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Don't Alert The Stans

Don't Alert The Stans

By Datspod

'Don't Alert The Stans' is a music and pop-culture podcast with a marked focus on stan culture. Join your hosts Nic (@IAmNtyrell), Sope (@SopeSoetan) and Eden (@EedsMcKenzie) as they examine the trending topics of the week, new releases and mercilessly debate your favourite artists. Controversial and wild options aplenty, no artist is safe. This isn't for the faint-hearted or easily triggered. Get involved in the conversation at #DATSPOD

Email - Datspod@gmail.com
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'PUT YOUR MONEY WHERE YOUR MOUTH IS’ Feat. Yaw Owusu (Power Up Movement, The 2021 GRAMMYs, Anita Baker Battling For Masters, Keyshia Cole Announces Retirement)

Don't Alert The StansMar 23, 2021

00:00
02:10:40
A LIVE REVIEW OF BEYONCÉ'S 'RENAISSANCE' - 2022 LONDON PODCAST FESTIVAL

A LIVE REVIEW OF BEYONCÉ'S 'RENAISSANCE' - 2022 LONDON PODCAST FESTIVAL

Welcome back to Don’t Alert the Stans!

On 17th September 2022, we were blessed with the opportunity to finally bring ‘Don’t Alert The Stans’ to the stage as part of the 2022 London Podcast Festival.

As heavily teased on our social media accounts in the lead-up to the show, we chaired an in-depth discussion on all things pertaining to Beyoncé's latest album ‘RENAISSANCE’.

After 4 years of doing the podcast, this marked our debut live show and we had an absolute ball. It was truly an honour and a dream come true.

We want to send the maddest love to everyone who bought tickets and came down to share this moment with us in person. But of course we had to ensure that those who weren’t in attendance were able to listen to the insightful and hilarious conversation we had.

So we’re happy to present the official live recording of our conversation…

Not one to miss!

Sope’s Listens For The Week:

  • Usher - My Way

Nic’s Listens For The Week:

  • Ari Lennox - age/sex/location

Eden’s Listens For The Week:

  • Nippa - Nippa

Remember to RATE, REVIEW AND SUBSCRIBE!

Enjoy!

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Intro Music by: @Jmzofficial

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Get involved!

Don't forget to tweet us your thoughts on the episode at #DATSPOD!

Rate and review us on Apple Music, Spotify and Anchor

Follow us on:

Twitter - @datspod

Instagram - @datspod

Anchor – @datspodcast

Hashtag - #DATSPOD

Oct 03, 202201:33:48
RENAISSANCE LIVE SHOW SEPT 17th — ST PANCRAS
Sep 04, 202201:23
VOTE 'DON'T ALERT THE STANS' FOR THE LISTENERS CHOICE AWARDS
Jun 22, 202201:27
R.E.S.P.E.C.T. (Cleo Sol x KOKO Live Review, Jamal Edwards’ Cause Of Death Revealed, Lil Nas X Beefing With The BET Awards, Rolling Stone’s List Of 200 Greatest Hip-Hop Albums)

R.E.S.P.E.C.T. (Cleo Sol x KOKO Live Review, Jamal Edwards’ Cause Of Death Revealed, Lil Nas X Beefing With The BET Awards, Rolling Stone’s List Of 200 Greatest Hip-Hop Albums)

Welcome back to Don’t Alert the Stans!

The Season 8 finale is here! It’s just Eden and Sope as Nic is in Madrid getting some well-deserved rest. Kicking things off is a review of Cleo Sol’s headline show at KOKO. The boys share their individual experiences of the concert and what it meant to hear particular songs in a live setting. They also reflect on Cleo Sol’s decade-long journey in music, and how she’s found herself at this watershed moment in her career (00:04:02). The news agenda begins with Jamal Edwards’, whose mother Brenda released an official statement confirming the cause behind his premature death in February was due in part to the use of recreational drugs (01:04:00). Next up is Lil Nas X, who has taken The BET Awards to task on social media and via an impending diss track, after it was announced that he received zero nominations for the upcoming ceremony later this month (01:22:19). Closing off the episode and the season as a whole is Rolling Stone Magazine, who published their list of what they believe are the 200 greatest Hip-Hop albums of all time, which of course resulted in many a contentious debate online (01:40:08).

Not one to miss!

Sope’s Listens For The Week:

  • Khruangbin - Mordechai
  • Roy Ayers - Running Away
  • RAMP - Come Into Knowledge
  • Patrice Rushen - The Hump
  • Leroy Burgess - Heartbreaker (Shep Pettibone 12” Mix)
  • Donna Mcghee - Make It Last Forever

Nic’s Listens For The Week:

  • N/A

Eden’s Listens For The Week:

  • Siergio - BEFORE ITS TOO LATE
  • 070 Shake - You Can’t Kill Me
  • Ravyn Lenae - Hypnos
  • Raheaven - THROAT GAME STUPID!
  • Janine - Loving Me

Remember to RATE, REVIEW AND SUBSCRIBE!

Enjoy!

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Intro Music by: @Jmzofficial

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Get involved!

Don't forget to tweet us your thoughts on the episode at #DATSPOD!

Rate and review us on Apple Music, Spotify and Anchor

Follow us on:

Twitter - @datspod

Instagram - @datspod

Anchor – @datspodcast

Hashtag - #DATSPOD

Jun 14, 202202:12:34
'MR MORALE & THE BIG STEPPERS' Feat. Krystopher Scott + Marquise Davon (In-Depth Review Of Kendrick Lamar's New Album)

'MR MORALE & THE BIG STEPPERS' Feat. Krystopher Scott + Marquise Davon (In-Depth Review Of Kendrick Lamar's New Album)

.Welcome back to Don’t Alert the Stans!

After many weeks of teasing, our long-awaited deep dive into Kendrick Lamar’s fifth studio album ‘Mr. Morale & the Big Steppers’ is here!

There will be no recommended listens or news topics this week. It’s strictly all things Kendrick as the guys dissect, explore and debate the album’s sprawling lyrical content and vast soundscapes.

Joining us for this special episode to give voice to some of the bespoke experiences, themes and nuances nestled in the album is:

  • Multi-disciplinary creative and entrepreneur Krystopher Scott from Columbus, Ohio.
  • Cultural commentator, educator, activist + host of Rational Anger Podcast Marquise Davon from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

Not one to miss!

Sope’s Listens For The Week:

  • N/A

Nic’s Listens For The Week:

  • N/A

Eden’s Listens For The Week:

  • N/A

Remember to RATE, REVIEW AND SUBSCRIBE!

Enjoy!

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Intro Music by: @Jmzofficial

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Get involved!

Don't forget to tweet us your thoughts on the episode at #DATSPOD!

Rate and review us on Apple Music, Spotify and Anchor

Follow us on:

Twitter - @datspod

Instagram - @datspod

Anchor – @datspodcast

Hashtag - #DATSPOD

Jun 06, 202202:03:56
‘DO THE SHADOWING’ (N-Dubz Sell Out Reunion Arena Tour, Isaiah Rashad Comes Out As Sexually Fluid, Halsey’s Music Under Hostage Until She Goes Viral on TikTok)

‘DO THE SHADOWING’ (N-Dubz Sell Out Reunion Arena Tour, Isaiah Rashad Comes Out As Sexually Fluid, Halsey’s Music Under Hostage Until She Goes Viral on TikTok)

Welcome back to Don’t Alert the Stans!

For this week’s episode, it’s just Nic and Sope as Eden enjoys a well deserved break in Portugal. Before proceeding with the planned agenda, Nic and Sope ease into episode by having an open catch up. Elaborating on how they’re both feeling as they juggle work, writing, side projects, mental health and adulthood (00:01:02). Kicking off the news section this week is N-Dubz who’s recently-announced reunion arena tour has completely sold out. Leading to a hilarious conversation about the memories of their early days on Channel U and Tulisa’s solo endeavours (00:41:35). Next up is Halsey who took to social media to reveal that her label is refusing to release new music from until she can engineer and fake a viral moment on TikTok. Nic points out that Halsey’s post was possibly an ironic spoof but demonstrates a growing trend among artists who are being pressured by their teams to be more active on the platform (00:58:45). Rounding out the episode is Isaiah Rashad who during an in-depth interview with Joe Budden came out as sexually fluid. Sope takes Budden to task for asking ignorant questions that implicate negative stereotypes about queerness, while Nic points out possible the motives behind Isaiah’s stating he’s fluid as opposed to a more defined category (01:14:41).

Not one to miss!

Sope’s Listens For The Week:

  • Ravyn Lenae - Xtasy
  • Bellah - Prototype
  • ELIZA - Heat Of The Moon
  • Tyler, The Creator - Flower Boy

Nic’s Listens For The Week:

  • Dreezy - Hit Girl

Eden’s Listens For The Week:

  • N/A

Remember to RATE, REVIEW AND SUBSCRIBE!

Enjoy!

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Intro Music by: @Jmzofficial

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Get involved!

Don't forget to tweet us your thoughts on the episode at #DATSPOD!

Rate and review us on Apple Music, Spotify and Anchor

Follow us on:

Twitter - @datspod

Instagram - @datspod

Anchor – @datspodcast

Hashtag - #DATSPOD

May 29, 202201:37:29
'THE LONG GAME' (Jack Harlow X Brandy, Bobby Schmurda Fights Back, Knucks Lands Top 5 Album)

'THE LONG GAME' (Jack Harlow X Brandy, Bobby Schmurda Fights Back, Knucks Lands Top 5 Album)

Welcome back to Don’t Alert the Stans! 

In this weeks episode, it is just Eden and Nic as Sope takes some R&R to refocus and prioritise his mental health. As we do the rounds to check on each other, Nic and Eden get into a conversation about their experiences with burnout as content creators/writers. Highlighting and acknowledging the pressures it levies on our current generation. Later in the discussion the boys discuss Jack Harlow's Hot 97 interview as he admits he had no idea Ray J and Brandy were siblings during a quiz game. The focus of the conversation was around erasure, #RespectingLegends but also the pressures of social media to get everything right all the time. We question whether people were being fair in their critiques, or harsh with their expectations? As the episode continues, the boys discuss Bobby Schumurda as the "Hot Nigga" rapper fights back against the legal practice of rappers lyrics being used as evidence in court cases. Opening about a discussion about how surveillance and structural racism affects the Black community. Eden refers to Ruha Benjamin's book "Race After Technology", focusing on surveillance culture and how technology disproportionally harms specifically black people. Rounding up the episode is a discussion surrounding Knucks and his new album 'Alpha Place' which debuted at No.3 on The UK Albums Chart (above Jack Harlow!).  

Remember to RATE, REVIEW AND SUBSCRIBE!

Enjoy!

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Intro Music by: @Jmzofficial

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Get involved!

Don't forget to tweet us your thoughts on the episode at #DATSPOD!

Rate and review us on Apple Music, Spotify and Anchor

Follow us on:

Twitter - @datspod

Instagram - @datspod

May 23, 202201:53:50
‘ARE WE GETTING OLD?' (Is Teyana Taylor Really Retiring?, TikTok Launches Music Distribution Service, Attempting to Understand The Appeal of Blxst’s Appeal?)

‘ARE WE GETTING OLD?' (Is Teyana Taylor Really Retiring?, TikTok Launches Music Distribution Service, Attempting to Understand The Appeal of Blxst’s Appeal?)

Welcome back to Don’t Alert the Stans!

For this week’s episode, it’s just Eden and Sope as Nic had family commitments. When Eden takes time to remind the listeners that #MentalHealthAwarenessWeek is looming, it inspires Sope to speak at length about JoJo’s latest project ‘trying not to think about it’ which explores the many shades of mental health and anxiety (00:10:59). Continuing on the mode of music that soothes and functions as an emotional solace, Eden gives a glowing recommendation of Natalie Lauren’s project ‘Handle With Care’ (00:27:14). During the listens section, Eden opens the floor to discuss what the appeal about Blxst is and considers whether he’s just ageing out of the sounds and trends associated with US mainstream Hip-Hop (00:35:37). Kicking off the news section is Teyana Taylor who’s announced the second and final part of her farewell tour which commenced at the end of 2021. Leading Sope to question whether she’s actually retiring and look back on how Kanye West and GOOD Music routinely dropped the ball on her career progression (00:50:23). Rounding out this week’s episode is TikTok who have launched their own music distribution service SoundOn, which has been described as an all in one platform for music marketing and distribution. Inspiring a conversation about how TikTok’s increasing presence in the music space is threatening to destabilise many archaic institutions in music like record labels (01:01:00).

Not one to miss!

Sope’s Listens For The Week:

  • JoJo - trying not to think about it
  • Teedra Moses - Complex Simplicity
  • Kehlani - Up At Night
  • Justin Bieber & Kehlani - Get Me
  • Vince Staples - Ramona Park Broke My Heart
  • Mary J. Blige - Good Morning Gorgeous
  • Ebo Taylor - You Need Love
  • Seun Kuti & Egypt 80 - African Dreams

Nic’s Listens For The Week:

  • N/A

Eden’s Listens For The Week:

  • Natalie Lauren - Handle With Care
  • Schoolboy Q Feat. Kendrick Lamar - Blessed
  • Blxst - Before You Go

Link To Donate & Help Save Tawanda Chamunorwa's Life: 

https://www.gofundme.com/f/5gum6b-help-save-tawandas-life

Remember to RATE, REVIEW AND SUBSCRIBE!

Enjoy!

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Intro Music by: @Jmzofficial

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Get involved!

Don't forget to tweet us your thoughts on the episode at #DATSPOD!

