Podcast Summary: ROC Solid with Memphis Bleek – Episode 1 w/ Ja Rule
Introduction
In the premiere episode of "ROC Solid," hosted by Memphis Bleek and featuring renowned rapper Ja Rule, listeners are treated to an intimate and candid conversation between two significant figures in the hip-hop industry. Skipping over the advertisements and introductory segments, the core of the episode delves deep into their shared experiences, collaborations, personal anecdotes, and insights into the evolving music landscape.
Early Beginnings and the Hard Knock Life Tour (02:09 – 08:42)
The episode kicks off with Memphis Bleek reminiscing about his longstanding relationship with Ja Rule. He underscores their deep roots within the Roc-A-Fella family, mentioning, “One of the biggest artists I ever collabed with, ever rocked with, been on tour with...” [02:52]. Ja Rule reciprocates by reflecting on the significance of the Hard Knock Life Tour, describing it as their collective "coming out" party. He candidly shares, “I wasn't even like in shape back then... I was just skinny” [05:19], highlighting the grassroots beginnings of their journey.
Memphis adds, “that Hard Knock Life tour... was the first all hip-hop tour since the Fresh Fest,” emphasizing its role in uniting East and West Coast artists. This tour not only marked a pivotal moment for both artists but also played a crucial role in shaping the collaborative spirit within hip-hop.
Collaborations and Personal Stories (08:43 – 20:32)
The conversation transitions to their collaborative efforts and the challenges they've faced. Memphis recounts missed opportunities, such as not being featured in certain Ja Rule music videos, leading to adjustments in song compositions. “We got burnt out of that and throw me in this? Like, huh...” [11:56] he laments, shedding light on the complexities of artist collaborations and management decisions.
Ja Rule highlights the importance of being proactive in the creative process, stating, “We need you to sign me up, man, get you. He said, I every song that gets played on the radio, video, all that, you get paid...” [10:14]. This underscores the necessity of understanding the business side of music to ensure fair compensation and creative freedom.
The discussion then shifts to their personal lives. Memphis shares heartfelt stories about his son, emphasizing his commitment to providing a stable and nurturing environment. “He on his fashion. He about to not be wearing shoes soon...” [44:00], he humorously reflects on his son's keen interest in fashion, illustrating the generational shift in interests and priorities.
Ja Rule, on his part, talks about the pride he feels watching his son engage in music, “I told him, come watch your pops make music. Last time I had you in the studio with me, he was on my shoulders, like 2 years old...” [43:21]. This highlights the passing of the torch and the hope for the next generation to continue the legacy.
Business Ventures and Music Industry Insights (20:33 – 35:37)
Moving into the business realm, Ja Rule discusses his work with Icon, detailing strategic partnerships and future plans aimed at elevating the brand. “I'm working with everybody. I did the joint...” [46:35], he explains his vision of transforming Icon into a multifaceted network with original content, akin to platforms like Netflix but with a unique hip-hop twist.
Memphis echoes the importance of self-belief in navigating the music industry’s challenges. Reflecting on past disagreements with management over album releases, he states, “We gotta trust ourselves... I had to change the song because, yo, when I seen it, it seemed...” [61:27]. This underscores the necessity of artists maintaining creative control to stay true to their vision.
They also delve into the evolution of music consumption and the expanding demographic of hip-hop listeners. Ja Rule notes, “Hip hop has to have that growth that gross... 50 years old and beyond listen to hip hop” [35:40], highlighting the genre’s broadening appeal and the importance of catering to a diverse audience.
Personal Lives and Family Dynamics (35:38 – 56:35)
The artists delve deeper into their personal lives, discussing the balance between career and family. Memphis shares the challenges of raising a daughter while managing a demanding career, “My son just turned 22, so I'll be traveling around doing with him 23...” [43:47]. He emphasizes the importance of keeping his son away from the pitfalls he once faced, aiming to provide a better environment.
Ja Rule complements this by discussing his own family dynamics and the pride he feels in mentoring his son. “Having kids, raising the family, it's cool. Me and my son, you know, we here hanging out...” [43:22]. Their conversations reflect the universal struggle of balancing fame and personal responsibilities, resonating with many listeners.
They also touch upon the cultural shifts within hip-hop, with Memphis commenting, “The more you know, the more you grow. That's a fact...” [54:32]. Both artists stress the importance of continuous learning and adaptation to stay relevant in the ever-changing music landscape.
Future Plans and Projects (56:36 – 89:35)
Looking ahead, Memphis and Ja Rule discuss their aspirations and upcoming projects. Ja Rule unveils plans for expanding Icon, including strategic partnerships and a focus on original content creation. “I want to really set my mom with original content... my vibes concert series I'm about to do, laughing it up...” [52:00]. He expresses his desire to create content that resonates deeply with audiences, much like Def Comedy Jam did for comedy.
Memphis shares his entrepreneurial ventures, mentioning exclusive hotels in Phuket and Dubai, and the idea of organizing after-parties to enhance their brand presence internationally. “We need to go to Thailand... Sri Panwa... Six Cents is a private island hotel.” [86:50]. Their forward-thinking approaches highlight the integration of music, business, and lifestyle as pillars of their ongoing success.
They also reminisce about memorable tour experiences, including chaotic incidents during the Hard Knock Life Tour and interactions with fellow artists like Black Rob and Method Man. Ja Rule recounts an amusing jail experience in Cancun, “I'm a rapper... with Jay Z.” [68:22], showcasing the unpredictable nature of life on tour and the bonds formed through shared experiences.
Anecdotes and Memorable Moments (89:36 – End)
The latter part of the episode is rich with vivid anecdotes from their touring days. Memphis narrates their adventures in Cancun, including a humorous yet harrowing incident involving police intervention. “We get off the bus, walk along... trying to block... And then the police come out...” [65:45]. These stories provide listeners with an unfiltered glimpse into the highs and lows of life in the music industry.
Ja Rule adds layers to these tales by sharing his own experiences with substance abuse, jet-setting lifestyles, and the constant pressure to stay relevant. Their stories about mishaps with law enforcement, partying, and maintaining relationships paint a comprehensive picture of their lives beyond the stage.
Notable Quotes:
- Memphis Bleek [02:52]: “One of the biggest artists I ever collabed with, ever rocked with, been on tour with...”
- Ja Rule [05:19]: “My mama too. And N was, fuck, look, damn. Used to kill me for that shit.”
- Memphis Bleek [06:46]: “We need Dame up here, Jay.”
- Ja Rule [14:18]: “You my brother.”
- Memphis Bleek [25:22]: “Yeah.”
- Ja Rule [36:28]: “In this room, me too. I'm proud to be 40.”
- Ja Rule [43:47]: “Let me tell you something, man, I'mma send you some good Book.”
- Memphis Bleek [54:32]: “And all the time, bro, the more you know, the more you grow. That's a fact.”
- Ja Rule [80:16]: “This is why they didn't want you to do the video. They want you to hang with me.”
Conclusion
Episode 1 of "ROC Solid" effectively sets the tone for the series, offering a blend of nostalgia, personal growth, business acumen, and raw storytelling. Memphis Bleek and Ja Rule's dialogue provides listeners with an authentic and engaging look into the lives of two artists who have significantly impacted the hip-hop landscape. Their ability to intertwine personal anecdotes with industry insights makes this episode a valuable listen for both longtime fans and newcomers seeking to understand the intricacies of the hip-hop world.
Stay Solid. Stay Roc.