How Media Shapes Hip-Hop: A Conversation on The Bigger Picture Podcast

Right from the start, “We’re not just here to get views,” one host said early on. “This is about the bigger picture.” That line became a theme throughout the episode, reminding everyone to look beyond just the surface of what they see in hip-hop and culture.

The Competitive Side of Hip-Hop

Competition is a big part of hip-hop, and the hosts spent a lot of time talking about it. They explained how rap battles and proving yourself have always been part of hip-hop’s history. “Rap is like sports,” one host said. “You’re always trying to be the best, to stand out from the rest.”

They also talked about how this competitive nature isn’t always easy. “People think it’s just about having a big ego,” another host explained. “But really, it’s about showing you have the talent and creativity to shine.” This drive doesn’t just apply to rappers but also to producers, media people, and even fans.

A big part of the episode focused on Joey Bada$$, a rapper who has been working to make his mark as one of the best. The hosts talked about his recent song “Sorry Not Sorry” and whether it’s helping him reach that goal or just causing drama. “He’s calling people out,” one host said. “But who’s really going to respond? And is he doing it to prove something, or just to get attention?”

The team also explored why competition in hip-hop feels different from other genres. “It’s not just about being better than someone else,” one panelist said. “It’s about how that energy pushes the entire culture forward. Without that competitive edge, we wouldn’t have so many iconic moments in hip-hop.” They went on to highlight how battles, whether between artists or labels, often lead to innovation and some of the best music in the genre.

Learning From the Past

The hosts also talked about how newer rappers are influenced by older ones. “You’ve got to respect the greats,” one panelist said. “But at some point, you need to step up and make your own legacy.”

They mentioned artists like J. Cole and Kendrick Lamar, who honor the past but still create their own style. The discussion turned to Joey Bada$$ and whether he’s trying to follow a similar path. “It’s not just about battling other rappers,” one host said. “It’s about making music that sticks with people and lasts a long time.”

The hosts also shared their thoughts on the current state of New York hip-hop. While New York has produced legendary rappers, they agreed its influence has faded a bit. “The South has been leading the way for a while now,” one host admitted. “But New York still has so much talent. It’s just about getting people to notice again.” They reflected on the historical dominance of New York in hip-hop and discussed what it might take for the region to reclaim its throne. “It’s not just about one artist blowing up,” another host added. “It’s about creating a movement and working together.”

How Media Shapes Hip-Hop

Another important topic was how the media covers hip-hop. The hosts criticized how drama often gets more attention than real talent. “It’s not just the artists who are competing,” one host said. “The media is also fighting for clicks and views, and sometimes that means focusing on the wrong things.”

The hosts also reflected on their own roles in this system. “We’re part of this too,” one said. “But we’re trying to do things differently. We want real conversations, not just gossip.”

The discussion highlighted how social media has amplified these issues. “Before, beef stayed in the streets or on the records,” one panelist noted. “Now, it’s all over Twitter and Instagram before the day’s over. And that changes how people see the artists and the culture as a whole.”

One of the best moments came when they talked about J. Cole and whether he needs a big rap battle to cement his legacy. “He’s already one of the greats,” one host said. “But does he need that one big moment, going head-to-head with another top rapper, to really prove it?” The team explored how this idea of proving oneself in battles has evolved, debating whether today’s audience values lyrical ability as much as showmanship or hits.

Balancing Public and Private Life

The group also shared stories about what it’s like to deal with public attention. One host told a funny story about a misunderstanding with Machine Gun Kelly that showed how things can easily get blown out of proportion. “People forget that we’re human,” the host said. “We’re out here doing our jobs, but there’s always this pressure to say the perfect thing.”

They also discussed how rappers handle criticism and drama. “You have to be tough to survive in this industry,” one panelist said. “But you also need to know when to fight back and when to let it go.”

The group explored how public personas can sometimes clash with private realities. “A lot of these artists are dealing with more than people realize,” one host said. “They have families, struggles, and personal goals that don’t always match what the public expects from them.” They emphasized the importance of mental health and creating space for vulnerability in an industry known for its tough exterior.

What Really Matters

By the end of the episode, the hosts brought everything back to the title of the podcast. They talked about how hip-hop isn’t just about music—it’s about telling stories, bringing people together, and leaving a legacy. “At the end of the day, it’s not just about who has the best bars or beats,” one host said. “It’s about the impact we’re making and the stories we’re leaving behind.”