#5 TLC’s “Creep”

#5 TLC’s “Creep”

On this episode of Written Gems, Nametag Alexander and Ketch P pull up the info on one of the most deceptively smooth records of the '90s TLC's "Creep." Released on Halloween night of 1994, the Dallas Austin-penned classic didn't just top the Billboard Hot 100, it rewired how the world thought about women cheating. Built on a looped Slick Rick sample and a trumpet so lonely it aches, "Creep" was a song the group almost didn't make, by a producer who almost didn't release it, with a member who literally taped her mouth shut in protest. Nametag and Ketch P bring their songwriter's eye to the hook, the narrative arc, the production choices, and the quiet confidence of T-Boz's delivery that made every word land like a threat wrapped in silk pajamas. Whether you grew up with this record on repeat or you're hearing the story for the first time by the end of this episode, hopefully this convo sparks some good ol’ nostalgia . Instagram: @writtengemspodcast @nametagalexander x @ketchp313 YouTube: @writtengemspod

#4 A “Michael” Movie Discussion

On this episode of Written Gems, Nametag Alexander and Ketch P break down the highly talked-about Michael movie based on the life of the legendary Michael Jackson. From the box office success and Jaafar Jackson’s performance, to the deleted scenes, controversy, and rumors of a possible Part 2. We unpack the movie, the legacy, and the conversation surrounding one of music’s most iconic figures. Instagram: @nametagalexander x @ketchp313

#3 “Mo’ Better Blues”

For Merch  https://nametag.bandcamp.com/merch [https://nametag.bandcamp.com/merch] In this episode of Written Gems, we break down Mo’ Better Blues (1990) — the iconic jazz drama directed by Spike Leeand starring Denzel Washington — and explore how music drives the entire narrative. We analyze the character of Bleek Gilliam, the tension between artistry and ego, the complicated dynamics of love and loyalty, and how the jazz soundtrack shapes every emotional beat of the film. From its cinematography and cultural commentary to its impact on Black cinema and music storytelling, we unpack why Mo’ Better Blues remains a defining film about creative ambition and personal sacrifice. As always on Written Gems, we connect the cultural dots — scene by scene, note by note — and revisit the legacy this film left on jazz, film soundtracks, and the portrayal of Black artists in American cinema. Instagram: @nametagalexander x @ketchp313

#2 “Ain’t My Type Of Hype”

Music & Merch 👇🏾 https://nametag.bandcamp.com/merch [https://nametag.bandcamp.com/merch] On this episode of Written Gems, we break down “Ain’t My Type Of Hype” by Full Force—a song forever cemented in hip-hop history through the House Party soundtrack and its iconic dance battle scene. Me and Ketch P dig into the writing, attitude, and cultural timing that made this record hit harder than just a movie moment. This isn’t nostalgia for nostalgia’s sake—it’s about recognizing the pen and presence behind a legendary vibe. Instagram: @nametagalexander x @ketchp313

#1 “These Three Words”

In the inaugural episode of Written Gems, Nametag and Ketch P unpack Stevie Wonder’s heartfelt classic “These Three Words.” This isn’t just a song — it’s a lesson in vulnerability, in saying what matters before it’s too late. Stevie’s lyrics are simple, but the truth behind them is anything but. Join two songwriters as they explore love, regret, craft, and what makes a lyric timeless. If you’ve ever wished you wrote a song that hits this deep, this one’s for you. Instagram & Threads: @ketchp313 x @nametagalexander x @leadandbelegendary