Ranking the best and worst of 2024: Moo Deng, Drake & Crashing Out
Dec 27, 2024
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Ayesha Rascoe, NPR's Weekend Edition host, joins the lively discussion on pop culture moments from 2024. They dive into the significance of the word 'crash out' and its cultural ramifications. The trio explores the infamous rivalry between Kendrick Lamar and Drake, and reflect on a shocking assassination attempt on a former president. They also spotlight viral star Dr. Rachel Gunn and her breakdancing controversy. Lastly, they poke fun at major flops like the Cybertruck and celebrate the unexpected diva: Moo Deng, the pygmy hippo!
The emergence of phrases like 'crash out' and 'cutesy' reflects evolving linguistic trends within contemporary culture and family dynamics.
Cultural moments from 2024, such as Katt Williams' interview and the Kendrick Lamar-Drake beef, illustrate the dynamic interplay between celebrity actions and public perception.
Deep dives
Cultural Highlights of 2024
The podcast reviews significant cultural moments from 2024, emphasizing the celebration of achievements in entertainment and social trends. One highlight is the emergence of the phrase 'crash out,' widely adopted by younger generations to describe moments of panic or uncontrolled behavior, illustrating a shift in language. Additionally, the podcast features the term 'cutesy,' popularized by host Aisha's daughter, showcasing the innocence and playful nature of contemporary communication among families. The discussion also includes 'Hawk Tua,' which reflects on new social media-driven fame, demonstrating how brief moments can be transformed into significant cultural phenomena.
Notable Events That Captured Attention
The podcast identifies key events that caused widespread reactions in 2024, notably the Cat Williams interview on Club Shay Shay, which sparked extensive discussions for its blend of humor and harsh truths. This interview is credited with setting a tone for the year, characterized by expressions of raw emotion and social critique. Another major topic is the ongoing beef between Kendrick Lamar and Drake, with notable diss tracks highlighting tensions in the music industry while engaging faithful listeners. These events not only dominated group chats but also showcased how culture can shift rapidly based on celebrity interactions and public perception.
Villains and Flops of the Year
The conversation transitions to recognizing the 'villains' of 2024, revealing a shared sentiment that life itself is a formidable adversary, posing continual challenges and hardships. Participants also discuss the concept of 'willful ignorance,' exemplified by social media interactions that highlight people's refusal to engage with accurate information. The biggest flop of the year is attributed to Drake, whose public image faced scrutiny amid controversies surrounding his artistry and legal maneuvers, suggesting a decline in his perceived coolness. This multifaceted dialogue illustrates the complexities of fame, public relations, and cultural expectations in a rapidly changing society.
To close out 2024, Brittany and friends are running through the best and worst pop culture moments of the past 365 days. Along with NPR's Weekend Edition host Ayesha Rascoe and Code Switch co-host B.A. Parker, the three declare winners and losers in the following categories:
WORD OF THE YEAR "Crash Out" "Cutesy" "Hawk Tuah"
THE LOUDEST GASP HEARD AROUND THE WORLD Katt Williams on Club Shay Shay Kendrick Lamar & Drake's Rap Beef The response to the Trump assassination attempt
VILLAIN OF THE YEAR Life Willful Ignorance Dr. Rachel Gunn (AKA Raygun)
BIGGEST FLOP OF THE YEAR Tesla's Cybertrucks Drake Megalopolis
THE "WHO'S THIS DIVA?" AWARD The extra special award for the diva you did not know before 2024 but whose name lives rent free in your head now.
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