logo
episode-header-image
Feb 2024
1h 33m

“Hard Knock Life”—JAY-Z

The Ringer
About this episode
Rob looks at JAY-Z’s career backwards this week before reaching the rap legend’s 90’s pop crossover hit, “Hard Knock Life.” Along the way, Rob highlights the masterclass that is Funkmaster Flex premiering Kanye West and JAY-Z’a “Otis” on Hot 97 and much more. Later, the Ringer’s Wosny Lambre joins the show to discuss what JAY-Z’s rise to power in New York in ... Show More
Up next
Today
Sade — “By Your Side”
This week’s episode is all about comfort. It’s about being remembered and what better person to commemorate that feeling with than the person whose music doesn’t seem to age- Sade. Sade came out with “By Your Side” after disappearing with no explanation for 8 years because she fe ... Show More
1h 46m
Aug 26
Spoon — “The Underdog”
Today, Rob explains how even after five successful studio albums, Spoon still felt vengeful enough to write the most triumphant song about being the underdog. He reflects on how Spoon's major label dropped the Austin rockers and became the opposite of a muse for the band, shaping ... Show More
1h 36m
Aug 19
My Chemical Romance—“Welcome to the Black Parade”
We should have known that, despite the irony, the kid from New Jersey who defended the purchasing of serial killer comics would grow up to become the defender of the broken, beaten, and damned. Today, Rob recollects the discovery of his emo phase with the enduring anthem “Welcome ... Show More
1h 36m
Recommended Episodes
Jan 2021
How Zev Love X Became MF Doom
Conversations about the legacy of the beloved rap figure’s early career, which set the table for the artist he would become. Guests: Stretch Armstrong, Bobbito Garcia and Dante Ross. Subscribe today at nytimes.com/podcasts or on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. You can also subscribe ... Show More
1h 17m
Apr 2021
The Life and Music of DMX
We look back at the complex life and brilliant music of the late rapper, with Jeff Ihaza and Simon Vozick-Levinson joining host Brian Hiatt Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices 
38m 31s
Oct 2023
Jeezy
<p>In this powerful episode of Angie Martinez IRL Podcast, Jay "Jeezy" Jenkins takes us on a deeply personal journey through the remarkable chapters of his life as shared in his newly released book, "Adversity For Sale." Join Angie and Jeezy as they explore the incredible story o ... Show More
1h 6m
Jul 2024
Who Is Eminem for in 2024?
A conversation about the Detroit rapper’s long and unlikely career as his 12th studio album reaches No. 1. Guests: Jayson Buford and Rob Markman. Subscribe today at nytimes.com/podcasts or on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. You can also subscribe via your favorite podcast app here ht ... Show More
1h 1m
Jan 2021
Eminem
Conversation on hip-hop classics and influential artist 
48m 38s
Oct 2024
LL COOL J “Murdergram Deux (feat. Eminem)”
In this episode, Joe and Toby are joined by special guest Brandon Terry to explore the lasting legacy of LL Cool J, discussing his recent album drop and his impact on hip hop. They dive into the evolution of LL's music, his role in coining the term "GOAT," and the cultural signif ... Show More
1h 1m
Feb 2024
How Usher Arrived at the Super Bowl Halftime Show
A conversation about his long career path through several generations of R&B, and what he might do on such a big stage. Guests: Thomas Hobbs and Danielle Amir Jackson. Subscribe today at nytimes.com/podcasts or on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. You can also subscribe via your favori ... Show More
51m 31s
Oct 2020
Episode 387 | "That Jigga Person"
<p>On this episode: T.I. finds an opponent in Jeezy to battle on Verzuz (14:21) and the guys give their predictions. Kanye West's interview with Joe Rogan  (36:35), Joe asks what're the most impactful albums over the last 15 years (59:32), Drake announces his next album (1:10:24) ... Show More
3h 22m
May 2021
J. Cole, Triumphant (at His Own Pace)
The rapper’s sixth No. 1 album is here. Listen to a conversation about his career, and the long exchange between hip-hop and basketball. Guests: The New York Times's Elena Bergeron and Rap Portraits' Yoh Phillips. Subscribe today at nytimes.com/podcasts or on Apple Podcasts and S ... Show More
1 h
Dec 2020
Episode 396 | "Lying On Your Talk"
<p>The day has come, the (Hov)engers give their flowers to Jay-Z on his birthday and reflect on the impact he's had on them personally and within the culture throughout his career (25:19). Mal then shares a message regarding his thoughts on the current state of Hip-Hop (40:31), T ... Show More
2h 32m