you trim this LP down to 10 songs and does doing so help or hurt the album?
Patreon.com/thequestionshiphop
questionshiphop.com
youtube.com/thequestionshiphop
The Questions Hip-Hop: Instagram
Sean Kantrowitz: Instagram
MidaZ the BEAST: Instagram
Jamil Honesty: Instagram
2025-05-261h 05
The Questions Hip-HopDJ Skizz (Questions Classic)Originally broadcast on Feb 3, 2021.
Sean is joined by producer/DJ Skizz to talk about his career in hip-hop and producing for the likes of Roc Marciano, Freeway, Sean Price, and many others. And of course – to put his hip-hop trivia skills to the test.
Patreon.com/thequestionshiphop
questionshiphop.com
youtube.com/thequestionshiphop
The Questions Hip-Hop: Instagram
Sean Kantrowitz: Instagram
2025-05-1950 min
The Questions Hip-HopEpisode 200 Celebration!200th Episode Celebration! Sean recounts the 12 Most Important Moments in the podcast's history.
Patreon.com/thequestionshiphop
questionshiphop.com
youtube.com/thequestionshiphop
The Questions Hip-Hop: Instagram
Sean Kantrowitz: Instagram
2025-05-1254 min
Call Out CultureMaking Shrillmatic - Beastie Boys Ill Communication feat. Sean KantrowitzThis week we brought on Sean Kantrowitz of the Making Illmatic podcast to discuss the Beastie Boys album Ill Communication. Once again we subjected Sean to the darkness by subverting the concept of his show. Instead of picking 10 songs of a bloated album to make the best version of said album, we picked the 10 worst songs, to make the worst version of the album.This episode was inspired by our friend Seaforex!You can find all things Sean Kantrowitz here:https://fyi.me/p/seankantrowitzIf you want to hear full episodes i...
2025-05-0648 min
The Questions Hip-HopMathematics (Can't Knock the Shuffle)Patreon.com/thequestionshiphopquestionshiphop.comSean connects with Wu-Tang Clan's Mathematics for a "Can't Knock the Shuffle"-themed episode, powered by the AI in FYI.AI and covering the stories behind six randomly-selected Wu songs produced by Mathematics. They also talk about the latest Mathematics-produced Wu-Tang album 'Black Samson: The Bastard Swordsman.' Mathematics "Respect Mine" feat. Raekwon, Method Man, & Cappadonna (Love, Hell or Right, 2003)Wu-Tang Clan & Mathematics "Mandingo" (Black Samson, The Bastard Swordsman, 2025)Ghostface Killah "Mighty...
2025-04-2853 min
The Questions Hip-HopMaking Illmatic - Cannibal Ox 'The Cold Vein' w/ Dart AdamsPatreon.com/thequestionshiphopquestionshiphop.comyoutube.com/thequestionshiphopEsteemed hip-hop historian and journalist Dart Adams returns to the Making Illmatic series of The Questions Hip-Hop, joining Sean Kantrowitz and MidaZ the BEAST in examining Cannibal Ox's debut album 'The Cold Vein.' How do you trim this LP down to 10 songs and does doing so help or hurt the album? The Questions Hip-Hop: InstagramSean Kantrowitz: InstagramMidaZ the BEAST: InstagramDart Adams: Instagram
2025-04-071h 17
The Questions Hip-HopThank You, Roy Ayers w/ DJ Steve1derPatreon.com/thequestionshiphopquestionshiphop.comyoutube.com/thequestionshiphopSean Kantrowitz and DJ Steve1der pay tribute to Roy Ayers, highlighting not just his contributions to music but specifically the ways in which his compositions informed the DNA of so many hip-hop songs through sampling, interpolation, and collaborations. The Questions Hip-Hop: InstagramSean Kantrowitz: InstagramSteve1der: Instagram
2025-03-171h 14
The Questions Hip-Hop1995 Draft w/ Trackstar the DJ and PhilaflavaPatreon.com/thequestionshiphopquestionshiphop.comyoutube.com/thequestionshiphopIt's the inaugural Draft episode of The Questions Hip-Hop podcast. Sean Kantrowitz, MidaZ the BEAST, Trackstar the DJ (Run the Jewels, Killer Mike), and Jason Gloss (Philaflava) are combing through the year 1995, selecting their picks for Best Album, Best Beat, Best Emcee, Best Verse, Best Guest Feature/Verse, Best Producer, and Best Album Cover. The Questions Hip-Hop: InstagramSean Kantrowitz: InstagramMidaZ the BEAST: InstagramTrackstar the DJ: Instagram...
2025-03-032h 04
The Questions Hip-HopMaking Illmatic - Redman 'Muddy Waters Too' w/ Zilla RoccaPatreon.com/thequestionshiphopquestionshiphop.comyoutube.com/thequestionshiphopUncharted Making Illmatic territory as Sean Kantrowitz and MidaZ the BEAST give the Making Illmatic treatment to Redman's 2024 album 'Muddy Waters Too,' the most recent - and longest! - LP to get the MI treatment yet. They're joined by returning guest Zilla Rocca (Call-Out Culture, Wrecking Crew) to attempt to shave the 32-song album down to its 10 best songs – and to decide if doing so helps or hurts the record. The Questions Hip-Hop: InstagramSean Kantrowitz: Instagram...
2025-02-171h 04
The Questions Hip-HopMaking Illmatic - Roc Marciano 'Marcberg' w/ Dart AdamsPatreon.com/thequestionshiphopquestionshiphop.comyoutube.com/thequestionshiphopThe first 'Making Illmatic' episode of 2025 finds Sean Kantrowitz and MidaZ the BEAST joined by hip-hop pundit/writer Dart Adams to take a deep dive into Roc Marciano's classic debut album 'Marcberg.' The trio must trim the album down to its 10 best tracks – but which ones will make the cut? And does doing this help or hurt 'Marcberg'?The Questions Hip-Hop: InstagramSean Kantrowitz: InstagramMidaZ the BEAST: InstagramDart Ad...
