Episode Summary: SWWP #4 - Kendrick Calls 'Game Over' & Kanye's X Rant

Release Date: February 11, 2025
Host: Julian Delgado
Podcast: Something Wrong With The Podcast

Introduction

Julian Delgado kicks off Episode 4 of "Something Wrong With The Podcast" with his signature blend of cultural critique and therapeutic banter. He briefly mentions the ongoing cultural narratives, signaling the primary focus on two significant topics: Kanye West's controversial behavior and Kendrick Lamar's Super Bowl halftime performance.

Kanye West's Controversial Spirals

Overview of Kanye's Behavior

Julian delves into Kanye West's recent actions, characterizing his latest outburst as his first significant spiral in five years. He attributes Kanye's behavior to a combination of narcissism and his mental health struggles, questioning the authenticity of Kanye's proclaimed shift from bipolar disorder to autism.

Notable Quote:

[00:53] Julian: "Now it seems like Kanye is gone. And if it seems that way, it's because, let's be honest, he is in an effort to get attention."

The Evolution of Kanye's Rants

Julian traces Kanye's past rants, highlighting his initial pro-Trump stance and collaboration with figures like Candace Owens and Alex Jones. He suggests that Kanye has found a supportive enclave within certain right-wing circles, which fuels his extremist expressions.

Notable Quote:

[01:35] Julian: "But this, where when you're a narcissist, I think he's so, he still so believes in his own power... he's doing this shock jock kind of tactics to see how far he can go."

Impact on Kanye's Career and Relationships

The host discusses the tangible consequences of Kanye's rants, including the potential loss of a $20 million tour deal and celebrities like Travis Scott unfollowing him. Julian emphasizes the negative ripple effects on Kanye's family, especially his children, and critiques Kanye's exploitation of his fame for attention.

Notable Quote:

[02:52] Julian: "I think this is Kanye. This is who Kanye is. This isn't. I don't think this is an act, but he's just cherry picking the lowest form of tactics."

Kanye's Influence on Hate Groups

Julian expresses concern over Kanye's alignment with neo-Nazi ideologies and anti-Semitic rhetoric. He warns of the dangerous normalization of hate speech through Kanye's platform, likening it to Elon Musk's actions on X (formerly Twitter).

Notable Quote:

[03:15] Julian: "He can say I'm gay. Adolf Hitler. I can say I love Hitler. I can say all of these things, and my fans will still find a way to roll with me."

Conclusion on Kanye's Behavior

Julian concludes that Kanye's current trajectory is detrimental not only to his career but also to societal discourse. He urges listeners to disengage from Kanye's rhetoric to avoid inadvertently supporting extremist narratives.

Notable Quote:

[08:15] Julian: "Do not support him in any way. And I just... Just feel for his family."

Kendrick Lamar's Super Bowl Halftime Performance

Performance Overview

Shifting focus, Julian reviews Kendrick Lamar's halftime show at the Super Bowl, describing it as one of the worst he's ever witnessed. He critiques the performance's symbolism, direction, and lack of engagement, comparing it unfavorably to Kendrick's previous live shows.

Notable Quote:

[21:35] Julian: "It's being in New Orleans, not having a live band, a marching band at that, or any live percussions is tough."

Symbolism and Direction

Julian analyzes the use of the Uncle Sam character, portrayed by Samuel L. Jackson, and the thematic elements Kendrick incorporated. He discusses the metaphorical messages about American culture and the subtle jabs at Drake, suggesting tension within the hip-hop community.

Notable Quote:

[21:17] Kai Sanat: "No, no, no, no, no. Too loud, too reckless, too ghetto."

Critique of Performance Elements

The host points out the lack of live instruments, audience interaction, and overall theatricality in Kendrick's performance. He compares the execution to Alfred Hitchcock's suspense techniques, criticizing the buildup and delivery as ineffective.

Notable Quote:

[24:28] Chris: "I want to make a move. I want to perform their favorite song, but, you know, they love the Sewer. Yeah, that song, maybe I think about."

