The Breakfast Club Podcast Summary
Episode: INTERVIEW: Lecrae Talks New Album 'Reconstruction,' KDot Mention, Young Thug Comments, J.Cole, Faith + More
Release Date: July 31, 2025
Host/Authors: DJ Envy, Jess Hilarious, and Charlamagne Tha God
Guest: Lecrae
Duration: Approximately 44 minutes

Introduction and Welcome [00:34 - 01:10]

The episode kicks off with Charlamagne Tha God and DJ Envy welcoming their guest, acclaimed artist Lecrae. Charlamagne exclaims, “We got the good brother Lecrae,” setting an enthusiastic tone for the interview.

Discussing 'Reconstruction' Album [01:10 - 05:37]

Album Production and Intentions

DJ Envy initiates the conversation by delving into Lecrae's latest project, Reconstruction. He remarks on the album's depth, noting, “to the beat selection. And it sounds like a movie” ([02:14]). Lecrae explains the meticulous process behind the album, emphasizing quality over speed:

“People rush music these days, man. They just make disposable music. And I just felt like it's time out for all that.” ([02:14])

Breaking Stereotypes in Rap

Charlamagne addresses Lecrae's identity as a Christian rapper, expressing,

“I would appreciate if they listen. You call me what you want to call me. You a hip hop artist, like, but listen, you're a rapper.” ([02:24])

Lecrae defends his artistry against preconceived notions, underscoring the album's candid expression of his journey.

Faith Journey and Religious Trauma [05:37 - 19:01]

Deconstructing and Reconstructing Faith

Lecrae shares his struggles with the Evangelical church, particularly when advocating for social issues, which led him to question his faith:

“Maybe this whole thing is wrong. So I was ready to throw it all away.” ([05:37])

Charlamagne elaborates on his own faith journey, highlighting the influence of his trip to Egypt and his desire to rebuild his understanding of Christianity:

“I had to tear down these like American ideas of what God is, what church is, and reconstruct from the perspective that the Bible really gives it,” ([07:11])

Church Hurt and Personal Experiences

The discussion shifts to the concept of "church hurt," where individuals feel let down by religious institutions:

“Church hurt is, you know, when the people that you expect to serve you well, the people that you expect to become your family and love you well let you down.” ([07:30])

Charlamagne recounts witnessing his father's struggles with addiction and the lack of supportive reactions from the religious community, emphasizing the need for a more compassionate approach:

“See, that's not a God hurt, that's a people hurt. People let you down.” ([07:30])

Personal Anecdotes and Interactions [19:01 - 27:15]

Encounter with J. Cole

Charlamagne shares an awkward encounter with J. Cole at a Super Bowl party, where his eagerness to share his faith led to an uncomfortable situation:

“Hey, bro, do you believe in Jesus? And it was just like, not, hello, not, what's up, bro?” ([12:43])

This moment highlights Charlamagne's initial struggle to balance his identity with his faith in social settings.

Lecrae's Story with Prince

Lecrae recounts his respectful and positive interaction with Prince, contrasting it with Charlamagne's experience:

“He was nice as hell. I said I grew up Jehovah Witness too.” ([15:08])

Both anecdotes underscore the complexities of expressing faith within the music industry.

Faith and Hip Hop Culture [20:10 - 32:44]

Maintaining Faith Amidst Hip Hop's Challenges

Charlamagne discusses the tension between personal faith and the often trauma-centric narratives in hip hop:

“It's trauma porn, you know what I'm saying.” ([20:10])

He criticizes the industry's tendency to capitalize on artists' struggles rather than fostering genuine healing, advocating for a more authentic and constructive approach.

Reconstructing Church Dynamics

The conversation shifts to redefining the church experience, moving away from rigid structures to embrace community and genuine relationships:

“But what church is, is a gathering of God's people who come together to, you know, as a community to live out, to celebrate God, to navigate their lifestyle.” ([25:28])

Lecrae and Charlamagne emphasize the importance of authenticity and vulnerability in religious dialogues, aiming to bridge gaps between traditional faith structures and contemporary expressions.

