The Culture Decides

Strictly For The Underground: 7 Artists You Need to Know

Episode 22 is all about the underground. This week, I'm shining a spotlight on independent artists who are building their own lanes and pushing music forward. From Harlem to Dallas, Pittsburgh, Atlanta, Washington, D.C., and Bay Area, these artists are creating work that deserves attention beyond the algorithms. Featured Artists: * 3rdbasebiggs [https://www.instagram.com/3rdbasebiggs/] & 3rdbasejojo [https://www.instagram.com/3rdbasejojo/] (Harlem, NYC) – A hip-hop duo rooted in authenticity and street perspective. * WRJC (Dallas, TX) – A genre-blending artist whose sound weaves together hip-hop, soul, alternative, jazz, R&B, and shoegaze. We discuss the introspection behind his track and the role self-reflection plays in creativity. * Connie Roses [https://www.instagram.com/connieroses/] (Pittsburgh, PA) – Bringing thoughtful lyricism and personal storytelling through hip-hop. We explore the inspiration behind "Guide" and the lessons learned through friendship and growth. * Rey Morado [https://www.instagram.com/reymorado/] (Atlanta, GA) – A rapper with a focused vision and powerful sound. If you're feeling the record featured in this episode, be sure to check out his project, SIEGE. * Marck Angel [https://www.instagram.com/marckangel/?hl=en] (Washington, D.C.) – An LGBTQ+ artist pushing boundaries through music and visual storytelling. We also highlight his visual album and film project, Seraphim. * Cassius Cam [https://www.instagram.com/cassius_cam530/] (Bay Area, CA) – California's Bay Area, Cassius Cam returns to the scene with his latest single, The Struggle. The track marks a powerful comeback, showcasing his hunger, resilience, and commitment to authentic hip-hop.  Strictly for the underground. No industry gatekeepers. No manufactured hype. Just artists creating on their own terms. Listen, discover, and support independent music. Follow the artists and tap into their catalogs before everyone else catches on. #Podcast #MusicPodcast #HipHopPodcast #IndependentArtists #UndergroundHipHop #IndieMusic #MusicDiscovery #ArtistSpotlight #NewMusic #SupportIndependentArtists #HipHopCulture #EmergingArtists #UnsignedArtist #BayAreaHipHop #WestCoastHipHop #CaliforniaHipHop  #HipHopHighSociety #UndergroundMusic #RapMusic #IndependentHipHop #NewMusicFriday #NowPlaying #MusicCommunity #ArtistInterview #MusicReview #DiscoverNewMusic #IndieHipHop #HipHopMedia #rap #Hiphop #NewYorkRap #lgbtq Let me know your favorite part of this episode and what's on your playlist now! [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2435687/fan_mail/new] Music Submission Form [https://forms.gle/Y6VFm4TUiH1Z6yJV9] Subscribe & like this episode on YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@theculturedecides] Follow & download on your favorite podcast platform Stay tuned by following on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/theculturedecides/] & X/Twitter [https://twitter.com/culturedecides], or TikTok [https://www.tiktok.com/@theculturedecides?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc] Thank you for tuning in! Disclaimer: The opinions expressed on this podcast are solely those of the host and do not necessarily reflect the views of my employer, any artists, record labels, or affiliates. All music discussed is reviewed for the purpose of commentary and criticism, and I do not claim ownership of any images, songs, or recordings. Any references to copyrighted material fall under fair use, and this podcast is intended for educational and entertainment purposes only. I encourage listeners to support the artists discussed by purchasing or streaming their music through official channels. The content of this podcast is intended for mature audiences, and listener discretion is advised.