Personal Reflection and Ratings

Julian shares his personal disappointment with the performance, rating it 4.5 out of 10. He contrasts it with Kendrick's past live performances, which he found more impactful and engaging.

Notable Quote:

[30:00] Julian: "Overall, I would give this show about a five, maybe even a four and a half out of ten."

Montoya's Viral Video Segment

Montoya's Story

Julian introduces a viral video featuring Montoya, a man witnessing his girlfriend's infidelity in a highly cinematic and dramatic fashion. He uses this segment to contrast the negative portrayals of individuals like Kanye with more relatable, authentic human experiences.

Notable Quote:

[40:54] Chris: "Hey, Julian, it's Chris. Been watching you since Aurora Mall podcast..."

Cultural Commentary

He comments on the viral nature of such content, noting the preference for emotionally driven narratives over extremist rhetoric. Julian encourages embracing authentic human emotions and experiences as a healthier cultural trend.

Notable Quote:

[41:51] Julian: "You don't have to choose between these two men. Go. Be free. Find someone new."

Listener Voicemails and Advice

Chris's Dilemma

Julian responds to a voicemail from Chris, who is grappling with his feelings for two men—one who has been supportive but is now an ex, and another who doesn't reciprocate his feelings. Julian advises Chris to break free from the dilemma by not limiting himself to these two options and encourages self-worth over idealized expectations.

Notable Quote:

[42:12] Julian: "I just think you need to either swing, go for it and just ask complainly like, hey, I, you know, let's go on a date."

Caller Facing Job Insecurity

Another caller is stressed about his new job, feeling underqualified, and anxious about his mother's impending job loss from the same company. Julian offers practical advice on managing imposter syndrome, financial prudence, and career planning, emphasizing resilience and proactive steps.

Notable Quote:

[48:50] Julian: "Don't feel like you need to live this experience alone. Wishing you the best, man."

Closing Remarks

Julian concludes the episode by reiterating his critique of cultural issues surrounding celebrity behavior and societal values. He advocates for prioritizing genuine human experiences over destructive rhetoric and encourages listeners to seek more authentic and constructive content.

Notable Quote:

[49:50] Julian: "Please keep being yourself. The world needs more Montoyas and the world needs far less people like Kanye."

He also invites listeners to join him live on YouTube and Twitch for further discussions, promoting ongoing engagement beyond the podcast format.

Key Takeaways

• Kanye West's Behavior: Julian presents a critical view of Kanye's recent actions, attributing them to narcissism and mental health issues while warning against the normalization of extremist rhetoric.

• Kendrick Lamar's Performance: The Super Bowl performance is dissected as underwhelming and symbolically flawed, lacking previous high-energy and engaging elements.

• Cultural Preferences: Emphasis is placed on authentic human emotions and experiences over sensationalism and hate-driven narratives.

• Listener Engagement: Personal advice is provided to callers, reinforcing the podcast’s role as a blend of cultural critique and informal therapy.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Kanye's Attention-Seeking Behavior:

  [00:53] Julian: "Now it seems like Kanye is gone. And if it seems that way, it's because, let's be honest, he is in an effort to get attention."

• Kanye's Shock Jock Tactics:

  [02:52] Julian: "I think this is Kanye. This is who Kanye is. This isn't. I don't think this is an act, but he's just cherry picking the lowest form of tactics."

• Montoya's Advice to Chris:

  [42:12] Julian: "You don't have to choose between these two men. Go. Be free. Find someone new."

• Advice on Job Insecurity:

  [48:50] Julian: "Don't feel like you need to live this experience alone. Wishing you the best, man."

• Final Encouragement:

  [49:50] Julian: "Please keep being yourself. The world needs more Montoyas and the world needs far less people like Kanye."

Conclusion

Episode 4 of "Something Wrong With The Podcast" offers a deep dive into the troubling behaviors of high-profile celebrities like Kanye West and critiques significant cultural moments such as Kendrick Lamar's Super Bowl performance. Julian Delgado combines cultural analysis with personal advice, creating a space for both reflection and healing. Listeners gain insights into the interplay between celebrity influence and societal values, as well as practical guidance for personal dilemmas.