Episode 24: "CIPHA SOUNDS"

This week the R.O.A.D. Podcast crew make their way to L.A. to interview New York legend Cipha Sounds. The Bronx native starts out by discussing how he found his love for DJing, and recalls his first gigs as an opener for Funk Master Flex at the legendary Tunnel. He goes on to tell us how he became Flex's intern at Hot 97, and spent the next 5 years in that role. Upon making a name for himself, Cipha became a full time DJ on Hot 97, and was known as one of the few DJ's that could spin on any mix show, with exception to Kay Slay. Simultaneously, Cipha became the tour DJ for Lil' Kim in the mid 90's. Cipha also tells the story how Junior Mafia was responsible for him knowing about 2Pac. Now having made a name for himself, Cipha becomes known for breaking artists and records alike. Some of which are Rihanna, Rick Ross, Nina Sky, etc. This led to him stepping into the record label side of music, becoming an A&R for Pharrell at Startrak, and also Tommy Boy and Rawkus Records. Cipha continues on, discussing his relationship with Peter Rosenburg and how the "Juan Epstein" podcast was born, as well as him becoming the official DJ for Dave Chapelle on the "Chapelle Show".