The Breaks – KUTX
Confucius and Fresh discuss all things hip-hop, covering the latest news, music, and culture in the genre. The show features interviews with artists and commentary on trends in hip-hop.
Episodes
Ridin’ Dirty Down IH-35 w/ Vontay Galaxy
On this episode we talk with Austin rap artist Vontay Galaxy about his start at Texas State and traveling up and down IH-35 spreading his music. We also talk about if there is a lack of new rap superstars being created to supplement the genres growth. Hip-Hop Facts this week include facts about Ol Dirty […]
NYC to AUS w/ Jai Bliss
On this episode we interview Austin rapper Jai Bliss about her musical journey from New York City to Austin and her musical inspirations. We also discuss the long awaited murder conviction in the case of 2pac that is 30 years in the making. Hip-Hop Facts include facts about Beyonce, Travis Scott, Pimp C and more. […]
Austin Do We Have A Problem?
On this episode we discuss what are favorite rappers bio movies are and our reservations about the upcoming Snoop Dogg film. We also discuss whether or not Austin is trying to ease off its support for hip-hop in comparison to years past. Hip-Hip Facts this week include facts about MC Hammer, Prince, Case and more. […]
New Generations of Hip-Hop
On this episode we have a conversation with KUTX interns Joel and Monica about their first introduction to hip-hop. Hip-Hop Facts include facts about Frank Ocean, Jay-Z, Outkast and more. Fresh’s Unpopular Opinion this week is that Do It Yourself artists do more harm than good to their careers.
GOAT Talk
We are still celebrating the birthday of Hip-Hop! On this episode, we discuss our favorite rap albums and also what we consider the biggest disappointment in Hip-hop history. Hip-Hop Facts this week is a little different as we both tell two truths and a lie and have to guess which one is the lie. Fresh’s […]
Happy Birthday Hip-Hop! w/ Tee Double
On this episode we celebrate the 54th anniversary of the creation of Hip-Hop with Austin legend (and future Hall of Famer) Tee Double. Hip-Hop Facts include facts about hip-hop unique to both Confucius and Fresh’s childhood. Fresh’s Unpopular Opinion is that counter culture in Austin is non-existent.
What is the KCC Fest? w/ Sunhi & Cherri
On this episode we interview artists Cherri and Sunhi (Sue-Knee) about their viewpoint on R&B in Austin and also their upcoming performances at the Kinky Coily Curly festival. Hip-Hop Facts include facts about Nas, Frank Ocean, Danny Bonaduce and more. Fresh’s Unpopular Opinion is that all AI flyers aren’t that bad.
Do Rappers Owe Their Communities?
On this episode we talk about Jay Z’s three night residency at Yankee Stadium and what it means for his overall legacy. We also discuss if rappers owe the communities they come out of or social issues in general. Hip-Hop Facts include facts about Aaliyah, Barry White, The Notorious B.I.G. and more. Fresh’s Unpopular Opinion […]
Summer Jam 2026! w/ Soto the Activist
On this episode we discuss our upcoming Hot Summer Nights showcase, Summer Jam, and we interview Austin hip-hop artist Soto the Activist, who is also performing there. We also discuss if 2pac was as big a star, alive, as he was in death. Hip-Hop facts include facts about DJ Jazzy Jeff, Lil Kim, Bow Wow […]
Fake It Till You Make It
On this episode we discuss the lawsuit against rapper Moneybagg Yo and his manager over funding of his career and him not already being rich before fame. We also give our thoughts on if the BET Awards are still an important part of the culture. Hip-Hop Facts this week include facts about Jill Scott, Barack […]
Orange & Blue Skies
On this episode we discuss the New York Knicks winning their first NBA championship in 53 years. We also discuss our favorite New York rap anthems to help Knicks celebrate. Hip-Hop Facts this week include facts about Backstreet Boys, Ludacris, Earth Wind & Fire and more. Fresh’s Unpopular Opinion is that Jay-Z teaming up with […]
Is Female Rap In Trouble?
