The Vault: Classic Music Reviews Podcast
The Vault: Classic Music Reviews Podcast is a show by music fans who grew up in the 1990s and 2000s. They review classic hip-hop, R&B, and reggae albums 20, 25, and 30 years after their release to see if they still stand the test of time. It offers a fresh perspective on classics from a new point of view.
Episodes
T.I.-King (2006): A Royal Charge To The Throne
After a lengthy absence, B. Cox returns to review hip-hop legend T.I.'s explosive fourth album King as it turns 20.After stepping onto the scene and making himself known with his debut album, 2001's I'm Serious, the Atlanta rap star made further waves and saw larger success with his sophomore and junior albums, 2003's Trap Muzik and 2004's Urban Legend, respectively. He was loo
Common: Be (2005). Coming Home Is Always GOOD
B. Cox reviews Common's classic sixth album Be as it turns 20. In light of the commercial failure and mixed critical reviews, Common found some common ground in aligning with fellow Chicago hip-hop royalty Kanye West and his GOOD Music imprint on Geffen Record. A former pupil of No. ID, who produced the majority of Common's second and third albums (Resurrection and One Day It'll All Ma
Common: Like Water For Chocolate. The Souls of Black Folks
B. Cox returns with a look back at Common's landmark fourth album, Like Water For Chocolate as it turns 25.After his breakthrough sophomore album 1994's Resurrection and his acclaimed third album 1997's One Day It'll All Make Sense, the Chicago emcee picked up his roots and moved to New York City and linked up with Questlove, The Roots and other creatives who were working within th
The Game: The Documentary (2005). Based on A True Compton Story
As we open 2025 to continue Season 7, B. Cox reviews The Game's debut album The Documentary as it turns 20. After coming up with a rough upbringing which led him to gang life, the drug game and shooting that left him in a coma, the Compton native embarked on a journey to become a rap star, studying the classic albums of his youth and adolescence as a blueprint to pattern himself after. After h
Back To The Vault...Vol. 1
In the long awaited premiere of Season 7, B. Cox kicks things off by going "Back To the Vault" and looking back 25 and 30 years to four original album reviews covered in the first season: 1994's Notorious B.I.G.'s debut classic Ready to Die and Scarface's classic third album The Diary as well as 1999's Mos Def's (nka Yasiin Bey) Black On Both Sides and Pharoahe Monch
Da Brat: Funkdafied (1994). A Platinum Plaque Fit For A Lady.
In our Season 6 finale, B. Cox is joined by Mac from MacTasticTV to review Chicago lady emcee Da Brat's debut album Funkdafied as it turns 30. Hailing from the west side of "The Chi", Da Brat got her chance at a deal when she won a Chicago rap contest and met the teen group Kriss Kross, who were signed to Jermaine Dupri's So So Def record label based in Atlanta. At the urging of th
Bone Thugs N Harmony: Creepin On Ah Come Up (1994). The Last Disciples of Eazy
B. Cox is joined by Mac of MactasticTV to review Bone Thugs N Harmony's debut EP Creepin On Ah Come Up as it turns 30.Follow MacTasticTV on YoutubeFollow MacTasticTV on IGMacTasticTV LinkTreeVisit The Vault Classic Music Reviews Onlinewww.vaultclassicpod.comBuy Exclusive The Vault Podcast Merchandise!www.vaultclassicpod.com/storeSupport The Vault Classic Music Reviews on Buy Me A Coffeehttps:/
Jeru The Damaja: The Sun Rises In The East (1994).
