
Hosted by The Rap Soul Podcast · EN
The Rap Soul Podcast is where hip hop and R&B intersect. This podcast delivers album reviews, artist features, and discussions about hip hop and R&B from the 80s, 90s, and 00s. It is a compelling show that blends the worlds of rap and soul music, offering listeners a deep dive into the intersection of these genres. Hosted by 12Kyle, the podcast explores the rich history, influential artists, and evolving trends within rap and soul.
Each episode features discussions on classic tracks, artist spotlights, and thematic explorations that highlight the emotional and cultural impact of these genres. 12Kyle often shares personal insights, behind-the-scenes stories, and expert opinions, creating an engaging and informative experience for fans of both rap and soul.
The Rap Soul Podcast is a great listen for anyone interested in understanding the profound connection between these musical styles and their broader cultural significance.

This episode explores whether older hip-hop fans have become the very people they once criticized—the adults who dismissed rap music as "noise." Inspired by a social media post from Isaac Hayes III, you examine the ongoing tension between hip-hop's older generation and younger fans and artists.https://therapsoulpodcast.riverside.com

What was the greatest hip-hop album released the year you graduated from high school?For me, the answer is easy: Death Certificate by Ice Cube.In this episode of The Rap Soul Podcast, I take a deep dive into one of the most important and controversial albums in hip-hop history. Released in 1991, Death Certificate wasn't just an album—it was a powerful statement about race, politics, police brutality, economic inequality, gang culture, and Black empowerment.I break down:Why the album was ahead of its timeThe significance of the "Death Side" and "Life Side"The impact of Rodney King and the social climate of Los AngelesSongs like "A Bird in the Hand," "Color Blind," and "No Vaseline"Why this album remains essential listening 35 years laterWhat was the best hip-hop album released the year YOU graduated from high school?

Is Illmatic really NaS' greatest album?Or has It Was Written been underrated all these years?12Kyle and eclectik break down both albums track-by-track, category-by-category, and settle one of hip-hop's biggest debates.Coherence Impact Replayability Lyrics ProductionWhich album are YOU taking?

1989 was one of the greatest years in hip hop.De La Soul.Big Daddy Kane.Public Enemy.The DOC.Queen Latifah.EPMD.Slick Rick.Rap music was evolving in REAL TIME.New episode of The Rap Soul Podcast available now.Spotify | Apple Podcasts | YouTubehttps://therapsoulpodcast.riverside.com

Los Angeles gave hip hop some of the greatest albums ever recorded — but which ones belong at the top?On this episode of The Rap Soul Podcast, 12Kyle is joined by Baylor from the BTG For President Podcast to break down and debate the 25 greatest LA hip hop albums of all time.From N.W.A., Ice Cube, Dr. Dre, DJ Quik, and Snoop Dogg to Kendrick Lamar, Nipsey Hussle, The Game, and more — the fellas discuss classic albums, cultural impact, West Coast history, gang politics, CD era nostalgia, and why certain albums still hit decades later.Topics include:Why Doggystyle changed everythingIs The Chronic better than Doggystyle?Kendrick Lamar’s place in LA rap historyWhy Dogg Food deserves more respectThe impact of Eazy-E and N.W.A.The greatest rookie run in hip hop historyWhy LA hip hop is still dominating todayWest Coast hip hop fans — this one's for you.

In this episode of THE RAP SOUL PODCAST, 12Kyle shares his nostalgic experience with the BMG music service in the 90s, exploring how it offered free CDs for a penny and its impact on music consumption and piracy. 12Kyle discusses the business model, personal anecdotes, and the shift to digital file sharing that changed the music industry.Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Rap Soul Podcast02:47 The BMG Experience: A Journey into Free Music16:39 The Impact of BMG on Music ConsumptionAUDIO https://therapsoulpodcast.riverside.comYOUTUBE https://youtu.be/-Yl633G2O-Y

