Podcast Summary: New Rory & MAL - Episode 279 | Congrats Kendrick

Release Date: June 21, 2024

In Episode 279 of "New Rory & MAL," hosted by iHeartPodcasts and The Volume, Rory and Mal delve deep into various topics surrounding Kendrick Lamar's recent performances, the dynamics of the West Coast hip-hop scene, personal relationships, and a heartfelt tribute to a dear friend. This episode is rich with insightful discussions, humorous exchanges, and candid reflections, making it both engaging and informative for listeners new and old.

1. Kendrick Lamar’s Live Performance at City Winery

Overview: Rory and Mal kick off the episode by promoting their upcoming live show in Philadelphia, expressing their enthusiasm for the city and the event. They transition into discussing Kendrick Lamar's recent performance at City Winery, highlighting the setlist choices and the overall execution of the show.

Notable Quotes:

• Rory (00:07): “City of brotherly Love. Cheesesteaks, State property. Meek dream chasers. I'm just using all, like, the buzzwords for Philadelphia right now.”
• Mal (02:30): “But yes, your phone was not ringing off the hook going into the show, was it?”
• Rory (04:03): “He started with Euphoria, though. I feel like he came out the gate with what we were looking for.”

Discussion Highlights:

• Setlist Critique: Rory critiques Kendrick for including mainstream hits like "Swimming Pools," arguing that Kendrick, as a Pulitzer Prize winner, could have showcased deeper cuts to demonstrate his lyrical prowess.

  • Rory (04:18): “It was dope seeing black hippie on stage too.”
  • Damaris (04:20): “All together and then close with Not Like Us five times.”

• Crowd Reception: The hosts acknowledge that despite their critiques, the audience, especially Patreon subscribers, enjoyed the performance, noting positive reactions to specific set components.

  • Mal (05:40): “But everybody last night wasn't there as a unification.”

2. Kendrick vs. Drake: The Rap Beef and Its Impact

Overview: A significant portion of the conversation centers around the ongoing beef between Kendrick Lamar and Drake. Rory and Mal explore how this rivalry has influenced events and the broader West Coast hip-hop community.

Notable Quotes:

• Rory (05:44): “He should have done Sing About Me in between to show that he's the greatest rapper of this modern era.”
• Damaris (11:10): “It's the catalyst. The catalyst being the, this...”.

Discussion Highlights:

• Impact on Show Dynamics: The beef acted as a catalyst for Kendrick's attempt to unify various LA artists, turning a potentially negative situation into a collaborative showcase.

  • Mal (12:17): “It's a great move. He used that moment and that energy...”

• Absence of Game: The missing presence of Game is scrutinized, with Rory and Mal speculating on past tensions and his exclusion from the event.

  • Mal (23:29): “Only the one person that was notably missing...”

• West Coast Image: The hosts debate the narrative that West Coast artists harbor resentment towards their own region, countering it with historical context and personal experiences.

  • Rory (14:04): “My only other issue...”

3. West Coast Hip-Hop: Unity and Perception

Overview: Rory and Mal address the perception of the West Coast in the hip-hop industry, challenging the notion that there is widespread animosity towards the region's culture and musicians.

Notable Quotes:

• Mal (15:10): “I think that it's just...”
• Rory (16:47): “And I thought the whole point of why Big was so important...”

Discussion Highlights:

• Cultural Legacy: Emphasis on the longstanding contributions of West Coast artists like Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg, arguing against claims of regional disdain.

  • Mal (16:19): “You have older guys on your block in your neighborhood?...”

• Kendrick's Role: Kendrick Lamar is portrayed as a unifying figure striving to mend and elevate the West Coast's image in the rap community.

  • Rory (08:42): “It's a moment...”

4. Personal Relationships and Financial Struggles

Overview: Transitioning from music discussions, Rory shares personal anecdotes about his financial struggles and their impact on his romantic relationships. The conversation evolves into broader advice on dating when facing financial hardships.