Rate and review us on Apple Music, Spotify and Anchor

Follow us on:

Twitter - @datspod

Instagram - @datspod

Anchor – @datspodcast

Hashtag - #DATSPOD

May 09, 202201:19:15
‘WHISPERS' (Tim Westwood Allegations, The Pejorative Narrative Around “Whisper Singers”)

‘WHISPERS' (Tim Westwood Allegations, The Pejorative Narrative Around “Whisper Singers”)

Welcome back to Don’t Alert the Stans!

This week’s show is a much shorter affair in light of the last few lengthy episodes. During the listen’s section, Nic’s review of Syd’s new album ‘Broken Hearts Club’ prompts an impromptu discussion around the different types of vocalists. Noting that Syd wouldn’t be termed a “real vocalist” in the traditional sense, the boys discuss the negative perception around “whisper singers”. Looking at in how they’re received in comparison to singers who are known for their power, range, runs and why it's not necessary for everyone in the music marketplace to be a “sanger” (00:23:55). Rounding out the episode is a discussion around the plethora of sexual misconduct allegations against DJ/Presenter Tim Westwood. Questioning why the music industry is yet to have the same reckoning that the film and television industry has around sexual harm. While also looking at the commentary from many in the black community who’ve previously attempted to overlook Westwood’s actions because of his work in increasing the visibility of black artists. (00:54:30).

Not one to miss!

Sope’s Listens For The Week:

  • LSDXOXO - Drain
  • Goldie Feat. Lady Blackbird - Sunlight
  • Teedra Moses - Cashmere Compliments
  • The Colleagues Feat. Teedra Moses - 90s Kinda Love

Nic’s Listens For The Week:

  • Kasien - Grass Grows Greener
  • Syd - Broken Hearts Club
  • Nathy Peluso - Vivir Asi Es Morir De Amor

Eden’s Listens For The Week:

  • Tyler, The Creator - Call Me When You Get Lost
  • Hodgy - Everyday People Change Into Someone We Never Knew
  • Omar Apollo - Ivory
  • Harry Styles - As It Was
  • Nilüfer Yanya - the dealer

Remember to RATE, REVIEW AND SUBSCRIBE!

Enjoy!

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Intro Music by: @Jmzofficial

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Get involved!

Don't forget to tweet us your thoughts on the episode at #DATSPOD!

Rate and review us on Apple Music, Spotify and Anchor

Follow us on:

Twitter - @datspod

Instagram - @datspod

Anchor – @datspodcast

Hashtag - #DATSPOD

May 02, 202201:21:41
‘WE DIDN’T KNOW' Feat. Gerrick Kennedy (A Critical Re-Examination Of Whitney Houston’s Life & Career, Isaiah Rashad Addresses Being Outed At Coachella)

‘WE DIDN’T KNOW' Feat. Gerrick Kennedy (A Critical Re-Examination Of Whitney Houston’s Life & Career, Isaiah Rashad Addresses Being Outed At Coachella)

Welcome back to Don’t Alert the Stans!
For this week’s episode, the boys are joined by Gerrick Kennedy. Based in Los Angeles, Kennedy is an award-winning journalist + cultural critic. A former staff writer at the LA Times, his writing has appeared in the likes of Vanity Fair, Rolling Stone, GQ, Wall Street Journal Magazine, Men’s Health, Variety, NPR Music, Billboard, Spin, Playboy, Teen Vogue and Shondaland. He is also the author of 'Didn't We Almost Have It All: In Defense of Whitney Houston’. In a very short news agenda, Eden and Sope share their thoughts on Isaiah Rashad who during his 2022 Coachella set, addressed the frenzy that ensued when he was unfortunately outed by way a sex tape that showed him with two other men (00:06:55). Rounding out the episode is an animated and illuminating conversation with Gerrick Kennedy. His guest appearance starts off with a lengthy rumination on the ways the internet has contributed to the ongoing plight of black journalists (00:28:27). The discussion then veers into a focused analysis of his new book where Gerrick and the boys partake in an extended conversation on the life and career of Whitney Houston. Highlighting how the demands of her career and the doors she opened would force her to be at odds with her blackness and her queerness. While also looking at the necessary creative rebirth that came with her ‘I’m Your Baby Tonight’, the social complexities surrounding her iconic rendition of ‘The Star Spangled Banner’. The boys also dive deep into how Whitney’s death personally affected Gerrick and led to his own modes of internal and professional transformation (00:44:20).
Not one to miss!
Sope’s Listens For The Week:

N/A

Eden’s Listens For The Week:

N/A

Nic’s Listens For The Week:

N/A

Remember to RATE, REVIEW AND SUBSCRIBE!
Enjoy!
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Intro Music by: @Jmzofficial
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Get involved!
Don't forget to tweet us your thoughts on the episode at #DATSPOD!
Rate and review us on Apple Music, Spotify and Anchor
Follow us on:
Twitter - @datspod
Instagram - @datspod
Anchor – @datspodcast
Hashtag - #DATSPOD
Apr 25, 202202:09:26
'WHY ARE WE SO INNA?' (Rihanna X A$AP Rocky, Britney Spears Pregnant, Vince Staples RPBMH)

'WHY ARE WE SO INNA?' (Rihanna X A$AP Rocky, Britney Spears Pregnant, Vince Staples RPBMH)

Welcome back to another episode of Don't Alert The Stans!

In this weeks episode we ask the simple questions; what have we listened to for the week, what music we would recommend, and most importantly...why are we so inna? We use the popular West Indian phrase to question why there is such a demand for celebrity scandal, analysing the false tweets surrounding A$AP Rocky, Amina Muaddi, and Rihanna as a popular twitter user created a false story about infidelity in their relationship. Nic and Eden ask the question, why do we care so much? What do we gain from being so inna? 

During the listens section Eden and Nic discuss their favourite albums where Eden controversially questions the hype surrounding Syd's new release 'Broken Hearts Club'. The two couldn't stop talking about Vince Staples new project 'Ramona Park Broke My Hear' leading to a discussion about class, survivors guilt and what it means to become the rich person from a poor community.

Not one to miss! 

Apr 18, 202201:52:37
‘HIGHER GROUND' Feat. Kamica King (2022 GRAMMY Awards, An Introduction To Practice of Music Therapy)

‘HIGHER GROUND' Feat. Kamica King (2022 GRAMMY Awards, An Introduction To Practice of Music Therapy)

Welcome back to Don’t Alert the Stans!

For this week’s episode, the boys are joined by Kamica King. Based in Dallas, Texas, Kamica is a board-certified music therapist, speaker, singer and songwriter. King is also the founder of Musically Me Unlimited, a musical self-empowerment program for youth of colour and socio-emotional wellness company King Creative Arts Expressions (KCAE). During the listens section, Sope gushes over Mahalia’s latest single ‘Whatever Simon Says’ and urges her to abandon all attempts at breaking through in the UK by focusing on the states like Ella Mai, Estelle, Daley, Floetry and a plethora of other UK R&B/soul acts before her (00:29:42). In a very short news agenda, the boys deliver a brief review of the 2022 GRAMMY Awards. Congratulating the likes of Jazmine Sullivan, Lucky Daye, Doja Cat, Tyler The Creator and Questlove for their respective awards while questioning awards given to Silk Sonic and once again H.E.R. (00:44:28). Rounding out the episode is an enriching and wide-ranging conversation with Kamica King, where she engages with the boys on an in-depth discussion surrounding all things music therapy. Highlighting the naturally restorative and healing power music has always had in our lives but how its expanded with a clinical approach to bring mental, emotional and physical soothing to our lives. Kamica also provides insight into the misconceptions and usefulness of music therapy as a legitimate path towards healing in comparison to counselling, psychotherapy, cognitive-behaviour therapy and more (00:56:54).

Not one to miss!

Sope’s Listens For The Week:

  • Lady Blackbird - Black Acid Soul
  • Voices of East Harlem - The Voices Of East Harlem
  • Voices of East Harlem - Right On Be Free
  • Mahalia - Whatever Simon Says
  • Ella Mai - Leave You Alone

Eden’s Listens For The Week:

  • Koffee - Gifted
  • Dreamville - D:Day: A Gangsta Grillz Mixtape
  • Vince Staples - Vince Staples
  • Mustard Feat. Nipsey Hussle - Perfect Ten
  • Jaz Karis Feat. J Warner - 2NIGHT
  • Jaz Karis - Games We Play

Nic’s Listens For The Week:

  • N/A

Remember to RATE, REVIEW AND SUBSCRIBE!

Enjoy!

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Intro Music by: @Jmzofficial

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Get involved!

Don't forget to tweet us your thoughts on the episode at #DATSPOD!

Rate and review us on Apple Music, Spotify and Anchor

Follow us on:

Twitter - @datspod

Instagram - @datspod

Anchor – @datspodcast

Hashtag - #DATSPOD

Apr 11, 202202:16:46
'MORE ARTISTS THAN CHART POSITIONS' (Is Doja Cat A Rapper? The Success Of Central Cee, The Evolving Perception Of "The Debut Album")

'MORE ARTISTS THAN CHART POSITIONS' (Is Doja Cat A Rapper? The Success Of Central Cee, The Evolving Perception Of "The Debut Album")

Welcome back to Don’t Alert the Stans!

At long last, the men of DATSPOD have returned after a temporary spell away to individually recuperate. And best of all, the full gang is back together again for Season 8 as Nic returns to rejoin the fold. During the listens section, a tangent surrounding contemporary perceptions of “the debut album” comes to the fore. Inspired by Eden and Nic’s respective listens of Rema’s ‘Rave & Roses’ and Latto’s ‘777’, the boys discuss how we’re currently in an era where the expectations, pressure and significance historically levied onto an artist’s debut album is gradually becoming irrelevant and arbitrary. Due to the way streaming services have blurred the lines on the difference between an album, mixtape or EP in 2022 (00:33:40). In the wake of Remy Ma’s polarising comments on Doja Cat’s eligibility as a rapper, kicking off the news agenda is an examination on what are the qualifiers for those who sing and rap to be seen as authentic rappers and ultimately what complicates these notions. (01:10:19). Closing out the episode is an open-ended exchange on the wave of success Central Cee is currently experiencing and what this means in the wider context of Drill becoming more mainstream. The boys dissect his mind-blowing streams, stats and YouTube views to consider why he’s now being put on a pedestal to fly the flag for UK drill in comparison to some of his contemporaries (01:43:58).

Not one to miss!

Sope’s Listens For The Week:

  • Peter Tosh - Equal Rights
  • Tweet - Charlene
  • Tweet - Get Away (Move On)
  • Tweet - Southern Hummingbird
  • Loose Ends - Time Is Ticking
  • Beyoncé - Be Alive
  • Destiny’s Child - Dubillusions
  • Billie Holiday - Don’t Explain
  • Joyce Wrice - Iced Tea

Eden’s Listens For The Week:

  • Che Ecru - Pain Pack 5
  • J Balvin - JOSE
  • Rema - Rave & Roses
  • Coops - Lost Soul
  • CARRTOONS - Saturday Morning
  • Mac Ayres - Magic 8ball

Nic’s Listens For The Week:

  • Omar Apollo - Ivory
  • Latto - 777

Remember to RATE, REVIEW AND SUBSCRIBE!

Enjoy!

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Intro Music by: @Jmzofficial

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Get involved!

Don't forget to tweet us your thoughts on the episode at #DATSPOD!

Rate and review us on Apple Music, Spotify and Anchor

Follow us on:

Twitter - @datspod

Instagram - @datspod

Anchor – @datspodcast

Hashtag - #DATSPOD

Apr 05, 202202:21:52
'AND THIS IS WHAT YOU’RE GIVING ME?' (A Deep Dive Into Alicia Keys’ Career, Aaliyah’s Posthumous Single With The Weeknd, Mariah To Never Tour Again)

'AND THIS IS WHAT YOU’RE GIVING ME?' (A Deep Dive Into Alicia Keys’ Career, Aaliyah’s Posthumous Single With The Weeknd, Mariah To Never Tour Again)

Welcome back to Don’t Alert the Stans!

The Season 7 finale begins with a heartfelt tribute to author, feminist and professor bell hooks who passed away last week. Long a healing balm for both Eden and Sope, they both take some time to share their individual experiences with hooks’ work and how its impacted their lives (00:08:31). Next up is the trialling of a potential new segment which will focus on books/articles that the boys are reading. Sope highlights Questlove’s recent interview with GQ Magazine centring on his directorial debut with the ‘Summer Of Soul’ documentary. Looking at how its political backdrop mirrors the current state of Black America (00:49:04). Finally kicking off the news agenda is Mariah Carey who has revealed she has no plans to ever tour again. Bringing forth a discussion about whether acts of her calibre and financial capital even need to tour anymore (01:03:16). Following the success of Aaliyah’s catalogue finally making its way to streaming services, Blackground Records are now rolling out a posthumous 4th studio album. The project’s first single ‘Poison’ featuring The Weeknd has received extremely negative reviews from fans for being poorly mixed (01:16:50). Closing out the episode is another new segment which informally taken place a number of times but is now starting to take formal shape; the deep dive. Just as the boys have carried out comprehensive analysis on the career trajectories of Ciara, Chris Brown, Drake and J. Cole, this week Alicia Keys is in the hot seat. Spurred by the news of Alicia Keys missing the top 40 on the Billboard 200 for the first time ever with her latest album ‘KEYS’, Sope and Eden consider the dramatic changes in the way her public and musical persona is perceived in 2021 compared to her glory years in the early 2000s and 2010s (01:27:26).

Not one to miss!