Collaborations and Influences [32:44 - 43:07]

Responding to Young Thug and Kendrick Lamar

Charlamagne addresses Lecrae's response to Young Thug's remarks about gospel rap, emphasizing the positive transformation that faith can bring:

“They was like, how dare you collaborate with this, like, worldly artist? It made him feel a way about Christians...” ([31:04])

Lecrae praises Charlamagne's ability to showcase vulnerability and authenticity in his music, highlighting their mutual respect and influence:

“Have you met Cole since then?... That was tough. You right. Dot will throw you a. He'll throw you a layup.” ([26:02])

Promoting New Artists and Building Community

Charlamagne expresses his commitment to uplifting emerging artists, fostering a supportive environment:

“I keep young hitters with me all the time because I want them to see learn, grow, build...” ([40:08])

Lecrae commends Charlamagne's efforts to create inclusive conversations within the faith and hip hop communities, recognizing the impact of meeting people where they are:

“That are meeting people where they are facts, you know, that's going to really give, give, give. Gonna reintroduce hope.” ([41:36])

Album Highlights and Messages [43:07 - 43:33]

Playing a Track from 'Reconstruction'

The hosts invite Lecrae to play a track from his album, highlighting its significance and anticipation:

“Let's play headphones.” ([43:16])

Lecrae emphasizes the album's themes of grief, healing, and reconstruction, aiming to resonate deeply with listeners:

“That's a record about grief... I hope you got headphones and heaven.” ([31:14])

Closing Remarks and Takeaways [43:33 - 44:01]

Charlamagne and DJ Envy wrap up the interview by reiterating Lecrae's album release date and expressing gratitude for his participation:

“We appreciate you for joining us. The album comes out on the 22nd of August,” ([43:34])

The episode concludes with the trio signing off, maintaining the show's signature energy:

“Good morning. The Breakfast Club.” ([43:55])

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Charlamagne Tha God:

  “I would appreciate if they listen. You call me what you want to call me. You a hip hop artist, like, but listen, you're a rapper.” ([02:24])

• Lecrae:

  “People rush music these days, man. They just make disposable music. And I just felt like it's time out for all that.” ([02:14])

• Charlamagne Tha God:

  “Church hurt is, you know, when the people that you expect to serve you well, the people that you expect to become your family and love you well let you down.” ([07:30])

• Lecrae:

  “I had some phases where I highlighted a lot of stuff. I got notes in that joint.” ([36:15])

• Charlamagne Tha God:

  “It's trauma porn, you know what I'm saying.” ([20:10])

• Lecrae:

  “That are meeting people where they are facts, you know, that's going to really give, give, give. Gonna reintroduce hope.” ([41:36])

Key Insights and Conclusions

1. Authenticity in Art and Faith: Lecrae and Charlamagne emphasize the importance of genuine self-expression, both in music and faith, resisting the industry's tendency to commodify personal struggles.

2. Reconstructing Faith: Both hosts and Lecrae advocate for a rebuilt understanding of faith that prioritizes relationships over rigid structures, aiming to heal past wounds and foster inclusive communities.

3. Bridging Communities: The conversation highlights the potential for dialogue between faith-based and secular communities, encouraging mutual respect and understanding.

4. Supporting Emerging Talent: Charlamagne's commitment to uplifting new artists demonstrates a dedication to nurturing the next generation within the hip hop and faith communities.

5. Navigating Personal Trauma: The discussion delves into personal experiences with trauma, showcasing resilience and the pursuit of healing through faith and creative expression.

Final Thoughts:
This episode of The Breakfast Club offers an in-depth exploration of Lecrae's latest musical endeavor, Reconstruction, intertwined with personal narratives on faith, healing, and the evolving landscape of hip hop. Through candid conversations and relatable anecdotes, Lecrae and the hosts shed light on the challenges and triumphs of maintaining authenticity in both artistry and spirituality.