B Cox reviews Jeru The Damaja's classic debut album The Sun Rises In The East As It Turns 30.Visit The Vault Classic Music Reviews Onlinewww.vaultclassicpod.comBuy Exclusive The Vault Podcast Merchandise!www.vaultclassicpod.com/storeSupport The Vault Classic Music Reviews on Buy Me A Coffeehttps://www.buymeacoffee.com/vaultclassicpodBuild Your Own Amazing Podcast Website In Less Than 5 Minutes
OutKast's Southernplayaisticadillacmuzik Turns 30
B. Cox reflects on OutKast's classic debut album Southernplayaisticadillacmuzik turning 30 in the aftermath of the passing of Rico Wade, Dungeon Family leader and 1/3 of the production trio Organized Noize, which produced the album in full. He also examines how OutKast's emergence in the Atlanta rap changed the scene of the city and the region forever and also how the industry and the audi
Nas's Illmatic (1994) Turns 30 (feat. TROY Podcast)
B. Cox is joined once again by Miguel and Christina of TROY Podcast to discuss Nas's iconic debut album Illmatic turning 30. They discuss its standing among hip-hop's all-time great albums, how it affected Nas's career in the aftermath, some of the most memorable bars and their favorite songs.To listen to our 2019 review of Illmatic at 25, please listen here!Follow Miguel & Christi
Pop Culture Corner! Above The Rim (1994) at 30
B. Cox is joined by special guests Christina & Miguel of TROY (They Reminisce Over You) Podcast to discuss the cult-classic basketball film Above The Rim as it turns 30. Written by Barry Michael Cooper and the late director Jeff Pollack, the film starred the likes of Duane Martin, Leon, the late Tupac Shakur, Marlon Wayans and the late Bernie Mac among others in a tale a high school basketball
Usher: Confessions (2004). Lightning In a Bottle
B. Cox and Domo review Usher's Confessions as it turns 20. After his successful third album 8701, Usher underwent a number of changes in his life including his breakup from his girlfriend Chili from TLC and he was soon to become a father. In crafting his follow up, he wished to craft an album that was a well rounded album that touched man influences: from traditional classic R&B, throwback
Gang Starr: Hard To Earn (1994). Operation Mass Appeal
B. Cox reviews Gang Starr's classic fourth album Hard To Earn as it turns 30. After the critical success of 1992's Daily Operation, Guru and DJ Premier took a brief hiatus to pursue individual projects. Guru launched his Jazzmatazz series and Premier became one of the most sought after producers in industry, working with the likes Jeru the Damaja, The Notorious B.I.G., Nas and KRS-One. Com
Eminem: The Slim Shady LP (1999). The Age of Slim Shady Begins
B. Cox and Domo review Eminem's sophomore album The Slim Shady LP as it turns 25. The now legendary emcee was just a little know upstart white rapper from Detroit when he blew up the underground scene by tearing through the '97 Rap Olympics. Despite losing in the finals, the word was out. After recording The Slim Shady EP, the tape made its way around the circuits and found its way on the
Zhané: Pronounced Jah-Nay (1994). "Gonna Make You Move & Groove"
B. Cox is joined once again by Van Everette of The Scenario Radio Show to review 90s R&B duo Zhané's debut album Pronounced Jah-Nay as it turns 30. The two vocalists, Renee Neuville and Jean Norris, met each other while students at Temple University and while they had two different backgrounds when it came to singing, they would find a medium that would make them a cohesive act. After link
Kanye West-The College Dropout: A Birth Within "The Dynasty"
In our premiere of Season 6, we welcome Van Everette from The Scenario Radio Show review Kanye West's debut classic album The College Dropout as it turns 20. After serving in the background as a producer for many of Roc-A-Fella Records best albums through the early 2000s, the Chicago-based producer took his turn as a feature act. The album was recorded over a four year period from 1999 to 2003
2023 Year End Review: '93, 98 & '03 Rankings
In the last episode of the year, B. Cox and J.Owe give their personal rankings and honorable mentions for hip-hop and R&B albums for the 1993, 1998 and 2003. A reminder that next year, we will be moving to a seasonal format. The new season launches February 2024! Visit The Vault Classic Music Reviews Onlinewww.vaultclassicpod.comBuy Exclusive The Vault Podcast Merchandise!www.vaultclassicpod.c
DMX: Flesh of My Flesh, Blood of My Blood (1998). The Era of X
B. Cox and J Owe look back at the late DMX's second studio album Flesh of My Flesh, Blood of My Blood as it turns 25. After setting the industry on fire during the previous year and a half and the explosive success of his debut It's Dark and Hell Is Hot earlier in the year, the Yonkers emcee was taking full advantage of his star while on fire. Less than seven months from his debut's re
Jay-Z: The Black Album (2003). "On that note, I'm leavin' after this song"
B. Cox reminisces about Jay-Z's eight album The Black Album as it turns 20. Heading into this album, it was being touted as Jay-Z last album as he was to "retire" to take up the mantle of president of Def Jam Records after the album was released. The news and fallout from it lead to a acrimonious split of the three founders and owners of Roc-A-Fella Records: Jay, Damon Dash and Kareem
Snoop Doggy Dogg: Doggystyle (1993). It's More Than Hype...