Content Referenced In This Episode:

· GQ Magazine: ‘How Questlove Remixed the Soundtrack of 1968 for the Summer of George Floyd’ (Written by Ben Williams) - https://www.gq.com/story/questlove-year-of-the-brave

· Calvin Michaels: ‘SO WHAT HAPPENED?: JANET JACKSON From "All For You" to "Damita Jo" (PART 1 & 2)’ - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YB585-UBQRc

Sope’s Listens For The Week:

  • Noname - Telefone
  • Sly & The Family Stone – There’s A Riot Goin On’
  • Janet Jackson – Damita Jo

Eden’s Listens For The Week:

  • Jordan Kakei - What We Call Life
  • Sam Smith - Love Goes (feat. Labrinth)
  • Shannah Spry - As Above, So Below
  • Sid Sriram - Entropy

Nic’s Listens For The Week:

  • N/A

Remember to RATE, REVIEW AND SUBSCRIBE!

Enjoy!

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Intro Music by: @Jmzofficial

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Get involved!

Don't forget to tweet us your thoughts on the episode at #DATSPOD!

Rate and review us on Soundcloud, Apple Music, Spotify and Anchor

Follow us on:

Twitter - @datspod

Instagram - @datspod

Anchor – @datspodcast

Hashtag - #DATSPOD

Dec 21, 202101:56:45
'TAKE FROM THAT WHAT YOU WILL’ (Drake Withdraws 2022 Nominations, Noname Cancels Forthcoming Album, Travis Scott x Charlamagne Tha God Interview)

'TAKE FROM THAT WHAT YOU WILL’ (Drake Withdraws 2022 Nominations, Noname Cancels Forthcoming Album, Travis Scott x Charlamagne Tha God Interview)

***DISCLAIMER*** --- Sope had some wi-fi issues which affected his sound during the recording of this episode. Please bear with us as you listen this week and we'll rectify these discrepancies next week.

Welcome back to Don’t Alert the Stans!

For this week’s episode, GRAMMY-related news rears its ugly head again in the wake of Drake randomly deciding to pull his two 2022 nominations without explanation. Considering Drake’s status in the industry, the boys ponder whether this will mark the beginning of similar activity from other high-profile artists (00:36:37). Amid this conversation, an age-old dispute between Eden and Sope pre-dating the existence of the podcast is brought up once again as they debate which project is stronger out of Miguel’s ‘War & Leisure’ and dvsn’s ‘Sept 5th’ (00:44:26). Noname has revealed that fans should no longer be expecting to hear her long-awaited second studio album ‘Factory Baby’ and that she possibly might be done with music for good. Although she claimed lack of inspiration was the reason behind this, Sope notes that her increased activity in community organising and dedication to emanating black liberation through literature has perhaps eclipsed her passion for music (00:47:56). Rounding up the episode this week is Travis Scott who to the befuddlement of many, came out of hiding to do an interview with none other than controversial personality Charlamagne Tha God. Eden and Sope discuss what the end goal of this was and whether effective damage control was truly possible considering the ongoing sensitives and lawsuits spurred from the ASTROWORLD Festival tragedies (00:59:43).

Not one to miss!

Sope’s Listens For The Week:

  • Tems - If Orange Was A Place
  • Obongjayar x Sarz - Sweetness
  • Tweet - Southern Hummingbird
  • Estelle - Shine
  • Kleer - Tonight
  • Frankie Knuckles & Adeva -      Walkin'

Eden’s Listens For The Week:

  • Priya Ragu - damnshestamil
  • Natalie Lauren - Handle With Care
  • Devin Tracy - Don’t Take It Personal
  • Jayla Darden - Onto Something

Nic’s Listens For The Week:

  • N/A

Remember to RATE, REVIEW AND SUBSCRIBE!

Enjoy!

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Intro Music by: @Jmzofficial

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

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Don't forget to tweet us your thoughts on the episode at #DATSPOD!

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Hashtag - #DATSPOD

Dec 14, 202101:20:00
'RAY-BANS & PAYOLA' (The BRIT Awards Remove Gendered Categories, 2022 GRAMMY Nominations, A Dissection of Cleo Sol's 'Mother')

'RAY-BANS & PAYOLA' (The BRIT Awards Remove Gendered Categories, 2022 GRAMMY Nominations, A Dissection of Cleo Sol's 'Mother')

Welcome back to Don’t Alert the Stans!

For this week’s episode, Eden and Sope are palpably indifferent to the news agenda as multiple award shows are in the mix for a plethora of different reasons. Nonetheless before that, a long overdue dissection and discussion about Cleo Sol’s impeccable album ‘Mother’ commences the proceedings. Eden and Sope share the many ways it’s resonated with them since its release (00:15:31). Kicking off the award-centric news agenda is the BRIT Awards who’ve announced that they will be scrapping gendered categories going forward to be more inclusive and gender-neutral (00:33:50). Off the back of this, Sope lambasts the BRITS for introducing a new category that will see pop and R&B acts competing against one another (00:47:51). Closing out the episode is the 2022 GRAMMY nominations. Rather than going through almost every single category like they usually do, Sope and Eden decide to single out the inclusion of artists they’re really happy for. While also airing out their confusion and shock at some of the other artists who were decorated with nominations this year. Sparking yet another conversation as to whether H.E.R. is an industry plant or not (00:54:33).

Not one to miss!

Sope’s Listens For The Week:

  • Adele - 30
  • Admas - Sons Of Ethiopia
  • Tiwa Savage Feat Amaarae - Tales By Moonlight
  • Christina Aguilera - Pa Mis Muchachas
  • KAYTRANADA - Intimidated
  • Samoht - Yang
  • Denzel Himself - M.T.V.

Eden’s Listens For The Week:

  • Cleo Sol - Mother
  • The Strokes - The New Abnormal

Nic’s Listens For The Week:

  • N/A

Remember to RATE, REVIEW AND SUBSCRIBE!

Enjoy!

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Intro Music by: @Jmzofficial

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Don't forget to tweet us your thoughts on the episode at #DATSPOD!

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Hashtag - #DATSPOD

Nov 30, 202101:23:09
'SKATE AIN'T IT' (Silk Sonic Album Review, The Adele Phenomenon, Universal Music Tightens Re-Recording Guidelines)

'SKATE AIN'T IT' (Silk Sonic Album Review, The Adele Phenomenon, Universal Music Tightens Re-Recording Guidelines)

Welcome back to Don’t Alert the Stans!

For this week’s episode, an impromptu but comprehensive review of Bruno Mars and Anderson Paak’s joint ‘Silk Sonic’ project results in a rant from Sope on the rollout and the relative monotony of their sound (00:42:24). In response to Taylor Swift’s massive success with the re-recordings of ‘Fearless’ and ‘Red’, Universal Music have imposed tighter and more restrictive guidelines for artists who would like to follow suit and re-gain control of their artistry after their respective contracts end (01:03:19). Adele’s 4th studio album ‘30’ is officially out and it’s safe to say it was one of the most anticipated releases of the year. Inspiring Eden and Sope to dissect what they call ‘The Adele phenomenon’. Looking at her journey and how she’s reached gargantuan levels of superstardom (01:18:00). As the episode rounds down, Eden makes sure to give his condolences to slain rapper Young Dolph who was murdered last week (01:38:00).

Not one to miss!

Sope’s Listens For The Week:

  • Luther Vandross - Make You A Believer + For The Sweetness Of Your Love
  • Aretha Franklin - Jump To It
  • Katy B - Peace & Offerings + Power On Me
  • Lynda Dawn - Roses + At First Light
  • Tania Maria - Brasil With My Soul
  • Maxwell - Of

Eden’s Listens For The Week:

  • CKay - love nwantiti
  • Amine - TWOPOINTFIVE
  • Silk Sonic - An Evening With Silk      Sonic
  • Capella Gray - GYALIS
  • Kings Of Leon - Only By The Night
  • Kings Of Leon - When You See Yourself

Nic’s Listens For The Week:

  • N/A

Remember to RATE, REVIEW AND SUBSCRIBE!

Enjoy!

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Intro Music by: @Jmzofficial

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

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Hashtag - #DATSPOD

Nov 23, 202101:39:50
‘FREE THE REALNESS’ (Britney Spears Is Free, ASTROWORLD Festival Fall Out + Missy Elliott x Hollywood Walk Of Fame)

‘FREE THE REALNESS’ (Britney Spears Is Free, ASTROWORLD Festival Fall Out + Missy Elliott x Hollywood Walk Of Fame)

***DISCLAIMER*** --- We had some issues with sound during the recording of this episode. Please bear with us as you listen this week and we'll rectify these discrepancies next week and beyond.

Welcome back to Don’t Alert the Stans!

After the longest hiatus in the show’s history thus far, Don’t Alert The Stans is officially back for Season 7. This mini-run of episodes will only feature Sope and Eden, as Nic takes time out for a mental health break. He explains in further detail how he is and that he’ll be back in 2022 (00:00:44). Kicking off the news agenda is the legendary maverick Missy Elliott who was recently awarded with a coveted star on the Hollywood Walk Of Fame for her indelible contributions to the world of music (00:36:50). In a historic turn of events, Britney Spears’ controversial conservatorship has officially been terminated. Meaning for the first time in 13 years, she is now able to make her own financial, medical, personal, and professional decisions. In the midst of rejoicing at the wonderful news, Sope puts forward a notion about looking at the underdiscussed positives of stan culture. Highlighting that her legion of fans worldwide who kickstarted the #FreeBritney movement are arguably a huge and integral reason as to why Britney was able to freed (00:44:20). Closing out the show is a solemn and emotionally raw dissection of the various stories that have been pouring in since the tragedy at ASTROWORLD festival. Which to date has claimed the lives of 9 people and resulted in over 300 injuries and hospitalisations. Looking at the way the situation has been dealt with PR-wise, allegations of rioting and crowd surges at Travis’ previous concerts and the need for better safety regulations at music festivals in general (01:08:35).

Not one to miss!

Sope’s Listens For The Week:

  • Sade - ‘Why Can’t We Live Together’, ’Sally’, ‘Maureen’ + ’Tar Baby'
  • Chaka Khan - 'Night Moods' + 'And The Melody Still Lingers On (Night In Tunisia)'
  • Chaka Khan - 'Be Bop Medley'
  • Sugababes - 'Lush Life' + 'Run For Cover (MNEK Remix)'
  • SHERELLE - 'JUNGLE TEKNAH'
  • JVCK James - 'Love In The Club'

Nic’s Listens For The Week:

  • N/A

Eden’s Listens For The Week:

  • Francis & The Lights - 'Farewell, Starlite'
  • Nipsey Hussle - 'Slauson Boy 2'
  • Mos Def - 'Black On Both Sides'
  • LÉON – ‘Dancer'

Remember to RATE, REVIEW AND SUBSCRIBE!

Enjoy!

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Intro Music by: @Jmzofficial

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

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Don't forget to tweet us your thoughts on the episode at #DATSPOD!

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Hashtag - #DATSPOD

Nov 16, 202101:24:29
UPDATE: WHERE HAVE WE BEEN??

UPDATE: WHERE HAVE WE BEEN??

Welcome back to Don’t Alert the Stans!

In this one-off short, we reveal why we've been away, when we're coming back and our individual journeys. 

Speak soon.

DATS TEAM

Enjoy!

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Intro Music by: @Jmzofficial

Artwork designed by: @_manlikemike

Episode audio edited by: @TonySupremeuk

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

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Sep 24, 202105:27
‘KANGAROO FABRIC’ (GoldLink Disses Sheck Wes, VERZUS Announces Eve Vs Trina + Bow Wow Vs Soulja Boy, Snoop Dogg Appointed as Def Jam’s Executive & Strategic Consultant)

‘KANGAROO FABRIC’ (GoldLink Disses Sheck Wes, VERZUS Announces Eve Vs Trina + Bow Wow Vs Soulja Boy, Snoop Dogg Appointed as Def Jam’s Executive & Strategic Consultant)

Welcome back to Don’t Alert the Stans!

For the final episode of Season 6, it’s just Sope and Eden as Nic is feeling unwell. During the listens section, X-Factor alumni Shayne Ward and Leona Lewis have their careers randomly put under the microscope as a result of Eden’s recommendations 26:41). Kicking off the news agenda is VERZUS who have announced their newest battles between Eve and Trina in addition to Bow Wow and Soulja Boy. Puzzled, Sope considers whether these particular match ups make sense (41:12). Next up is GoldLink who used the announcement of his upcoming album ‘HARAM’ to once again fire lyrical shots at Sheck Wes, who at this point he’s been feuding with for a few years (01:02:55). Closing out the show is Snoop Dogg who’s been appointed as Def Jam’s new executive and strategic consultant. Sope notes that this partnership will only reap good fruit if he’s actually dedicated to working and building the artists on his roster. As opposed to it being a cosmetic role, leading to a conversation about Kanye West and Beyonce’s respective fashion lines. Looking at whether they are truly passionate about these projects or are they just boutique celebrity side hustles for the purpose of brand expansion (01:12:54).

Not one to miss!

Sope’s Listens For The Week:

  • Children of Zeus - Balance
  • Tiffany Evans - All Me
  • Lalah Hathaway - Let Go
  • Faith Evans - Something About Faith
  • Faith Evans - Faithfully

Nic’s Listens For The Week:

  • N/A

Eden’s Listens For The Week:

  • Children of Zeus - Balance
  • Mereba - Rider
  • Shayne Ward - Breathless, If That’s Okay      With You, No U Hang Up
  • Eva Cassidy - Fields Of Gold

Remember to RATE, REVIEW AND SUBSCRIBE!