Notable Quotes:

• Rory (72:04): “Have you ever date, dated someone that you know wasn't in the best financial position...”
• Julian (75:29): “So if you think that she's Worth it. You should definitely try.”

Discussion Highlights:

• Financial Responsibility: Rory recounts a past experience where he overspent on a date, leading to regret and lessons learned about living within one's means.

  • Rory (77:08): “But I mean you have to, you have to have some type of ambition.”

• Advice for Listeners: The hosts offer guidance on maintaining relationships amidst financial instability, emphasizing the importance of ambition and mutual support.

  • Mal (75:34): “Broke is an energy...”

5. Tribute to Chef James Kent of Crown Shy

Overview: Towards the episode's end, Rory and Mal pay homage to their late friend, Chef James Kent, celebrating his legacy and the impact he had on their lives and the New York culinary scene.

Notable Quotes:

• Rory (91:27): “Friend of ours. Very rough week.”
• Mal (93:47): “Prayers to the Kent family. Prayers to everybody at Crown Shy.”

Discussion Highlights:

• Legacy and Impact: Chef James Kent's journey from a graffiti tagger to a Michelin-starred chef is highlighted, showcasing his dedication and influence.

  • Mal (93:31): “He brought the West Coast back single-handedly.”

• Crown Shy Promotion: The hosts encourage listeners to support Crown Shy, sharing personal experiences and the sentimental value of the establishment.

  • Rory (95:39): “If you're ever in New York City, go to Crown Shy. Run that shit up for his family.”

• Emotional Reflections: Rory and Mal express their grief and admiration, underlining the importance of cherishing friendships and contributions to the community.

  • Mal (94:22): “He was a one of one man. He was really, really a gem.”

6. Miscellaneous Discussions: Movies, TV Shows, and Personal Humorous Exchanges

Overview: The episode concludes with light-hearted banter about movies like "House of the Dragon" and "Bad Boys," alongside humorous stories about personal social interactions and dating mishaps.

Notable Quotes:

• Rory (87:00): “You can't go to LA no more. That's it. I stay in Western Illinois.”
• Mal (88:26): “They own it.”

Discussion Highlights:

• Entertainment Talk: The hosts discuss their opinions on recent movies and TV shows, debating character portrayals and plot developments.

  • Julian (89:07): “If you're anything else, I have nothing for you.”

• Dating Anecdotes: Rory shares comical stories of awkward dating experiences, reinforcing the episode's earlier themes on personal relationships.

  • Rory (83:12): “I couldn't even get in my bag to flirt because I felt bad.”

• Humorous Interactions: The dialogue includes playful teasing and light-hearted mock debates, adding a casual and relatable tone to the episode.

  • Damaris (90:32): “Nothing's worse than when they try to cake up up the makeup on bad skin.”

Conclusion

Episode 279 of "New Rory & MAL" offers a comprehensive exploration of Kendrick Lamar's influence on the West Coast hip-hop scene, the complexities of rap rivalries, and the personal challenges faced by the hosts in their relationships and financial lives. The heartfelt tribute to Chef James Kent serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of community and legacy. Through engaging conversations, notable quotes, and a natural flow, Rory and Mal provide listeners with both entertainment and valuable insights.

Notable Transcript Excerpts with Timestamps:

• Rory (05:44): “He should have done Sing About Me in between to show that he's the greatest rapper of this modern era.”
• Mal (12:17): “It's a great move. He used that moment and that energy...”
• Rory (72:04): “Have you ever date, dated someone that you know wasn't in the best financial position...”
• Mal (75:34): “Broke is an energy...”
• Rory (91:27): “Friend of ours. Very rough week.”
• Mal (93:47): “Prayers to the Kent family. Prayers to everybody at Crown Shy.”

This structured summary encapsulates the essence of Episode 279, ensuring that listeners gain a clear understanding of the key discussions and moments shared by Rory and Mal.