The Stem Society
The Stem Society is a music show hosted by Cole Jackson, focusing on the latest music news, critiques of new releases, and honest takes on events in the music industry. The show spotlights various artists, sharing their new music and personal journeys, while also discussing trends, hip hop controversies, and upcoming projects.
Episodes
Don't Get Rid of the Talent
Ep 198Can hip-hop move forward without Drake and Kendrick dominating the conversation?With both artists largely absent from the 2027 Grammy conversation, Billboard is questioning where hip-hop's next generation of superstars will come from. But I think fans have to take some responsibility. We constantly complain about the state of hip-hop, yet how often do we give newer artists a real chance
WHO REALLY PROFITS FROM HIP-HOP?
Ep 197Drake is sitting out the Grammys again, and I respect him for sticking to his position. He's won awards, broken records, and built a career that doesn't need validation from the Recording Academy. So what does another Grammy really mean for somebody at his level?Then I'm getting into something Rapsody said about hip-hop media that really made me think.Why do we keep giving so muc
Unserious Acts
Ep 196Rick Ross is facing serious allegations after turning himself in to police in Miami. His ex-girlfriend has made accusations against him and presented what she says is evidence of her injuries, while Ross has pleaded not guilty and his attorneys say he's been wrongfully accused. There are things on both sides of this story that have me holding off on making a final judgment.Then The Game
Let's Talk About Music Again
Ep 195There are three album storylines I wanted to get into this week.First, Quavo has Pharrell executive producing Chromelife, a huge feature list and an Offset reunion. On paper that sounds great. I'm just not convinced Pharrell and a bunch of big names fix what hasn't worked for me about Quavo's solo albums.Then Megan Thee Stallion is getting Act 3 started with the return of Tina Sn
My Name is My Name
Ep 194For this episode, I’m getting into two situations where how you handle a problem matters just as much as the problem itself.First, Outkast is taking Ovrkast to court over his name. I understand Outkast protecting what they built, but some of what they're asking for feels like it could go way beyond protecting a trademark and potentially damage a young artist's career.Then Rory and Qu
The Real Reason Joe Budden Fans Are Complaining
Ep 193Joe Budden is pushing back against JBP fans complaining about guests, but I don't think the guests are really the problem. I get into why the podcast has started feeling less organic to me over the years, the transition to what I call "corporate Joe," Clippergate, and why longtime listeners may be sticking around more out of habit than excitement.Then I get into AZ Chike's new album. It's pr
Pressing and Flexing
Ep 192Glasses Malone called out P-Lo for working with Drake, but is he keeping that same energy for everyone? Cole breaks down why Glasses’ criticism feels selective and why artists shouldn’t be pressured over who they choose to work with.Then, Drake’s FOMO stream is finally here. From nine unreleased songs and new Don Toliver collaborations to the 2027 tour announcement, Cole gives his take on wh
The Kendrick Verse is There
Ep 191Kendrick Lamar is missing from AZ Chike’s No Rest for the Wicked tracklist, but Cole isn’t convinced the feature is actually gone. Could Kendrick’s verse be hidden to put the spotlight back on AZ?Plus, Meek Mill goes after DJ Akademiks following the Lil Durk verdict, but Cole thinks Meek’s energy would be better spent getting people excited about his music again.Timestamp(0:24) What happened
You Are Not Really Listening
Ep 190Kendrick Lamar’s latest feature has Cole questioning his current run. The versatility is there, but after GNX and some of Kendrick’s previous feature runs, is it wrong to want more bars?Then Karrahbooo and Lil Yachty debate his role in her career. After hearing Karrahbooo’s new album, Cole thinks Yachty’s point is becoming harder to ignore—even if some ego is involved.Timestamps(0:25) Kendri
Let's Talk Music!
Ep 189AZ Chike, Pusha T and possibly Drake all have new music on the way. Cole breaks down what has him excited about each release, where he has doubts, and which artist might have the most to prove.Then we get into Complex’s updated Hottest Rappers list. Kanye has taken the #1 spot, Don Toliver continues to have a huge year, and Jay-Z’s placement has Cole questioning what “hottest rapper” actuall
Does Everybody Have FOMO?
Ep 188Drake has everybody wondering what FOMO is, but Cole isn't buying the theory that it's another album. With three projects already out and no U.S. tour since 2024, could Drake be preparing to take FOMO on the road?Then we get into Big Sean and Kid Cudi reconnecting with Kanye and a bigger question about relationships in the music business: does forgiveness become easier when someone&#
Voluntary Infomation
Ep 187Keefe D has been found guilty in the murder of Tupac Shakur, but after years of publicly talking about the case, should anyone really be surprised by how this ended?Then we switch gears to Jay-Z. With Hov performing again and making some interesting moves, Cole has a theory: Is all of this building toward a Super Bowl performance and a new album?Timestamps(0:32) Keefe D is found guilty(2:05)
Where's the Loyalty?