2025-01-272h 07
The Questions Hip-HopMarcus J. MoorePatreon.com/thequestionshiphopquestionshiphop.comBuy the Questions Hip-Hop Trivia GameSean is joined by author and music journalist Marcus J. Moore to discuss the current state of music journalism, the process of writing his latest book 'High and Rising: A Book About De La Soul,' and the controversy that followed its publication late last year. The Questions Hip-Hop: InstagramSean Kantrowitz: InstagramMarcus J. Moore: Instagram
2025-01-2052 min
The Questions Hip-HopBrother Ali & Dee-1Patreon.com/thequestionshiphopquestionshiphop.comBuy the Questions Hip-Hop Trivia GameBrother Ali and Dee-1 join Sean for an in-person interview as the duo travel the United States on the Satisfied Soul Tour. Deep conversation and some real perspective from two artists who have never been afraid to speak truth through their music. The Questions Hip-Hop: InstagramSean Kantrowitz: Instagram Brother Ali: https://brotherali.com | InstagramDee-1: https://www.dee1music.com | Instagram
2024-12-091h 21
The Questions Hip-HopIMAKEMADBEATSPatreon.com/thequestionshiphopquestionshiphop.comSean sits down with producer, Unapologetic. founder, and close friend IMAKEMADBEATS to talk about his latest album 'WANDS,' the journey of carving out a unique sound in the Memphis hip-hop scene, and the personal obstacles that have shaped the last few years of his life and career. Unapologetic.The Questions Hip-Hop: Instagram Sean Kantrowitz: Instagram IMAKEMADBEATS: Instagram
2024-11-251h 08
The Questions Hip-HopMaking Illmatic - The Game 'The Documentary' w/ Psalm One & OptiksPatreon.com/thequestionshiphopquestionshiphop.comSean and MidaZ are joined by Psalm One and Optiks – who just dropped their collaborative album 'Is This a Safe Space?' – to put The Game's debut album 'The Documentary' under the Making Illmatic microscope. What are the 10 best songs on the album, and does editing help or hurt the LP? The Questions Hip-Hop: Instagram | TwitterSean Kantrowitz: Instagram | TwitterMidaZ the BEAST: Instagram | TwitterPsalm One: Instagram | Twitter Optiks: Instagram | Twitter
2024-11-111h 43
The Questions Hip-HopMaking Illmatic - RZA 'Bobby Digital In Stereo' w/ TzariZMPatreon.com/thequestionshiphopquestionshiphop.comWe're going digi! Sean and MidaZ are joined by return guest TzariZM to unpack the RZA's solo debut album, 'Bobby Digital In Stereo.' What are this album's 10 best songs, and does trimming it down help or hurt the record? The Questions Hip-Hop: Instagram | TwitterSean Kantrowitz: Instagram | TwitterMidaZ the BEAST: Instagram | TwitterTzariZM: Instagram | TwitterMidaZ the BEAST and Tzarizm 'The Vivid Laser Eye Guy'
2024-11-041h 59
The Questions Hip-HopHomeboy Sandman aka Visitor (Can't Knock the Shuffle Classic)Patreon.com/thequestionshiphopquestionshiphop.comOriginal broadcast: November 4, 2020Revisiting the appearance of Visitor (aka Homeboy Sandman) on Can't Knock the Shuffle, in which the artist and Sean explore the stories behind seven randomly-selected songs from his catalog: "Nuts" ['Nourishment (Second Helpings)', 2007]"Lightning Bolt, Lightning Rod" ('Actual Factual Pterodactyl,' 2008)"Trauma" ('Don't Feed the Monster', 2020)"Heaven Too" ('Hallways', 2014)"Always" ('Dusty', 2019)
2024-10-1459 min
The Questions Hip-HopMC Paul Barman (Can't Knock the Shuffle)Patreon.com/thequestionshiphopquestionshiphop.comMany years in the making, Sean sits down with MC Paul Barman to explore the stories behind seven randomly-selected songs from his imaginatively incomparable catalog: "Circumcision Suite" (prod. Memory Man) ('Thought Balloon Mushroom Cloud,' 2009)"Blessings" (prod. Glen Brady) ('TECTONIC TEXTS,' yet-to-be-released)"Put Me On Your Do Not Call List" (prod. Michel Gondry) ('Blue Moon Kaboom,' 2017)"Anarchist Bookstore, Pt 2" (prod. MF DOOM...
2024-10-071h 16
The Questions Hip-HopMaking Illmatic - Rjd2 'Deadringer' w/ Nate LeBlancPatreon.com/thequestionshiphopquestionshiphop.comSean and MidaZ are joined by Dad Bod Rap Pod's Nate LeBlanc to put Rjd2's debut album 'Deadringer' under the Making Illmatic microscope. Which 10 songs will make the final cut? The Questions Hip-Hop: Instagram | TwitterSean Kantrowitz: Instagram | TwitterMidaZ the BEAST: Instagram | TwitterDad Bod Rap Pod: Instagram | TwitterMidaZ the BEAST and Tzarizm 'The Vivid Laser Eye Guy'
2024-09-3059 min
The Questions Hip-Hop'Ol' Dirty Bastard: A Tale of Two Dirtys' w/ Jason Pollard and Young Dirty BastardPatreon.com/thequestionshiphopquestionshiphop.comWe're uncovering the making of this summer's Ol' Dirty Bastard documentary 'Ol' Dirty Bastard: A Tale of Two Dirtys,' streaming now on A&E. Sean connects with the film's co-director Jason Pollard and one of the film's producers, Young Dirty Bastard (son of ODB). All audio clips from the film appear courtesy of A&E/Four Screens Management. The Questions Hip-Hop: Instagram | TwitterSean Kantrowitz: Instagram | TwitterOl' Dirty Bastard: Instagram ...
2024-09-1639 min
The Questions Hip-HopD-Stroy (Questions Classic)Patreon.com/thequestionshiphopquestionshiphop.comEmail me: sean@questionshiphop.comOriginally broadcast on July 1, 2020.Diving back into the archives of The Questions livestream era, with special guest emcee/radio personality + host D-Stroy. The Questions Hip-Hop: Instagram | TwitterSean Kantrowitz: Instagram | TwitterD-Stroy: Instagram | Twitter
2024-09-0957 min
The Questions Hip-HopMaking Illmatic - Kool G Rap & DJ Polo 'Wanted: Dead or Alive' w/ WordsworthPatreon.com/thequestionshiphopquestionshiphop.comWe're taking it back with this one! Sean and MidaZ the BEAST bring the Making Illmatic format back as they attempt to condense Kool G Rap and DJ Polo's second album 'Wanted: Dead or Alive' down to 10 songs. They're joined by emcee/author/hip-hop multi-hyphenate Wordsworth. RIP to DJ Polo, whose untimely passing occurred weeks after this episode was recorded. The Questions Hip-Hop: Instagram | TwitterSean Kantrowitz: Instagram | TwitterMidaZ the BEAST: Instagram | TwitterWordsworth: Instagram...
2024-09-021h 02
The Questions Hip-HopDante Ross (Can't Knock the Shuffle Classic)Patreon.com/thequestionshiphopquestionshiphop.com Original airdate: June 14, 2021A return to the Can't Knock the Shuffle crates in this classic episode with record exec/producer/songwriter/A&R Dante Ross. Dante and Sean take a random deep dive into songs from Dante's extensive catalog: 3rd Bass "Kick 'Em in the Grill" feat Chubb Rock ('Derelicts of Dialect,' 1991)Del the Funky Homosapien "Ya Lil Crumbsnatchers" ('I Wish My Brother George Was Here,' 1991)...
2024-08-261h 21
The Questions Hip-HopNicolay (Foreign Exchange) 'Connected' Pt 2 (Track-By-Track Breakdown)Patreon.com/thequestionshiphopquestionshiphop.comhttps://www.theforeignexchangemusic.com/In the second installment of Sean's conversation with Nicolay, the Foreign Exchange producer offers up a track-by-track commentary on the group's debut 'Connected,' which celebrates its 20th anniversary this month. Featuring exclusive stems and samples directly from Nicolay's archives. The Questions Hip-Hop: Instagram | TwitterSean Kantrowitz: Instagram | TwitterNicolay: Instagram | Twitter
2024-08-192h 17
The Questions Hip-HopNicolay - The Foreign Exchange 'Connected' 20th Anniversary Pt 1Patreon.com/thequestionshiphopquestionshiphop.comhttps://www.theforeignexchangemusic.com/This month marks the 20th anniversary of The Foreign Exchange's debut album 'Connected.' To commemorate the occasion, the group's producer Nicolay connects with Sean for a two-part deep dive into the making of the record. In this first half, Nic sets the stage for the genesis of the album, the circumstances that played a part in the recording process with him and Phonte Coleman, and much much more. The Questions Hip-Hop: Instagram | TwitterSean...