B. Cox and J. Owe look back at at the momentous occasion of Snoop Doggy Dogg's classic debut album Doggystyle as it turns 30. Fresh off the heels of his breakthrough performance on several tracks on Dr. Dre's The Chronic released not even a year prior, he set to set the game on fire with what was, to that point, the most highly anticipated debut for a new hip-hop artist. Working hard with
A Tribe Called Quest: Midnight Marauders (1993). "Linden Boulevard Represent, Represent..."
The crew reviews A Tribe Called Quest's classic third album Midnight Marauders as it turns 30. Off the heels of their groundbreaking sophomore debut, 1991's The Low End Theory, the group rebounded to put through what many to believe to be their most cohesive work yet. After famously making the low end of bass their calling card and backdrop of the jazz sampled beats, the momentum continued
Wu-Tang Clan: Enter The Wu-Tang (36 Chambers) (1993). "The Rugged Lands of Shaolin"
The crew reviews the almighty Wu-Tang Clan and their iconic classic debut album Enter The Wu-Tang (36 Chambers) as it turns 30. After doing what seemed the impossible to assemble a supergroup of emcees hailing from Staten Island and Brooklyn, the collective gained major notoriety with their debut single "Protect Your Neck". Word and a buzz began to grow.The group, which was lead by creativ
Black Moon: Enta Da Stage (1993). "Straight from Crooklyn...better known as Brooklyn"
B. Cox and J Owe look back at Black Moon's debut classic album Enta Da Stage as it turns 30. The Brooklyn trio made up of DJ/producer DJ Evil Dee and emcees Buckshot (fka Buckshot Shorty) and 5ft began their journey in high school, shopping around demos and looking for a deal. Impressed by the group, they signed with Nervous Records and was given the green light to record their first single &#
OutKast: Aquemini (1998). "Until They Close The Curtain..."
B. Cox and J. Owe look back at OutKast's classic third album Aquemini as it turns 25. After the success of their sophomore album, 1996's ATLiens, Andre and Big Boi both had major life events that affected their outlooks and artistry, included breakups and the start of fatherhood. Given more creative license, the group sought to take even more control of the production of their third album.
Jay-Z: Vol. 2...Hard Knock Life (1998). Superstardom Awaits
B. Cox and Domo review Jay-Z's third album Vol. 2...Hard Knock Life as it turns 25. Looking to improve on his commercial success from Vol. 1...In My Lifetime, Jay-Z looked to bring on new producers to give his album the commercial shine without the sound being overglossed. In for this album, production wise was the likes of Swizz Beats and Timbaland to go along with mainstays DJ Premier, Irv G
Souls Of Mischief: '93 Til Infinity (1993). "This is how we chill..."
B. Cox and J.Owe look back at Oakland rap group Souls of Mischief debut album 93 Til Infinity as it turns 30. In the midst of a coastal emergence and commercial recognition in both southern California and the Bay-Area, the teenage group became major players in the Oakland underground scene. After their demos became the talk of certain rap circles and their music was circulated on the legendary 
BONUS EPISODE: September 29, 1998 (9-29-98). A Day To Go Down In History
In this bonus episode, B. Cox looks back at one of the greatest and consequential hip-hop release dates on the last 25 years: September 29, 1998. On this date, five highly anticipated hip-hop albums hit the stores: Jay-Z's Vol 2...Hard Knock Life, Outkast's Aquemini, A Tribe Called Quest's The Love Movement, Black Star's Mos Def and Talib Kweli Are... and Brand Nubian's comebac
Lauryn Hill: The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill (1998). Beyond Our Wildest Dreams
B Cox reviews Lauryn Hill's classic debut album The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill as turns 25. After a a breakout classic album The Score with The Fugees and a worldwide successful tour, the singer-emcee found herself at a crossroads as she found herself not only in a new relationship with Rohan Marley, but also pregnant. During pregnancy, she took a hiatus from touring and recording and spent t
Tha Alkaholiks: 21 & Over (1993). "Likwit" Hip-Hop from L.A.
B. Cox reviews West Coast hip-hop trio Tha Alkaholiks debut album 21 & Over, as it turns 30. The trio, made up of emcees Tash, E-Swift and J-Ro, formed in the late 1980s and were mentored by legend King Tee. After signing to Loud/RCA, the group started recording their debut album. The album would be a compact, but power-packed 35 minute effort that introduced this eclectic, but a serious group
BONUS EPISODE: Hip-Hop Celebrating 50 Years-A Perspectiv
B. Cox pays homage to hip-hop as it turns 50 years old. For much of the year, the recognized beginning of the genre, culture and societal phenomenon called hip-hop has been celebrated, lauded and congratulated worldwide for changing the world as we see it. He goes over a brief history of hip-hop's beginnings, the different periods we've experienced over 50 years and how the music, culture
Toni Braxton: Toni Braxton (1993). "There Can Only Be One..."