Jay-Z vs Drake After Roots Picnic: Can Drake Carry Summer 2026? | ICEMAN, HABIBTI & MAID OF HONOUR

Drake dropped THREE projects and the internet is divided. On Episode 21, I'm breaking down ICEMAN, MAID OF HONOUR, and HABIBTI track by track, separating the hits from the filler, and asking the biggest question of all: Can Drake actually dominate the summer charts after the biggest battle of his career? I also dive into the moment that had hip-hop talking all weekend: Jay-Z's surprise Roots Picnic freestyle. HOV seemingly fired shots in every direction: Drake, Nicki Minaj, Dame Dash, Kanye West, Jaguar Wright, Tory Lanez and more!  Tap in and let's talk hip-hop. #Drake #ICEMAN #JayZ #HipHopPodcast #RootsPicnic #RapReview #OVO #KendrickLamar #HABIBTI #MAIDOFHONOUR #RANTOATLANTA #Rap #Hiphop #Musicdebate #music #freestyle Let me know your favorite part of this episode and what's on your playlist now! [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2435687/fan_mail/new] Music Submission Form [https://forms.gle/Y6VFm4TUiH1Z6yJV9] Subscribe & like this episode on YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@theculturedecides] Follow & download on your favorite podcast platform Stay tuned by following on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/theculturedecides/] & X/Twitter [https://twitter.com/culturedecides], or TikTok [https://www.tiktok.com/@theculturedecides?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc] Thank you for tuning in! Disclaimer: The opinions expressed on this podcast are solely those of the host and do not necessarily reflect the views of my employer, any artists, record labels, or affiliates. All music discussed is reviewed for the purpose of commentary and criticism, and I do not claim ownership of any images, songs, or recordings. Any references to copyrighted material fall under fair use, and this podcast is intended for educational and entertainment purposes only. I encourage listeners to support the artists discussed by purchasing or streaming their music through official channels. The content of this podcast is intended for mature audiences, and listener discretion is advised.

Statement Season | Bad Bunny Super Bowl, Underground Music, Coke Wave 3.5 & Don't Be Dumb Reviews

It has been BRICK, but the music? Heating up. This episode of The Culture Decides, join me, Li, as I breakdown: * 🔥 Gunna sold-out MSG: stage presence, breath control, influence & why the respect needs to be LOUD. * 🏆 Grammys + Super Bowl symbolism: powerful political statements, cultural messaging, and why these stages matter. * 👀 The lowlights: industry reactions, misplaced outrage, and when timing ruins the message. * 🔁 On Repeat / On The Radar: Don Toliver & Loe Shimmy, Lil Uzi, Wale & Leon Thomas, Youngn MH, SpacemanUFO and more. * 🎧 Underground Spotlight (LIVE REACTIONS): Mani Jurdan [https://www.instagram.com/manijurdan?igsh=MTBxNDh0Z2RiZDB5dA==], Young Reese Dude [https://www.instagram.com/937reesedude?igsh=dmtsMjZsYm1udWs3], Valenti [https://www.instagram.com/valenti2327?igsh=cnBvNWEzZ3F0dDVm], Juice Lord [https://www.instagram.com/hammertimejuice?igsh=MTlzNWo3aGo1eTE5Ng==], Ruciano [https://www.instagram.com/ruciano_?igsh=MTNibGo1MHZ6NHhnbg==] & Killah H2O Da Don [https://www.instagram.com/tog_killah?igsh=MzZ2bzdzbDdtejU2], and King Shampz [https://www.instagram.com/king_shampz?igsh=MXF2MXF2MmRrdTdvMg==]’s Hustler’s Renaissance Vol. 1. * 📀 Mainstream Reviews: * 21 Savage – What Happened to the Streets? * French Montana x Max B – Coke Wave 3.5 * A$AP Rocky – Don’t Be Dumb Let me know your favorite part of this episode and what's on your playlist now! [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2435687/fan_mail/new] Music Submission Form [https://forms.gle/Y6VFm4TUiH1Z6yJV9] Subscribe & like this episode on YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@theculturedecides] Follow & download on your favorite podcast platform Stay tuned by following on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/theculturedecides/] & X/Twitter [https://twitter.com/culturedecides], or TikTok [https://www.tiktok.com/@theculturedecides?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc] Thank you for tuning in! Disclaimer: The opinions expressed on this podcast are solely those of the host and do not necessarily reflect the views of my employer, any artists, record labels, or affiliates. All music discussed is reviewed for the purpose of commentary and criticism, and I do not claim ownership of any images, songs, or recordings. Any references to copyrighted material fall under fair use, and this podcast is intended for educational and entertainment purposes only. I encourage listeners to support the artists discussed by purchasing or streaming their music through official channels. The content of this podcast is intended for mature audiences, and listener discretion is advised.

