60 Songs That Explain the '90s "Grindin’"— The Clipse
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Aug 13, 2025 Shea Serrano, a bestselling author and podcaster, joins to delve into the enduring legacy of The Clipse and their iconic track 'Grindin'. He and Rob discuss the intricate dynamics of brotherhood, drawing parallels with the biblical story of Cain and Abel. They also explore the transformative power of the duo's lyrics, challenging the notion of 'coke rap'. The conversation touches on the cultural impact of their music, its authenticity, and the significant role of Pharrell's production, underlining how their artistry captivates audiences.
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Minimalism Meets Charisma
- The Clipse combined minimalist beats with maximal charisma to create a striking contrast.
- Their use of empty space in production became a defining feature of their sound.
The Neptunes' Space-First Production
- The Neptunes perfected the art of using empty space as a central production element.
- That simplicity amplified hooks and made beats feel enormous and futuristic.
Rapping Is Hard — 'The Cockpit' Example
- Rob plays clips from N.E.R.D.'s early album and shares a humorous lyric about 'the cockpit' from 'Lap Dance'.
- He uses this to illustrate how rapping can be difficult and occasionally awkward.