On this episode we touch on a subject, we have discussed before with male rappers, but this time we talk about, the seemingly decline in popularity of female rappers. We also discuss if having a great discography is more important than having monster singles. Hip-Hop Facts this week include facts about Earth Wind and Fire, […]
Hovi Baby!
On this episode, we discuss Jay-Z’s recent performance at the Roots Picnic and the controversy that came with it. We also discuss what is more important, musical legacy or breaking records. Hip-Hop Facts this week include facts about Tom Holland, Toni Braxton, Janet Jackson and more. Fresh’s Unpopular Opinion is about a reboot of a […]
Our Minds Were Always Free w/ Lisa Davis
On this episode we interview entertainment lawyer, author, Lisa Davis about her book Our Minds Were Always Free. We also discuss Complex’s list of the top 50 New York rappers of all time. Hip-Hop Facts this week include facts about Rebbie Jackson, Andre 3000, Big L and more. Fresh’s Unpopular Opinion touches on how the […]
Is The Iceman (Drake) Melting?
On this episode we discuss our thoughts on Drake’s newest album(s) and whether or not he is still the king of hip-hop. We also discuss the history of black exploitation in music and it’s impact into today. Hip-Hop Facts include facts about Rihanna, Busta Rhymes, The Dream and more. Fresh’s Unpopular Opinion actually has some […]
Happy Mother’s Day!
This episode is more special than most because we get to interview our own mothers! We discuss their musical upbringing and learn more about ourselves as well. Hip-Hop Facts include facts about The Jacksons, 2pac, Pokemon and more. Fresh’s Unpopular Opinion will definitely spark a conversation with music lovers.
Latin Heat w/ DJ Manny Mo
On this episode, we speak with, friend of the show, DJ Manny Mo about the rise of latin music in the last few years. We also talk about the latest fall out from Ticketmaster. Hip-hop facts include facts about Tina Turner, Janet Jackson, Jamiroquai and more. Fresh’s Unpopular Opinion is about how Drake isn’t too […]
Simply Lemonade
On this episode we discuss the tenth anniversary of Beyonce’s album “Lemonade” and its lasting legacy in music. We also discuss rappers needing to shut the hell up when it comes to problematic artists. Hip-hop facts this week include facts about Betty Wright, Bootylicious, Nick Cannon and more. Fresh’s Unpopular Opinion might motive, or discourage, […]
Play The Record w/ Bak
On this episode we sit down with Record Play organizer and stand up comedian, Bak, as he talks about what’s next for him. We also discuss hip-hop’s relationship to the fun leaf over the decades in celebration of 4/20. Hip-Hop facts are mostly 4/20 related and there are a few surprises as well. Fresh’s Unpopular […]
November Scorpio w/ Tiana Major9
On this episode we interview R&B artist (from the UK) Tiana Major9 about her newest album “November Scorpio” and working with Babyface. We also discuss the news about rappers Gucci Mane and Pooh Shiesty in regards to them having a showdown in the recording studio. Hip-Hop Facts this week include facts about Michael B. Jordan, […]
Cole World
On this episode, we discuss all the recent interviews J. Cole has done and why we aren’t big fans of them. We also discuss much simpler times when you could download, and burn, all the music you loved as a kid. Hip-Hop Facts this week include facts about Vanessa Williams, Brandy, Kid Rock and more. […]
New Age Media
On this episode we discuss the back and forth between radio personality Mero in NYC and popular streamer Akademiks and what it means for the new age of media. We also discuss Jay-Z’s recent interview with GQ magazine and what stuck out the most to us. Hip-Hop Facts this week includes facts about Jay-Z, Teddy […]
SXSW 2026 Hangover
On this episode we recap our annual SXSW showcase SXBreaks and our overall experience with the revamped SXSW festival. We also discuss our thoughts on the Oscars winners from this past weekend. Hip-Hop Facts this week include facts about Teyana Taylor, the Ewoks from Star Wars, the origins of Quiet Storm radio and more. Fresh’s […]
This Or That?
