The Rap Soul Podcast

What is the greatest New York hip-hop album of all time? It sounds like a simple question... until you actually have to answer it. Inspired by 9th Wonder's bold claim that Mobb Deep's The Infamous is the greatest New York hip-hop album ever, 12Kyle is joined by Eclectic for an unforgettable debate that dives deep into some of the most legendary albums in hip-hop history. Instead of relying on pers...

Artificial intelligence has entered the hip-hop debate. In this episode of The Rap Soul Podcast , 12Kyle asks ChatGPT one of the most debated questions in music: Who is the greatest rapper of all time? Instead of simply accepting the answer, he breaks down ChatGPT's reasoning, challenges several of its rankings, and explores whether any computer can truly settle a debate that has lasted for decade...

This episode explores whether older hip-hop fans have become the very people they once criticized—the adults who dismissed rap music as "noise." Inspired by a social media post from Isaac Hayes III, you examine the ongoing tension between hip-hop's older generation and younger fans and artists. https://therapsoulpodcast.riverside.com

What was the greatest hip-hop album released the year you graduated from high school? For me, the answer is easy: Death Certificate by Ice Cube. In this episode of The Rap Soul Podcast, I take a deep dive into one of the most important and controversial albums in hip-hop history. Released in 1991, Death Certificate wasn't just an album—it was a powerful statement about race, politics, police bruta...

Is Illmatic really NaS' greatest album? Or has It Was Written been underrated all these years? 12Kyle and eclectik break down both albums track-by-track, category-by-category, and settle one of hip-hop's biggest debates. Coherence Impact Replayability Lyrics Production Which album are YOU taking?

1989 was one of the greatest years in hip hop. De La Soul. Big Daddy Kane. Public Enemy. The DOC. Queen Latifah. EPMD. Slick Rick. Rap music was evolving in REAL TIME. New episode of The Rap Soul Podcast available now. Spotify | Apple Podcasts | YouTube https://therapsoulpodcast.riverside.com

Los Angeles gave hip hop some of the greatest albums ever recorded — but which ones belong at the top? On this episode of The Rap Soul Podcast, 12Kyle is joined by Baylor from the BTG For President Podcast to break down and debate the 25 greatest LA hip hop albums of all time. From N.W.A., Ice Cube, Dr. Dre, DJ Quik, and Snoop Dogg to Kendrick Lamar, Nipsey Hussle, The Game, and more — the fellas...

In this episode of THE RAP SOUL PODCAST, 12Kyle shares his nostalgic experience with the BMG music service in the 90s, exploring how it offered free CDs for a penny and its impact on music consumption and piracy.  12Kyle discusses the business model, personal anecdotes, and the shift to digital file sharing that changed the music industry. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Rap Soul Podcast 02:47...

In this episode of THE RAP SOUL PODCAST, host 12Kyle explores the controversial topic of banning cell phones at concerts, examining the impact on the live experience, safety, and the culture of recording moments.  12Kyle shares personal insights and examples from music and comedy events, advocating for being present over recording. Chapters 00:00 The Cell Phone Debate at Concerts 19:02 Conclusion:...

In this episode of THE RAP SOUL PODCAST, host 12Kyle discusses the year 1987, highlighting its significance in hip hop history. He explores breakout artists, apex figures, essential albums, and classic releases that defined 1987. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Greatest Year in Hip Hop 04:22 Breakout Stars of 1987 11:37 Apex Rappers of 1987 17:54 Essential Albums of 1987 26:26 Certified Classic...

In this episode of THE RAP SOUL PODCAST, host 12Kyle discusses his personal list of the 12 greatest Southern rappers, emphasizing the criteria of lyricism, flow, and delivery.  He reflects on the historical context of Southern rap, its evolution, and the artists who have shaped the genre. The conversation includes a countdown of his top picks, providing insights into each rapper's contributions an...

In this episode of  THE RAP SOUL PODCAST , host 12Kyle and guests Britt and Baylor explore the concept of a unique restaurant called the Hip Hop Cafe, where each menu item is inspired by hip hop artists and their music.  The conversation flows through various topics, including favorite songs from iconic artists, the influence of hip hop on culture, and personal anecdotes related to the music discu...

In this episode of THE RAP SOUL PODCAST , hosts 12Kyle and C-Recks explore the impact and legacy of two iconic albums by Common, ' Like Water for Chocolate ' and ' Be '.  They discuss the albums' production, lyrical depth, replayability, and influence on hip-hop and neo-soul, sharing personal stories and insights into their significance in hip-hop history. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Appreciat...