Enjoy!

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Intro Music by: @Jmzofficial

Artwork designed by: @_manlikemike

Episode audio edited by: @TonySupremeuk

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Get involved!

Don't forget to tweet us your thoughts on the episode at #DATSPOD!

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Hashtag - #DATSPOD

Jun 14, 202101:29:03
'BRATZ DOLLS & ICE LOLLIES’ (RapCaviar’s Mount Rushmore List of 2010s Rappers, Mary J. Blige’s ‘My Life’ Documentary, Swizz Beatz Calls Out Justin Timberlake, Chris Brown Taking A Break From Music)

'BRATZ DOLLS & ICE LOLLIES’ (RapCaviar’s Mount Rushmore List of 2010s Rappers, Mary J. Blige’s ‘My Life’ Documentary, Swizz Beatz Calls Out Justin Timberlake, Chris Brown Taking A Break From Music)

Welcome back to Don’t Alert the Stans!

For the penultimate episode of Season 6, an impromptu conversation about the history and erasure of black rock indie musicians comes to the fore following Nic’s recommendation of Willow Smith’s new single Transparent Soul (30:08). Officially kicking off the news agenda this week is Mary J. Blige who’s partnered with Amazon Prime for a documentary centred on her 1994 classic and era defining sophomore album ‘My Life’ (42:40). In news that is music to Sope’s ears, Chris Brown has shared that he’s not in an immediate rush to release a new album and would rather wait until he feels his fans truly miss him (50:33). Swizz Beatz who in recent months has emerged as a corny and exasperating figure has called out Justin Timberlake to do a VERZUS battle to make up for his “crimes” against black culture (58:15). Closing out the show is an extensive conversation about RapCaviar who named Drake, Kendrick Lamar, J. Cole and Nicki Minaj as the Mount Rushmore rappers of the 2010s. Sope, Eden and Nic discuss in-depth the criteria for the list and weigh up if this line-up is wholly indicative of Hip-Hop’s cultural landscape across that decade (01:08:16).

Not one to miss!

Sope’s Listens For The Week:

  • Juls - Chance
  • Michelle Williams - Journey To      Freedom + Do You Know
  • Teedra Moses - Make Me, California      Vibes, Clair Voyant
  • Alicia Keys - Troubles,      Goodbye, Butterflyz, Typewriter, I Won't (Crazy World)
  • Dawn Richard - Boomerang

Nic’s Listens For The Week:

  • Tora-I - Serial
  • Emotional Oranges Feat. Becky G –      Down To Miami
  • Willow Smith - Transparent Soul

Eden’s Listens For The Week:

  • Beres Hammond - Music Is Life
  • Sam Wills - Breathe
  • SiR - Chasing Summer
  • ((( O ))) - ((( 2 )))

Remember to RATE, REVIEW AND SUBSCRIBE!

Enjoy!

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Intro Music by: @Jmzofficial

Artwork designed by: @_manlikemike

Episode audio edited by: @TonySupremeuk

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Get involved!

Don't forget to tweet us your thoughts on the episode at #DATSPOD!

Rate and review us on Soundcloud, Apple Music, Spotify and Anchor

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Hashtag - #DATSPOD

Jun 07, 202101:50:49
'IMPACT VS LEGACY' (20 Years of Songs In A Minor, 2021 BET Awards Nominations, Nas x Mass Appeal/The Orchard, BTS Streaming Milestone Usurped By Spotify)

'IMPACT VS LEGACY' (20 Years of Songs In A Minor, 2021 BET Awards Nominations, Nas x Mass Appeal/The Orchard, BTS Streaming Milestone Usurped By Spotify)

Welcome back to Don’t Alert the Stans!

For this week’s episode, the news agenda begins with a #RespectingLegends discussion around Alicia Keys’ performance at the Billboard Music Awards. She took to the stage to perform a medley of tracks from her classic debut album ‘Songs In A Minor’ commemorating it’s 20th anniversary (29:17). Next up is Nas who has announced that his independent label imprint Mass Appeal Records has inked a new strategic and distribution partnership with The Orchard, a subsidiary of Sony Music (39:10). Much to the dismay of BTS’ fervent and overzealous fanbase, Spotify has discounted 10 million streams from the initial 24-hour tally of their new single ‘Butter’ because of artificial activity (48:08). Closing out the episode is a wide-ranging conversation about the 2021 BET Award nominations with each of the boys sharing their predicted winners and losers across many of the categories (01:06:13). Upon seeing H.E.R.’s nomination in the ‘Best Gospel Song’ category, Sope and Eden open up a debate about the long-running rumours that H.E.R. is an industry plant (01:30:33).

Not one to miss!

Sope’s Listens For The Week:

  • Kadeem Tyrell - Simple Man
  • Labelle - Chamelon
  • Mereba - Rider
  • Doja Cat & SZA - Kiss Me More
  • Lauryn Hill - Tell Him

Nic’s Listens For The Week:

  • Mustafa - When Smoke Rises
  • Mustafa - The Hearse
  • Mustafa - Stay Alive
  • No Tourists - Ultraviolet

Eden’s Listens For The Week:

  • Children Of Zeus - Travel Light
  • The Whispers - More Of The Night

Remember to RATE, REVIEW AND SUBSCRIBE!

Enjoy!

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Intro Music by: @Jmzofficial

Artwork designed by: @_manlikemike

Episode audio edited by: @TonySupremeuk

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Get involved!

Don't forget to tweet us your thoughts on the episode at #DATSPOD!

Rate and review us on Soundcloud, Apple Music, Spotify and Anchor

Follow us on:

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Hashtag - #DATSPOD

Jun 01, 202101:48:11
'THE REAL IS BACK PT. 2’ (Review of J. Cole’s The Off Season, BET’s New Girl Group Reality Show, T.I. and Tiny Investigated by the LAPD)

'THE REAL IS BACK PT. 2’ (Review of J. Cole’s The Off Season, BET’s New Girl Group Reality Show, T.I. and Tiny Investigated by the LAPD)

Welcome back to Don’t Alert the Stans!
For this week’s episode, it’s finally a full house as Eden, Sope and Nic are together again as a trio for the first time in over a month. Kicking off the news agenda this week is T.I. and Tiny who are now being investigated by the LAPD over unrelenting sexual assault allegations. As a response to the accusations, T.I. has released a new single ‘What It’s Come To’ lambasting their accusers (41:35). A year following a viral clip showing 3LW’s Kiely Williams and Destiny Child’s Farrah Franklin engaging in a shade fest, which was later revealed to be from an aborted reality show pilot, BET have announced that the show has now been picked up and is set to air in June. Starring ex-members from groups like 702, Blaque, Total, Cherish, Danity Kane and more (53:23). Rounding out this week’s episode is a sequel to the J. Cole centred ‘Groupchat Convo’ which began with Eden and Sope a few weeks ago. With Nic back in the fray, the boys delve into an comprehensive discussion about his new album ‘The Off Season’. While Sope focuses on why musically it misses the mark, Eden and Nic dissect the project as a wider extension of the person and man J. Cole has grown into over the last decade. Examining his politics, financial stature and consistent misogyny (01:03:00).
Not one to miss!
Sope’s Listens For The Week:

Xscape - Off The Hook
J. Cole - The Off Season
Nicki Minaj - Beam Me Up Scotty
Stevie Wonder - Fulfillingness' First Finale
LSDXOXO - Dedicated 2 Disrespect
En Vogue - Let It Flow

Nic’s Listens For The Week:

Latto - The Biggest
KAM-BU - Dumpling
Malibu Mitch - I Like What I Like

Eden’s Listens For The Week:

Iman Omari - Energy
Robin Thicke - On Earth, and in Heaven

Remember to RATE, REVIEW AND SUBSCRIBE!
Enjoy!
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Intro Music by: @Jmzofficial
Artwork designed by: @_manlikemike
Episode audio edited by: @TonySupremeuk
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Get involved!
Don't forget to tweet us your thoughts on the episode at #DATSPOD!
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Hashtag - #DATSPOD
May 24, 202102:11:27
'SMOKE FOR EVERYONE’ (Leigh-Anne Pinnock’s BBC Documentary, SWV Verzuz Xscape, Tank Going Deaf, 2021 Brit Awards)

'SMOKE FOR EVERYONE’ (Leigh-Anne Pinnock’s BBC Documentary, SWV Verzuz Xscape, Tank Going Deaf, 2021 Brit Awards)

Welcome back to Don’t Alert the Stans!

For this week’s episode, Eden and Sope hold it down as a duo once again as Nic is absent. Kicking off the news agenda this week is the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame who have officially announced that Tina Turner, Jay Z, LL Cool J, Clarence Avant and Gil-Scott Heron will be among their newest inductees (34:00). One week on from Sope singing the praises of Tank and his catalogue, the R&B veteran has revealed that he is going completely deaf in his right ear and starting to lose hearing in his left ear (42:05). Brimming with happiness, excitement and admiration, Sope offers an emphatic and comprehensive review of the latest VERZUS battle between legendary girl groups SWV and Xscape (46:08). Despite a lack of care from both Eden and Sope, they close out this week’s proceedings by discussing this year’s BRIT Awards. Delving into the logic behind those who won and lost (01:00:18) before taking an impassioned detour to discuss Leigh Anne Pinnock of Little Mix’s documentary ‘Race, Pop & Power’ which aired on BBC last week (01:09:36).

Not one to miss!

Sope’s Listens For The Week:

  • SWV - I Missed Us
  • D’Angelo - Alright
  • Stevie Wonder - Fulfillingness'      First Finale
  • Jessie Ware - What’s Your Pleasure
  • Xscape - Work Me Slow + Can’t Hang

Nic’s Listens For The Week:

  • N/A

Eden’s Listens For The Week:

  • Alabama Shakes - Sound & Color
  • J. Cole - The Off Season
  • Kano - Hoodies All Summer
  • Hira - Y
  • Lianne La Havas - Seven Times (Wu-Lu      Remix)

Remember to RATE, REVIEW AND SUBSCRIBE!

Enjoy!

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Intro Music by: @Jmzofficial

Artwork designed by: @_manlikemike

Episode audio edited by: @TonySupremeuk

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Get involved!

Don't forget to tweet us your thoughts on the episode at #DATSPOD!

Rate and review us on Soundcloud, Apple Music, Spotify and Anchor

Follow us on:

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Hashtag - #DATSPOD

May 17, 202101:30:45
'THE REAL IS BACK’ (Tion Wayne x Russ Millions Top UK Singles Chart, J. Cole Announces New Album, Joint Tory Lanez & Chris Brown Project, Black Music & Entertainment Hall Of Fame)

'THE REAL IS BACK’ (Tion Wayne x Russ Millions Top UK Singles Chart, J. Cole Announces New Album, Joint Tory Lanez & Chris Brown Project, Black Music & Entertainment Hall Of Fame)

Welcome back to Don’t Alert the Stans!

For this week’s episode, Eden and Sope hold it down as a duo while Nic takes another week off to regroup. Kicking off the news agenda this week is Tion Wayne and Russ Millions whose collaborative single ‘Body’ has topped the UK Singles Chart. Becoming the first ever drill song to achieve this feat (35:00). Next up it has been announced that the likes of Quincy Jones, James Brown, Missy Elliott, Beyonce, Usher and many others are among the inaugural inductees of the Black Music and Entertainment Hall Of Fame. A first-of-its-kind tribute to the trailblazing artists, iconic entertainers, and legendary luminaries who have impacted black culture at large. (42:02) Tory Lanez’s lack of shame continues to take heed as he has revealed that he has a joint album with Chris Brown in the works. Rather than focusing on the obvious downsides to this controversial pairing, Sope uses this topic to speak out against Chris Brown’s lack of musical growth and the immaturity that continues to pervade his new releases (49:55). Closing the episode is a return to the ‘Groupchat Convo’ format where Eden and Sope use the announcement regarding J. Cole’s imminent new album to discuss their thoughts on what they need from Cole this time round and why some of his previous projects like ‘4 Your Eyez Only’ and ‘Cole World: The Sideline Story’ fell short (01:03:02).

Not one to miss!

Sope’s Listens For The Week:

  • Little Simz - Woman
  • Little Simz - Introvert
  • JoJo - good to know (Deluxe)
  • Rochelle Jordan - Play With The      Changes
  • TGT - Hurry
  • Tank - Foreplay, If That’s What It      Takes, Somebody Else, Already In Love

Nic’s Listens For The Week:

  • N/A

Eden’s Listens For The Week:

  • James Fauntleroy - Monin
  • Coldplay - Higher Power
  • Jaz Karis - Let Me Down
  • Common - Let Love
  • Lucky Daye - Table For Two
  • Kenyon Dixon - Loving You

India COVID-19 Relief Resources + Support:

Remember to RATE, REVIEW AND SUBSCRIBE!

Enjoy!

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Intro Music by: @Jmzofficial

Artwork designed by: @_manlikemike

Episode audio edited by: @TonySupremeuk

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Get involved!

Don't forget to tweet us your thoughts on the episode at #DATSPOD!

