Podcast Summary: ROC Solid Episode 9 ft. Saigon
Title: ROC Solid
Host: Memphis Bleek
Guest: Saigon
Release Date: August 5, 2025
Introduction
In Episode 9 of ROC Solid, hosted by Memphis Bleek, hip-hop veteran Saigon joins for an in-depth conversation that traverses their shared history, experiences within the music industry, and reflections on the evolution of hip-hop culture. This episode offers listeners a raw and unfiltered look into the lives of two steadfast figures in the rap community.
Meeting and Early Collaborations
[02:30] Memphis Bleek reminisces about meeting Saigon through mutual friends, emphasizing the strong bond forged in the heart of New York City's vibrant hip-hop scene.
"They solid. And this my bro, straight from New York City. Brooklyn." – Memphis Bleek
Saigon shares anecdotes from their early days, highlighting collaborations with legendary artists and the challenges faced in the bustling music landscape.
"We built a conglomerate out here. Free cash. Casanova don't even know they came through a lot of don't know." – Saigon
Navigating the Music Industry
The discussion delves into the complexities of record deals and the pitfalls of the music industry. Saigon expresses frustration over lost opportunities and the lack of transparency from management.
"I was signed to Atlantic Records for seven years without putting out one. They would give me a living stipend, but they wouldn't really put me on anything." – Saigon
Memphis highlights the importance of staying true to one's artistic vision despite industry pressures.
"I never went out of bounds, like, always stay true to what we represented." – Memphis Bleek
Impact of Incarceration and Personal Growth
Saigon reflects on his time in prison, viewing it as both a gift and a curse that shaped his perspective and music. He emphasizes the importance of using time productively to build a foundation for life beyond incarceration.
"Jail is a gift and a curse. If you use it for what it's worth, you can build the information and find out what's going on in the street." – Saigon
"I did seven years of my teenage years in jail and I happened to start rapping." – Saigon
Memphis shares stories of friends lost to incarceration and underscores the necessity of transforming one's life post-release.
"A lot of people like yourself that went to jail, came home and changed their life around." – Memphis Bleek
Conscious Rap vs. Gangster Rap
The conversation contrasts conscious rap with the later emergence of gangster rap, discussing how the latter shifted the narrative within the community. Saigon advocates for more meaningful and uplifting content in hip-hop.
"I don't wanna be on the wrong side of history. We are not recycling our dollars amongst each other." – Saigon
"We need that kind of music because these kids today are lost." – Memphis Bleek
They critique the commercialization of hip-hop brands and the direction mainstream rap has taken, emphasizing the need for artists to give back to their communities.
"Hip hop culture has sold countless brands without making a dollar for us. We need Timberland libraries all over every ghetto." – Saigon
"We need a Timber statue in New York... Every project." – Memphis Bleek
Building and Protecting Community Unity
Saigon and Memphis discuss the fragmentation within the black community and the importance of unity in driving social and economic change. They explore the disparities in how different communities organize and advocate for their needs.
"There's no such thing as a black community. Where is it? Because you can't have a community if we ain't unified." – Saigon
"If we came together for one problem, they would have to start respecting us." – Memphis Bleek
They highlight successful instances of community mobilization and the potential for larger impact through collective action.
"Imagine if there was unity with stuff like that, they would have to officiate with us." – Saigon
Entrepreneurship and Financial Literacy
A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to the importance of financial literacy and entrepreneurship within the hip-hop community. Saigon shares his struggles with managing money and the lack of guidance that led to financial setbacks despite his success.
"I didn't know how to handle money. I made millions from touring and deals but didn't own anything." – Saigon
"Change costs more. When you signed, you stick to it." – Memphis Bleek
They discuss strategies for building wealth, investing in the community, and the necessity of black-owned businesses to foster economic empowerment.
"We need to own and teach our kids how to own. We can't recycle our dollars amongst each other." – Saigon
"Think about how many thousands of dollars people spent on Timberlands over their lives without contributing back." – Saigon
Future Projects and Legacy
Saigon talks about his upcoming projects, including the Music My Way app, designed to empower artists to monetize their work independently. He emphasizes the importance of leaving a positive legacy over mere financial success.
"If I had another opportunity to make a record tomorrow, I'm still gonna make the same kind of music." – Saigon
"We need more conscious rap because it's about the impact and message we leave." – Saigon
Memphis underscores the significance of legacy and being remembered as a good person who positively influenced others.
"When you pass away, people gonna ask if you were a good person or a shitty person." – Memphis Bleek
"You gotta think about what impact you leave behind." – Memphis Bleek
Closing Thoughts
The episode concludes with a mutual appreciation of each other's contributions to hip-hop and a reaffirmation of their commitment to fostering positive change within the community.
"You always been a solid dude. Stand up from the beginning, never changed who you are." – Memphis Bleek
"We all are from that environment, but you carve your path out to live comfortably." – Saigon
Notable Quotes
- Saigon [05:49]: "Jail is a gift and a curse. If you use it for what it's worth, you can build the information and find out what's going on in the street."
- Memphis Bleek [04:25]: "That's why they gotta hear from guys like you and that, man. Because you've been through it."
- Saigon [33:45]: "What would happen when you bury yourself under that and your spirit is gone because you degraded yourself."
- Memphis Bleek [35:55]: "Sometimes new change costs a lot. Sometimes change costs more."
- Saigon [40:10]: "There's no such thing as a black community. Where is it?"
- Saigon [65:13]: "I was lucky enough to get in the rap game, but I never planned my life further than 21 or jail."
Conclusion
Episode 9 of ROC Solid offers a profound exploration of Saigon's journey through the highs and lows of the music industry, his personal growth, and his unwavering commitment to uplifting the hip-hop community. Memphis Bleek and Saigon engage in a candid dialogue that not only recounts their shared past but also charts a path forward for aspiring artists and their communities.
Stay Solid. Stay Roc. 🎙🔥