2024-08-121h 51
The Questions Hip-HopMaking Illmatic - Xzibit '40 Dayz & 40 Nightz' w/ RhettmaticPatreon.com/thequestionshiphopquestionshiphop.comGet ready for a deep dive into LA's underground history as Sean and MidaZ the BEAST return with the Making Illmatic format – a thought experiment in which they attempt to condense an album down to 10 songs. This installment in the series puts Xzibit's second album '40 Dayz & 40 Nightz' under the microscope, and they're joined by LA legend/Beat Junkie Rhettmatic. The Questions Hip-Hop: Instagram | TwitterSean Kantrowitz: Instagram | TwitterMidaZ the BEAST: Instagram | TwitterRhettmatic: Instagram | Tw...
2024-07-291h 02
The Questions Hip-HopMaking RJ-Matic (10 Rjd2 Songs You Should Hear)Patreon.com/thequestionshiphopquestionshiphop.comORDER THE QUESTIONS HIP-HOP TRIVIA GAMEInspired by the recent release of Rjd2's 14th album 'Visions Out Of Limelight,' Sean runs through 10 songs by the producer/artist that listeners should know about. The Questions Hip-Hop: Instagram | TwitterSean Kantrowitz: Instagram | TwitterRjd2: Linktree
2024-06-1750 min
The Questions Hip-HopMaking Illmatic - Jaylib 'Champion Sound' w/ SupastitionPatreon.com/thequestionshiphopquestionshiphop.comORDER THE QUESTIONS HIP-HOP TRIVIA GAMESean and MidaZ the BEAST bring back the Making Illmatic format – a thought experiment in which they attempt to condense an album down to 10 songs – and this time the record going under the microscope is Jaylib's 'Champion Sound,' the collaborative project between J Dilla and Madlib. They're joined by returning MI guest Supastition, who also talks about his latest project, 'All That Was Left Unsaid.' The Questions Hip-Hop: Instagram | TwitterSean Kantrowitz: Instagram | TwitterMida...
2024-06-101h 00
The Questions Hip-HopThe Answers: The SeanDon HourPatreon.com/thequestionshiphopquestionshiphop.comORDER THE QUESTIONS HIP-HOP TRIVIA GAMEBrand new (?) format time. Sean is joined by Donwill (Tanya Morgan, The Almanac of Rap) for the inaugural SeanDon Hour (aka Don Ep). Freeform conversation including the art of writing timeless yet timely lyrics, John Mulaney, a certain rap beef, the current state of podcasting, the 15th anniversary of TM's Brooklynatti, and more. The Questions Hip-Hop: Instagram | TwitterSean Kantrowitz: Instagram | TwitterDonwill: Instagram | Twitter
2024-05-131h 06
The Questions Hip-HopMaking Illmatic - Cam'ron 'Purple Haze' w/ Chong WizardPatreon.com/thequestionshiphopquestionshiphop.comORDER THE QUESTIONS HIP-HOP TRIVIA GAMEKilla! Sean and MidaZ the BEAST are back at it with another Making Illmatic, and they've got the podcasts 'castin' this time as they're joined by DJ Chong Wizard to assess Cam'ron's 'Purple Haze.' The Questions Hip-Hop: Instagram | TwitterSean Kantrowitz: Instagram | TwitterMidaZ the BEAST: Instagram | TwitterChong Wizard: Instagram | Twitter
2024-04-221h 01
The Questions Hip-HopMaking Illmatic: Fat Joe 'Don Cartagena' w/ Zilla RoccaPatreon.com/thequestionshiphopquestionshiphop.comORDER THE QUESTIONS HIP-HOP TRIVIA GAMEPotential sacred cow alert: Sean and MidaZ return to the Making Illmatic format for De La Soul's fourth album 'Stakes is High' with special guest DJ Steve1der. Which 10 songs make the cut? The Questions Hip-Hop: Instagram | TwitterSean Kantrowitz: Instagram | TwitterMidaZ the BEAST: Instagram | TwitterZilla Rocca: Instagram | Twitter
2024-03-251h 37
The Questions Hip-HopMaking Illmatic: De La Soul 'Stakes is High' w/ DJ Steve1derPatreon.com/thequestionshiphopquestionshiphop.comORDER THE QUESTIONS HIP-HOP TRIVIA GAMEPotential sacred cow alert: Sean and MidaZ return to the Making Illmatic format for De La Soul's fourth album 'Stakes is High' with special guest DJ Steve1der. Which 10 songs make the cut? The Questions Hip-Hop: Instagram | TwitterSean Kantrowitz: Instagram | TwitterMidaZ the BEAST: Instagram | TwitterSteve1der: Instagram | Twitter
2024-03-1156 min
The Questions Hip-HopMaking Illmatic: Sticky Fingaz 'Black Trash: The Autobiography of Kirk Jones'Patreon.com/thequestionshiphopquestionshiphop.comORDER THE QUESTIONS HIP-HOP TRIVIA GAMEThings take a conceptual turn in this installment of the Making Illmatic series, as Sean and MidaZ are joined by writer/journalist Kevito Clark to dissect Sticky Fingaz's debut narrative album 'Black Trash: The Autobiography of Kirk Jones'. The Questions Hip-Hop: Instagram | TwitterSean Kantrowitz: Instagram | TwitterMidaZ the BEAST: Instagram | TwitterKevito Clark: Instagram
2024-02-262h 13
The Questions Hip-HopMaking Dill-Matic (J DIlla Tribute)Patreon.com/thequestionshiphopquestionshiphop.comORDER THE QUESTIONS HIP-HOP TRIVIA GAMESean rides solo on this episode and presents his Top 10 Underrated J-Dilla productions/songs. The Questions Hip-Hop: Instagram | TwitterSean Kantrowitz: Instagram | Twitter
2024-02-121h 07
The Questions Hip-HopMaking Illmatic: DMX 'It's Dark and Hell is Hot' w/ Jamal GasolPatreon.com/thequestionshiphopquestionshiphop.comORDER THE QUESTIONS HIP-HOP TRIVIA GAMEMaking Illmatic returns in 2024 with Sean and MidaZ joining ranks with Jamal Gasol to attempt to trim DMX's debut 'It's Dark and Hell is Hot' down to just 10 songs. The Questions Hip-Hop: Instagram | TwitterSean Kantrowitz: Instagram | TwitterMidaZ the BEAST: Instagram | TwitterJamal Gasol: Instagram | Twitter
2024-01-221h 35
The Questions Hip-HopMarco Polo (Questions Classic)Patreon.com/thequestionshiphopquestionshiphop.comORDER THE QUESTIONS HIP-HOP TRIVIA GAMEOriginally broadcast on March 10, 2021It's a Questions Classic as voted on by the Patreon! Sean is joined by producer Marco Polo for some stories from throughout his career, geeking out on some rap fan ish, and of course some hip-hop trivia. The Questions Hip-Hop: Instagram | TwitterSean Kantrowitz: Instagram | TwitterMarco Polo: Instagram | Twitter
2024-01-151h 06
The Questions Hip-HopKidz in the Hall (Can't Knock the Shuffle)Patreon.com/thequestionshiphopORDER THE QUESTIONS HIP-HOP TRIVIA GAMEKidz in the Hall (Naledge and Double-0) revisit seven randomly-selected songs from their catalog and reflect on two decades in the rap game, covering stories from the Rawkus Records era, collaborating with their peers in the Blog Era, and redefining what artistry looks like in your 40s with their latest album 'Adulting Anonymous.'Songs in the shuffle:"Oh My God" feat Ro$$ Mac ('Adulting Anonymous', 2023)"Jukebox" feat MC Lyte ('Land of Make Believe,' 2010)"Life I Know"...