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Hashtag - #DATSPOD

May 10, 202101:18:42
‘It’s A Developing Story’(Saweetie’s bootcamp, Soundcloud x Siriusxm and Teyana Taylor's retirement)

‘It’s A Developing Story’(Saweetie’s bootcamp, Soundcloud x Siriusxm and Teyana Taylor's retirement)

For this week’s episode, Eden and Nic hold it down as a duo while Sope takes this week off to regroup. In this episode the duo discuss technology changes in the music space, as Soundcloud receives investment from Siriusxm (34:00). Saweetie takes a chance by being vulnerable with her recent performance anxieties (57:50), and Teyana Taylor discusses feeling unheard and invisible to the music industry (1:14:25).
Not one to miss!
Eden's listens:
Devin Morrison Feat Alex Isley -- Kiss
Zoe Yovéla - Sun
Lucky Daye, Masego and Alex Isley -- Good and Plenty (Remix)
Finest Hour -- Submotion Orchestra
Nic's Listens:
DJ Khaled - Khaled Khaled
Justine Skye ft Rema - Twisted Fantasy

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Intro Music by: @Jmzofficial
Artwork designed by: @_manlikemike
Episode audio edited by: @TonySupremeuk
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Get involved!
Don't forget to tweet us your thoughts on the episode at #DATSPOD!
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Follow us on:
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Hashtag - #DATSPOD
May 04, 202101:26:15
'THE RETURN OF THE ANKH’ (The Death of DMX, Justin Wanted To Upstage Britney With Superbowl Performance?)

'THE RETURN OF THE ANKH’ (The Death of DMX, Justin Wanted To Upstage Britney With Superbowl Performance?)

Welcome back to Don’t Alert the Stans!

For this week’s episode, Eden and Sope hold it down as a duo while Nic takes this week off to regroup. Kicking off the episode is the latest developments in what seems to be a long-running saga. Justin Timberlake’s questionable antics from years before, continue to bite him where it hurts almost 20 years later. A stylist has come forward stating the infamous wardrobe malfunction with Janet Jackson at the Superbowl was deliberately planned by Justin. In order to one up Britney’s headline grabbing three-way kiss with Madonna and Christina Aguilera the previous year. (00:21:58). For the second and final topic of this shorter episode is the ongoing fallout from the tragic death of Hip-Hop legend DMX. Sope and Eden initially offer condolences to his family while sharing their personal memories and attachment to his music and persona. Before discussing the legions of unauthorised and greedy people online creating falsified narratives and stories to financially gain from his passing (00:58:38).

Not one to miss!

Sope’s Listens For The Week:

  • serpentwithfeet - DEACON
  • Xscape – Traces Of My Lipstick

Eden’s Listens For The Week:

  • Jill Scott – Golden
  • Tom Misch – Sunshine
  • Odunsi (The Engine) – Decided
  • Chronixx – Chronology

Nic's Listens For The Week:

  • N/A

Remember to RATE, REVIEW AND SUBSCRIBE!

Enjoy!

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Intro Music by: @Jmzofficial

Artwork designed by: @_manlikemike

Episode audio edited by: @TonySupremeuk

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

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Apr 19, 202101:19:03
'MAYBE YOU SHOULD TRY PARENTING’ Feat. Sharine Taylor (Lil Nas X Controversy, Jamaican + Wider Caribbean Cultural Production)

'MAYBE YOU SHOULD TRY PARENTING’ Feat. Sharine Taylor (Lil Nas X Controversy, Jamaican + Wider Caribbean Cultural Production)

Welcome back to Don’t Alert the Stans!
For this week’s episode, the boys are joined by Sharine Taylor. Based in Toronto, Taylor is an award-winning music + culture writer/critic of Jamaican origin. Her work has appeared in The New York Times, WePresent, Dazed, Nylon, Noisey, The FADER, Shondaland, Pitchfork, and many other notable publications. Before commencing the episode’s usual proceedings, Eden takes time to shout out dear friend of the show Alex Holmes who’s just published his debut book ‘Time to Talk: How Men Think About Love, Belonging and Connection’ (00:02:21). Next up is a sprawling dissection of the intense hysteria around Lil Nas X’s controversial for ‘Montero (Call Me by Your Name)’ (00:20:56). Rounding up the episode is an in-depth interview with Sharine where she elaborates on Jamaica’s cultural presence in Toronto, the role physical spaces and communities have played in the innovation and development of music from the West Indies, the commercialisation of dancehall, the inherently political origins of soca and more (01:00:27).
Not one to miss!
Sope’s Listens For The Week:

serpentwithfeet - DEACON
Gallant - Neptune
Willow Smith - WILLOW
Willow Smith - Ardipithecus
Miguel - Art Dealer Chic EPs

Nic’s Listens For The Week:

Shantel May - Don’t Let Them See You Cry

Eden’s Listens For The Week:

Norah Jones - Come Away With Me
Justin Bieber - Justice
Joyce Wrice - Overgrown
Jon Bellion – The Human Condition

Remember to RATE, REVIEW AND SUBSCRIBE!
Enjoy!
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Intro Music by: @Jmzofficial
Artwork designed by: @_manlikemike
Episode audio edited by: @TonySupremeuk
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Get involved!
Don't forget to tweet us your thoughts on the episode at #DATSPOD!
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Hashtag - #DATSPOD Have a meal on us today by using this promo code:
roo.it/edenmg-9v4d
Apr 12, 202101:51:30
'CONGRATULATIONS, I GUESS?’ (Cardi B Makes Hot 100 History, Library of Congress 2021 Inductees, VERZUS Announce 3 New Battles)

'CONGRATULATIONS, I GUESS?’ (Cardi B Makes Hot 100 History, Library of Congress 2021 Inductees, VERZUS Announce 3 New Battles)

Welcome back to Don’t Alert the Stans!

For this week’s episode, the boys kick off the news agenda discussing The U.S. National Library of Congress. It has been announced that select works from LaBelle Janet Jackson, Nas and Jimmy Cliff are among the newest inductees into their catalogue for their cultural and historical significance. Sope initially sets the conversation in motion, regarding how it’s a monumental feat to have their music archived on such a huge scale. Eden, however, turns the focus onto the cognitive dissonance at play. Remarking at how it is odd to have music included from artists who have at times criticised American/western politics be celebrated by an institution who is yet to truly recognise their harmful actions on marginalised communities (00:19:40). VERZUS is continuing to make a huge splash in the digital sphere a year on from its debut. The next 3 battles have been revealed and they are - Redman Vs Method Man, SWV Vs Xscape and Earth Wind & Fire Vs The Isley Brothers (00:41:51). Rounding up this week’s episode is Cardi B who with her latest single ‘Up’ recently made history as the first female rapper to rack up 5 #1’s on Billboard Hot 100. This news eventually parlays into an in-depth conversation about Cardi’s sophomore album, and the journey she’s made artistically and as a strategist in the time since the closure of the ‘Invasion of Privacy’ era (01:04:38).

Not one to miss!

Sope’s Listens for the Week:

  • Hiatus Kayote - Get Sun
  • Jennifer Hudson - I Remember Me
  • Joyce Wrice - Overgrown

Nic’s Listens for the Week:

  • Radamiz - Drill For Oil
  • Joyce Wrice - Overgrown

Eden’s Listens for the Week:

  • Saba – FIGHTER
  • Silk Sonic – Leave The Door Open
  • Kadeem Tyrell - Simple Man
  • Lauryn Hill - Ex-Factor
  • Justin Bieber - Justice

Remember to RATE, REVIEW AND SUBSCRIBE!

Enjoy!

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Intro Music by: @Jmzofficial

Artwork designed by: @_manlikemike

Episode audio edited by: @TonySupremeuk

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Get involved!

Don't forget to tweet us your thoughts on the episode at #DATSPOD!

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Hashtag - #DATSPOD

Mar 29, 202101:19:23
'PUT YOUR MONEY WHERE YOUR MOUTH IS’ Feat. Yaw Owusu (Power Up Movement, The 2021 GRAMMYs, Anita Baker Battling For Masters, Keyshia Cole Announces Retirement)

'PUT YOUR MONEY WHERE YOUR MOUTH IS’ Feat. Yaw Owusu (Power Up Movement, The 2021 GRAMMYs, Anita Baker Battling For Masters, Keyshia Cole Announces Retirement)

Welcome back to Don’t Alert the Stans!

For this week’s episode, the boys are joined by Yaw Owusu who is the Senior Manager at The PRS Foundation’s Power Up. The new initiative tackling Anti-Black racism and racial disparities within the UK Music Industry. A #RespectingLegends topic kicks off the news agenda this week. Anita Baker is telling her fans across the globe to stop streaming her music as she’s currently locked in a legal battle with her former record label about obtaining her masters (00:08:00). R&B veteran Keyshia Cole has announced that she’ll be retiring after the release of her forthcoming 8th studio album. Leading to a discussion where Sope and Nic speak on why her catalogue and previous successes are deserving of better retrospective dialogue (00:26:05). A review of the 2021 GRAMMYs closes out the news agenda. The boys offer unfiltered and unorganised thoughts on the various winners, losers and performances as their investment into the show as a whole continues to wane. (00:40:54). Rounding up this week’s episode is an in-depth interview with Yaw Owusu where they discuss the roots and origins of Power Up’s existence, its dedication to progressing conversations offline about racist practices in the music industry into tangible change, their partnership with the Black Music Coalition and targeting black creators/professionals who fall out of typical moulds (01:09:03).

Not one to miss!

Sope’s Listens for the Week:

  • N/A

Nic’s Listens for the Week:

  • N/A

Eden’s Listens for the Week:

  • N/A

Remember to RATE, REVIEW AND SUBSCRIBE!

Enjoy!

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Intro Music by: @Jmzofficial

Artwork designed by: @_manlikemike

Episode audio edited by: @TonySupremeuk

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Get involved!

Don't forget to tweet us your thoughts on the episode at #DATSPOD!

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Hashtag - #DATSPOD

Mar 23, 202102:10:40
'WHERE’S THE NONAME ENERGY?’ (The Weeknd To Permanently Boycott The GRAMMYS, Jess Glynne’s Transphobia, VERZUS Being Sold to Triller Network)

'WHERE’S THE NONAME ENERGY?’ (The Weeknd To Permanently Boycott The GRAMMYS, Jess Glynne’s Transphobia, VERZUS Being Sold to Triller Network)

Welcome back to Don’t Alert the Stans!

For this week’s episode, the news agenda commences with the announcement that Rina Sawayama, Pa Salieu and Griff have been shortlisted for the Rising Star award at this year’s BRIT Awards (00:27:16). Veering into more disappointing terrain, the boys weigh in on the controversy surrounding Jess Glynne’s use of transphobic language during an appearance on The Mo Gilligan Podcast (00:37:03). The long-term future and evolution of Timbaland and Swizz Beatz’ VERZUS venture is brought under the microscope, in light of the news that they have sold the brand to the Triller network (00:52:55). Closing out the episode this week is a conversation around The Weeknd who has vowed to permanently boycott The GRAMMYs going forward after their decision to completely snub him and his work on ‘After Hours’. Leading to a discussion around why when black artists speak out against award shows, it is cosmetic and self-serving for the most part. Rather than about being a collective rebellion against such institutions (01:20:16).

Not one to miss!

Sope’s Listens for the Week:

  • Cleo Sol - Rose In The Dark
  • Amel Larrieux - Ice Cream Everyday
  • Patrick Paige II - Whisper (Want My      Luv) Feat. Steve Lacy, Durand Bernarr + Allen Love
  • Jhene Aiko - sailing soul(s)

Nic’s Listens for the Week:

  • Central Cee - Wild West
  • Nick Jonas - Spaceman

Eden’s Listens for the Week:

  • Tom Misch - Beat Tape 2
  • Tom Misch & Yussef Dayes -      Nightrider

Remember to RATE, REVIEW AND SUBSCRIBE!

Enjoy!

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Intro Music by: @Jmzofficial

Artwork designed by: @_manlikemike

Episode audio edited by: @TonySupremeuk

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Get involved!

Don't forget to tweet us your thoughts on the episode at #DATSPOD!

Rate and review us on Soundcloud, Apple Music, Spotify and Anchor

Follow us on:

Twitter - @datspod

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Anchor – @datspodcast

Hashtag - #DATSPOD

Mar 16, 202101:48:45
'CLASH OF THE TITANS' (R.I.P. Bunny Wailer, Matthew Knowles x Chloe Bailey, Square Acquires Tidal, T.I. & Tiny Criminal Investigation)

'CLASH OF THE TITANS' (R.I.P. Bunny Wailer, Matthew Knowles x Chloe Bailey, Square Acquires Tidal, T.I. & Tiny Criminal Investigation)

Welcome back to Don’t Alert the Stans!

For this week’s episode, it’s a full house once again as Eden returns to the fore. During the listens section, Nic offers an impromptu review of Drake’s new EP ‘Scary Hours 2’ (00:26:12). Beginning the news agenda on a sombre but celebratory note, the boys reflect on the death of Reggae icon Bunny Wailer who passed away last week at the age of 73 (00:38:08). Beyonce’s past and present business ties became embroiled in controversy when her father and ex-manager Matthew Knowles harshly rebuffed claims that her Parkwood protégé Chloe Bailey of Chloe x Halle is on equal ground when it comes to talent and performance skills (00:50:12). The walls continue to fall down around the world of T.I. and Tiny. A New York Times expose recently published, revealed that a legal and criminal investigation is officially underway. Following weeks of alleged sexual violence and misconduct. (01:02:46). Closing out the episode this week is a conversation around the immediate impacts and effects that will be wrought with the news that Jack Dorsey and Square Inc. have acquired Jay Z’s majority share in streaming platform TIDAL (01:21:16).

Not one to miss!

