Ralph McDaniels on Video Music Box and Documenting Hip-Hop History

Ralph McDaniels—or “Uncle Ralph”—is the co-creator of Video Music Box, a popular video show that is dedicated to airing hip-hop music videos and showing a side of hip-hop specifically from New York and the tri-state area. In this episode, he talks about the documentary that he recently released in collaboration with Mass Appeal and Showtime, the artists that he has worked with, and his nonprofit organization. He also shares how he was able to leverage his platform into directing hip-hop videos and hosting parties.

Listen and learn from a pioneer for hip-hop media personalities!

Episode Highlights

[03:58] The process of getting “You’re Watching Video Music Box” off the ground

[09:28] Some memorable sections from the documentary

[12:45] Ralph’s transition from being behind the camera to talking on the radio

[14:42] About his business model, his mindset about money, and the parties he hosted

[19:12] What the music industry was like when he first got into directing videos 

[26:02] On bridging the gap between generations, staying resilient, and the importance of being present during cultural shifts 

[31:38] About Video Music Box Collection and how the documentary has helped its goals

[38:12] Ralph’s plan to bring his documentary to universities and shows

Listen: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | SoundCloud | Stitcher | Overcast | Amazon | Google Podcasts | Pocket Casts | RSS

Host: Dan Runcie, @RuncieDan, trapital.co

Guest: Ralph McDaniels, @VideoMusicBox, Video Music Box

Links:

• "You’re Watching Video Music Box" on Showtime
• Video Music Box Collection
• Ralph McDaniels On 'Video Music Box' & Capturing Legendary Moments During The Golden Age Of Hip Hop
• Ralph McDaniels’ Instagram

Trapital is home for the business of hip-hop. Gain the latest insights from hip-hop’s biggest players by reading Trapital’s free weekly memo.