2024-01-081h 52
The Crate 808 PodcastBest Hip Hop of 2023 - Part 1 | Ep. 165My god, WHAT a twelve months it's been. Hip hop's 50th year delivered some insane music, incredible verses and memorable moments...and we broke it all down for you in this MAMMOTH two-part episode. Do go check out the other episode to get our full 2023 breakdown - we went in! Joining us for this celebration is SonRaw and Rohan (The Rap Music Plug Podcast), as well as guest contributions from the likes of Televangel, Defcee, Beezy (Dead End Hip Hop), Dart Adams, Sean Kantrowitz, GENG PTP, Zilla Rocca, Dan O, Tokyo Cigar, Dylan Green, Rob...
2023-12-192h 13
The Questions Hip-HopThe Answers: Rapped Up (But Not a Wrap-Up)Patreon.com/thequestionshiphopquestionshiphop.comORDER THE QUESTIONS HIP-HOP TRIVIA GAMESean and MidaZ catch up on a variety of subjects including: analyzing the writing styles of different rappers, Black Thought's new book, Midaz's latest album with Planet Asia (And 1 Rap Shit), the difference between making and receiving art, the lost episode of Making Illmatic, and more. The Questions Hip-Hop: Instagram | TwitterSean Kantrowitz: Instagram | TwitterMidaZ the BEAST: Instagram | Twitter
2023-12-1858 min
The Questions Hip-HopAlaska (Questions Classic)Patreon.com/thequestionshiphopquestionshiphop.comORDER THE QUESTIONS HIP-HOP TRIVIA GAMEOriginally broadcast on September 30, 2021It's a Questions Classic as voted on by the Patreon! Sean sits down with Alaska (Hangar 18, Call Out Culture podcast) for some rap trivia and musings on all things indie hip-hop (and beyond). The Questions Hip-Hop: Instagram | TwitterSean Kantrowitz: Instagram | Twitter
2023-12-111h 19
The Questions Hip-HopMaking Illmatic: Method Man 'Tical 2000: Judgment Day' w/ OrionPatreon.com/thequestionshiphopquestionshiphop.comORDER THE QUESTIONS HIP-HOP TRIVIA GAMEMaking Illmatic makes its long-awaited return as Sean, MidaZ, and guest Orion revisit Method Man's sophomore album 'Tical 2000: Judgment Day.' What 10 songs make the cut and where does the album stand after getting the Making Illmatic treatment? The Questions Hip-Hop: Instagram | TwitterSean Kantrowitz: Instagram | TwitterMidaZ: Instagram | TwitterOrion: Instagram
2023-12-041h 12
The Questions Hip-HopMaking Tip-Matic (Q-Tip Tribute) w/ Optiks and Mean Joe SchemePatreon.com/thequestionshiphopquestionshiphop.comORDER THE QUESTIONS HIP-HOP TRIVIA GAMESean, Optiks, and Mean Joe Scheme are celebrating the genius and vast catalog of Q-Tip with this special 'Making Tip-Matic'. The trio present their favorite Q-Tip produced/featuring songs and dig down some Abstract rabbitholes. The Questions Hip-Hop: Instagram | TwitterSean Kantrowitz: Instagram | TwitterOptiks: Instagram | TwitterMean Joe Scheme: Instagram | Twitter
2023-11-271h 35
The Parker Edison ProjectWe Got It (the Jazz)In this latest episode, I dig into San Diego’s quiet legacy of Jazz music, percussionist Leon E. Alexander Jr https://www.reillyartscenter.com/people/leon-e-alexander-jr/ speaks on his journey, and composer Atlanta composer Marie A. Douglas https://www.marieadouglas.com/ shares what inspires her.
Music: Sean Kantrowitz https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/authors/2261616/sean-kantrowitz/
Episode artwork Anne McColl https://www.liquidsketchstudio.com/
Show credits: Parker Edison (Host), Chris Reyes (Head Editor), Angela Rogan (Writer), Prof Robert A. Saunders (Geo-Political Consultant), Adrian Villalobos (Media Production Specialist), Lisa Jane Morrisette (Director of Audio Programming and Operations) and John Decker (Senior Director of Co...
2023-05-1234 min
Breaking Atoms: The Hip Hop PodcastSean Kantrowitz (The Questions Hip Hop)We caught up with our guy Sean Kantrowitz to celebrate the release of his brand new board game, The Questions Hip Hop. Sean breaks down how he's expanded his brand, the level of planning that goes into putting a project like it together, and we even play a round live on air. Pick up your copy of The Questions here: https://amzn.to/3l8FKzv Follow Sumit Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hiphopchronicle Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/hiphopchronicle Follow Chris Inst...
2023-02-0758 min
The Questions Hip-HopGame Talk w/ Sean Kantrowitz + MidaZ the BEASTPart 1 in a conversation between Sean and MidaZ discussing their latest projects. First up, Sean talks about the history of The Questions and the road that led to the release of The Questions Hip-Hop Trivia game, now available everywhere. The Questions: @thequestionshiphop (IG), @questionshiphop (Twitter)Sean: @seandammit (IG), @seandammit (Twitter)MidaZ: @midazthebeast (IG), @midaz (Twitter)ORDER THE QUESTIONS HIP-HOP TRIVIA GAMEPatreon.com/thequestionshiphopquestionshiphop.com
2023-02-0658 min
Dad Bod Rap PodEpisode 253More game than parker brothers.....Sean Kantrowitz is a man of many talents. He is a whole ass musician who has worked with some of the most ginormous names in the music industry (DR.DRE??). He is super tight with Questlove and has even provided input for some of the music intros on the Jimmy Fallon Show. But his most recent project has put him in the interesting position of being hip hop's preeminent quizmaster. After piloting a Hip Hop trivia night (which evolved into a online show) called The Questions with his cousin DJ Steve 1nder...