B. Cox and Domo fondly recollect on Toni Braxton's classic self-titled debut album as it turns 30. The Maryland native, who started in an R&B group with her now famous sisters, made her name first known after her standout performances on the wildly popular Boomerang Original Soundtrack the previous year with her debut on "Love Shoulda Brought You Home" and "Give U My Heart"
Maxwell: Embya (1998). "Drown Deep In Love..." (feat. Alise and JR of The R&B Reps)
B. Cox is joined once again by Alise and JR of the R&B Representers to reminisce on Maxwell's sophomore album Embrya as it turns 25. After amazing the music industry with his classic debut Maxwell's Urban Hang Suite just two years earlier, the prodigious soul singer linked back up with producer and musician Stuart Matthewman, just as he he had on Urban Hang Suite, looking to push the e
Tony! Toni! Tone!: Sons Of Soul (1993). The Journey Takes You There...
B. Cox reviews Tony! Toni! Tone!'s classic third album Sons of Soul as it turns 30. After their mega hit sophomore album, 1990s The Revival, the group and this album continued on its predecessors success with experimentation on their sound. Seeking different sound without a change in musical philosophy, the album featured the group's signature soul roots from Oakland, but also interpolated
(BONUS EPISODE) The Red-Hot Reggae Summer of '03 feat. Kahlil Wonda of Reggae Lover Podcast
In this bonus episode, B. Cox is joined by Kahlil Wonda (Reggae Lover Podcast & Highlanda Sound System) to discuss dancehall reggae in the summer of 2003 and how several hit songs and artists happened to cross over into the American and international market to huge success. It was a phenomenon that had been on the build for almost a decade culminating in a summer 20 years ago that was heavily
Brandy: Never Say Never (1998). The Next Level
B. Cox and Domo review Brandy's classic sophomore album Never Say Never as it turns 25. After her smash eponymous debut album helped make her a household name among R&B fans, Brandy began to diversify her portfolio as an entertainer, starring her own sitcom Moesha, the Cinderella remake and I (Still) Know What You Did Last Summer. In late 1997, she began recording her second album now link
Pop Culture Corner! Menace II Society...30 Years Later
In a bonus segment of "Pop Culture Corner", B. Cox & J. Owe look back at Menace II Society as it turns 30.The film starred Tyrin Turner, Larenz Tate, Jada Pinkett Smith, Charles S. Dutton and rapper MC Eiht among others, It was directed by brothers Allen and Albert Hughes. The cult classic, whose story about young black men struggling to overcome their environment, became an instant hi
DMX: It's Dark And Hell Is Hot (1998). The Dark Man Cometh
B. Cox and J. Owe review DMX's classic debut album It's Dark And Hell It's Hot as it turns 25. After spending years in the underground and paying his dues on the scene, the late Yonkers emcee burst onto the public scene in 1997 with a string of high profile and powerful feature verses for the likes of LL Cool J, the LOX and Ma$e. Signed to Def Jam as a part of their "revival",
BONUS EPISODE: "Cards, Dominoes, Drinks & Smoke" Albums That Defined A Generation
In a bonus episode of "Cards, Dominoes, Drinks & Smoke", B. Cox muses on the albums from 1993, 1998 and 2003 that could qualify as albums that "defined a generation". On the heels of the announcement of WMX's inaugural season of the visual podcast "Iconic Records: Albums That Defined A Generation" covering the Notorious B.I.G's classic album Life After Death, he
Big Pun: Capital Punishment (1998). Big Dreams To Big Things
The crew talks the late Big Pun's debut classic Capital Punishment as it turns 25. After making waves in the underground and on the Beatnuts "Off the Books" the previous year, the Bronx-bred Puerto Rican emcee lead off with this massive debut. Touting a ferocious multisyllabic rhyme still dressed with punchlines, humor and swagger, he sought to achieve a first: become the first Latino
Onyx: Bacdafucup (1993). Hoodies, Timbs and Bald Heads
B. Cox reviews Onyx's classic debut album Bacdafucup as it turns 30. After linking up with the late Jam Master Jay of Run DMC fame, the Queens group signed to his label JMJ Records. Under his watchful eye and tutelage, they recorded their debut album. The then-quartet made up of Fredro Starr, the late Big DS, Sonsee (aka Sonny Seeza or Suave) and Sticky Fingaz sought to bring their style of ru
Goodie Mob: Still Standing (1998). Born and True to Atlanta