Sope’s Listens for the Week:

  • serpentwithfeet - Same Size Shoe
  • Dawn Richard – Buttah
  • Dawn Richard - new breed
  • Dawn Richard – Break Of Dawn

Nic’s Listens for the Week:

· No Tourists – Like Lava

· No Tourists – Dumbo

· Iamdoechii – Oh The Places You’ll Go

· Drake - Scary Hours 2

· There was something else

Eden’s Listens for the Week:

  • slowthai - TYRON
  • Tom Misch - Sunshine

Remember to RATE, REVIEW AND SUBSCRIBE!

Enjoy!

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Intro Music by: @Jmzofficial

Artwork designed by: @_manlikemike

Episode audio edited by: @TonySupremeuk

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Get involved!

Don't forget to tweet us your thoughts on the episode at #DATSPOD!

Rate and review us on Soundcloud, Apple Music, Spotify and Anchor

Follow us on:

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Instagram - @datspod

Anchor – @datspodcast

Hashtag - #DATSPOD

Mar 09, 202101:38:44
‘SOUL & SURVEILLANCE' (D’Angelo x VERZUZ, Bobby Shmurda Is Free, Vanessa Bryant Vs Meek Mill, Rina Sawayama x British Citizenship)

‘SOUL & SURVEILLANCE' (D’Angelo x VERZUZ, Bobby Shmurda Is Free, Vanessa Bryant Vs Meek Mill, Rina Sawayama x British Citizenship)

Welcome back to Don’t Alert the Stans!
After a nearly four-month hiatus, the boys of DATSPOD are back get you through this bleak time in history called 2021. Season 6 is finally here, kicking off with a jam-packed episode with just Nic and Sope. Proceedings begin with optimistic news of institutional progression. British-Japanese pop maverick Rina Sawayama has successfully prompted the BRIT Awards and Mercury Prize to change their eligibility criteria to have all UK residents acknowledged, even if they’re not British citizens (39:38). Meek Mill is once again made a social pariah following the backlash he received after his appearance on a leaked track. His verse features inappropriate lyrics about the death of Kobe Bryant, which resulted in his widow Vanessa Bryant addressing him on social media (48:49). D’Angelo who is one of Sope’s all-time favourite and beloved artists this past week made a rare public appearance to do a solo edition of VERZUS. Unfortunately, it turned out to be a very underwhelming and disappointing showing (01:05:05). Rounding out the show is the news that after 7 years of being incarcerated, Bobby Shmurda was released from prison. Wanting to discuss the context around what led to Bobby’s stint in prison, Nic decides to not focus on the prospect of new music but dive into the wider socio-political implications that led to Bobby’s initial arrest. Provoking a dialogue on the criminalisation and surveillance of drill music and Hip-Hop here in the UK as well as New York (01:24:15).
Not one to miss!
Sope’s Listens for the Week:

Jamila Woods - LEGACY! LEGACY!
Kirk Franklin - Brighter Day
Corinne Bailey Rae - Corinne Bailey Rae
Janet Jackson - janet. Remixed

Nic’s Listens for the Week:

Mariah The Scientist - MASTER
ShaSimone - Supersize

Eden’s Listens for the Week:

N/A

Remember to RATE, REVIEW AND SUBSCRIBE!
Enjoy!
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Intro Music by: @Jmzofficial
Artwork designed by: @_manlikemike
Episode audio edited by: @TonySupremeuk
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Get involved!
Don't forget to tweet us your thoughts on the episode at #DATSPOD!
Rate and review us on Soundcloud, Apple Music, Spotify and Anchor
Follow us on:
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Anchor – @datspodcast
Hashtag - #DATSPOD
Mar 03, 202102:17:59
'WHO IS NOAH CYRUS?' (0207 Def Jam UK, Munya Chawawa Signs To Atlantic, 2021 Grammy Nominations)

'WHO IS NOAH CYRUS?' (0207 Def Jam UK, Munya Chawawa Signs To Atlantic, 2021 Grammy Nominations)

Welcome back to Don’t Alert the Stans!

And we have come to the end of Season 5! For the final episode until next year, the news agenda kicks off with Universal Music who have announced the launch of 0207 Def Jam UK. The new label will be head up by British-Ghanaian twins Alec & Alex Boateng, coming together after individual stints at Island Records and Warner Music (24:13). Next up is a story that Nic was privy to before it was officially announced to press. Comedian, personality and parody rapper Munya Chawawa has signed a contract with Atlantic Records. The boys discuss what needs to be done for Munya to have long-term success as opposed to the short-lived viral popularity that Big Shaq received (35:06). Closing out the episode and the overall season is The Grammys. The 2021 nominations were announced last week and more than ever, Nic, Sope and Eden are appalled at the artists who were snubbed and the artists who were needlessly represented across certain categories. Leading to a discussion about whether it is truly time to abolish the authority given to award shows (47:28).

Not one to miss!

Sope’s Listens for the Week:

  • Zhane - Sending My Love
  • K. Michelle - Anybody Wanna Buy A      Heart
  • The Revolutionaries - Drum      Sound: More Gems From the Channel One Dub Room 1974-1980
  • Small Axe: Spotify Playlist

Nic’s Listens for the Week:

  • Jamilah Barry – Romance Me
  • Tone Stith - Devotion

Eden’s Listens for the Week:

  • Mnelia – After 6
  • Bellah – Good Thing
  • Bellah – The Art of Conversation

Remember to RATE, REVIEW AND SUBSCRIBE!

Enjoy!

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Intro Music by: @Jmzofficial

Artwork designed by: @_manlikemike

Episode audio edited by: @TonySupremeuk

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Get involved!

Don't forget to tweet us your thoughts on the episode at #DATSPOD!

Rate and review us on Soundcloud, Apple Music, Spotify and Anchor

Follow us on:

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Hashtag - #DATSPOD

Dec 01, 202002:42:08
'FULL CIRCLE' (The Weeknd To Headline Superbowl 2021, Taylor Swift Vs Scooter Braun, Dutchavelli Allegations)

'FULL CIRCLE' (The Weeknd To Headline Superbowl 2021, Taylor Swift Vs Scooter Braun, Dutchavelli Allegations)

Welcome back to Don’t Alert the Stans!

For this week’s episode, a blunt and honest review of Megan Thee Stallion’s debut album ‘Good News’ sets the wheels in motion with Nic and Sope expressing their disappointment at the lack of musical growth and the over-reliance of samples. Elsewhere, they examine the overall underwhelming roll out in which they feel has failed to be a true culmination of all the buzz she’s amassed in the last year (36:15). Kicking off the news agenda this week is The Weeknd who has been unveiled as the headliner for next year’s Superbowl Halftime Show. It’s questioned whether he has the chops to command a stage of such stature, while questioning why the likes of Usher and Pink haven’t been called to do this yet (1:01:01). Next up is the ongoing legal entanglement between Scooter Braun and Taylor Swift. It has come to light that Braun has sold Swift’s catalogue to private equity firm Shamrock Capital for an estimated $300M (1:27:24). Closing out the episode is the series of controversies a cluster of the UK’s most notable MC’s have encountered in the last week, with Eden & Nic choosing to focus on the allegations that state Dutchavelli is sexually involved with underage girls (1:51:21).

Not one to miss!

Sope’s Listens for the Week:

  • WizKid - Made In Lagos
  • Bob Marley - Small Axe
  • Groove Theory - Groove Theory
  • Lynda Dawn - At First Light
  • Erykah Badu - Mama’s Gun

Nic’s Listens for the Week:

  • Megan Thee Stallion – Good News
  • Savannah Re – Opia
  • Shygirl - ALIAS

Eden’s Listens for the Week:

  • Kehlani – It Was Good Until It Wasn’t
  • Xavier Omar – Moments Spent Loving You

Remember to RATE, REVIEW AND SUBSCRIBE!

Enjoy!

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Intro Music by: @Jmzofficial

Artwork designed by: @_manlikemike

Episode audio edited by: @TonySupremeuk

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Get involved!

Don't forget to tweet us your thoughts on the episode at #DATSPOD!

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Follow us on:

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Hashtag - #DATSPOD

Nov 24, 202002:18:51
'WHEN WILL IT END?' (Octavian's Domestic Abuse Allegations, #FreeBritney Movement Continues, 2020 Soul Train Awards Nominations)

'WHEN WILL IT END?' (Octavian's Domestic Abuse Allegations, #FreeBritney Movement Continues, 2020 Soul Train Awards Nominations)

Welcome back to Don’t Alert the Stans!

For this week’s episode, a discussion on the erasure of European artists in the UK market sets things off in motion after Nic shares his love for French-Malian singer Aya Nakamura’s new album ‘AYA’ (26:48). The news section begins on a bleak note as the boys briefly summarise the domestic abuse allegations against Octavian who subsequently was dropped Black Butter Records (58:17). #FreeBritney is in the headlines again as it has come out that the court of California has declined to remove Britney Spears’ father from the conservatorship agreement (1:02:31). The impact of COVID-19 on live events is beginning to rear its ugly head as Ticketmaster have announced that customers may need to have taken a vaccine before attending their future shows (1:19:43). Rounding out the episode is the 2020 Soul Train Awards which unveiled their lengthy list of nominations. The boys share their thoughts on the artists nominated and predict who will win in particular categories (1:35:07).

Not one to miss!

Sope’s Listens for the Week:

  • Flo Milli - Ho, Why Is You Here
  • Luther Vandross - Don’t You Know That
  • Curtis Mayfield - Superfly Soundtrack
  • Salaam Remi - Black On Purpose
  • Pa Salieu - Send Them To Coventry

Nic’s Listens for the Week:

  • Pa Salieu - Send Them To Coventry
  • Aya Nakamura - AYA

Eden’s Listens for the Week:

  • Full Crate – In All Honesty
  • Loyle Carner – Yesterday
  • Le Mav Feat Tay Iwar - Heat

Remember to RATE, REVIEW AND SUBSCRIBE!

Enjoy!

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Intro Music by: @Jmzofficial

Artwork designed by: @_manlikemike

Episode audio edited by: @TonySupremeuk

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Get involved!

Don't forget to tweet us your thoughts on the episode at #DATSPOD!

Rate and review us on Soundcloud, Apple Music, Spotify and Anchor

Follow us on:

Twitter - @datspod

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Hashtag - #DATSPOD

Nov 17, 202002:06:22
'THE INESCAPABLE & THE INEVITABLE' FEAT. SHENIECE CHARWAY (Homophobia x Lil Nas X, The GRAMMYS Rename World Music Category, YouTube's Role in Music Industry)

'THE INESCAPABLE & THE INEVITABLE' FEAT. SHENIECE CHARWAY (Homophobia x Lil Nas X, The GRAMMYS Rename World Music Category, YouTube's Role in Music Industry)

Welcome back to Don’t Alert the Stans!

For this week’s episode, the boys are joined by Sheniece Charway who works as the Artist Relations Manager at YouTube Music. In a quick tangential moment, Eden asks Nic and Sope on their experiences with the social media app Clubhouse which is quickly becoming popular (3:53). Kicking off the news agenda this week are the homophobic reactions to Lil Nas X dressing up as Nicki Minaj for Halloween by way of 50 Cent and Dave East (35:59). Ahead of the 2021 nominations set to be announced at the end of November, The GRAMMYS have announced that the ‘Best World Music Album’ award category will be renamed to ‘Best Global Music Album’, in an effort to reduce connotations associated with colonialism (50:01). Rounding up this week’s episode is an in-depth interview with Sheniece Charway where they discuss the ins and outs of her role at YouTube Music. The conversation also moves to a discussion about how she’s been able to use her position and influence to elevate Black British Music. Elsewhere, the impact of tech and streaming platforms on the music industry at large is discussed and more (1:05:24).

Not one to miss!

Sope’s Listens for the Week:

  • WizKid – Made In Lagos
  • Ariana Grande - Positions

Nic’s Listens for the Week:

  • Lila Ike – The ExPerience

Eden’s Listens for the Week:

  • Misha – Bliss
  • Down To Mars – The Loneliest Number

Remember to RATE, REVIEW AND SUBSCRIBE!

Enjoy!

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Intro Music by: @Jmzofficial

Artwork designed by: @_manlikemike

Episode audio edited by: @TonySupremeuk

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Get involved!

Don't forget to tweet us your thoughts on the episode at #DATSPOD!

Rate and review us on Soundcloud, Apple Music, Spotify and Anchor

Follow us on:

Twitter - @datspod

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Anchor – @datspodcast

Hashtag - #DATSPOD / #DontAlertTheStans

Nov 10, 202002:07:51
'WHY, WHY, WHY' (Diplo's Predatory Behaviour, The BET Hip-Hop Awards, Artists Who Gave Us "The Ick")

'WHY, WHY, WHY' (Diplo's Predatory Behaviour, The BET Hip-Hop Awards, Artists Who Gave Us "The Ick")

Welcome back to Don’t Alert the Stans!

For this week’s episode, the listens section inspires two in-depth discussions. As Sope shares his thoughts on Ty Dolla $ign’s new album ‘Featuring Ty Dolla $ign’, he raises the question as to why for all his success as a featured artist and songwriter, why has there been a disconnect with his own material? (17:22). Meanwhile Eden’s championing of neo-soul artist Jerome Thomas leads to a conversation about the lack of infrastructure for R&B artists in the UK compared to grime, drill and afro-swing (29:10). Heading towards the news agenda, Diplo is believed to be potentially grooming 19-year-old TikTok star Quenlin Blackwell. Subsequently bringing to the forefront previous allegations around his improper and abusive behaviour with underage girls in addition to Azealia Banks and M.I.A. (1:08:05). Next up is the The BET Hip-Hop Awards and the guys evaluate why DaBaby lost all 12 of his nominations and share their thoughts on the cyphers (1:28:39). Closing out the episode is a ‘Groupchat Convo’ segment inspired by the realms of Black Twitter. Subverting the popular conversation around dating and ‘The Ick’, the boys discuss the artists who over the years have made them feel this way (1:45:40).