2023-01-261h 12
The Questions Hip-HopGrand Daddy IU - Questions ClassicJoin the PATREONOriginal livestream date: March 3, 2021RIP Grand Daddy IU! Paying respect to the Cold Chillin' legend with this classic episode featuring the Juice Crew member. https://www.questionshiphop.com The Questions Hip-Hop: Instagram | TwitterSean Kantrowitz: Instagram | TwitterEMAIL SEAN: sean@questionshiphop.com
2022-12-1950 min
The Questions Hip-HopBahamadia - Questions ClassicJoin the PATREONOriginal livestream date: September 28, 2020Throwback classic episode with Philadelphia's hip-hop queen Bahamadia. The emcee/producer talks about some of her greatest influences/allies in her career, the ways in which she has continued to innovate and move in both the industry and her own creative space, and of course...throws down on some hip-hop trivia! https://www.questionshiphop.com The Questions Hip-Hop: Instagram | TwitterSean Kantrowitz: Instagram | TwitterBahamadia: Instagram | TwitterEMAIL SEAN: sean@questionshiphop.com
2022-12-0555 min
The Questions Hip-HopEl Da Sensei - Questions ClassicJoin the PATREONOriginal livestream date: December 23, 2020Sean talks about the recent deaths of Hurricane G and Tame One, then dives deep with El Da Sensei about his solo career as well as his music with Artifacts. https://www.questionshiphop.com The Questions Hip-Hop: Instagram | TwitterSean Kantrowitz: Instagram | TwitterEl Da Sensei: Instagram | TwitterEMAIL SEAN: sean@questionshiphop.com
2022-11-2150 min
The Questions Hip-HopMaking Illmatic: The Pharcyde 'Labcabincalifornia' w/ DJ Steve1derPatreon.com/thequestionshiphopBack at it with another installment in the 'Making Illmatic' series! Sean Kantrowitz and MidaZ the BEAST are joined by DJ Steve1der as the trio attempt to improve the Pharcyde's 1995 sophomore album 'Labcabincalifornia' by trimming it down to 10 songs.The Questions: @thequestionshiphop (IG), @questionshiphop (Twitter)Sean: @seandammit (IG), @seandammit (Twitter)MidaZ: @midazthebeast (IG), @midaz (Twitter)Steve1der: @djsteve1der (IG), @steve1der (Twitter)Email: sean@questionshiphop.comquestionshiphop.com
2022-11-141h 51
FreemusicempireState of The Game Vol. 122-Jay-Z Misconceptions w/ Sean KantrowitzATTENDEES
Sean Kantrowitz, Daniel Olney, Keith Rollins
AGENDA
New Business
Talk to Sean about the genesis of the ‘Making Illmatic’ podcast series and the most cantankerous episodes.
Discuss Jay-Z misconceptions
2022-11-071h 12
The Questions Hip-HopPeter Rosenberg - Questions ClassicJoin the PATREONOriginal livestream date: June 22, 20202020 isn't a year most of us are thrilled to revisit, but this classic episode with radio personality Peter Rosenberg (HOT 97, Juan Ep is Life, ESPN) is reason enough to hop back in the time machine. https://www.questionshiphop.com The Questions Hip-Hop: Instagram | TwitterSean Kantrowitz: Instagram | TwitterPeter Rosenberg: Instagram | TwitterEMAIL SEAN: sean@questionshiphop.com
2022-10-241h 00
The Questions Hip-HopMaking Illmatic: Common 'Like Water for Chocolate' w/ DiViNCiPatreon.com/thequestionshiphopThe 'Making Illmatic' series continues! Sean Kantrowitz and MidaZ the BEAST are talking about Common's 2000 album 'Like Water for Chocolate' as they attempt to pare it down to 10 songs. They're joined by producer/musician/Studio Sensei founder DiViNCi.The Questions: @thequestionshiphop (IG), @questionshiphop (Twitter)Sean: @seandammit (IG), @seandammit (Twitter)MidaZ: @midazthebeast (IG), @midaz (Twitter)DiViNCi: @divinci (IG), @divincilla (Twitter)Refine Your Process. Master Your Art. studiosensei.comEmail: sean@questionshiphop.comquestionshiphop.com
2022-10-172h 20
The Questions Hip-HopOpen Mike EagleJoin the PATREONSean does his first in-person podcast episode with Open Mike Eagle, friend and former guest of The Questions as well as the founder of Stony Island Audio. The two talk about aging in hip-hop, the current podcast space, the importance of cassette tape mixes, Mike's latest album 'Component System with the Auto Reverse,' and of course...there's some hip-hop trivia. https://www.questionshiphop.com https://www.mikeeagle.net/The Questions Hip-Hop: Instagram | TwitterSean Kantrowitz: Instagram | TwitterOpen Mike Eagle: Instagram | Twitter
2022-10-101h 08
The Questions Hip-HopBest Posse Cut Bracket Breakdown! w/ Optiks & Mean Joe SchemeJoin the PATREONSean is joined by friends of the show Optiks and Mean Joe Scheme to go through listener submissions for the Best Posse Cut Bracket Tournament and to break down some of their own picks.Sign up to receive your bracket and join in on the tournament: https://www.playthequestions.com/possehttps://www.questionshiphop.com The Questions Hip-Hop: Instagram | TwitterSean Kantrowitz: Instagram | TwitterOptiks: Instagram | TwitterMean Joe Scheme: Instagram | Twitter
2022-10-0353 min
The Questions Hip-HopRJD2 - Questions ClassicJoin the PATREONOriginal livestream date: July 2, 2020Diggin' in the crates with producer/DJ RJD2! In this classic episode, RJ talks about the records that shaped his identity as a musician, shares stories from the heyday of his Def Jux days, goes seriously granular on the art of re-creating drumbreaks, and more.https://www.questionshiphop.com The Questions Hip-Hop: Instagram | TwitterSean Kantrowitz: Instagram | TwitterRJD2: https://rjd2store.myshopify.com/EMAIL SEAN: sean@questionshiphop.com
2022-09-261h 01
The Questions Hip-HopA Very Special Episode of The QuestionsJoin the PATREONState of the union micro-episode, including news about the next Bracket Tournament. Tell me your picks for Best Posse Cut and which albums we should have on a future episode of 'Making Illmatic': EMAIL SEAN: sean@questionshiphop.comhttps://www.questionshiphop.com The Questions Hip-Hop: Instagram | TwitterSean Kantrowitz: Instagram | Twitter
2022-09-1912 min
The Questions Hip-HopPhonte - Questions ClassicJoin the PATREONOriginal livestream date: June 10, 2020Phonte is practically a living, breathing encyclopedia of music. And between his own solo career and the catalogs of his groups Little Brother and Foreign Exchange, he's made quite a contribution to the game himself. In this classic episode, Tay puts his trivia skills to the test, shares stories from his career, and answers live questions from the chat.https://www.questionshiphop.com The Questions Hip-Hop: Instagram | TwitterSean Kantrowitz: Instagram | TwitterPhonte: Instagram | TwitterEMAIL SEAN: sean...