Bars, Business & Independence | King Shampz and the Hustler’s Renaissance

West Philly’s own King Shampz [https://www.instagram.com/king_shampz/?hl=en] joins The Culture Decides to talk bars, independence, and building momentum outside the system. We dive into his freestyle roots, the impact of his “Bars From The Block” series, and the mindset behind his latest EP, Hustler’s Renaissance Vol. 1., Shampz breaks down his creative process, working alongside his brother through Dead Wrong Records, and why artists can’t rely on the algorithm to define their movement. This episode is about ownership, consistency, and sharpening your craft on and off the mic. 🎧 Listen now and tap in with King Shampz (@king_shampz) Let me know your favorite part of this episode and what's on your playlist now! [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2435687/fan_mail/new] Music Submission Form [https://forms.gle/Y6VFm4TUiH1Z6yJV9] Subscribe & like this episode on YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@theculturedecides] Follow & download on your favorite podcast platform Stay tuned by following on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/theculturedecides/] & X/Twitter [https://twitter.com/culturedecides], or TikTok [https://www.tiktok.com/@theculturedecides?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc] Thank you for tuning in! Disclaimer: The opinions expressed on this podcast are solely those of the host and do not necessarily reflect the views of my employer, any artists, record labels, or affiliates. All music discussed is reviewed for the purpose of commentary and criticism, and I do not claim ownership of any images, songs, or recordings. Any references to copyrighted material fall under fair use, and this podcast is intended for educational and entertainment purposes only. I encourage listeners to support the artists discussed by purchasing or streaming their music through official channels. The content of this podcast is intended for mature audiences, and listener discretion is advised.

Brooklyn Bars & Battle Scars | A Conversation with Ruciano

From Brooklyn’s Coney Island to the Mic, Ruciano joins The Culture Decides. On this episode, I sit down with Brooklyn rapper Ruciano for a real conversation about freestyling, pain, pride, culture, and consistency. This interview is a follow-up to Episode 17, where I reviewed his “Hard To Smile” freestyle on Blockwork TV, a raw, heartfelt performance that captured personal struggles, street realities, and emotional honesty. We get into freestyling, growing up in Brooklyn, and navigating hip-hop without losing yourself. No gimmicks. No over-explaining. Just culture, bars, and perspective. Follow Ruciano on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/ruciano_/]: @ruciano_ Stream his music on your favorite platform!  #TheCultureDecides #HipHopPodcast #MusicPodcast #ArtistInterview #RapInterview #IndieHipHop #NYCHipHop #BrooklynRap #underground #Ruciano Let me know your favorite part of this episode and what's on your playlist now! [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2435687/fan_mail/new] Music Submission Form [https://forms.gle/Y6VFm4TUiH1Z6yJV9] Subscribe & like this episode on YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@theculturedecides] Follow & download on your favorite podcast platform Stay tuned by following on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/theculturedecides/] & X/Twitter [https://twitter.com/culturedecides], or TikTok [https://www.tiktok.com/@theculturedecides?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc] Thank you for tuning in! Disclaimer: The opinions expressed on this podcast are solely those of the host and do not necessarily reflect the views of my employer, any artists, record labels, or affiliates. All music discussed is reviewed for the purpose of commentary and criticism, and I do not claim ownership of any images, songs, or recordings. Any references to copyrighted material fall under fair use, and this podcast is intended for educational and entertainment purposes only. I encourage listeners to support the artists discussed by purchasing or streaming their music through official channels. The content of this podcast is intended for mature audiences, and listener discretion is advised.