In this episode of THE RAP SOUL PODCAST, host 12Kyle explores the controversial topic of banning cell phones at concerts, examining the impact on the live experience, safety, and the culture of recording moments. 12Kyle shares personal insights and examples from music and comedy events, advocating for being present over recording.Chapters00:00 The Cell Phone Debate at Concerts19:02 Conclusion: Embracing the Moment Without PhonesAUDIO https://therapsoulpodcast.riverside.comYOUTUBE https://youtu.be/PiAyqgyUkJU

In this episode of THE RAP SOUL PODCAST, host 12Kyle discusses the year 1987, highlighting its significance in hip hop history.He explores breakout artists, apex figures, essential albums, and classic releases that defined 1987.Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Greatest Year in Hip Hop04:22 Breakout Stars of 198711:37 Apex Rappers of 198717:54 Essential Albums of 198726:26 Certified Classics of 1987AUDIO https://therapsoulpodcast.riverside.comYOUTUBE https://youtu.be/GA8Jj5hWFY0

In this episode of THE RAP SOUL PODCAST, host 12Kyle discusses his personal list of the 12 greatest Southern rappers, emphasizing the criteria of lyricism, flow, and delivery. He reflects on the historical context of Southern rap, its evolution, and the artists who have shaped the genre. The conversation includes a countdown of his top picks, providing insights into each rapper's contributions and significance in hip hop.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Southern Rap Legends04:22 Criteria for Ranking Southern Rappers10:51 The Countdown Begins: Rappers 12 to 714:07 Continuing the Countdown: Rappers 6 to 123:50 Recap and ConclusionAUDIO https://therapsoulpodcast.riverside.comYOUTUBE https://youtu.be/o5A01XEx-6U

In this episode of THE RAP SOUL PODCAST, host 12Kyle and guests Britt and Baylor explore the concept of a unique restaurant called the Hip Hop Cafe, where each menu item is inspired by hip hop artists and their music. The conversation flows through various topics, including favorite songs from iconic artists, the influence of hip hop on culture, and personal anecdotes related to the music discussed. They delve into the influence of various hip hop legends, discussing their favorite songs and the impact these artists have had on the genre. The dialogue flows seamlessly from one topic to another, highlighting the nostalgia and significance of hip hop in their lives.Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Rap Soul Podcast05:28 Menu Items and Favorite Songs10:34 Hot Wings and Their Significance15:45 The Importance of Whiting and Heavy D18:37 The Last Movie and Music Memories21:35 Eric B and Rakim's Influence24:43 Will Smith's All-American Hits26:27 Marley Marl's Musical Legacy32:42 Hip Hop Cafe Menu: Salmon Burger and Uncle Luke33:43 Dance Floor Anthems: Uncle Luke's Impact37:04 Turkey Burgers and Houdini's Classics39:02 Friendship in Hip Hop: LL Cool J's Influence42:09 A Tribe Called Quest: Culinary Favorites43:05 Ghetto Boys: Mind Playing Tricks on Me43:50 EPMD: Classic East Coast Vibes44:29 Nas: The Essence of Hip Hop Fries45:50 Public Enemy: Fight the Power and Chili Cheese Fries47:15 Tupac's Legacy: Crab Cakes and Iconic Tracks49:36 Nostalgic Hip-Hop Memories50:56 The Hip-Hop Cafe Menu: Salads and Sides52:23 Iconic Hip-Hop Storytellers53:55 Desserts and Female Hip-Hop Legends55:24 West Coast Flavor and E-40's Influence56:27 ODB: The Unique Flavor of Hip-Hop59:16 Public Enemy and the Power of Hip-Hop01:00:56 Biz Markie's Legacy in Hip-Hop01:01:56 Ice-T: A Hip-Hop Pioneer01:03:32 The Hip-Hop Cafe: A Fond Memory01:06:07 Closing Thoughts and Future EndeavorsAUDIO https://therapsoulpodcast.riverside.comYOUTUBE https://youtu.be/Whz23H0Mt0I