Podcast Episode 323 | Fragile Opp - New Rory & MAL

Hosts: Rory Farrell & Jamil "Mal" Clay
Produced by: Studio71
Release Date: November 26, 2024
Title: Fragile Opp

Live Show Highlights

Judah's Proposal ([07:07] - [08:09])
During their live show in Atlanta, Rory and Mal shared a heartwarming moment when a fan named Judah proposed to his girlfriend on stage.

• Rory: "Judah came on stage and proposed to his girlfriend. He even subscribed to our Patreon right there." ([08:01] - [08:09])
• Mal: "It was smooth. She went from pissed to smiling ear to ear once he got down on one."

This event underscored the strong community and engaging atmosphere of their live performances, fostering memorable interactions between hosts and fans.

Deep Dive into Kendrick Lamar's "Fragile Opp"

General Reception and Initial Opinions ([09:24] - [35:05])
The hosts delved into Kendrick Lamar’s latest album, "Fragile Opp," comparing it to his previous works like "Good Kid, Diamond City," and "Mr. Morale."

• Mal: "I think 'Fragile Opp' is one of the most flawless rap albums ever. Every song has replay value." ([19:32] - [19:45])
• Rory: "Some of the beats are tough to listen to, but they flow well. It's a different sound compared to 'Mr. Morale.'" ([14:25] - [14:42])

Song Analysis and Standout Tracks ([14:06] - [18:11])
Rory and Mal discussed specific tracks, highlighting their favorites and critiquing others.

• Rory: "I love 'Whacked Out Murals' and 'Luther.' These tracks really showcase Kendrick’s lyrical prowess." ([21:26] - [21:30])
• Mal: "The production on 'Fragile Opp' is light years ahead. Songs like 'Peekaboo' stand out for me." ([17:57] - [18:11])

Themes and Production Choices ([28:25] - [37:49])
The conversation touched on the album's themes, production styles, and collaborations.

• Rory: "Kendrick is channeling a California vibe with 'Fragile Opp.' The hyphy influence is evident." ([33:05] - [33:53])
• Mal: "The features on this album are top-notch. They sound natural and enhance the overall project." ([34:27] - [35:05])

Expectations for Future Releases ([45:45] - [48:21])
The hosts speculated about possible deluxe editions and future projects.

• Mal: "I think we'll see a deluxe edition with a few more records. Maybe another project before the Super Bowl." ([47:37] - [48:21])
• Rory: "A deluxe could be awesome, but I’m more excited about the possibility of additional projects." ([47:37] - [48:21])

Drake vs. Kendrick Lamar Battle and Lawsuit

Drake's Petition Against UMG and Spotify ([61:06] - [75:48])
A significant portion of the episode was dedicated to discussing Drake’s legal actions against Universal Music Group (UMG) and Spotify. Drake alleges that these companies manipulated the streaming of Kendrick Lamar’s song "Not Like Us" to artificially inflate its popularity.

• Mal: "Drake accuses UMG and Spotify of using bots and payola to push 'Not Like Us' as Kendrick's biggest hit." ([61:06] - [61:36])
• Julian: "This could open floodgates for lawsuits against streaming platforms manipulating streams for certain artists." ([65:00] - [65:48])
• Rory: "This lawsuit highlights the darker side of streaming algorithms and could benefit many artists seeking fair play." ([70:02] - [70:44])

Implications and Industry Impact ([75:48] - [76:55])
The hosts debated the legitimacy of the lawsuit and its potential repercussions on the music industry.

• Mal: "If Drake wins, it could set a precedent against streaming farms and unethical promotional practices." ([75:43] - [76:55])
• Damaris: "This could be monumental, affecting how songs are promoted and fair compensation for artists." ([76:02] - [76:55])

Speculations on Keem's Involvement ([35:05] - [117:00])
There was extensive discussion on whether Baby Keem, Kendrick’s collaborator, had any role or was affected by the ongoing disputes.

• Mal: "Keem might be distancing himself to establish his own identity separate from Kendrick." ([38:04] - [41:16])
• Rory: "Keem’s absence on the album might be strategic, possibly influenced by the aftermath of the Drake-Kendrick beef." ([36:11] - [37:49])
• Damaris: "It's possible Kendrick and Keem made a mutual decision to focus on their individual careers during this time." ([41:04] - [43:22])

Awards and Industry Commentary

CMA Awards and Lil Wayne's Comments ([37:47] - [60:16])
The hosts reflected on the Country Music Awards, specifically addressing Lil Wayne’s polarizing remarks and the exclusion of certain artists.

