Unglossy: Decoding Brand in Culture

Writer and editor Josie Thaddeus-Johns (https://josietj.com/ ) joins to the show to discuss nonfungible tokens — or NFTs — and her recent article on the subject in The New York Times. Originally from London and currently living in Cambridge, Massachusetts, Josie writes about art, culture and technology, including a forthcoming book about the relationship between reality, technology, and art. Also in the episode: Royce recaps his experience of the Grammys, and Tom faces heat for his knockoff Lupe merch (as seen on Royce during his virtual eConcert). Lupe gives an update on a merch restock, the fellas reminisce about the life of Marvin Hagler, and take a moment of silence to honor everyone impacted by the first year of the pandemic.

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The Lupe & Royce Show is a Say What Media Production: https://www.saywhat.media/ It is hosted by Lupe Fiasco, Royce da 5’9” and Tom Frank. It’s produced by Tom Frank and Lauren Sloat, and recorded and mixed by Claude Jennings.

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Royce is out sick, but Tom & Lupe congratulate him for his “Best Rap Album” Grammy nomination, and Lupe shares some game theory on how Grammy nominations work, calling upon his experience as a 14-time nominee and governor of a board. Lupe & Tom discuss their Thanksgiving traditions and reflect on what they are thankful for this year. The fellas welcome musician, producer, and songwriter Kaelin Ellis to the show, and Lupe talks to the rising star on his path from sandwich maker to multi-platinum music producer, starting with playing drums in church with his grandparents to working with one of K-pop’s biggest supergroups and collaborating on the HOUSE EP with Lupe himself. The two discuss hip-hop’s roots in the church, the relationship between music and video games, J Dilla’s influence on Kaelin’s career, and how to make money with music. Lupe breaks down the art of rap from an anthropological & sociological standpoint, and Tom shares a special merch discount — and how to win a guest spot on an upcoming episode. Do you call it “filling,” “stuffing,” or “dressing?” Settle the score on social using #lupeandroyce!

Love the show? Hit “subscribe,” leave us a review, and give us a shout on social using #lupeandroyce.

The Lupe & Royce Show is a Say What Media production: https://www.saywhat.media

The presenting sponsor of this episode is Blue Microphones: https://www.bluemic.com

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Lupe gets a sword, and confesses to something he stole in Detroit. They discuss “Black Panther” & Royce’s unusual approach to movie-watching. Royce recalls his faux pas the time he met Wesley Snipes & Leon Robinson. The conversation ends on a more serious note, reflecting on Jacob Blake and the state of policing in the U.S., with Lupe, Tom and Royce each offering a unique viewpoint.

The Lupe & Royce Show is a Say What Media production: https://www.saywhat.media.
The presenting sponsor of this episode is Blue Microphones: https://www.bluemic.com

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Tom, Mickey and Jeffrey are back for a new season of Unglossy. In this compelling episode, Pulitzer Prize-winning author Mitchell S. Jackson opens up about his remarkable journey from the tough streets of Portland, Oregon, to becoming a celebrated writer and educator. Mitchell shares intimate stories of balancing street life with academics, the transformative power of writing, and the challenges of teaching during a global pandemic. He reveals how his time in prison and the long, arduous process of writing his debut novel, The Residue Years, shaped his identity and artistic vision. Alongside reflections on winning the Pulitzer and the evolving role of public intellectuals, Mitchell dives into the unexpected intersections of music, NBA fashion, and cultural narratives in his latest book, Fly: The Big Book of Basketball Fashion. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about resilience, authenticity, and the enduring art of storytelling.

"Unglossy: Decoding Brand in Culture," is produced and distributed by Merrick Studio and hosted by Merrick Chief Creative Officer, Tom Frank, hip hop artist and founder of Pendulum Ink, Mickey Factz, and music industry veteran, Jeffrey Sledge. Tune in to hear this thought-provoking discussion on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you catch your podcasts. Follow us on Instagram @UnglossyPod to join the conversation and support the show at https://unglossypod.buzzsprout.com/

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Join us for Part 2 of our conversation with KJ Rose as she reveals her transformative journey, from signing to discovering her true calling in coaching. She shares with the guys her invaluable lessons learned from music industry giants like Clive Davis, and how these experiences shaped her passion for helping other artists find their unique strengths.
KJ Rose offers a deep dive into her personalized artist development strategies, including her impactful work with Lil Nas X. Learn how she tailors her coaching to each artist's narrative and strengths, ensuring they shine both in the studio and on stage. And hear about her collaborations with iconic figures like LL Cool J and Nas.
From directing performances to fostering brand collaborations, KJ's multifaceted role is crucial in an artist's career journey. Through high-profile campaigns and intimate coaching moments, KJ emphasizes the importance of continuous growth, constructive feedback, and creating supportive environments. Tune in to understand the intricate balance between artistry and branding and get inspired by KJ Rose's dedication to empowering artists at every stage of their careers.
"Unglossy: Decoding Brand in Culture," is produced and distributed by Merrick Creative and hosted by Merrick Chief Creative Officer, Tom Frank, hip hop artist and founder of Pendulum Ink, Mickey Factz, and music industry veteran, Jeffrey Sledge. Tune in to hear this thought-provoking discussion on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you catch your podcasts. Follow us on Instagram @UnglossyPod to join the conversation and support the show at https://unglossypod.buzzsprout.com/.

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