2022-09-121h 03
The Questions Hip-HopMaking Illmatic: Busta Rhymes 'When Disaster Strikes' w/ Chris Mitchell (Breaking Atoms)Patreon.com/thequestionshiphopWe return with another installment in the ' 'Making Illmatic' series. Sean Kantrowitz and MidaZ the BEAST attempt to trim Busta Rhymes' 1997 sophomore album 'When Disaster Strikes' down to 10 songs. They're joined by Chris Mitchell aka Kinetik of the excellent Breaking Atoms podcast. The Questions: @thequestionshiphop (IG), @questionshiphop (Twitter)Sean: @seandammit (IG), @seandammit (Twitter)MidaZ: @midazthebeast (IG), @midaz (Twitter)Chris Mitchell: @lifeafterhiphop (IG), @IAmKinetik (Twitter)Email: sean@questionshiphop.comquestionshiphop.com
2022-09-051h 36
The Questions Hip-HopMaking Illmatic: A Tribe Called Quest 'The Love Movement' w/ Demone CarterPatreon.com/thequestionshiphopWe're back with an episode in the ' 'Making Illmatic' series. Sean Kantrowitz and MidaZ the BEAST attempt to trim A Tribe Called Quest's 1998 album 'The Love Movement' down to 10 songs. They're joined by Demone Carter aka Dem One, 1/3 of the Dad Bod Rap Pod.The Questions: @thequestionshiphop (IG), @questionshiphop (Twitter)Sean: @seandammit (IG), @seandammit (Twitter)MidaZ: @midazthebeast (IG), @midaz (Twitter)Dem One: @lifeafterhiphop (IG), @lifeafterhiphop (Twitter)Email: sean@questionshiphop.comquestionshiphop.com
2022-08-222h 11
The Questions Hip-HopMaking Illmatic: El-P 'Fantastic Damage' w/ Wrecking CrewPatreon.com/thequestionshiphopIt might get loud. This episode of The Questions' 'Making Illmatic' series is all about El-P's 'Fantastic Damage,' as Sean Kantrowitz and MidaZ the BEAST are joined by Wrecking Crew (Curly Castro, PremRock, Small Professor, & Zilla Rocca) attempt to trim the album down to 10 tracks.The Questions: @thequestionshiphop (IG), @questionshiphop (Twitter)wreckingcrew.bandcamp.comSean: @seandammit (IG), @seandammit (Twitter)MidaZ: @midazthebeast (IG), @midaz (Twitter)Curly Castro: @curlycastro (IG), @curly_castro (Twitter)PremRock: @premrock (IG), @planetpremrock...
2022-08-012h 16
HeadspinBattle of Stony Island Audio: Open Mike Eagle vs. Sean KantrowitzWhich Golden Era Gladiator will win on this special episode of Headspin - The Battle of Stony Island Audio Podcast hosts. Will it be Open Mike Eagle - Owner of Stony Island Audio & Host of "What Had Happened Was", or Sean Kantrowitz - host and creator of The Questions & Can't Knock The Shuffle? Listen in as our host, Majik Most, puts them to the Hip-Hop test and finds out who will walk away with $500 and bragging rights and who will have to spin the dreaded "Headspin Wheel Of Consequences".To see the consequences and to...
2022-07-2729 min
The Questions Hip-HopMaking Illmatic: Big Pun 'Capital Punishment' w/ Tony MadnessPatreon.com/thequestionshiphopIn this installment of The Questions' 'Making Illmatic' series, Sean Kantrowitz and MidaZ the BEAST take on the task of trying to improve Big Pun's classic 1998 debut 'Capital Punishment' by trimming it down to 10 tracks. They're joined by renown battle rapper/emcee Tony Madness.The Questions: @thequestionshiphop (IG), @questionshiphop (Twitter)Sean: @seandammit (IG), @seandammit (Twitter)MidaZ: @midazthebeast (IG), @midaz (Twitter)Tony Madness: @tonymadness (IG), @MrMadness (Twitter)Email: sean@questionshiphop.comquestionshiphop.com
2022-07-112h 13
The Questions Hip-HopMaking Illmatic: Redman 'Muddy Waters' w/ TzariZMPatreon.com/thequestionshiphopBack at it with another installment of The Questions' 'Making Illmatic' series, in which Sean Kantrowitz and MidaZ the BEAST attempt to improve an album by trimming it down to 10 tracks. They're joined by producer/emcee TzariZM to pick apart Redman's classic 1996 album 'Muddy Waters.'The Questions: @thequestionshiphop (IG), @questionshiphop (Twitter)Sean: @seandammit (IG), @seandammit (Twitter)MidaZ: @midazthebeast (IG), @midaz (Twitter)TzariZM: @tzarizm (IG), @tzarizm (Twitter)questionshiphop.com
2022-06-271h 56
The Questions Hip-Hop'Making Illmatic': Wu-Tang Clan 'Wu-Tang Forever' w/ IMAKEMADBEATSAnother installment of The Questions' 'Making Illmatic' series, in which Sean Kantrowitz and MidaZ the BEAST attempt to improve an album by trimming it down to 10 tracks. They're joined by founder of Memphis collective Unapologetic./producer IMAKEMADBEATS to take on the herculean task of trimming down Wu-Tang Clan's 1997 double-album 'Wu-Tang Forever.'The Questions: @thequestionshiphop (IG), @questionshiphop (Twitter)Sean: @seandammit (IG), @seandammit (Twitter)MidaZ: @midazthebeast (IG), @midaz (Twitter)IMAKEMADBEATS: @IMAKEMADBEATS (IG), @IMAKEMADBEATS (Twitter)questionshiphop.comhttps://www.weareunapologetic...
2022-05-302h 01
Can't Knock the ShuffleNew Podcast: The Questions Hip HopSUBSCRIBE HERE: https://smarturl.it/8rjx39As some of you may know, Can't Knock the Shuffle host/creator Sean Kantrowitz also hosts a live hip hop trivia game show called The Questions – and now that show is available in podcast format. Each week, Sean connects with hip hop's biggest fans – rappers, DJs, producers, writers, comedians, actors, and everything in between – to test their rap trivia skills, discuss their careers, and talk about how the music changed their lives. Subscribe/follow wherever you get your podcasts! Learn more about your ad choice...
2022-02-1601 min
Call Out CultureWe Need To Talk About Common Feat. Sean KantrowitzThis week we discuss the 14 album career of Common, who Zilla dubs the best worst rapper. We are joined by the host of Cant Knock the Shuffle and The Questions Hip Hop Trivia - Sean Kantrowitz.
You can find Sean here:
https://www.questionshiphop.com/
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/cant-knock-the-shuffle/id1533865689
As always, please support our patreon where you can get early episodes and exclusive releases:
https://www.patreon.com/calloutculturepodcast
2021-09-201h 46K12ArtChat the PodcastEpisode 43 - Andrea Kantrowitz & Sean JusticeIn this episode the Creativity Department talks to artists turned teachers Sean Justice and Andrea Kantrowitz about multimodal and collaborative learning. Focusing on visual journals, sketch noting, and bring different ways of thinking, doing, and learning into contact with each other, this episode is packed full of unorthodox ways to teach your students how to be creative.
