Guest Yasi Salek joins the host to discuss the band Sublime and their song 'Santeria'. They explore the impact of Sublime as fellow west coasters and delve into the controversy surrounding Sublime's song 'Date Rape'.
Sublime's music celebrated the fusion of genres in an authentic and natural way, rather than being seen as appropriative.
Sublime's music captured the relatable experiences of youth living a beachside suburban life in Southern California.
Bradley Nowell's love for reggae music greatly influenced Sublime's unique blend of reggae, rock, and punk.
Deep dives
The Impact of K-Rock and the Californian Vibe
K-Rock, the alternative rock music station, holds significant importance in Los Angeles and beyond. It became a platform for breaking new bands and setting the tone for alternative rock stations across the country. Sublime, hailing from Long Beach, California, was deeply influenced by K-Rock and the local music scene. The band's Californian vibe, blending elements of reggae, punk, ska, and rap, resonated with the beachside suburban culture of Long Beach. Sublime's music captured the essence of the area, where youth embraced an on-we and punk ethos, hanging out at the beach, smoking weed, and attending local house parties.
Contemplating Cultural Appropriation
Sublime's embrace of various musical influences raises the question of cultural appropriation. Bradley Nowell, the late frontman, filtered the authentic and natural influences of his surroundings into the band's music. While cultural appropriation is a complex and important topic, it's worth noting that Sublime's music didn't project a sense of phase or insincerity. Nowell's focus was on his love for the genres he incorporated, rather than contemplating cultural appropriation. The band's music resonated with listeners, not because it was seen as appropriative, but because it celebrated the fusion of musical styles in an authentic and natural way.
Personal Connections and Sublime's Appeal
For many fans, Sublime's music felt relatable because it was rooted in the experiences of youth living a beachside suburban life. The band's lyrics and sound captured the vibe of Southern California, particularly Long Beach, where Bradley Nowell grew up. Listeners connected with Sublime's songs about hanging out at the beach, youthful rebellion, and embracing an alternative lifestyle. The band's appeal extended beyond California, as listeners from all over resonated with the relatable themes and catchy fusion of genres in their music.
The Influence of Reggae Music on Bradley Noel
The podcast episode explores the profound impact of reggae music on Bradley Noel, the lead singer of Sublime. It highlights specific reggae songs and artists that inspired Bradley, such as Lieutenant Stitchy, Sugar Minott, and Shaka Demus and Pliers. The episode discusses how Bradley's love for reggae influenced his musical style and lyrics, bringing a unique blend of reggae, rock, and punk to Sublime's music.
The Journey of Sublime's Albums and Hits
The podcast delves into the timeline and reception of Sublime's albums and hits. It covers their first official album, '40oz. to Freedom,' and its initial release, as well as their second album, 'Robbin' the Hood,' which is known for its experimental and lo-fi sound. The episode also highlights the breakthrough success of Sublime's self-titled album, featuring their most enduring hits like 'Santeria' and 'What I Got.' It explores the bittersweet reality that Sublime achieved fame and recognition after Bradley Noel's death, and how their music continues to resonate with audiences.
Listen as Rob reminisces on some of the funniest songs he heard from the back seat of the car as a child, before turning his focus to Sublime, the band’s frontman Bradley Nowell, and the jarring storytelling on the Sublime song “Date Rape.” Somewhere along the way, Rob is able to regain focus on the song at hand, “Santeria.” Later, Rob is joined by his “daughter” Yasi Salek from Bandsplain to discuss what Sublime means to her as a fellow west coaster (1:00:00).