B. Cox and J. Owe take a look back at Goodie Mob's sophomore album Still Standing as it turns 25. Three years after their landmark classic debut album Soul Food, the Atlanta quartet of Big Gipp, Khujo, T-Mo and CeeLo Green was still on a mission to let the world know about life in the "Dirty South". Despite releasing their album in a southern hip-hop arena that was dominated at the tim
Gang Starr: Moment of Truth (1998). Holding The Torch High
B. Cox reviews hip-hop duo Gang Starr's fifth album Moment of Truth as it turns 25. After a four year hiatus from their acclaimed 4th album 1994's Hard To Earn, Guru and DJ Premier returned to to the lab to craft their latest album among a changing landscape. Hip-hop, once thought to be a fringe fad when they debuted and when they first left, was now starting to explode commercially and wa
BONUS EPISODE!!! Favorite 90's Hip-Hop Posse Cuts
In a bonus episode, B. Cox sorts through some of his favorite and memorable hip-hop posse cuts of the 1990s.*We did not include Wu-Tang Clan and its individual members' albums that could have memorable posse cuts as we determined that they could warrant a standalone bonus episode in the future. Stay tuned!*Visit The Vault Classic Music Reviews Onlinewww.vaultclassicpod.comCheck Out Our Clothin
Little Brother: The Listening (2003). They Called Next... (feat. Chris "Kinetik" Mitchell)
B. Cox is joined by Chris Mitchell (Kinetik) of the Breaking Atoms Podcast to review Little Brother's classic debut studio album The Listening as it turns 20. The group, which was formerly made up of the trio of emcees Phonte and Big Pooh and producer 9th Wonder, met as students on the campus of North Carolina Central University. They bonded over their shared love and passion of hip-hop and fo
Digable Planets: Reachin' (A New Refutation of Time and Space) (1993). Slick Reborn...
B. Cox looks back at hip-hop trio Digable Planet's debut album Reachin' (A New Refutation of Time and Space) as it turns 30. The Brooklyn-based group made up of emcees Ishmael "Butterfly" Butler, Mariana "Ladybug Mecca" Vieira and Craig "Doodlebug" Irving met through what seemed to be fate in the late 80s. After signing to Pendulum Records in 1992, they began crafti
50 Cent: Get Rich Or Die Tryin'. Hip-Hop's Lazarus Comes Forth...
B. Cox & J. Owe review 50 Cent's explosive debut album Get Rich or Die Tryin' as it turns 20. After a successful run as a protege of Run DMC's Jam Master Jay, the Queens youth turned drug dealer turned emcee was set to make his mark after series of setbacks including being shot multiple times, being dropped by his label while having his debut album scrapped and being blacklisted fr
BONUS EPISODE: "Pop Culture Corner" Hip-Hop Fashion In The 90s
In a special bonus edition of Pop Culture Corner, B.Cox explores the dynamics of the many layers and styles of hip-hop and urban fashion in the 90s. After experiencing a very colorful and avant garde fashion sense in the 80s, the hip-hop and urban music scene in the 1990s was defined by three segments: (1) The elite and luxury fashion brands that dominated the fashion world whose status symbols fo
The Year That Was...2003
B. Cox reflects on the year that was 2003. In a year that saw Western Powers kick their war against dictatorships in the Middle East into full gear and saw the U.S. biggest state in political turmoil, the music scene was successfully and commercially thriving.It was highlighted by the emergence of the unlikeliest of superstars in 50 Cent, who served as triumphant comeback story: from underground s
The Year That Was...1998
B. Cox looks back at the year that was 1998. As the United States and the world had the new millennium within eye sight, there were uncertain times in the world politically and socially. Admist all the turmoil and uncertainty, the year delivered one of the best combined critical and commercial years for both hip-hop and R&B.Musically, the year succeed on many fronts as far as radio hits and ex
The Year That Was...1993
B. Cox reflects on the year that was 1993; a year that saw the election of a generational U.S. president, two sports dynasties repeating their excellence, a unthinkable terrorist attack that shook the nation as well as a monumental year in hip-hop and R&B with a number of classics that would leave their marks on not just music, but pop culture overall.Visit The Vault Classic Music Reviews Onli
2022 Year-End Review & Wrap Up: '92, '97 & '02
In the last episode of the year, B. Cox gives The Vault's rankings for the top hip-hop & R&B albums reviewed from 1992, 1997 and 2002 to put a bow on what has been another busy and memorable year for the podcast.Visit The Vault Classic Music Reviews Onlinewww.vaultclassicpod.comSupport The Vault Classic Music Review on Buy Me A Coffeehttps://www.buymeacoffee.com/vaultclassicpodBuild Yo
Dr. Dre: The Chronic (1992). "Welcome To Death Row..."