2021-08-2659 min
Breaking Atoms: The Hip Hop PodcastEpisode 5: Brooklyn's Finest | Brooklyn's Finest: The Making of Reasonable Doubt by Jay-ZIn our fifth and final episode, we examine the legacy of Reasonable Doubt 25 years on and why so many people consider it to be one of the most seminal albums in Hip Hop history. Featuring in order of appearance: Pain In Da Ass, Dart Adams, DJ Snips, Jaz-O, Ski Beatz, Rob Markman, Chezik Tsunoda, Sean Kantrowitz, Yoh Phillips, Robyn Mowatt, SK Vibemaker, Maria Davis, Nick Raphael, Christian Tattersfield, Abdul Malik Abbott, Kathy Iandoli, David Lotwin, Ryan Proctor, DJ Shortee Blitz and DJ Clark Kent. Pain In Da Ass on original plans for Reasonable Doubt to...
2021-06-2426 minCan't Knock the ShuffleDante RossDante Ross isn't an artist in the traditional sense, but the music industry exec/A&R/producer/engineer had a hand in dozens of classic records and is responsible for helping to cultivate the careers of some of hip hop’s biggest names. In the 90s, Dante was hired by Elektra Records as the first hip hop A&R man – not just Elektra’s first, but the record industry’s first. Dante signed artists such as Brand Nubian, KMD, Leaders of the New School, Busta Rhymes, and Ol’ Dirty Bastard, to name a few. Along with his friends John Gamble and...
2021-06-141h 20
Breaking Atoms: The Hip Hop PodcastEpisode 2: Politics As Usual | Brooklyn's Finest: The Making of Reasonable Doubt by Jay-ZIn our second episode, we look at the process of making the Reasonable Doubt album, the internal struggles, signing to Payday Records, Roc-A-Fella Records renting their first office space, and finding a recording home at D & D Studios. Featuring in order of appearance: Dart Adams, Ski, Rob Markman, Abdul Malik Abbott, David Lotwin, Joe Quinde, Jaz-O, SK Vibemaker, Pain In Da Ass, DJ Clark Kent, DJ Shortee Blitz and Sean Kantrowitz. Chris on Roc-A-Fella signing with Payday Records (0:56) Sumit on Roc-A-Fella renting their first office space and starting to record Reasonable Doubt (1:21) Dart Adams on the demand...
2021-06-1434 minCan't Knock the ShuffleEl Da Sensei As a member of the Newark, New Jersey group Artifacts alongside Tame One and DJ Kaos, El Da Sensei is responsible for some bona fide 90s hip hop classics, including "C'mon with the Git Down” and "Wrong Side of da Tracks," the group’s homage to the art of graffiti. After Artifacts split up following their second album 'That’s Them' in 1997, El went on to have a prolific solo career, releasing nearly a dozen projects and consistently touring the globe on his own as well as with Polish hip hop duo The Returners. El’s a true working class emc...
2021-06-071h 08Can't Knock the ShuffleSage FrancisIn this episode I’m joined by Sage Francis, a rapper who was independent before claiming indie was cool. A veteran of the underground battle scene in which he won the Scribble Jam emcee battle in 2000, Sage was early in adopting a tour-heavy business model that found him relentlessly doing shows and hitting smaller markets in the 2000s. From the jump, Sage has never been afraid to occupy his own unique space in the landscape of rap music, incorporating influences from different genres of music, a rotating cast of collaborators, and a writing style that ranges from the fiercely po...
2021-05-3149 minCan't Knock the ShuffleSlimkid3Simply put, Tre Hardson aka Slimkid3 is a legend. Hip hop was forever changed in 1992 when his group the Pharcyde emerged onto the scene with their classic debut album 'Bizarre Ride II The Pharcyde.' The group brought a decidedly animated and imaginative element to their songwriting and presence on the microphone – and Tre definitely stood out with his distinct melodic voice; you could really even say that a lot of these rappers who sing owe a bit to Slimkid3. The Pharcyde’s second album Labcabincalifornia sported a darker sound (and early contributions from the great Jay Dee aka Jay...
2021-05-2452 minCan't Knock the ShuffleEsthero, Pt. 2We're back with the rest of the conversation with singer/songwriter Esthero. In this episode, we talk about her work with Kanye West on his 808s and Heartbreak album, the making of her classic debut Breath From Another, and how she decided to only release a trailer of her new music on streaming services rather than put the whole thing online – a seriously revolutionary move that definitely caught the media’s attention in 2019. Songs discussed in this episode: "Streetlights" (Kanye West, '808s and Heartbreak', 2008)"Amber and Tiger's Eye" ('We R...
2021-05-1747 minCan't Knock the ShuffleEstheroSince the release of her debut album Breath from Another - which she co-produced with producer Doc McKinney in 1997, Esthero has definitively held the title of “your favorite singer’s favorite singer,” inspiring audiences and artists alike with the seamless blending of musical styles in her music as well as her captivating, incredible voice. Her second album Wikked Lil Grrls continued to explore different genres and found Esthero steering the ship by herself; by this point, she was fast becoming a frequent collaborator with many hip hop artists, including Goodie Mob, Black Eyed Peas, Andre 3000, and Kanye West, whose 808s and H...
2021-05-1049 minCan't Knock the ShuffleQuelle ChrisAfter first making noise on a national scale through early collaborations with Danny Brown, Quelle Chris kicked off a prolific solo career of his own, including acclaimed albums such as Innocent Country with producer Chris Keys, his 2018 album ‘Everything’s Fine’ with his wife and fellow polymath Jean Grae, production work for some of indie rap’s finest, and most recently contributing to the score for the film Judas and the Black Messiah. Songs we discuss in this episode:"Ohsh" feat. Hannibal Buress (w/ Jean Grae, "Everything's Fine', 2018)"Sickum" ('Lullabi...
2021-05-031h 11Can't Knock the ShuffleNicolayOriginally hailing from the Netherlands, Nicolay launched his career as we know it in the early 2000s, when he was sharing files over the Internet with Phonte Coleman from Little Brother. Their remote international collaboration resulted in the group Foreign Exchange, an ahead of its time side project that eventually brought Nicolay to the states and would lead to several albums, consistent touring around the globe, his own Foreign Exchange Music record label, and a Grammy nomination for the group’s second album Leave it All Behind – and they’ve done it all independently and playing by their own rules...
2021-04-261h 19Can't Knock the ShuffleFat TonyHouston rapper Fat Tony popped onto my radar in the early part of the last decade from his appearances on mixtapes by both ASAP Rocky and Das Racist, and since then he’s had a wildly prolific career, dropping albums at a steady clip and constantly tweaking his sound. His most recent album – 2020's Exotica – finds Tony embracing the role of the griot with a concise collection of storytelling songs. I first connected with him when he appeared on an episode of my hip hop game show The Questions last year, and we had such a good time that I knew...