• Rory: "Lil Wayne’s comments about Kendrick and the Super Bowl halftime show stirred a lot of controversy." ([38:04] - [60:16])
• Mal: "It highlights the ongoing tensions and underrepresentation of certain artists in major award ceremonies." ([55:00] - [60:16])

Industry Practices and Racial Dynamics ([30:30] - [60:16])
They explored broader issues within the music industry, including racial dynamics and promotional unfairness.

• Mal: "Artists like Kendrick are navigating complex label politics, especially when allegations like Drake’s come into play." ([55:00] - [60:16])
• Julian: "The way labels handle such disputes often reflects deeper systemic issues in the industry." ([55:00] - [60:16])

Listener Interactions

Voicemail: Right Person, Wrong Time ([125:07] - [135:15])
Brandon from San Antonio shared his experience with meeting someone with whom he had a deep connection, but circumstances prevented the relationship from working out.

• Brandon: "Have you ever had that time where you met someone and everything was great, but it just didn't work out because it was the right person, wrong time?" ([127:19] - [127:57])
• Rory: "Don't beat yourself up over it, Brandon. Sometimes timing just doesn't align." ([128:35] - [129:13])
• Mal: "Experiences like these are part of growing up. Move on and find what’s right for you." ([128:35] - [129:13])

Streaming and Music Distribution Practices

Manipulation and Fairness in Streaming ([75:43] - [76:55])
The hosts dissected the mechanics behind Drake’s accusations, exploring how streaming platforms and labels might manipulate song placements and recommendations.

• Julian: "This could open the floodgates for class action lawsuits against streaming giants abusing their algorithmic power." ([75:43] - [76:55])
• Mal: "Artists deserve transparency and fairness in how their music is promoted and streamed." ([75:43] - [76:55])

Impact on Artists ([75:43] - [76:55])
The discussion highlighted how manipulation affects not just major artists like Kendrick and Drake, but potentially thousands of other musicians relying on streaming platforms for exposure and income.

• Damaris: "If streaming farms are manipulating streams for certain songs, it skews the entire market and hurts countless artists." ([76:02] - [76:55])
• Mal: "This lawsuit could force platforms to adopt more ethical practices, benefiting the broader artist community." ([75:43] - [76:55])

Closing Remarks

End of Year Live Shows and Future Plans ([133:00] - [137:52])
Rory and Mal wrapped up the episode by recapping their live shows for the year, expressing gratitude to fans, and announcing their final live show of the year.

• Rory: "December 14th, we’re finishing our live shows at the Gramercy Theater in New York City. Thank you to everyone who attended our Atlanta and Chicago shows." ([131:00] - [132:10])
• Mal: "Looking forward to ending the year with a bang and seeing all our supporters one last time." ([131:00] - [132:10])

Holiday Wishes ([137:00] - [138:55])
The hosts extended their holiday greetings, emphasizing safety and gratitude.

• Mal: "Everyone have a safe holiday week. Thank you for all your support throughout the year." ([132:10] - [138:55])
• Rory: "Be safe, be blessed. Happy holidays to you all." ([132:10] - [138:55])

Notable Quotes

• Rory at [07:07]: "Nothing is worse than not being able to perform when it's time to."
• Mal at [14:06]: "I think he's prophetic; they only talk about how I get it, only good for saving face."
• Julian at [75:48]: "This could open floodgates for lawsuits against streaming platforms manipulating streams for certain artists."
• Rory at [128:44]: "Deleted, rewind, and now they feel the consequences."
• Brandon's voicemails at [125:07]: "Right person, wrong time is a real thing."

Conclusion

Podcast Episode 323 of New Rory & MAL offered an extensive exploration of Kendrick Lamar's "Fragile Opp," the contentious Drake vs. Kendrick battle, and the broader implications of streaming manipulation in the music industry. Through insightful analysis, personal stories, and dynamic discussions, Rory and Mal provided listeners with a comprehensive understanding of the current music landscape, industry challenges, and the evolving nature of artist-label relationships.

Note: This summary excludes advertisements and non-content segments to focus solely on the episode's primary discussions and insights.