B. Cox and J. Owe look back at Dr. Dre's transcendent debut album The Chronic as it turns 30. After spending half a decade as the architect and chief producer for both NWA and Ruthless Records, Dr. Dre split in 1991 to help co-found Death Row Records with Marion "Suge" Knight with the backing of Interscope Records. As their prime producer and executive, the record label would become a
Nas: God's Son (2002). "It Get's Personal..."
B. Cox reviews Nas' sixth studio album God's Son as it turns 20. Capping off a productive year, the Queens emcee released his third project in 12 months following up the classic album Stillmatic and the compilation of unreleased tracks The Lost Tapes. It was seen as a continuation of his "comeback". He dealt with problems and distractions during the recording of the album, includin
The Pharcyde: Bizarre Ride II The Pharcyde. "California Dreamin..."
B. Cox looks back at The Pharcyde's debut classic album Bizarre Ride II The Pharcyde as it turns 30. In the midst of a genre shift of power over their home base of California, the former dancers turns emcees and producers released their debut album to little fanfare, but would become recognized in the industry for their easy going and humorous style.Produced entirely by group member J-Swift, t
Ice Cube: The Predator (1992). Behind Enemy Lines...
B. Cox reviews Ice Cube's third album The Predator as it turns 30. In the midst of the one most prolific and successful runs in hip-hop history stretching back his days as with NWA, the soon-to-be West Coast icon created and released his album in the time of transition of turmoil. Hip-Hop acclaim and recognition was beginning to spread its sphere of influence out to the West Coast. to mirror t
Sean Paul: Dutty Rock (2002). Dancehall Moves Past Stage One
B. Cox and J. Owe review reggae superstar Sean Paul's classic sophomore album Dutty Rock as it turns 20. After a fairly successful debut album Stage One two years prior, Paul sought to capitalize on what was a burgeoning and receptive dancehall market in the United States since the turn of the new millennium. Working with an all-star cast of producers including legendary duos in Steely & C
Jay-Z: In My Lifetime, Vol. 1: The Upstart Stakes Claim as Heir to the Throne
B. Cox looks back at Jay-Z's second studio album In My Lifetime, Vol. 1 as it turns 25. After a critical, yet not lucratively commercially, success of his classic debut Reasonable Doubt the previous year, the Brooklyn emcee looked to elevate his game and take the spot as the "King of New York" after the death of his fellow Brooklyn emcee and friend the Notorious B.I.G. that March.While
SWV: It's About Time (1992). "Take It To Tha Bridge'..." (feat. Alise & JR of R&B Reps) **Special Guest Appearance by album producer Brian Alexander Morgan!!!**
B. Cox is joined by NaturallyAlise and JR of the R&B Representers to review SWV's debut classic album It's About Time as it turns 30. The crew is also joined with a very special guest appearance by Brian Alexander Morgan, one of the album's principal producers and co-writers.As R&B continued its evolution in the early 90s, the trio from NYC burst onto the scene with a jam packe
BONUS EPISODE! Pop Culture Corner! "Brown Sugar" at 20
In this bonus segment of Pop Culture Corner, B. Cox looks back at that the black romantic comedy that was Brown Sugar as it turns 20. The film, which co-starred Sanaa Lathan and Taye Diggs, as lifelong friends who fell in love with hip-hop (and each other) as kids, now complicated by their careers and current choice in romantic partners. As hip-hop once intercepts in their lives and brings them cl
Rawkus Presents: Soundbombing (1997). The UnderGround Moves As One
B.Cox looks back at underground powerhouse label Rawkus Records and their first major compilation album Soundbombing, which turns 25. After releasing Company Flow's now legendary debut LP Funcrusher Plus earlier in the summer, the label released the compilation with previously released 12" singles in mixtape format. Mixed, scratched and hosted by DJ Evil Dee of Da Beatminerz and Black Moon
Redman: Whut? Thee Album (1992). "And Introducing From Tha Bricks..."