Not one to miss!

Sope’s Listens for the Week:

  • Lisa Maffia – In Love
  • Ty Dolla $ign – Featuring Ty Dolla $ign
  • Frank Ocean - Endless

Nic’s Listens for the Week:

  • Busta Rhymes – Extinction Level Event 2: The Wrath Of      God

Eden’s Listens for the Week:

  • Jerome Thomas – Mood Swings (Volume One)

Remember to RATE, REVIEW AND SUBSCRIBE!

Enjoy!

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Intro Music by: @Jmzofficial

Artwork designed by: @_manlikemike

Episode audio edited by: @TonySupremeuk

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Get involved!

Don't forget to tweet us your thoughts on the episode at #DATSPOD!

Rate and review us on Soundcloud, Apple Music, Spotify and Anchor

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Hashtag - #DATSPOD / #DontAlertTheStans

Nov 03, 202002:07:16
'ALL OR NOTHING' (50 Cent Endorses Trump, Diddy Launches Political Party, Beyonce's Team Responds To #EndSARS Backlash)

'ALL OR NOTHING' (50 Cent Endorses Trump, Diddy Launches Political Party, Beyonce's Team Responds To #EndSARS Backlash)

Welcome back to Don’t Alert the Stans!

For this week’s episode, much to Nic’s chagrin, the boys begin news proceedings by sharing the latest update in the Tory Lanez/Megan Thee Stallion shooting controversy. Tory took to IG Live to speak at length about his part in the case and debunk supposed holes in Megan’s story (52:25). As the November presidential election looms near, 50 Cent has revealed he’s endorsing Donald Trump. Even though he’s aware Trump “doesn’t like black people”, he prefers his tax policy over Joe Biden’s (1:00:18). In another instance where politics crosses over with the entertainment world, Diddy has announced the launch of a brand-new political party ‘Our Black Party’ which is said to focus on empowering black voters (1:11:46). Closing the episode is a discussion on the selfish and anti-african sentiments spurred on by Beyonce’s publicist Yvette Noel Schure and her mother Tina Knowles-Lawson. They both lit up with the internet with insensitive and self-centred responses to the backlash Beyonce endured for not speaking out quickly enough on the many issues facing Nigeria in regard to #EndSARS (1:27:18).

Not one to miss!

Sope’s Listens for the Week:

  • Trey Songz – Back Home
  • Kendrick Lamar – DAMN, Overly Dedicated, Section 80 +      Compton
  • Rejjie Snow – Mirrors, Cookie Chips + Egyptian Luvr

Nic’s Listens for the Week:

  • Reason – New Beginnings
  • Preme + Popcaan – Link Up

Eden’s Listens for the Week:

  • Jhene Aiko – Trigger Protection Mantra
  • Tems – For Broken Ears
  • Paul Woodford, Diplo, Kareen Lomax – Looking For Me

Remember to RATE, REVIEW AND SUBSCRIBE!

Enjoy!

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Intro Music by: @Jmzofficial

Artwork designed by: @_manlikemike

Episode audio edited by: @TonySupremeuk

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Get involved!

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Hashtag - #DATSPOD / #DontAlertTheStans

Oct 27, 202002:15:42
'I REMEMBER YOU WAS CONFLICTED' FEAT MARCUS J. MOORE (Ivorian Doll's Daily Duppy, Headie One Is No.1, Kendrick Lamar's Musical Evolution)

'I REMEMBER YOU WAS CONFLICTED' FEAT MARCUS J. MOORE (Ivorian Doll's Daily Duppy, Headie One Is No.1, Kendrick Lamar's Musical Evolution)

Welcome back to Don’t Alert the Stans!

For this week’s episode, the boys are joined by award-winning journalist, editor and author Marcus J. Moore. He’s just published his first book, ‘The Butterfly Effect: How Kendrick Lamar Ignited the Soul of Black America’. Elsewhere he’s a contributing editor at Bandcamp and has written for BBC, The Fader, The Nation, The Atlantic, Pitchfork, Entertainment Weekly and more. Nic sets off proceedings by congratulating and praising Sope for contributing to the success of Headie One’s ‘Edna’ which debuted at No.1 on the UK Album Charts (2:46). The news section is short and sweet as the boys put their two pence in about the controversy that arose from Ivorian Doll’s Daily Duppy on GRM Daily. An opportunity she used to continue her long-running beef with Abigail Asante and MISS RFABULOUS (28:45). Rounding up this week’s episode is an in-depth interview with Marcus J. Moore where they discuss his origins for wanting to write the very first Kendrick Lamar biography. The conversation also moves into the importance of key moments in his career like the ‘Control’ verse to losing several Grammys to Macklemore in 2014. While also discussing the space, he occupies in Black America’s heart and psyche and how he followed the innovative paths set by Miles Davis and A Tribe Called Quest (41:26).

Not one to miss!

Sope’s Listens for the Week:

  • Marlena Shaw - The Spice Of Life
  • Marlena Shaw - Sweet Beginnings
  • Kelly Rowland - Crazy

Nic’s Listens for the Week:

  • Dylan Sinclair – Proverb
  • Bbymutha - Motherland

Eden’s Listens for the Week:

  • N/A

Remember to RATE, REVIEW AND SUBSCRIBE!

Enjoy!

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Intro Music by: @Jmzofficial

Artwork designed by: @_manlikemike

Episode audio edited by: @TonySupremeuk

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Get involved!

Don't forget to tweet us your thoughts on the episode at #DATSPOD!

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Hashtag - #DATSPOD / #DontAlertTheStans

Oct 19, 202001:56:42
'IT'S ALL A MESS' (Chip Vs Stormzy, Savage x Fenty Islam Controversy, Tory Lanez Officially Charged With Megan Thee Stallion Shooting)

'IT'S ALL A MESS' (Chip Vs Stormzy, Savage x Fenty Islam Controversy, Tory Lanez Officially Charged With Megan Thee Stallion Shooting)

Welcome back to Don’t Alert the Stans!

For this week’s episode, Sope & Eden discuss Bryson Tiller’s recently released projects ‘T R A P S O U L (Deluxe)’ and ‘Anniversary’. They consider as to why he’s struggling to evolve as an artist and the cause for the dip in quality. This is quickly followed by a #RespectingLegends session as Sope revels in the majesty of Mariah Carey’s new album of unreleased gems ‘The Rarities’ (19:00). Kicking off the news agenda this week is two of the UK’s most formidable MCs; Chip and Stormzy. Chip put out two diss tracks against Stormzy after it was revealed that the BRIT-Award winner attempted to roll up on him at his home (39:24). The Muslim community found itself in uproar following the controversial inclusion of sacred Islamic verses in Rihanna’s Savage x Fenty fashion show (59:55). At long last, after three months of speculation and varying accounts, Tory Lanez has officially been charged with the shooting of Megan Thee Stallion and is facing up to 22 years in prison (01:08:38).

Not one to miss!

Sope’s Listens for the Week:

  • Mariah Carey - The Rarities
  • Bryson Tiller - T R A P S O U L (Deluxe)
  • Amber Riley - BGE
  • Giveon - When It’s All Said & Done

Nic’s Listens for the Week:

  • Joji - Nectar

Eden’s Listens for the Week:

  • Giveon - When It’s All Said & Done
  • Thundercat - It Is What It Is

Remember to RATE, REVIEW AND SUBSCRIBE!

Enjoy!

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Intro Music by: @Jmzofficial

Artwork designed by: @_manlikemike

Episode audio edited by: @TonySupremeuk

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Get involved!

Don't forget to tweet us your thoughts on the episode at #DATSPOD!

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Hashtag - #DATSPOD / #DontAlertTheStans

Oct 12, 202001:16:04
'JUST A LOT OF F*CKERY' FEATURING JOEY AKAN (Afrobeats Global Renaissance, The Political Legacy Of Fela Kuti, The West's Embrace of African Culture)

'JUST A LOT OF F*CKERY' FEATURING JOEY AKAN (Afrobeats Global Renaissance, The Political Legacy Of Fela Kuti, The West's Embrace of African Culture)

Welcome back to Don’t Alert the Stans!

For this week’s episode, the boys are joined by Joey Akan, one of the leading voices covering contemporary African music. A journalist, writer and media consultant, Joey is the Founder/CEO of Afrobeats Intelligence. He has also contributed to the likes of The Fader, The New York Times, OkayAfrica, Highsnobiety, CNN, DJ Booth and many others. As there is no news agenda this week, the boys dedicate the lion share of this week’s episode to an in-depth interview with Joey where they discuss the milestones and watershed moments that led to Afrobeats current renaissance. Elsewhere they muse on the influence and impact of US/UK artists borrowing from African music on African nations itself, the perception of lesser known and lesser acclaimed African genres like alte, gqom, highlife and juju and much more! (43:04).

Not one to miss!

Sope’s Listens for the Week:

  • Durand Bernarr – Dur&
  • RILEY - BGE

Nic’s Listens for the Week:

  • 21 Savage x Metro Boomin - Savage      Mode III

Eden’s Listens for the Week:

  • Bryson Tiller – Anniversary
  • dvsn – A Muse In Her Feeligns

Remember to RATE, REVIEW AND SUBSCRIBE!

Enjoy!

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Intro Music by: @Jmzofficial

Artwork designed by: @_manlikemike

Episode audio edited by: @TonySupremeuk

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Get involved!

Don't forget to tweet us your thoughts on the episode at #DATSPOD!

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Follow us on:

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Hashtag - #datspod / #DontAlertTheStans

Oct 05, 202002:08:21
'SAME OLD SH*T, NOTHING NEW' (Channel U Returns To TV,  The Audacity Of Tory Lanez, Rolling Stone Update List of GOAT Albums)

'SAME OLD SH*T, NOTHING NEW' (Channel U Returns To TV, The Audacity Of Tory Lanez, Rolling Stone Update List of GOAT Albums)

Welcome back to Don’t Alert the Stans!

For this week’s episode, the boys kick things off by celebrating the return of Channel U. A childhood staple in all their lives, the boys reflect on their memories and experiences with the channel, while putting forth ideas about how they should position themselves in 2020 (00:19:20). Lupe Fiasco caused enormous debate among Hip-Hop purists and Gen Z fans online when he tweeted that he’s a better lyricist than Kendrick Lamar. Spurring a discussion about what constitutes “real lyricism” and whether elitist and classist ideals play a part these designations (00:38:30). Acclaimed music institution Rolling Stone recently unveiled their new and revised list of the ‘The 500 Greatest Albums of All Time’, updating the so-called definitive music canon to be more inclusive of people of colour and women. The boys revel in the some of the new additions of particular artists and genres, but they also point out the arbitrary nature of lists like this. What purpose do they serve in this day and age? (01:08:02). Rounding off the episode this week is Tory Lanez who has controversially decided to address the Megan Thee Stallion allegations by releasing an album of passive-aggressive and self-centred tracks (01:41:03).

Sope’s Listens for the Week:

  • Durand Bernarr – Dur&
  • Devin Morrison - Bussin
  • Devin Morrison - Kiss
  • Pieces of A Dream - Warm      Weather

Nic’s Listens for the Week:

  • J.I the Prince of N.Y – Painless
  • J.I the Prince of N.Y – Hood Scars 2
  • J.I the Prince of N.Y – Proud Of Me
  • Slayter – Up The Score feat. 22Gz      & Maxo Kream
  • Slayter – Who Gone Love You

Eden’s Listens for the Week:

  • Raveena - Lucid

Remember to RATE, REVIEW AND SUBSCRIBE!

Enjoy!

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Intro Music by: @Jmzofficial

Artwork designed by: @_manlikemike

Episode audio edited by: @TonySupremeuk

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Get involved!

Don't forget to tweet us your thoughts on the episode at #DATSPOD!

Rate and review us on Soundcloud, Apple Music, Spotify and Anchor

Follow us on:

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Anchor – @datspodcast

Hashtag - #datspod / #DontAlertTheStans

Sep 28, 202002:04:51
'THEY'RE IN YOUR BAG' (Kanye West Exposes Record Label Misconduct, Warner Music Buys Hip Hop DX, Gladys Knight VS Patti LaBelle)

'THEY'RE IN YOUR BAG' (Kanye West Exposes Record Label Misconduct, Warner Music Buys Hip Hop DX, Gladys Knight VS Patti LaBelle)

Welcome back to Don’t Alert the Stans!

For this week’s episode, Eden sets off proceedings by asking Sope a series of questions pertaining to his day to day experiences as a Black man working in Music PR (00:04:56). During the listens section, a spontaneous discussion surrounding Ne-Yo is sparked as the boys ponder over why he fell off and why he’s not celebrated in the same manner as Usher, Chris Brown or Trey Songz (00:44:01). Kicking off the news section this week is the latest edition of #VERZUZ which saw Gladys Knight go head to head with Patti LaBelle. As the resident uncle of the show, Sope reels off both his favourite moments and his displacement at some of the track selections (00:58:09). It is becoming more and more apparent that various media and music companies are starting to become one in the same. The recent acquisition of Hip-Hop DX by Warner Music brings into question, ideas about re-establishing gatekeepers and the free market (01:15:16). Rounding up the episode is none other than Kanye West. Eden & Sope manage to comb through oodles of his tweets to examine his recent revelations about the thorny contracts he’s attempting to exit. While also looking at how his mental health and polarising reputation makes it hard for people to take him seriously even though he’s shining a light on issues that deserve attention (01:40:05).

