Genre Cycles and Shifting Popularity

For the first time in 35 years, there are no rap songs in Billboard’s Top 40. Is hip-hop in trouble? 

Sam breaks down what it all means with Justin Richmond, music journalist and host of Pushkin’s Broken Record podcast. The two chat about the warning signs that might have led to this moment, how hip hop has evolved, and how Black music continues to influence artists across genres today. 

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The Sam Sanders Show is a production of KCRW and Sam Sanders Productions.