B. Cox reviews Redman's debut album Whut? Thee Album as it turns 30. After starting his career as a DJ for DoItAll For Lords of the Underground, a chance encounter withe EPMD, led the young Newark emcee on a path that would make him one of the best and most respected emcees of all-time. After appearing at shows with EPMD as a member of their clique The Hit Squad, Redman featured on three track
Janet Jackson: The Velvet Rope (1997). What Lies Beneath...
B. Cox takes a look at R&B and pop icon Janet Jackson's sixth studio album The Velvet Rope, as it turns 25. On the heels of negotiating and signing the biggest record label contract in history and her successful album tour from her fifth album Janet, the superstar suffered a nervous breakdown. Plagued depression driven by childhood issues, body dysmorphia, eating disorders and troubles in
BONUS EPISODE: Relics of The Past! "The CD Book"
In this bonus segment of Relics Of The Past, B. Cox looks back on a vital part of every hip-hop head's car journey in the 90s and 2000s: the CD binder aka "The CD Book". He explains the different types of books that existed, how each user would organize their binder and what the experience was to hold multiple CDs literally at an arms reach while in your ride.Visit The Vault Classic Mu
BONUS EPISODE! September 16, 1997: Best R&B Release Week of the 90s???
In a bonus episode, B.Cox looks back on what he thinks may be the greatest R&B release week of the 1990s: September 16, 1997. During that release week, four classic and essential albums graced the store shelves and stereos everywhere: Mariah Carey's Butterfly, Usher's My Way, Jon B's Cool Relax and the Soul Food Soundtrack.Each album would be become multi platinum albums and have h
Bonus Episode: "The Vault" Turns 3! A History, Memories and Some Flowers
B. Cox commemorates The Vault: Classic Music Reviews Podcast on its third anniversary. It's been a long journey in the three years since the first episode posted highlighting Mobb Deep's Murda Muzik. He gives a basic history on how the show became into existence, the challenges through COVID and his most memorable moments while recording. He also takes some times to give shout outs and tha
Clipse: Lord Willin' (2002). "You Know What I Keep In The Lining..."
B. Cox looks back at Virginia rap duo Clipse's major label debut album Lord Willin' as it turns 20. The group, made up of brothers Gene "Malice" and Terrence "Pusha T" Thornton grew up in Virginia Beach and were close associates of producer Pharrell Williams growing up. After securing their first record deal with Elektra Records in 1996, their first album Exclusive Audio Fo
O.C.: Jewelz (1997). "Mush" Makes Sure of No Sophomore Slump.
B. Cox reviews Brooklyn and Diggin in The Crates (DITC) emcee O.C.'s second album Jewelz as it turns 25. After his critically acclaimed 1994 debut album Word...Life, O.C. took to the road to tour exclusively for almost three years. When he returned to the booth to record his sophomore album, he did so with an all-star cast of producers. Along with the returning DITC crew member BuckWild, who c
Scarface: The Fix (2002). Face-Boss, Griot, OG, Legend
B. Cox reviews Scarface's classic 7th album The Fix as it turns 20. After leaving long time label Rap-A Lot, the Houston veteran emcee moved to Def Jam South as their president, but was coaxed into releasing first and only studio album while on the label. Assisted by an all-star production cast that included himself, Kanye West, Nottz, the Neptunes, Mike Dean and T-Mix, he spit his customary c
EPMD: Business Never Personal (1992). It Was All Good...Until It Wasn't
B. Cox reviews EPMD's fourth album Business Never Personal as it turns 30. After three successful albums that carried them through the peak of hip-hop's golden era, EPMD released their fourth album and seemed primed for success well into the 90s.The album is packed into less than 40 minutes of funky, but thumping production by the group with two singles: "Crossover" and the posse c
Mary J. Blige: What's the 411? (1992). The Queen of Hip-Hop Soul Gets Crowned
B. Cox looks back at Mary J. Blige's debut classic album What's the 411? as it turns 30. As the youngest signee of Andre Harrell's Uptown Records, the New York-born singer was brought under the tutelage of producer and executive Sean "Diddy" Combs for debut album. Utilizing samples of popular hip-hop records from the 80s matched with drums to complement the sweet vocals of Blig
BONUS EPISODE! 25 Years of Company Flow's Funcrusher Plus (1997)
In a bonus episode, B. Cox looks back at the impact and legacy of Company Flow's debut studio album and underground classic Funcrusher Plus as it turns 25. After negotiating a group friendly deal with Rawkus Records, the Brooklyn trio of Bigg Jus, El-P and Mr. Len crafted a debut that featured an unconventional production and rhyme style over 73 minutes that served as the launching pad for the
Missy "Misdemeanor" Elliott: Supa Dupa Fly (1997). A Sonic Adventure...
