Podcast Summary: New Rory & MAL – Episode 271 | Good Kid, b.A.A.d. List

Introduction

In Episode 271 of New Rory & MAL, titled "Good Kid, b.A.A.d. List," hosts Rory and Mal dive deep into the recently released Apple "100 Greatest Albums of All Time" list. Released on May 24, 2024, the episode offers a spirited debate on the rankings, the criteria used, and the overall validity of the list. Alongside the album discussions, the hosts touch upon significant current events, including conversations around domestic violence, and engage in humorous exchanges addressing personal topics.

1. Apple's "100 Greatest Albums of All Time" List

The episode kicks off with Rory and Mal discussing their personal connections to the podcast, referencing Rory's father as a listener ([00:00]-[00:02]). This segues into the main topic: Apple's newly released album list.

Debate on the Top Album

Rory and Mal immediately express their disagreement with the list's top ranking. Mal references the number one spot held by Lauryn Hill's "Miseducation," sparking a heated debate.

• Mal's Critique: "I think Miseducation of Lauryn Hill is an overrated album. (...) To be number one, it's an amazing album, I think..." ([06:03]-[06:54])

• Rory's Defense of "Thriller": "I think Thriller checks all of those boxes. (...) Thriller is the greatest album of all time." ([05:37]-[07:14])

Rory passionately defends Michael Jackson's "Thriller," arguing its universal acclaim and enduring popularity make it deserving of the top spot. He states, "I think Thriller is the greatest album of all time. It checked every single box." ([06:03]-[07:14])

Criteria for the List

Julian, another member of the discussion, outlines the six criteria used for Apple's list, emphasizing cultural impact, cohesiveness, production quality, inspiration to a generation, storytelling, and timelessness ([10:29]-[10:36]).

• Maur's Commentary on Criteria: "It's crazy because we have Lauryn's album cover right behind that was in my bedroom as a kid." ([05:44]-[05:53])

Additional Album Rankings and Controversies

The conversation broadens to include other albums and their placements:

• Good Kid, m.A.A.d City by Kendrick Lamar: Positioned at number seven, Rory defends its impact on modern hip-hop, likening its significance to that of Nas's "Illmatic" in the '90s. Mal, however, challenges its high ranking, arguing, "Number seven is just kind of hot." ([19:07]-[26:53])

• Take Care by Drake: Ranked at number 47, Mal contends it's too low for an influential album, while Rory acknowledges its place but remains conflicted about its placement ([31:01]-[31:22]).

• Other Notable Mentions: The hosts discuss the absence of notable artists like Whitney Houston and Janet Jackson, questioning the list's inclusivity and representation of different genres and eras.

Mal's Criticism of the Selection Process

Mal voices skepticism about the selection process, comparing the list to pyramid schemes that prioritize engagement over genuine merit. He states, "These listings are like the new pyramid schemes." ([05:13]-[07:14])

2. Current Events: Domestic Violence and Cassie's Statement

Transitioning from music, the hosts address a significant and sensitive topic: Cassie's public statement amidst allegations involving Sean "Diddy" Combs.

Cassie's Public Statement

• Julian's Highlight: "She said, my only ask is that everyone ... open your heart to believing victims the first time." ([49:13]-[49:34])

• Mal's Emphasis: "It's important to listen to people when they are speaking on what they're going through." ([52:09]-[52:35])

The hosts underscore the importance of believing victims of domestic violence without skepticism. They discuss societal tendencies to dismiss or question victims, especially when the accused is a high-profile individual like Diddy.

Discussion on Media's Role

Rory and Mal critique how major networks handle such sensitive topics, arguing that platforms like CNN missed the mark by making light of serious allegations for ratings and branding purposes.

• Rory's Frustration: "The issue here is domestic violence. Just because they're popular, it doesn't mean we stray away from what actually happens." ([53:37]-[53:41])

• Mal's Insight: "We have to be very, very aware of what's happening, what's going on." ([66:14]-[66:23])

The conversation highlights the need for media to approach domestic violence cases with the seriousness they deserve, rather than exploiting them for sensationalism.

3. Humorous Exchanges and Personal Anecdotes

Following the intense discussions, Rory, Mal, Damaris, and Julian shift to lighter, more humorous topics, including personal experiences and playful banter about relationships and sexual encounters.

Voicemails and Caller Stories

The hosts respond to fictional or humorous voicemails that delve into amusing scenarios, such as:

• Rory and Mal's "Diaper Change" Story: A humorous take on equating sexual acts to changing diapers, blending wit with playful sexual innuendo ([74:23]-[82:35]).

• Racist Baby Mama Update: An exaggerated and comedic update on a previous caller's situation involving a racist baby mama, showcasing the hosts' knack for blending serious topics with humor ([93:09]-[101:06]).

Sexual Humor and Advice

The hosts engage in candid and comedic discussions about sexual experiences, comfort levels, and the awkwardness that can arise during intimate moments. They offer humorous "advice" on topics like managing Charlie horses during sex and navigating conversations about sexual preferences.

• Maal on Examining During Sex: "Have you dug in between your ass to see if hair was back there?" ([75:25]-[75:33])

• Damaris on Sexual Faces: "I grew up thinking that like my moan and like my sex faces were the cutest in the world." ([86:01]-[86:21])

These segments provide humor and relatability, balancing the more serious discussions earlier in the episode.

4. Conclusion and Final Remarks

As the episode wraps up, the hosts recap their discussions, offer shout-outs to artists like Vince Staples, and engage in final humorous exchanges. They emphasize the importance of authenticity both in music and personal interactions, while also reaffirming their stance on serious issues like domestic violence.

• Final Shout-Out: "Shout out to Vince. Vince Staples album out now. Go listen to that." ([103:10]-[103:14])

• Memorial Day Wishes: "Happy Memorial Day weekend. Be safe. Wherever you at, be blessed." ([105:37]-[106:14])

The episode concludes on a light-hearted note, blending music discussions with personal anecdotes and humor, ensuring a well-rounded and engaging listening experience for the audience.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Mal on Overrated Albums: "I think Miseducation of Lauryn Hill is an overrated album." ([06:03]-[06:54])

• Rory on "Thriller": "I think Thriller is the greatest album of all time. It checked every single box." ([07:14]-[07:14])

• Julian on List Criteria: "There are six criteria that qualify an album for this list: albums that represented a cultural moment..." ([10:29]-[10:36])

• Damaris on Believing Victims: "She said, my only ask is that everyone... open your heart to believing victims the first time." ([49:22]-[49:34])

• Maal on Media Sensationalism: "All of this going on, I'm seeing a lot of on social media, y'all saying some weird shit." ([66:23]-[67:18])

Final Thoughts

Episode 271 of New Rory & MAL offers a compelling mix of critical analysis on Apple's album list, thoughtful discussions on pressing social issues, and entertaining personal exchanges. The hosts' chemistry and ability to navigate between serious and humorous topics make for an engaging and insightful listening experience, ensuring both entertainment and meaningful discourse for their audience.