No Ceilings with Glasses Malone

May 29 · 1h 58m

In this episode of No Ceilings Live, Glasses Malone and the crew pull listeners behind the scenes as they map out plans for the evolving CCS/Crip Store space, discussing everything from studio design and vinyl flooring to retail displays, DJ booth concepts, and exclusive autographed gangster-rap memorabilia. What begins as a conversation about music quickly expands into entrepreneurship, brand building, and creating a cultural hub that reflects the history and influence of West Coast hip-hop. The crew also addresses the realities of online discourse, pushing back against social media-fueled narratives, manufactured rivalries, and the pressure to constantly “pick sides” in artist conflicts. The episode takes a more personal turn as Glasses shares an emotional update on his brother Moses, reflecting on the challenges, frustrations, and resilience that come with a long recovery journey. Later, Snoop Dogg joins the conversation to address royalty disputes involving Daz Dillinger, breaking down music industry realities such as advances, recoupment, publishing, and artist compensation. Blending personal reflection, business insight, and hip-hop industry transparency, this episode offers a raw look at family, loyalty, entrepreneurship, and navigating conflict both online and behind the scenes.   Rate, subscribe, comment and share. Follow NC on IG: @GlassesLocSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

May 26 · 43m

In this episode of No Ceilings, Glasses Malone sits down with writer and showrunner Malcolm Spellman for an in-depth conversation about Hollywood, storytelling, and the realities of large-scale television production. Spellman breaks down how major productions operate like “300-person machines,” with union dynamics, departmental politics, and the immense pressure placed on showrunners when projects succeed or fail. The discussion explores what makes timeless storytelling resonate, with praise for The Wire as a groundbreaking example of authentic, layered writing, while also unpacking how long-running shows often struggle to maintain quality without “jumping the shark.” The conversation also dives into Malcolm Spellman’s unconventional journey into the entertainment industry, from selling a spec script to building a résumé that includes Empire, Truth Be Told, The Falcon and the Winter Soldier, Hip Hop Uncovered, Captain America: Brave New World, Bel-Air, and Snowfall. Together, they discuss how technology and streaming have shifted music and film into market-share businesses, while highlighting the importance of preserving authenticity and human storytelling in hip-hop and entertainment culture.   Rate, subscribe, comment and share. Follow NC on IG: @GlassesLoc @malcolm_spellmanSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

May 19 · 1h 13m

In this episode of No Ceilings, Glasses Malone sits down with Mackwop of Top Dawg Entertainment for a candid conversation about hip-hop, branding, and the realities of building a career in music. Mackwop reflects on “falling into” rap before realizing how much he still needed to learn about the business side of the culture—from understanding BPMs and hit records to marketing, branding, and artist development. He shares stories about early mentorship, creating records like “200,” quitting his job to fully pursue music, and approaching early label deals with a hustler mentality instead of a long-term artistic vision. The discussion also explores the evolution of streaming, podcasting, and independent media following projects like Tupac Must Die, an iHeartMedia podcast deal, personal setbacks, and the release of Cancelled. Mackwop and Glasses unpack how digital platforms have become more difficult yet more powerful for shaping identity, building community, and giving outsiders a fuller perspective on street culture. They also critique the rise of “hood vlogs,” the commercialization of street credibility, and the lack of accountability surrounding cultural exploitation—delivering a raw conversation on authenticity, survival, and protecting the integrity of hip-hop culture.   Rate, subscribe, comment and share. Follow NC on IG: @GlassesLoc @mackwopSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

May 12 · 1h 22m

In this episode of No Ceilings, Glasses Malone sits down with Toronto-based artist Sty Low to discuss street culture, identity, and hip-hop’s global influence. Originally from France with Ivorian roots, Sty Low shares how artists like Bone Thugs-N-Harmony, Tupac Shakur, and Snoop Dogg helped shape his understanding of English and hip-hop culture. The conversation breaks down how “gang banging” is often misunderstood as only violence rather than community politics, diplomacy, and territorial navigation, while also exploring the global perception of Canada, Toronto street culture, and the international impact of the Drake vs. Kendrick Lamar battle. The discussion expands into the music industry’s marketing tactics, with Glasses examining how labels use “Passover” artists to introduce Black music to mainstream white audiences, drawing comparisons across rap, rock, and R&B history. He also distinguishes rap from hip-hop culture, emphasizing authenticity, local storytelling, and the importance of artists embracing their real-life experiences and cultural roots.  Rate, subscribe, comment and share. Follow NC on IG: @GlassesLoc @mister_d.o.p.eSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

