Jeremy Pays His Bet as the Crew Tackles Rap’s Decline

A major shift in music charts sparked one of the episode’s most focused discussions. For the first time in decades, no rap song appeared in the Billboard Hot 100’s top 40. That statistic came just after Kendrick and SZA’s “Luther” fell off the charts, marking a rare moment where hip hop’s presence had disappeared from a key space in popular music.

Jeremy, Elliot, and DJ Hed explored the reasons behind the shift. DJ Hed revisited an earlier post he had written, where he called out the lack of impactful singles and the growing gap between artistic output and chart success. He emphasized that while viral moments might feel big, the songs aren't always connecting in a way that charts recognize as long-lasting.

Elliot added context by looking at how the definition of a hit has changed. He mentioned how metrics like bundles and streams now play a bigger role in shaping Billboard’s rankings. While that creates opportunity, it also makes it harder for traditional rap singles to break through unless they come with a viral component or major label push.

The discussion steered away from declaring hip hop dead and instead focused on the need to adapt. The hosts made it clear that rap still holds cultural weight, but the way audiences consume and engage with music has shifted. The real issue, they argued, is the gap between intention and execution when it comes to crafting records that resonate.

Singles Over Albums: A Shift in the Game

As the conversation progressed, the hosts dug into the idea that many artists are focusing more on albums than singles. DJ Hed recalled how labels used to demand a lead single before approving a full album. That pressure forced artists to think carefully about the songs they released and how they connected with audiences.

Elliot shared similar thoughts, reflecting on the industry’s past structure. He noted that artists once had to prove themselves with one standout track before being allowed to record a full project. That system, while demanding, ensured that the music had a chance to grow legs and stick with listeners.

Today, the crew argued, artists have more freedom but often lack the structure that helps create lasting records. Instead of developing songs that stand out, many drop entire projects with little focus on standout moments. This approach can leave even the most talented artists struggling to break through.

The conversation closed with a call to prioritize collaboration and strategy. Rather than creating music in a bubble, the hosts urged artists to work with others, seek out honest feedback, and take the time to refine their ideas. In a market where attention spans are short and competition is high, the importance of crafting a single that cuts through the noise has never been clearer.

Rap’s Role in a Changing Cultural Landscape

The crew also touched on how the cultural shift in music impacts how records are digested. DJ Hed spoke about a conversation he had with Glasses Malone on how audiences experience music differently now. The idea of sitting with an album or single has faded, replaced by quick impressions and algorithm-driven decisions.

That change has made it harder for artists to break through unless they create something that connects instantly. DJ Hed referenced SZA and Schoolboy Q as examples of artists who understand how to balance depth and immediacy. Their work stands out not just for lyrical content but for how well the music fits into listeners' daily lives.

The conversation underscored a sense that the game has evolved, but not necessarily for the worse. It’s more fragmented, but there are still pathways to success for those willing to understand the current landscape. Artists have to meet listeners where they are, while still finding ways to leave a mark.

Elliot emphasized that listeners want jams first, then depth. That order matters. You have to earn people’s attention with a sound that grabs them before you can pull them into a deeper message. It’s not a compromise of art, but a strategy that reflects where music lives today.