In this episode of THE RAP SOUL PODCAST , the host 12Kyle explores the nuanced differences between crossing over and selling out in hip hop, examining how artists navigate commercial success while staying true to their roots.  The discussion includes historical perspectives, key examples like Hammer and Vanilla Ice, and the evolution of hip hop culture. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and episode over...

In this episode of THE RAP SOUL PODCAST , host 12Kyle discusses the intersection of music and culture, focusing on iconic hip hop logos from both record labels and artists.  He reflects on the influence of Nipsey Hussle and his brand, The Marathon, and explores the significance of various logos in hip hop history, including those of Def Jam, Bad Boy, Death Row, and artists like OutKast and Wu-Tang...

In this episode of  THE RAP SOUL PODCAST , host  12Kyle  revisits the 'Verse of the Week' segment, focusing on the classic song 'Cool' by Morris Day and The Time.  He breaks down the lyrics, explores the themes of coolness and status in the 1980s, and reflects on the cultural impact of the song and its artist.  The discussion highlights the significance of being 'Cool' during that era and how Morr...

In this episode of  THE RAP SOUL PODCAST , host  12Kyle  discusses a meme comparing guest verses from four iconic MCs: Busta Rhymes, AZ, Nas, and Eminem.  He explores the significance of each verse and ranks them based on their impact and delivery, inviting listeners to engage in the debate about who delivered the best guest verse. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Rap Soul Podcast 00:43 Explorin...

In this episode of  THE RAP SOUL PODCAST , host  12Kyle  discusses the year 2003, highlighting its significance in hip hop history. He explores breakout artists, apex figures, essential albums, and classic releases that defined the year.  The conversation emphasizes the impact of artists like Freeway, T.I., Eminem, Jay-Z, and 50 Cent, while also reflecting on the cultural moments surrounding the m...

In this episode of THE RAP SOUL PODCAST , host 12Kyle dives into the intriguing question of who could potentially beat Jay-Z in a Verzuz battle, focusing specifically on NaS as a worthy opponent.  The discussion begins with a brief overview of the Verzuz series, which gained popularity during the COVID-19 pandemic, and how it has sparked debates about the competitive nature of hip-hop. 12Kyle shar...

In this episode of  THE RAP SOUL PODCAST , host  12Kyle  pays tribute to the late D'Angelo, one of his favorite artists, by discussing his top collaborations. The episode begins with a heartfelt acknowledgment of D'Angelo's impact on music and the personal connection he feels to his work.  12Kyle  shares his list of favorite collaborations, emphasizing that each song holds a special place in his h...

In this episode of  THE RAP SOUL PODCAST , hosts 12Kyle and J Boog take a nostalgic journey through the Jet Singles chart, discussing iconic songs and artists from the 90s.  They explore the cultural impact of artists while reminiscing about their personal experiences with the music of that era.  The conversation highlights the diversity of sounds in R&B and hip-hop during the 90s, reflecting...

In this episode of  THE RAP SOUL PODCAST , host  12Kyle  reflects on his Spotify Wrapped for 2025, discussing his listening habits, favorite genres, top podcasts, and the impact of music on his life.  He shares insights into the data Spotify collects, his favorite audiobooks, and the artists that shaped his year in music. The episode concludes with a reflection on the overall quality of music in 2...

In this episode of  THE RAP SOUL PODCAST , host  12Kyle  and guest  Baylor  delve into the rich history and cultural significance of hip hop, particularly focusing on Los Angeles. The conversation delves into the essence of LA culture as expressed through music, particularly hip-hop.  12Kyle and Baylor discuss iconic songs, influential artists, and the evolution of the genre. They also discuss the...

In this episode of THE RAP SOUL PODCAST , host 12Kyle and guest Krishna delve into the rich history and cultural significance of hip hop, particularly focusing on New York City. They discuss iconic songs, influential artists, and the evolution of the genre, highlighting the importance of storytelling, posse cuts, and the unique experiences that shaped their love for hip hop.  The conversation also...

In this episode of  THE RAP SOUL PODCAST , the host  12Kyle  breaks down the musical discography of Jay Z Chapters 00:00 Ranking the Albums: A Deep Dive 00:28 Personal Favorites and Skips: The Album Experience AUDIO   https://linktr.ee/therapsoulpodcast YOUTUBE  https://youtu.be/HeMJPpdN67o #jayz #hiphop #soul #culture #music #interviews #12kyle #rapsoulpodcast #rap #randb #randbmusic  Support thi...