This week we dive into another classic rap record from the 90s - A Tribe Called Quest’s ‘Midnight Marauders’ - with music industry mogul, Kwame Kwaten. Having worked with the likes of Jay-Z, Mick Jagger, Tom Jones and Seal, as well as discovering Shola Ama at a London tube station, Kwame brings his deep insight into the incredible production, vivid messaging and all-round timeless nature to Tribe’s brilliant album.

 

Before the chat, host Kambi Thandi and resident Rap Brexiteer, Ray Ridge, give their reactions to Nas’ new album ‘King’s Disease’, The LOX’s latest record and the BET series, Ruff Ryders Chronicles (02:30). Along the way, we dive into the Crate 808 Mailbag, reading some great correspondence from the listeners - touching on R.A. The Rugged Man, Ludacris, Red Dwarf, Lil Wayne bars and Sean Price (12:23).

 

The conversation with Kwame (18:35) was a great trip down rap memory lane of the 90s golden era, speaking on…

 

🙏 Suffering badly with COVID-19

👑 ATCQ’s musical genius and conscious messaging

🤔 Is Q-Tip underrated?

😱 Being Michael Jackson’s only support on his Dangerous tour

🔎 Hidden gems on Marauders, what’s aged the best and which non-90s MC could make it onto the album

🎹 Kwame’s top 5 producers (39:38)

🔥 The success of his band D-Influence

😲 Discovering Shola Ama at a tube station (47:30)

⭐️ Making ‘Wishing on a Star’ with Jay-Z (54:34)

 

Also, our merch is out - jump on crate808.com to cop a tee or a hoody, or have a look at our Instagram shop, and help support the pod please. It all goes back into the pot for us to try make even more dope content for you.

 

For the next mailbag episode, we’d love to hear from you guys, so email us at [email protected] with your takes on…

 

◼️ Slept-On Wu Tang Bangers AND Slept-On Preemo Bangers

◼️ Which 90s rapper would you have crash on your couch for the weekend? And which one would you HATE?!

◼️ Where’s the weirdest place you’ve met a rapper?

◼️ The most ludicrous lyrics you’ve ever heard?

◼️ Who are the most overrated/underrated rap artists and groups in the 90s?

◼️ Least hip hop things you’ve done in the last 24 hours?

◼️ And if you want more in-depth reviews or have any general thoughts on our selections, hit us up!

 

Catch all our Spotify playlists here:

 

Crate 808 Bangers Playlist https://spoti.fi/2EojufP

Slept-On Wu-Tang Bangers Playlist https://spoti.fi/32QtAQG

Sample Corner Playlist https://spoti.fi/3eYfhMd

 

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