On this episode we discuss who had the bigger impact on hip-hop, James Brown or Michael Jackson. We also talk about the difference, musically, in both Dallas and Houston and the emerging artists from both cities. Hip-Hop facts this week are about Bubba Sparxxx, Zach Brauf, Nelly and more. Fresh’s Unpopular Opinion this week is […]
The Breaks LIVE!
On this episode we are LIVE at Central Machine Works with a special episode featuring fellow KUT/KUTX personalities. Our first two segments we have Miles Bloxson (KUT) and Ryan Wen (KUTX) to discuss topics about the culture of hip-hop. For Hip-Hop Facts and Unpopular Opinion we have on Soundfounder (KUTX) and DJ Shani (KUTX) of […]
Rockin’ With TheBrosFresh!
On this episode we sit down with Louisiana artists TheBrosFresh and talk about their upcoming music and how is Austin treating them. We also discuss VladTV making tweets about Jay-Z to garner attention from the worse parts of the internet. Hip-Hop facts include facts about I Love Lucy, Drake, Master P and more. Fresh’s Unpopular […]
Lovers & Friends
It’s our Valentine’s Day episode! We talk about our favorite rap songs about love and we also talk about two people who hate each other, 50 Cent and Ja Rule. Hip-Hop facts include facts about Boyz 2 Men, T.I., Paula Patton and more. Fresh’s Unpopular Opinion is about podcasting not hurting the reputations of New […]
RIP Michael “5000” Watts
On this episode we celebrate the life of DJ Michael “5000” Watts who was huge pioneer in Houston music. We also recap the Grammy’s and see if our predictions are correct. Hip-Hop facts this week include facts about Tag Team, Prince, 50 Cent, and many more. Fresh’s Unpopular Opinion is that Donell Jones song “U […]
Austin Needs Hip-Hop
On this episode we talk about how when the city of Austin embraces hip-hop, it’s relevancy, and pockets, increase. We also discuss Kanye’s recent apology and if we believe him or not. Hip-hop facts include facts about Destiny’s Child, J. Cole, The Notorious B.I.G. and more. Fresh’s Unpopular Opinion is that New York rappers benefit […]
Trap Or Die
On this episode we discuss the recent conversation from some rappers about the “F The Streets” movement and if we think it’s legit or a marketing ploy. We also discuss our favorite albums from the sub-genre of hip-hop titled “trap rap” and agree that one album reins supreme. Hip-hop facts include facts about Will Smith, […]
Is Austin Hip-Hop Getting In Its Own Way?
On this episode of The Breaks we discuss if Austin hip-hop artists are hindering their careers in any way. We also discuss if J. Cole’s upcoming album The Fall Off is the most important one of his career. Hip-hop facts include facts about Nas, Sade, Justin Timberlake and more. Fresh’s Unpopular Opinion this week is […]
Podcasts Killed The Hip-Hop Star
On this episode we discuss if podcasts helped destroy the mystique of some hip-hop artists who have them. We also discuss if this is a show and prove year for the new class of women hip-hop stars. Hip-Hop Facts include facts about Jay-Z, Jack Nicholson, 2pac and more. Fresh’s Unpopular Opinion is that Milli Vanilli […]
A Year In Review 2025
On this episode we review our favorite moments from the show as well as our favorite moments from the culture at large. Hip-hop facts include facts about Jim Carrey, Denzel Washington, Will Smith and more. Fresh’s last Unpopular Opinion of the year is that dancing is more apart of hip-hop than people want to admit.