May 6 · 2h 3m

In this episode of No Ceilings, Glasses Malone is joined by author and sportswriter Jeff Pearlman for a deep dive into music history, sampling, and the evolution of hip-hop production. Using examples tied to Michael Jackson, Marvin Gaye, and Ray Charles, they break down how interpolation and influence have shaped pop and hip-hop music, arguing that borrowing from the past doesn’t diminish artistry when done with intention and acknowledgment. The conversation also touches on legal controversies like Robin Thicke’s case, while highlighting how elite producers such as Pharrell Williams, DJ Quik, and Dr. Dre transform inspiration into innovation, and why early hip-hop artists often had deeper musical foundations. The discussion shifts to Pearlman’s book Only God Can Judge Me, offering an investigative look into the life of Tupac Shakur. Pearlman shares insights into the extensive research behind the project, uncovering lesser-known stories, family history, and the real-life context behind songs like “Brenda’s Got a Baby.” They also address public backlash, misconceptions, and the challenges of telling complex stories about iconic figures. Blending music analysis with cultural storytelling, this episode delivers a thoughtful exploration of artistry, legacy, and the deeper narratives that shape hip-hop history.   Rate, subscribe, comment and share. Follow NC on IG: @GlassesLoc @jeff_pearlmanSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Apr 28 · 1h 2m

In the Season 6 premiere of No Ceilings, Glasses Malone joined by Justin Hunte, and Scru Face Jean dive into how social media and parasocial fandom have reshaped hip-hop culture and discourse. Comparing today’s online environment to earlier eras where respect carried real-world consequences, the crew unpacks the rise of trolling, burner accounts, and performative “stan” behavior. They also react to receiving a suspicious “OVO Docket” email alleging a slander lawsuit—highlighting inconsistencies and using the moment to reflect on how far the Drake vs. Kendrick Lamar battle fallout has spread across the internet. The conversation expands into the psychology of modern fandom, where identity, engagement, and social currency often outweigh genuine artist support. From bot-like behavior and harassment tactics to debates around accountability, blocking, and digital boundaries, the hosts break down the blurred lines between fans and participants in hip-hop narratives. Scru Face Jean also addresses concerns about being tied to lawsuit narratives, framing the larger issue as a threat to hip-hop culture and free expression—making this episode a sharp look at the intersection of music, media, and internet culture.   Rate, subscribe, comment and share. Follow NC on IG: @GlassesLoc @scrufacejean @thecompanymanSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Apr 21 · 2h 32m

In this episode, the speakers explore the intersection of health, nutrition, and the music industry, sharing personal insights on diet, hydration, and the mental clarity that can come with lifestyle changes like veganism. From there, the conversation transitions into a deeper look at the power of marketing in music—how it can elevate even average songs or, without it, cause great records to go unheard. They spotlight the careers of artists like Frank Ocean, Usher, Michael Jackson, TLC, and Keith Sweat, unpacking how talent, timing, and strategy shaped their legacies. The dialogue also touches on the evolution of R&B, the challenges of standing out in today’s crowded landscape, and the importance of fan connection. With passionate debates around vocal ability, artist rankings, and creative struggles, the episode offers an honest reflection on what it really takes to thrive in both wellness and music. Tune in and join the conversation in the socials below.  Rate, subscribe, comment and share. Follow NC on IG: @GlassesLocSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Apr 3 · 1h 15m

In this episode of No Ceilings, the crew dives into a wide-ranging conversation on food, culture, and the way media shapes how we see the world. They trade thoughts on culinary favorites, the unique vibe of Florida, and how movies influence regional identity and perception. The discussion moves into foodie culture and the evolution of radio’s role in discovering music, exploring how social media and shifting habits are redefining what it means to be a fan. Reflecting on generational changes and the challenges of staying relevant in a digital landscape, the crew considers what the future holds for radio and the culture it helped build.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mar 24 · 1h 12m

In this episode of No Ceilings, Glasses Malone reflects on the evolution of hip-hop party culture after a night out in Los Angeles, contrasting the energy of older crowds with the disconnected vibe of younger partygoers. He breaks down how the dance floor—once central to breaking hit records—has been replaced by phones, social media, bottle service culture, and after-parties, where people prioritize filming over real interaction. The conversation highlights how nightlife has shifted from organic connection and music discovery to digital validation and delayed communication through DMs. The crew debates when this cultural shift began—pointing to the mid-2000s through 2008—and references influential eras from 50 Cent, Jeezy, Lil Wayne, Kanye West, Pharrell, and the hyphy/jerk movements. They also discuss how changes in sound, including the rise of slower tempos and drug-influenced vibes, impacted the energy of clubs and music. Ultimately, the episode argues that restoring authentic party culture could be key to reviving hip-hop’s ability to create timeless, impactful records. Rate, subscribe, comment and share. Follow NC on IG: @GlassesLoc @trapbradshaw @albebackSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.