What is the DJ's Current Role in Hip-Hop? - KUT & KUTX Studios

Summary

Inspired by an onstage outburst at a recent Wiz Khalifa concert, Confucius & Fresh kick off this edition of The Breaks by reexamining the once-central role of the DJ in the context of contemporary hip-hop.

This week’s Hip-Hop Facts packs tidbits on 50 Cent’s “How to Rob”, Tupac’s relationship with Suge Knight, Akon’s use of onstage decoys, the 1995 Source Awards, and Rakim’s unlikely journey into becoming a rap superstar.

Fresh’s Unpopular Opinion suggests that despite surface-level appearances, Mase of Naughty By Nature is NOT a victim of Puff Daddy.

Lastly, Confucius Reads the News about the latest Monkeypox developments, Biden’s ongoing COVID tests, Alex Jones’ Sandy Hook trial phone fiasco, and the passing of KUT/KUTX legend John Aielli.

« Is Rap the Most Dangerous Profession?

The Curious Case of Rap Mags »

↑ Hide All Episodes

March 31, 2025

Is SXSW Over? (feat. B. Hobbs of SXSW)

On this week’s episode we interview B. Hobbs who is the Director of Programming for SXSW to discuss the changes for next year. We also have some brand new hip-hop facts and of course Unpopular Opinion with Fresh himself.

Listen

March 10, 2025

Is Jermaine Dupri out of touch?

On this episode we discuss legendary producer/artist Jermaine Dupri’s comments on artists not wanting to be independent. We also discuss the recent Austin Music Awards and some criticisms levied at them from local artists.

Listen

March 3, 2025

SXSBREAKS!

It’s that time of year where we discuss our annual official SXSW Showcase SXSBreaks and our amazing line up. We also discuss Rza from Wu Tang’s comments about the rise of southern hip-hop.

Listen

February 24, 2025

Rap Beef Episode III: Revenge of the South (Re-Run)

This episode is a rerun from 10/7. On the finale of the fellas’ series on rap beefs, Confucius and Fresh head to the south for rows in Texas, Florida, and Louisiana from the late ’80s through the ’00s.

Listen

February 17, 2025

Will Outkast make it into the Rock ‘N Roll Hall of Fame?

Fresh and Confucius discuss whether Outkast has a legitimate chance at making the Rock ‘N Roll Hall of Fame. The pair also breakdown Kendrick Lamar’s halftime show and their thoughts on it.

Listen

February 10, 2025

Did Beyonce Get What She Deserved?

Was Beyonce winning the AOTY a little too late? We also pay homage to hip-hop producer/executive Irv Gotti who passed away last week.

Listen

February 3, 2025

Is a Jay-Z feature still worth it?

On this episode Fresh and Confucius discuss the difference between podcasting and radio and if a Jay-Z feature is still worth it to artists.

Listen

January 27, 2025

Frenemies?

What is the issue between old friends, and artists, Jim Jones and Cam’ron? Also we discuss rappers cozying up to Trump’s new presidency.