Sope’s Listens for the Week:

· Khruangbin - Moredchai

· Ledisi - The Wild Card

· Toni Braxton - Spell My Name

· Ne-Yo - Drinks Up

Nic’s Listens for the Week:

· N/A

Eden’s Listens for the Week:

  • Durand Bernarr - Dur8
  • Usher - Bad Habits
  • Devin Morrison Feat. Alex Isley      - Kiss
  • Devin Morrison - Bussin

Remember to RATE, REVIEW AND SUBSCRIBE!

Enjoy!

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Intro Music by: @Jmzofficial

Artwork designed by: @_manlikemike

Episode audio edited by: @TonySupremeuk

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Get involved!

Don't forget to tweet us your thoughts on the episode at #DATSPOD!

Rate and review us on Soundcloud, Apple Music, Spotify and Anchor

Follow us on:

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Anchor – @datspodcast

Hashtag - #datspod / #DontAlertTheStans

Sep 21, 202002:11:07
'TWO UNCLES IN A POD' Featuring STEFAN BERTIN (Gladys Knight #VERZUZ Patti Labelle, The 2020 Rated Awards, Tory Lanez Addresses Megan Thee Stallion)

'TWO UNCLES IN A POD' Featuring STEFAN BERTIN (Gladys Knight #VERZUZ Patti Labelle, The 2020 Rated Awards, Tory Lanez Addresses Megan Thee Stallion)

Welcome back to Don’t Alert the Stans!
For this week’s episode, the boys are joined by Stefan Bertin who works as a celebrity hairstylist and groomer. Previous clients include Letitia Wright, Kehlani, Alexandra Burke, Katy Perry, Vogue, Harper's Bazaar, Gucci, Farfetch, Chanel and more. Kicking off this week’s news agenda is a story that illuminates Sope and Stefan’s mutual bond as Uncle’s; the announcement that soul legends Gladys Knight and Patti LaBelle will be going head to head for the next #VERZUS (27:09). Tory Lanez has finally broken his silence regarding the shooting of Megan Thee Stallion and his response has been received less than favourably (44:55). The 2020 Rated Awards recently took place and as Nic reads out the nominees/winners, it’s evident that Eden is confused at some of the artists who were crowned this year (1:03:00). Rounding up this week’s episode is an in-depth interview with Stefan where he discusses the historic ties between music and iconic hairstyles over the years, the importance hair plays in the development of an artist’s image and marketing, his blossoming working relationship with Letitia Wright and his adoration for Mary J. Blige and Ledisi (1:45:17).
Not one to miss!
Sope’s Listens for the Week:

SZA – Hit Different
SZA - CTRL
Disclosure – ENERGY
Victoria Monet - Moment

Nic’s Listens for the Week:
· Galimatias – Renaissance Boy
Eden’s Listens for the Week:

Murkage Dave – Murkage Dave Saved My Life
Khruangbin - Mordechai

Stefan’s Listens for the Week:

Toni Braxton – Spell My Name
Ledisi – The Wild Card
Brasstracks – Golden Ticket

Remember to RATE, REVIEW AND SUBSCRIBE!
Enjoy!
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Intro Music by: @Jmzofficial
Artwork designed by: @_manlikemike
Episode audio edited by: @TonySupremeuk
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Get involved!
Don't forget to tweet us your thoughts on the episode at #DATSPOD!
Rate and review us on Soundcloud, Apple Music, Spotify and Anchor
Follow us on:
Twitter - @datspod
Instagram - @datspod
Anchor – @datspodcast
Hashtag - #datspod / #DontAlertTheStans
Sep 14, 202002:15:25
'INVISIBLE SMALL PRINT' (Joe Budden vs Spotify, Adele appropriation?, #FreeBritney Conservatorship)

'INVISIBLE SMALL PRINT' (Joe Budden vs Spotify, Adele appropriation?, #FreeBritney Conservatorship)

Welcome back to Don’t Alert the Stans!

In this weeks episode, Nic and Eden celebrate as Nic publishes new pieces for The Face, and Paper Magazine. As the episode progresses the boys discuss finding your purpose in your career and the controversy following Joe Budden’s allegations against Spotify. This leads to a conversation about ownership, and the dangers of the music and podcast industry when you are negotiating long-term contracts without understanding your positioning. Following this the boys discuss the Adele controversy and whether it could be classified as appropriation or appreciation. As the conversation continues they then delve into Britney Spears conservatorship issues, as she backs the #FreeBritney movement, and lastly the boys discuss the growing war between tech giants as Amazon, Google, Spotify and Youtube battle for your attention, data and more. Not one to miss!

Remember to RATE, REVIEW AND SUBSCRIBE!

Enjoy!

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Intro Music by: @Jmzofficial

Artwork designed by: @_manlikemike

Episode audio edited by: @TonySupremeuk

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Get involved!

Don't forget to tweet us your thoughts on the episode at #DATSPOD!

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Hashtag - #datspod / #DontAlertTheStans
Sep 07, 202002:19:47
'CANCEL THE CANCEL CULTURE' (Brandy #VERZUZ Monica, Does Cancel Culture Target Straight Men?, Aaliyah's Catalogue Coming To Streaming Services))

'CANCEL THE CANCEL CULTURE' (Brandy #VERZUZ Monica, Does Cancel Culture Target Straight Men?, Aaliyah's Catalogue Coming To Streaming Services))

Welcome back to Don’t Alert the Stans!

After a nearly three-month hiatus, Eden, Sope and Nic are back! Season 5 is finally here and is rightly kicking off with a jam-packed episode. Proceedings begin on a sombre note as the boys express their feelings about the sudden death of Chadwick Boseman (02:23). During the listen’s session, Eden and Nic have an in-depth discussion around the many shortcomings on Burna Boy’s new album ‘Twice As Tall’ (16:30). The unexpected announcement that R&B legends and long-term rivals Brandy and Monica will be coming together to participate in the latest edition of #VERZUZ sets off this week’s news agenda (37:31). Next up is 50 Cent, who once again has caused a stir online following comments stating that cancel culture appears to target straight men. (50:35). Rounding off the episode is a news topic that transitions into the return of #GroupchatConvos. Aaliyah’s estate has announced that they have begun preliminary discussions which could see Aaliyah’s catalogue finally make its way to streaming services. Off the back of this, Sope leads a discussion venting his frustrations about social media users who use Aaliyah’s death to berate and delegitimise other female artists such as Beyonce, Rihanna, Ciara and Ashanti (1:11:19).

Sope’s Listens for the Week:

  • N/A

Nic’s Listens for the Week:

· Bree Runway - Gucci

· Mulatto – Queen Of Da Souf

Eden’s Listens for the Week:

· Nines - Crabs in a Bucket

· Burna Boy – Twice As Tall

· Jayla Darden- Ideas, Vol 2

Remember to RATE, REVIEW AND SUBSCRIBE!

Enjoy!

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Intro Music by: @Jmzofficial

Artwork designed by: @_manlikemike

Episode audio edited by: @TonySupremeuk

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Get involved!

Don't forget to tweet us your thoughts on the episode at #DATSPOD!

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Hashtag - #datspod / #DontAlertTheStans

Aug 31, 202001:41:01
'CTRL ALT DELETE' (Capital Xtra's #BlackLivesMatter Controversy, Austin Daboh Joins Atlantic Records, Changes to GRAMMYs Categories)

'CTRL ALT DELETE' (Capital Xtra's #BlackLivesMatter Controversy, Austin Daboh Joins Atlantic Records, Changes to GRAMMYs Categories)

Welcome back to Don’t Alert the Stans!

In circumstances that almost made it impossible, we have reached the season finale! Kicking off Season 4’s conclusion is the controversy surrounding Capital Xtra’s Yinka Bokinni and Shayna Marie Birch-Campbell. The two breakfast show hosts have criticised their parent company Global Radio for not taking a strong enough stance on the #BlackLivesMatter movement. Next up is Austin Daboh who has left his role at Apple Music for an Executive Vice President position at Atlantic Records UK. Led by Nic, the boys consider what a black man in such a high-powered role will mean for the landscape of black music in England. Rounding up the episode is The Recording Academy who have announced a number of puzzling changes to the names of several GRAMMY categories.

Not one to miss!

Sope’s Listens for the Week:
• Beverley Knight – Who I Am
• Toni Braxton - I Don't Want To (Frankie Knuckles Original Edited Mix)
• Buddy - Black 2
• Azealia Banks - Black Madonna

Nic’s Listens for the Week:
• Lil Yachty – Lil Boat 3
• Pop Smoke Feat. Rowdy Rebel – Make It Rain
• Hare Sqeuad Feat. EDEN – DISLOYAL WTF
• Novelist – Stay With Me

Eden’s Listens for the Week:
• Pa Salieu – Betty
• Pa Salieu – Hit The Block
• Pa Salieu – Frontline
• Ginette Claudette – Onto Something
• Tamu Oaks – Red Curtains

Remember to RATE, REVIEW AND SUBSCRIBE!

Enjoy!
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Intro Music by: @Jmzofficial
Artwork designed by: @_manlikemike
Episode audio edited by: @TonySupremeuk
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Get involved!

Don't forget to tweet us your thoughts on the episode at #DATSPOD!

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Anchor – @datspodcast
Hashtag - #datspod / #DontAlertTheStans

Jun 16, 202001:25:57
'WE WANT A #BLACKOUTLIFE' (#BlackOutTuesday, Trina Criticises #BlackLivesMatter Protesters, Republic Records Banishes The Term 'Urban')

'WE WANT A #BLACKOUTLIFE' (#BlackOutTuesday, Trina Criticises #BlackLivesMatter Protesters, Republic Records Banishes The Term 'Urban')

Welcome back to Don’t Alert the Stans!

For this week’s episode, the ongoing racial tensions clamouring the world at present, once again trickle into the show’s itinerary. Kicking off this week’s news agenda, is the #BlackOutTuesday movement that took place across the music industry. Eden, Nic & Sope share their concerns around its legitimacy and how it can effectively play a part in the fight for black liberation. The self-proclaimed ‘Da Baddest Bitch’ Trina was in hot water this past week, when she voiced her disgust at the Miami #BlackLivesMatter protests and riots in support of George Floyd and Breonna Taylor. Rounding up the news junket this week, is the announcement that Republic Records have decided that they are to completely do away with the racially-coded term ‘urban’ at every facet of the company.

Not one to miss!

To send us a voicenote, use this link: https://anchor.fm/datspodcast/message

Sope’s Listens for the Week:

  • Fred Hammond - A Closer Walk, A Song of Strength
  • Mary J Blige – I Never Wanna Live Without You
  • Kirk Franklin - Revolution, Silver & Gold
  • Solange – A Seat At The Table
  • Donny Hathaway & Roberta Flack - Be Real Black For Me, Come Ye Disconsolate.

Nic’s Listens for the Week:

  • Gunna - Wunna
  • Chiiild – Synthetic Soul

Eden’s Listens for the Week:

  • Kano – Hoodies All Summer
  • @Theyhavetherange – Instagram Profile

Remember to RATE, REVIEW AND SUBSCRIBE! 

Enjoy!

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Intro Music by: @Jmzofficial

Artwork designed by: @_manlikemike

Episode audio edited by: @TonySupremeuk

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Get involved!

Don't forget to tweet us your thoughts on the episode at #DATSPOD!

Rate and review us on Soundcloud, Apple Music, Spotify and Anchor

Follow us on:

Twitter - @datspod

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Anchor – @datspodcast

Hashtag - #datspod / #DontAlertTheStans

Jun 08, 202001:39:13
'ARE YOU WITH US?' (#BlackLivesMatter, Def Jam Africa, Doja Cat Issues Statement, Megan Thee Stallion Tops Hot 100)

'ARE YOU WITH US?' (#BlackLivesMatter, Def Jam Africa, Doja Cat Issues Statement, Megan Thee Stallion Tops Hot 100)

Welcome back to Don’t Alert the Stans!

For this week’s episode, Eden, Nic & Sope break away from their regularly light-hearted disposition to express support for the #BlackLivesMatter movement. The boys individually share their thoughts on the recent murders of George Floyd, Tony McDade, Breonna Taylor, Belly Mujinga and Ahmaud Arbery. Circling back to regular proceedings, the news agenda begins with the news that Megan Thee Stallion has finally topped the Billboard Hot 100 with the remix of ‘Savage’ featuring Beyoncé. Next up, the boys debate the significance of a massive Hip-Hop conglomerate like Def Jam Recordings opening a subsidiary of their label dedicated to African artists. Closing the episode is an in-depth dissection of Doja Cat’s official response(s) to the many allegations of white supremacist and self-hating behaviour surrounding her in the last few weeks.

Not one to miss!

Sope’s Listens for the Week:

  • Chante Moore - Wey U
  • Lucky Daye Feat. Chronixx &      Medisun - Roll Some Mo Reggae Remix
  • Lucky Daye - Shoulda

Nicolas’s Listens for the Week:

  • Tems - These Days

Eden’s Listens for the Week:

  • Ms Dynamite - A Little Deeper

Remember to RATE, REVIEW AND SUBSCRIBE!

Enjoy!

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Intro Music by: @Jmzofficial

Artwork designed by: @_manlikemike

Episode audio edited by: @TonySupremeuk

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Get involved!

Don't forget to tweet us your thoughts on the episode at #DATSPOD!

Rate and review us on Soundcloud, Apple Music, Spotify and Anchor

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Anchor – @datspodcast

Hashtag - #datspod / #DontAlertTheStans

Jun 01, 202001:33:45