Hip-Hop America: The Mixtape Exhibit Interview
On this episode we interview Kevin Solka (Marketing & Digital Strategy Manager for the LBJ Library) about the Hip-Hop America: The Mixtape Exhibit. We also discuss hip-hop needing to go back underground to reclaim its roots. Hip-hop facts this week include facts about Mike Jones, Wu-Tang, Drake and more. Fresh’s Unpopular Opinion is that blog […]
New Media In Hip-Hop
On this episode we discuss the new Diddy documentary “The Reckoning” that is executive produced by 50 Cent. We also discuss Megan Thee Stallion’s newest legal battle except this time it’s against a media personality and it’s role in new hip-hop media. Hip-Hop facts about 2pac, Young Dolph Will Smith and more. Fresh’s Unpopular Opinion […]
Nicki Minaj Speaks at the UN
On this episode we discuss Nicki Minaj going to the UN to speak up on behalf of Nigeria and the United States. We also discuss we seems to be a resurgence of R&B into the mainstream. Hip-Hops Facts include facts about Lil Wayne, Will Smith, Ice Cube and more. Fresh’s Unpopular Opinion is that rapper […]
Will The Grammy’s Get It Right Next Year?
On this episode we talk about our thoughts on Outkast and Salt N Pepa entering the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. We also discuss the 2026 Grammy nominations and predict who might take some awards. Hip-Hop facts include facts about Mary J. Blige, Mark Wahlberg, and many more. Fresh’s Unpopular Opinion is that Austin […]
Do You Have To Support Rap To Be Good At Politics?
On this episode we discuss the proposed Verzuz between 50 cent and T.I. (FYI it’s not happening). We also discuss hip-hop’s role in electing progressive candidates and if it’s necessary. Hip-hop facts include SISQO BEING EXTREMELY YOUNG, Eddie Murphy, 2pac, and more. Fresh’s Unpopular Opinion is about LL Cool J being the one rapper to […]
Rap Missing On The Billboard Top 40?
On this episode we discuss the aftermath of the No Limit and Cash Money Records Verzuz in Las Vegas. We also discuss the Billboard Top 40 not having in hip-hop songs on it since 1990 and the possible fall out from that. Hip-Hop facts include Outkast, Michael Jordan, Warren G and more. Fresh’s Unpopular Opinion […]
Our Favorite Moments In Hip-Hop
On this episode we discuss some of favorite, or most important, moments in hip-hop. We also discuss a proposed Houston hip-hop Verzuz between the Screwed Up Click and Swisha House. Hip-hop facts include facts about Warren G, The Alchemist, and Eddie Murphy. Fresh’s Unpopular Opinion this week is that no artist truly wants to be […]
D’Angelo The Great
On this episode we discuss the legacy of the late musican D’Angelo who suddenly passed last week at age 51. We also discuss the upcoming Verzuz between hip-hop labels Cash Money (Lil Wayne, etc) and No Limit (Master P, Snoop, etc.) and how it would look. Hip-Hop facts this week include facts about D’Angelo, UGK, […]
Pushing Austin City Limits w/ Geto Gala
On this episode we interview Geto Gala fresh off the stage at ACL 2025 and discuss their career accomplishments. We also discuss the lack of local rappers and singers at ACL this year compared to previous years. Hip-hop facts include facts about Vince Vaughn, Snoop Dogg, Black Eyed Peas and more. Fresh’s Unpopular Opinion is […]
Sertified In Australia!
On this episode, we talk with Austin legend Sertified about his upcoming shows in Australia for SXSW. We also discuss if the song “Still Tippin” is a hip-hop classic or not. Hip-hop facts include facts about Bryson Tiller, Prince, Mobb Deep, and 2pac. Fresh and Unpopular Opinion is that rapper Nas is the biggest fan […]
Austin Hip-Hop Heads To Australia!
On this episode we interview the College of Hip-Hop Knowledge before their trip to Sydney, Australia for SXSW. We also discuss the Federal Trade Commission FINALLY going after Live Nation and Ticketmaster. Hip-hop facts include facts about 2pac, Faith Evans, Beyonce and more. Fresh’s Unpopular Opinion is that Chief Keef is the most influential child […]
Did Cardi B Raise the Bar? Or Lower It?
