The Rap-Up: Dusted Chicken and New Sounds
Steven Louis breaks down the latest tracks from Los Kemet, Isaiah Rashad, Bby Kell, Kenny Mason, and more in this week's Rap-Up.
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FEATURES
The Truth Hurts: Akon on His Musical Journey and Legacy
FEATURES
Spring Jazz Roundup: A Season of Sonic Renewal
NEW TRACKS
Longboat Has 35 Albums and Zero Interest in Slowing Down
Stop Being Sober: Isaiah Rashad’s Ambitious New Vision
Paul Thompson explores the complex, idiosyncratic landscape of Isaiah Rashad's latest album, 'IT'S BEEN AWFUL,' a record that challenges conventional narratives of recovery.
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Optic Sink: The Definitive Darkwave Force in Memphis
Exploring the evolution of Memphis synth-punk pioneers Optic Sink, from their claustrophobic debut to their expansive, cinematic soundscapes.
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Spring Jazz Roundup: A Season of Sonic Renewal
Chris Robinson explores the most compelling new jazz releases and essential reissues defining the early months of 2026.
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My Collection: Blu Breaks Down His Essential Records
Legendary Los Angeles emcee Blu reflects on his two-decade journey through the underground and major-label systems, revisiting the essential records that defined his career.
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Justin Bieber At the End of the World
Jeff Weiss reports from Coachella as a former child star navigates the surreal landscape of modern celebrity and digital surveillance.
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The Rap-Up: Half-Lives and New Sounds
Paul Thompson explores the evolving landscape of hip-hop through new singles from Vince Staples, JPEGMAFIA, Action Bronson, and Shoreline Mafia.
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Shabaka Hutchings: Breathing New Life into Jazz with ‘Of the Earth’
English jazz visionary Shabaka Hutchings discusses his first true solo album, his return to the tenor saxophone, and the philosophy behind his new label.
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Remembering The Ronettes: A Legacy of Harmony and Resilience
Following the passing of Nedra Talley-Ross, we reflect on the profound musical influence of The Ronettes and the challenges they faced in the industry.
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The Music For Our Head: Revisiting Marvin Gaye’s I Want You
Jameson Draper explores the atmospheric, divisive, and ultimately visionary masterpiece that is Marvin Gaye's 1976 album, I Want You.
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The Truth Hurts: Akon on His Musical Journey and Legacy
From his early struggles to global stardom, Akon reflects on the writing of his biggest hits and his keen eye for talent in the music industry.
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Slam on the CDJ: The Best DJ Sets of February & March 2026
Michael McKinney returns with a deep dive into the most compelling DJ sets from February and March 2026, featuring standout performances from Bass Clef, Batu, and more.
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The Kanye West Album ‘Bully’ Does Not Exist
Paul Thompson examines the vanishing act of Kanye West's latest musical output and the hollow nature of his recent creative endeavors.
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The Rap-Up: Cartoon Physics and Modern Soundscapes
Anthony Seaman explores the warped, high-energy world of current rap, featuring Nettspend, NBA YoungBoy, Zukenee, and more.
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Who Deserves the Future? Reflecting on Afrika Bambaataa
Paul Thompson examines the complex legacy of hip-hop pioneer Afrika Bambaataa, balancing his foundational influence with the weight of serious allegations.
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I Love a Trickster: An Interview with Eliana Glass
On the eve of her new release, Eliana Glass discusses her debut album, the art of the trickster, and her evolving relationship with vocal performance.
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Elucid on His Artistic Evolution and Essential Records
Avant-garde rapper Elucid reflects on his creative journey, his collaboration with Sebb Bash, and the stories behind his most pivotal solo albums.
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The Truth Hurts: Gashi on Hip-Hop Roots and Resilience
Gashi joins The Truth Hurts to discuss his journey from homelessness to music stardom, his new album, and the lessons learned along the way.
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The Digital Vacuum: Why Online Sleuths Are Investigating Drakeo the Ruler’s Murder
Four years after the tragic death of Drakeo the Ruler, a lack of official progress has allowed internet speculators to fill the void.
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Longboat Has 35 Albums and Zero Interest in Slowing Down
Igor Keller recorded four albums last spring. Not across four years. Not in rotating sessions between tours. Four complete albums, back to back, in a single season. For Longboat (a project led by Igor Keller), it’s just how the process works. The latest output from his Longboat project, Album 35, didn’t arrive with a grand […]
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Digital Underground’s ‘Sex Packets’ at 35: A Legacy of Funk
Celebrating 35 years of Digital Underground's 'Sex Packets,' we explore the group's innovative spirit, the creation of Humpty Hump, and their legendary connection to Prince.
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The Rap-Up: Exploring the Pure Absurdity of Modern Hip-Hop
Harley Geffner dives into the chaotic, genre-bending sounds of RXK Nephew, the relentless consistency of Kodak Black, and the Brooklyn drill synergy of Sheff G and Sleepy Hallow.
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One Thing About New Orleans, We Stick Together: An Interview with Juvenile
New Orleans legend Juvenile discusses his latest album, 'Boiling Point,' the importance of community, and his enduring legacy in hip-hop.
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Afroman’s Free Speech: A Legal and Musical Retrospective
Afroman turns a harrowing police raid into a masterclass of protest art, defending his First Amendment rights with wit, music, and a flair for the dramatic.
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NBA YoungBoy: The Lost Profile
Jeff Weiss unearths a long-lost portrait of NBA YoungBoy, capturing the volatile, raw energy of a budding superstar from a decade ago.
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Bad Noise: The Art of the Walk-Up Song
Matthew Ritchie explores the decline of the baseball walk-up song, analyzing how players' choices reflect a broader struggle with taste and identity in the modern game.
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Hope Is a Dangerous Thing for Girls Like Us: A Parasocial Reflection
Anna Dorn explores the enduring, complex, and deeply personal connection she has maintained with Lana Del Rey over the past thirteen years.
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POW MAG Enters a New Era
As the media landscape shifts, POW MAG is relaunching with a renewed commitment to rigorous music journalism and the upcoming debut of a print edition.
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The Rap Up: March 2, 2026 Edition
A deep dive into the latest releases from Rich The Factor, Dave East, and Chris Crack as we break down the week's essential hip-hop landscape.
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The Truth Hurts: An Analysis of HoodTrophy Bino
A deep dive into the artistry and narrative evolution of HoodTrophy Bino as he navigates the complexities of his musical journey.
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