B. Cox looks back at Missy "Misdemeanor" Elliott's debut album Supa Dupa Fly as it turns 25. After spending the beginning part of her career with Devante's Swing Mob Records with her girl group Sista (which never materialized an album), she linked up with childhood friend and producer Timothy "Timbaland" Mosley from Virginia and began collaborating producing and writing son
The Summer of '02: Nelly Rises, The 'A' Girls Sizzle, Cam Takes Charge, Grindin' Like Clipse
In a bonus episode, B. Cox looks back 20 years ago to the Summer of 2002. It was a summer packed with hit songs that would become classics. Among the memorable tracks that would populate this soundtrack would be Nelly's two massive #1 Hot 100 hits: "Hot In Herre" and "Dilemma" featuring Kelly Rowland. The two songs spent a combined 17 weeks atop the charts. Also dominating the
Boomerang: Original Soundtrack (1992). Music To Our Ears (feat. Charlee D.)
B. Cox welcomes back in Charlee D of the Word To The Mutha Podcast to the show to review the original soundtrack to the black romantic comedy Boomerang. The film starring an all-star cast of Eddie Murphy, Halle Berry, Robin Givens, David Alan Grier, Martin Lawrence, Chris Rock and the late Eartha Kitt and John Witherspoon, was a huge hit grossing over $160 million in the summer of the 1992.The fil
Capone-N-Noreaga: The War Report (1997). The Unlikely Classic
B. Cox commemorates Capone-N-Noreaga's debut album The War Report as it turns 25. In the midst of an identity crisis for New York rap, the two Queens natives arrived on the scene - unheralded, yet determined. After appearing the "Unsigned Hype" section of The Source Magazine in 1995, the duo was signed to a record label and began recording their debut. In the midst of recording, Capone
Pete Rock & CL Smooth: Mecca and The Soul Brother (1992). "Before The Shift...A Cultural Force"
B. Cox & J. Owe look back on Pete Rock & CL Smooth's debut album Mecca and The Soul Brother as it turns 30. After jumping on the scene the previous year with their EP All Souled Out, the producer-emcee duo made their splash into the mainstream with an unforgettable debut. Powered by Rock's production which was a combination of smooth jazz, soul and funk records over snapping drums
Wu-Tang Clan: Wu-Tang Forever (1997). The Clan Is Back To Stay...
B. Cox and J. Owe look back at rap super group's Wu-Tang Clan's second album Wu-Tang Forever as it turns 25. In the almost four years since they burst on the scene with their classic debut Enter the Wu-Tang (36 Chambers), the collective of emcees continued to have an impact on the industry with a number of acclaimed to classic solo LPs by group members, Method Man, Ol' Dirty Bastard, R
Eminem: The Eminem Show (2002). Marshall's Goes Live -- From His Perspective
B Cox reviews Eminem's fourth album The Eminem Show as it turns 20. On the heels of two massively successfully albums in The Slim Shady LP and The Marshall Mathers LP, Eminem sought to take a different approach on his latest effort. Taking over the production reins in this album, Eminem brings us a closer look into his personal life and the turmoil that surrounded it. While he gave us full gli
Super Cat: Don Dada (1992). "Wild Apache" Reigns (featuring Kahlil Wonda of Reggae Lover Podcast)
B. Cox is joined by Kahlil Wonda of the Reggae Lover Podcast (and Highlanda Sound System) to review dancehall deejay Super Cat's major label debut album Don Dada as it turns 30. After mixing it up in Jamaica in the sound system scene and growing "dancehall" scene in the mid-to-late 80s, Super Cat traveled to New York to sign a deal with Columbia Records, becoming one of the first regga
Musiq: Juslisen (2002). Soulchild...Slight Return
B. Cox and Domo look back on Musiq's (previously known as Musiq Soulchild) second studio album Juslisen as it turns 20. Not even two years after his wildly successful debut album Aijuswanaseing was released, the Philadelphia soul singer was back at it to eclipse his previous effort. Teaming back up with the likes of producers Carvin & Ivan, Dre & Vidal, James Poyser, Vikter Duplaix and
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