On this episode we discuss if Cardi B helped raise the bar for female rappers to succeed or did she lower it? We also talk about Jay-Z’s capitalist approaches to business and if it helps his brand and legacy. Hip-hop facts this week include Mobb Deep, Lil Wayne, DJ Khaled and more. Fresh’s Unpopular Opinion […]
Reinvention w/ Malik Baptiste
On this episode we interview with rapper/producer Malik Baptiste who talks about restarting his career and his past accomplishments. We also talk about if not writing your own songs in hip-hop can hinder your career and respect. Hip-hop facts include Jay-Z, Tia Mowry and her Texas roots, and Nas plus many more. Fresh’s Unpopular Opinion […]
Can Drake Get Back On Top?
On this episode we discuss what artists get a pass to “genre bend” and what artists don’t. We also discuss what can Drake do to regain his number one spot in hip-hop. Hip-hop facts include Will Ferrell, Jay-Z, Allen Iverson and more. Fresh’s Unpopular Opinion is that rappers don’t have to do traditional hip-hop media […]
Remembering Hurricane Katrina
On this episode we discuss the legacy, and impact, of Hurricane Katrina 20 years later. We also discuss if fans truly care about their favorite artist legal troubles. Hip-hop facts include facts about Nelson Mandela, The Notorious B.I.G., and Missy Elliott. Fresh’s Unpopular Opinion is the argument that Bust A Move by Young MC is […]
To Create Content Or Not?
On this episode we talk about how important being a content creator and musician in this new industry. We also discuss who is to blame for the perceived “negative” music being released and promoted. Hip-hop facts includes facts about Ghostface Killah of Wu-Tang, Mariah Carey, 2pac and more. Fresh’s Unpopular Opinion is that being able […]
Spite Club w/ Jedi512 and Boots
On this episode we talk with former KUTX Artist of the Month Jedi512 about his newest project “Spite Club” with producer Boots. Hip-hop facts include facts about LL Cool J, Migos, and TLC. Unpopular Opinion with Fresh is about Frank Ocean being underrated.
Project Pat Interview
On this episode we interview legendary artist Project Pat (brother of Juicy J from Three 6 Mafia) ahead of his show in Austin this weekend. Hip-hop facts this week include Eddie Murphy and Whitney Houston, a Jay-Z inspired Hulu series, and the film Paid In Full. Unpopular Opinion with Fresh this week is about underground […]
Why Are Record Sales Important?
On this episode we discuss if record sales are still important and where is the undisputed summer anthem. Hip-hop facts include Public Enemy, Ginuwine and Tyler the Creator. Unpopular Opinion with Fresh is that the beef between Kendrick and Drake ruined hip-hop in a way.
Roc Nation Did It
On this episode we discuss overstaying your welcome as an artist in different spaces. We also discuss people blaming Jay-Z’s Roc Nation record label for all of their musical woes. Hip-Hop facts includes facts about Clipse, 2pac’s early college days, and why Joaquin Phoenix is a huge Michael Jackson fan. Unpopular opinion with Fresh is […]
Your List Is Stupid
On this episode we discuss how a recent local list, in regards to hip-hop, was a horrible idea to release. We also discuss Nicki Minaj’s latest tirade against Sza and others. Hip-hop facts we discuss the anniversary of Slim Thug’s debut album and who was originally supposed to produce the Thriller album. Unpopular opinion is […]
Summer Jam 2025!
On this episode we discuss the line up for this years Summer Jam showcase happening at Stubbs BBQ. We also discuss if Houston has moved past its former DJ Screw influenced sound. Hip-hop facts includes The Fugees, Ghostface Killah and Redman. Unpopular Opinion this week is about how genres are always changing and growing.
