Questlove, The Roots drummer and Jimmy Fallon Band Leader, discusses beef with Biggie, the Michelle Bachmann scandal, the curse of Black Geniuses, and his friendship with Jay-Z.
Hip-hop has bridged the racial gap, fostering dialogue and understanding between different communities.
The Roots expanded the scope of hip-hop by embracing a post-genre approach and incorporating elements of rock and other genres.
Amir Thompson of The Roots expresses his aversion to misogyny and emphasizes the importance of fighting for equality and ending stereotypes.
Deep dives
Hip-hop's impact and influence on culture
Hip-hop has had a significant positive impact on race relations by bridging the gap between black and white communities. It provided a medium for dialogue and understanding, breaking down stereotypes and fostering connections. Artists like Michael Jackson played a crucial role in shifting perceptions and creating an avenue for discussion and connection between different racial groups.
The Roots' contribution to hip-hop
The Roots emerged as a prominent group, pushing the boundaries of hip-hop. They went beyond instrumental hip-hop, embracing a post-genre approach that incorporated elements of rock and other genres. By doing so, they expanded the possibilities and scope of the genre, paving the way for future innovation and experimentation.
An introspective look at misogyny in hip-hop
Although hip-hop has at times been criticized for its misogyny, Amir Thompson, a member of The Roots, maintains a strong stance against such actions. He expresses his aversion to misogynistic behavior and emphasizes the importance of fighting for equality and seeing black people as regular individuals, rather than superhuman or subhuman. He shows a commitment to ending stereotypes and empowering women.
Importance of Critical Claim in the Music Industry
The podcast episode highlights the importance of critical acclaim in the music industry. The speaker discusses how critical acclaim has been instrumental in keeping their music career alive, despite not having mainstream radio success. They emphasize that critical acclaim acts as a form of advertisement, allowing them to maintain a steady fanbase and attract new listeners. The speaker mentions their consistently positive reviews on Metacritic as proof of their lasting impact and musical quality.
The Role of Contextualization in Success
The podcast episode explores the significance of contextualization in achieving success in the music industry. The speaker explains how they strategically used their influence to contextualize other artists and create a group of like-minded individuals. By recommending and supporting artists such as Common and Black Star, they were able to shape a movement and garner attention from the label. The speaker argues that building a crew and a community within the industry is crucial for sustained success and recognition.
The Roots drummer/Jimmy Fallon Band Leader sits down with the Champs to discuss beef with Biggie, the Michelle Bachmann scandal, the curse of Black Geniuses, and his friendship with Jay-Z.
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