Ep 186Lil Durk’s trial has turned into another internet debate about snitching and street code. I get into Durk’s defense pointing the finger at OTF Vonnie, OTF Jam’s testimony, the leaked phone call, and why I think people watching from the outside are getting ahead of themselves.Then, Hit-Boy’s VladTV interview had me thinking about more than his relationship with Nas. Between Nas, Kanye and his
Is Game the Problem?
Ep 185The Game wants to clear the air, but does anybody actually owe him a conversation? I look at his history with Kendrick Lamar, the constant references, the interviews and why his own behavior may explain some of the distance.Then, Dr. Dre says AI is another tool for creativity. I get into why I disagree and what embracing AI could mean for producers, writers and musicians.Timestamp(0:24) The
Who's Really Biased?
Ep 174Akademiks is calling out Loren LaRosa, Marc Lamont Hill and Rob Markman over what he believes is unfair reporting surrounding stories involving Drake, Roc Nation and himself.Cole breaks down why Ak may have a legitimate complaint about follow-up journalism while questioning whether his constant wars with members of hip-hop media have contributed to the problem.Then the conversation gets bigg
Beyond Approach
Ep 183Lil Durk’s trial is approaching, and prosecutors plan to use his music as part of their case. Cole breaks down the use of “Pissed Me Off,” a witness expected to interpret the lyrics, evidence from Durk’s phone, and why the unverified claim of 35 witnesses shouldn't be treated as fact without better sourcing.Then, Tyga responds to criticism surrounding the AI-assisted production on $TARFA
Too Much Drake?
Ep 182Drake's Stake anniversary livestream went viral for everything from a 20-v-1 dating show to barking for streamer Pinkchyu, but Cole thinks the bigger conversation is what Drake said when the jokes stopped.Drake appeared to take another shot at Jay-Z and Roc Nation before warning rappers that his pen isn't finished. With Drake winning again, does anybody still fear him in a rap battle
Who is In the Right?
Ep 181Why haven't Kendrick Lamar and The Game spoken in over a decade?New comments from Top give us more insight into their fallout, pointing back to The Game bringing Drake to Compton for the "100" video. While some are calling Kendrick emotional for cutting Game off, Cole looks at the situation from another angle: maybe Kendrick simply learned where Game's loyalty stood.Plus, P
Show Me the Proof!
Ep 180Glasses Malone claims Drake may be funding a Drakeo the Ruler investigation, and the internet is already connecting it back to the Drake vs. Kendrick Lamar feud. But is there any real evidence?Cole Jackson breaks down the allegations, YG's response, and why hip hop needs more proof before running with major narratives.Plus, Tyga is accused of using AI on his latest album, leading to a di
Podcasting is Nasty!
Ep 179Joe Budden and Charlamagne Tha God made Forbes' list of the highest-paid podcasters, but does that actually move podcasting forward?Cole Jackson breaks down why their success may be the exception rather than the rule, why Black women-led podcasts continue to face unique challenges, and whether today's podcast industry rewards controversy over meaningful conversation.Plus, a full reac
Major Artists, Mid Music
Ep 178This week, Cole Jackson looks at the reaction to Rick Ross' Set in Stone and Future's The Real Me. While both artists remain successful, many fans have labeled the albums "mid." Is the problem the music—or the audience?Cole breaks down first-week sales, disappearing album rollouts, changing listening habits, and why hip-hop fans may need to do a better job discovering and s
INDUSTRY UNDER ATTACK?
Ep 177This week I'm breaking down one of the strangest stories in hip-hop. Kendrick Lamar, Drake, Kanye West, Playboi Carti and other artists all appear to have been targeted by the same hackers, leading to leaked songs and unauthorized uploads. I examine what happened, the possible connections, and what this could mean for the music industry moving forward. Plus, I share my thoughts on The Ga
Guilty of Lyrics
Ep 176Should rap lyrics ever be used as evidence in court?This week, I break down the Yella Beezy trial and explain why I think using rap lyrics to convict artists is a slippery slope. Then I react to Complex's updated list of the 100 Best LA Rap Songs, reveal my own Top 5, and close the show with thoughts on why fans need to stop overanalyzing every Kendrick Lamar snippet before the full song
Go Read a Book!
Ep 175This week on The Stem Society, Cole Jackson reacts to the long-awaited conversation between DJ Akademiks and Charlamagne Tha God. Did the Roc Nation accusations finally get settled, or did the three-hour discussion solve nothing? Then Cole breaks down Jay-Z's historic Yankee Stadium celebration, the surprise guests, the backlash from former insiders, and why the Target freestyle became o
Meeting of the Minds
Ep 174This week on The Stem Society, Cole Jackson reacts to the long-awaited conversation between DJ Akademiks and Charlamagne Tha God. Did the Roc Nation accusations finally get settled, or did the three-hour discussion solve nothing? Then Cole breaks down Jay-Z's historic Yankee Stadium celebration, the surprise guests, the backlash from former insiders, and why the Target freestyle became o
Blame the Music?