Good Hair and Music In The ATX
On this episode we interview Geto Gala, fresh off their trip from London for SXSW London. We also interview artist Chakeeta B about her upcoming new album and her hair festival the Kinky Curly Coily Festival. Hip-hop facts include Lil Kim, K-Camp, Rapper’s Delight and more. Fresh, and Chakeeta B’s, Unpopular opinion includes Lil Wayne’s […]
Damn Knicks
On this episode we discuss the New York Knicks losing in the Eastern Conference finals much to Fresh’s pain. We also discuss if rap beef is still relevant in these days and times. Hip-hop facts include Dr. Dre, Denzel Washington and Whitney Houston. Fresh’s Unpopular Opinion this week is that the west coast is emerging […]
Did We Give Hip-Hip Away?
On this episode we discuss if the culture of Hip-Hop was too easily given away to streaming services without a fight. We also discuss the pros and cons of using A.I. in hip-hop. Hip-Hop facts this week include Aaliyah, Whitney Houston and Red Hot Chili Peppers. Unpopular Opinion is about about having too much access […]
ACL 2025?!
On this week’s episode we discuss the 2025 ACL line up and why Austin needs a great R&B nightclub/venue. Hip-hop facts about Jay-Z and Jermaine Dupri, Sisqo and more. Unpopular opinion from Fresh takes aim at DJs in Austin possibly doing more.
Day Party On 6th Street! Maybe?
On this week’s episode we discuss the many changes coming to the historical 6th Street in downtown Austin. We also discuss if gatekeeping is helping or hurting the music scene. Hip-hop facts about R&B singer Keri Hilson and the first black woman singer to upload to Youtube.
Are We Sinners?
In this episode we discuss the blockbuster movie, “Sinners” , and we also talk about UT’s impact on the local music scene. Brand new hip-hop facts and the controversial Unpopular Opinion with Fresh himself.
Do We Glorify Drug Culture Too Much?
This episode we discuss hip-hop’s effect on drug culture and if we play into too much ourselves. We also discuss hip-hop artists going back to one producer per album, like in the golden eras.
1 on 1 with Denzel Curry
On this episode we sit down with Florida rapper Denzel Curry and speak on his upcoming album and career.
Stop Talking to Kanye (feat. Wes Denzel)
This episode we interview San Antonio/Austin hip-hop artist Wes Denzel about his newest release and working with the Austin FC’s soccer team. We also make a call to action for the media to stop interviewing Kanye West.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
A Conversation with the Austin Chronicle
Carys Anderson talks to Confucius and Fresh about the Austin Chronicle's Music Poll. Plus Fresh and Confucius debate the merits of Drake's case again UMG.
Should Elliott Wilson calm down?
Should Elliott Wilson calm down?
Confucius and Fresh talk about not getting nominated for an Austin music award this year, and discuss Elliott Wilson's views hip-hop journalism.
2024 Year-in-Review
Don’t worry, it’s not a clip show! Confucius and Fresh recap moments from The Breaks that made this year one for the books.
How do we feel about Jay-Z
Confucius and Fresh talk about the recent rape allegations against Jay-Z. Plus they try and figure out why rap songs are getting shorter.
Is Drake going to be okay?
Confucius and Fresh talk about the implications of Drake’s latest lawsuit, what to expect from Austin hip-hop and R&B going into 2025, and an Unpopular Opinion on the status of regional hip-hop.
What happened to R&B?
Confucius and Fresh talk about the evolution of R&B’s character over the decades, hip hop and drug usage, and an Unpopular Opinion on Drake’s potential to “fall off”.
Who benefits more from the marriage: Jay-Z or Beyoncé?
Confucius and Fresh weigh who gains the most from their industry relationships: Jay-Z or Beyoncé and Young Thug or Gunna, plus an Unpopular Opinion on the future of white rappers.
Do celebrities respect Austin?
Inspired by a recent visit from T.I., Confucius and Fresh talk about how celebrities treat Austin before moving onto the role of Black celebrities in politics and an Unpopular Opinion on 50 Cent.
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