The Rap-Up: Family Business and New Sounds
A deep dive into the latest tracks from Samara Cyn, Tierra Whack, Maxo Kream, Mike Sherm, and OTM.
Bruce Wallgreen
Remembering Tay Keith, an Unmistakable Producer
The music world mourns the loss of Memphis-born producer Tay Keith, who passed away at 29, leaving behind a legacy of iconic, genre-defining beats.
Rap Is Rebellion: AZ on the Evolution of New York and ‘Doe or Die III’
Legendary rapper AZ reflects on the shifting landscape of New York City and his latest project, ‘Doe or Die III,’ in a candid conversation about legacy and growth.
An Incomplete Guide to Brooklyn Music Venues
A candid look at the current state of Brooklyn’s music scene, evaluating the sound, atmosphere, and overall experience of the borough’s most prominent venues.
Exploding Eggs and Andrew Dice Clay: The Making of EMF’s “Unbelievable”
Discover the chaotic, surreal story behind EMF’s 90s smash hit ‘Unbelievable,’ featuring a run-in with Andrew Dice Clay and a pivotal meeting with Rick Rubin.
We’re Talking About Survival: An Interview with Serengeti
Chicago’s avant-garde rap icon Serengeti discusses his latest project, KENNYV, and his unconventional approach to the creative process.
The New Album You Need to Hear This Week: Wiki and More
Introducing Customer Service, a weekly feature to help you cut through the digital weeds and discover the latest essential music releases.
The Rap-Up: After Hours – New Tracks from Vince Staples and More
Anthony Seaman breaks down the latest releases from Vince Staples, RealYungPhil, Cash Cobain, and other standout artists in this week’s Rap-Up.
Words, They Never Stopped No Bullet: The Legacy of Vince Staples
From his earliest records, Vince Staples has chronicled the violence in—and of—America, offering an eerie glimpse into the nation’s future.
On Picking Up the Phone: The Lost Romance of Communication
Matthew Ritchie explores the emotional weight of phone calls, tracing the intersection of vulnerability and connection through the lens of hip-hop history.
The Definitive Guide to DMV Crank Music
An exploration of the visceral, avant-garde street rap scene emerging from the D.C., Maryland, and Virginia region.
Rock to the Rhythm: The Story of Lexicon
The L.A. underground duo Lexicon reflects on their history, their philosophy of ‘underground over everything,’ and a fateful 1998 encounter with Eminem.
Slam on the CDJ: The Best DJ Sets of May 2026
From bass-heavy club rhythms to woozy ambient explorations, we break down the most essential DJ sets that defined the dancefloor in May 2026.
The Rap-Up: Can’t Sleep Through the Night
We break down new tracks from Fenix Flexin, Wiki, Navy Blue, and more—plus check in on a rapper unfairly caught in the digital crosshairs.
The 2001 Project: Revisiting Tech N9ne’s Anghellic
A deep dive into Tech N9ne’s 2001 breakthrough album, Anghellic, and its lasting impact on the Midwestern independent hip-hop landscape.
The Problem with Fakemink: Navigating the Modern Rap Industry
Eli Schoop examines the shifting landscape of the underground rap scene, the role of non-Black artists, and the evolving definition of industry success.
Surveillance and Madison Square Garden: An Open Letter to James Dolan
As the Knicks return to the NBA Finals, a plea to release Frederick Wiseman’s long-buried documentary on the world’s most famous arena.
At the Dentist With Mach-Hommy
Paul Thompson profiles the elusive artist Mach-Hommy and explores the creative philosophy behind his forthcoming album, 5786 AM: Easy Listen.
Jeff Parker: Finding Joy and Honesty in Music
Legendary guitarist Jeff Parker discusses his latest live album, ‘Happy Today,’ and the power of musical improvisation.
The Rap-Up: Liminal Space
A deep dive into the latest tracks from Tooly?, Fakemink, Veeze, and more as we navigate the surreal landscape of modern hip-hop.
I Know How Damn Hard It Is: Remembering Sonny Rollins
The jazz world mourns the loss of tenor saxophone legend Sonny Rollins, who passed away at 95, marking the end of an era for the genre.