2021-04-191h 05Can't Knock the ShuffleMasta AceMasta Ace is one of hip hop's greatest storytellers. After making his debut on the Juice Crew's classic posse cut "The Symphony," Ace has many amazing accomplishments throughout his 30+ year career, including membership in hip hop supergroup Crooklyn Dodgers, classic concept albums, full album collaborations with producers like MF DOOM and Marco Polo, and so much more. In this episode we break down the following songs from his catalog: "Think I Am (feat. Big Daddy Kane and MF DOOM)" ('MA_DOOM: Son of Yvonne', 2012)"Crooklyn" (Crooklyn Dodgers) ('Crooklyn' soundtrack, 1994)
2021-04-1255 min
Breaking Atoms: The Hip Hop PodcastSean KantrowitzThis week, we're dropping science with Sean Kantrowitz, who is the host of one of our favourite podcasts - "Can't Knock The Shuffle". We talked to Sean about his entry point into Hip Hop, starting "The Questions" series on IG, doing the knowledge and knowing your Hip Hop history and more. After the interview, we also had a quick chat between us about the whole "ageing well" angle that seems to dominate music critique these days. Follow Sumit 💥 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hiphopchronicle 💥 Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/hiphopch...
2021-03-041h 14Can't Knock the ShuffleSlugIt isn't exaggeration to say that Sean Daley – better known as Slug – has played a pivotal role in the evolution of underground hip hop since the turn of the century. His group Atmosphere truly carved their own lane out in the indie scene dating back to the '90s with the DIY-approach of his label Rhymesayers Entertainment and the vulnerability in the group's songs. Over the years, Slug's style as a writer has also evolved, from the "underground battle rap" space to his development of the silly-sounding-but-somewhat-useful "emo rap" and "dad rap" descriptors. He's always been a great writer and...
2020-12-021h 03Can't Knock the ShuffleNikki JeanNikki Jean is a hip hop artist through and through, but her music may not always appear that way from a distance. A singer/songwriter who got her start in the extended family of the legendary Roots crew as a member of the band Nouveau Riche, Nikki’s big breakthrough came when she wrote and sang the hook on Lupe Fiasco’s hit single “Hip Hop Saved My Life” in 2007. She’s collaborated with Lupe throughout his career ever since, but that was only the beginning for her. Her debut solo album ‘Pennies in a Jar’ put her in the co-writing...
2020-11-2556 minCan't Knock the ShuffleBlueprintBlueprint is someone who knows a thing or two about multitasking. The producer/emcee played a pivotal role in the emerging underground scene in the Midwest during the late 90's/early '00s, with his own Weightless crew and also amongst the artists that would eventually comprise the rosters of indie juggernauts Rhymesayers and Definitive Jux. He's continued to put out a steady clip of music since then (both as a solo artist as well as one half of Soul Position with RJD2), but music isn't where his journey ends. He's become a film/video director, a published author...
2020-11-181h 17Can't Knock the ShuffleBahamadiaBahamadia has been captivating listeners with her unique style and lyrical skills since the 90's, when she released her major label debut 'Kollage.' Philadelphia's Hip Hop Queen has kept busy since then, releasing projects via indie labels, collaborating with some of hip hop's greatest practitioners, touring the world, hosting her own radio show, and forming her own record label B-Girl Records LLC. Self-describing herself as shy, Bahamadia rarely does interviews. So when she agreed to come on the show after appearing on my hip hop game show The Questions, we had to make it happen. In this episode...
2020-11-1154 minCan't Knock the ShuffleVisitor on Homeboy SandmanAfter the past decade and change, rapper Homeboy Sandman has built a career that's been defined by marching to the beat of his own drum. He's released albums on labels like Stones Throw and Mellow Music Group, and has collaborated with artists for full projects such as Aesop Rock, Edan, and most recently Quelle Chris, who produced the entirety of Sandman's latest album 'Don't Feed the Monster.' The Ivy League-educated emcee also had a stint as a blogger, publishing a series of essays and think-pieces for Huffington Post and Gawker, which raised eyebrows and caught the attention of...
2020-11-0456 minCan't Knock the ShuffleRJD2For nearly two decades, producer/musician RJD2 has put his own unique spin on the genre of instrumental hip hop. RJ's music has always been a compelling listen, with or without vocals – but he's also collaborated with a gang of artists, including rapper Blueprint (under the Soul Position moniker), as well as projects with singer Aaron Livingston (pka Son Little) and underground legend Aceyalone. Along the way, RJ has produced songs for commercials and TV shows – in fact, an instrumental of one of his songs was used as the theme to AMC's smash hit show 'Mad Men.' RJ's most...
2020-10-2856 minCan't Knock the ShuffleOpen Mike EagleOpen Mike Eagle has never been shy about getting personal with his music. After emerging from LA's Project Blowed collective, the rapper/producer released his first solo album in 2010 and has been dropping projects at a steady clip ever since. With a comedic wit and quirky eclectic nature to his songs, Mike has also been equally proficient in the worlds of comedy and television. He co-created comedy and music showcase 'The New Negroes,' first as a live event and later as a show for Comedy Central, which we discuss in this episode. He's also no stranger to podcasts – fr...
2020-10-2159 minCan't Knock the ShuffleJ-LiveJ-Live is unparalleled as a writer in the craft of hip hop. He first got his start in the mid-90s with 'The Best Part,' a classic debut that was shelved and eventually bootlegged to the masses. Since then, he's also developed more as a DJ and producer over the course of a dozen independent projects that he's since released. A true student of the game, J-Live's attention to detail makes him the perfect candidate to dive into the stories behind songs in his catalog. In this episode, we explore: "Ya Momma So...
2020-10-141h 04Can't Knock the ShuffleMursMurs has been consistently releasing music since the late 90s, repping his home of Los Angeles the entire time. He's incredibly prolific, with a catalog ranging around 600 songs, and he's worked with practically everybody in the business, from Kendrick Lamar to El-P (Run the Jewels) to Snoop Dogg to Slug from Atmosphere. In this episode, he shares the stories behind these songs:
"My Story" (Good Music, 1999)
"Are You Ready?" (Sweet Lord, 2008)
"Doing Me" (Melrose w/ Terrace Martin, 2011)
"Signs" (3 Melancholy Gypsies, Grand Caravan to the Rim of the World, 2005)
"Freak These Tales" (Murs 3:16: The 9th Edition, 2004)
"...
2020-10-0746 minCan't Knock the ShuffleWelcome to Can't Knock the ShuffleMusic lovers and hip hop nerds alike, take heed! Can't Knock the Shuffle is a podcast that takes a different spin on the all-too-familiar "story behind a song" format. In this show, producer/host Sean Kantrowitz (The Questions Hip Hop) sits with an artist, throws their entire catalog on shuffle, and then asks them the stories about whichever song the algorithm selects. Get ready for in-depth anecdotes and a peek into the creative process with some of hip hop's most prolific artists, talking about their biggest hits – and sometimes songs that they've never spoken about before. L...
2020-09-2901 min
Beyond the Mic with Sean DillonAuthor of "Always Day One" Alex Kantrowitz goes Beyond the MicHe'd like to retire in Pacifica, his favorite hobby is running and his book "Always Day One" dealing with the tech giants is available at a online retailer near you. Senior technology reporter for BuzzFeed Alex Kantrowitz goes Beyond the Mic.Beyond the Mic with Sean Dillon is the conversation series where Actors, Artists, Authors, and more go deeper than a traditional interview. They go Beyond the Mic.This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacyPodtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp
2020-04-1540 min