Ep 173Is Yung Miami's "Spend Dat" just harmless fun, or does India.Arie have a point about the power music has over culture and behavior? Cole breaks down the backlash, why India.Arie was misunderstood, and whether artists should be blamed when listeners try to live out the lyrics. Plus, five predictions for Jay-Z's massive Yankee Stadium weekend celebrating Reasonable Doubt and
Lupe is Elite
Ep 172Lupe Fiasco says there are hundreds of rappers better than Kendrick Lamar, and once again the internet is debating where he ranks among hip-hop's elite. Cole Jackson explains why Lupe deserves respect as one of rap's greatest lyricists while also breaking down why greatness is about more than just bars. Plus, a look at 50 Cent's reported performance at a Donald Trump Jr.-connecte
Who Lies About Roc Nation?
Ep 171On this episode of The Stem Society, Cole Jackson breaks down DJ Akademiks' accusations that Charlamagne Tha God and other media personalities are protecting Jay-Z and Roc Nation, and explains why the relationship between artists and hip-hop media is more complicated than many fans realize.Later, Cole examines Lizzo's disappointing album sales and asks whether the blame belongs to th
Broke People Activity!
Ep 170On today's episode of The Stem Society, Cole Jackson breaks down two of the biggest conversations in hip-hop.First, T.I. is facing criticism after calling Verzuz a "poor people activity" despite spending years campaigning for a battle with 50 Cent. Has he changed his mind, or is this a convenient rewrite of history before his new album?Then, Meek Mill claims DJ Akademiks and hi
Why Target?
Ep 169This week on The Stem Society, Cole Jackson breaks down the backlash surrounding Jay-Z's decision to release an exclusive 30th anniversary Reasonable Doubt vinyl through Target while the retailer remains the focus of a boycott within parts of the Black community.Cole examines whether Jay-Z is being tone deaf, why billionaires often prioritize business over public sentiment, and whether f
Money is the Issue
Ep 168This week on The Stem Society, Cole Jackson breaks down the latest lawsuit and allegations involving Kanye West and asks whether hip-hop fans have become too willing to ignore serious accusations when they involve their favorite artists.Cole also reacts to Savon's claims that Elliott Wilson owes him $20,000 and discusses why turning personal business disputes into podcast content might b
Griselda's Over?
Ep 167This week on The Stem Society, Cole Jackson breaks down the latest Griselda controversy after comments from Rory & Mal reignited rumors of tension between Westside Gunn, Conway The Machine, and Benny The Butcher.Cole looks at the history of the breakup rumors, Conway's departure from the label, Benny's Def Jam deal, and why the Griselda split may have been hiding in plain sight f
Rap's New Battle?
Ep 166This week on The Stem Society, Cole Jackson reacts to Jay-Z's surprise Roots Picnic freestyle and breaks down the shots aimed at Drake, Kanye West, Dame Dash, Nicki Minaj, and Tory Lanez.Cole also discusses whether Drake would have any chance against Jay-Z in a battle and why Hov's latest move might expose some hypocrisy.Plus, the leaked Sauce Walka call that has the internet talking
The Agenda is Clear
Ep 165This week on The Stem Society, Cole Jackson reacts to DJ Hed facing backlash after clips surfaced of him allegedly editing Drake’s “2 Hard 4 The Radio” and questions whether hip hop media personalities are becoming too emotionally invested in rap beef.Cole also breaks down Drake surpassing Michael Jackson for the most solo #1 songs by a male artist and explains why breaking records and becom
Follow the Money
Ep 164Cole Jackson breaks down the latest controversy surrounding DJ Akademiks after new conversations sparked around payola, label influence, and whether hip hop media can still be trusted. Cole also reacts to Akademiks responding to allegations tied to artists, labels, and even Trump’s Truth Social platform.Later in the episode, Cole reacts to Rick Ross calling Drake’s ICEMAN “horrendous” and qu
No New Numbers
Ep 163This week on The Stem Society, Cole Jackson breaks down the Drake Spotify controversy after the platform corrected its original streaming record announcement and sparked new conversations about bots, streaming manipulation, and UMG.Cole also reacts to JID’s deleted tweets about the BET Awards and his comments about J. Cole while asking a bigger question about respect, status, and how the ind
Drake's Exit Plan
Ep 162This week on The Stem Society, Cole Jackson breaks down the theory that Drake’s 3-album drop might have had nothing to do with music quality and everything to do with business.Cole dives into the UMG lawsuit, the reaction culture around “mid” album reviews, and why so many streamers and podcasters may be missing the bigger picture behind Iceman, Hibibti, and Maid of Honor.Timestamps(0:32) Dr
The Iceman Conspiracy
Ep 161Cole Jackson breaks down all the speculation and internet chaos surrounding Drake’s upcoming Iceman album.From Kendrick conspiracy theories and streamer narratives to Charlamagne’s comments, rumored disses, Future speculation, and Drake’s relationship with streamers, Cole looks at what actually matters heading into release week.He also explains why Iceman needs to deliver a real rap moment f
Who's Scamming Who?
Ep 160Cole Jackson breaks down the latest fallout from Complex’s Hip-Hop Media Power Ranking after Ebro and Peter Rosenberg call DJ Akademiks an “algorithm hustler.”Cole questions whether Ebro is being hypocritical, whether Complex is moving politically, and why certain voices only speak up when it benefits them.Later, Cole reacts to Latto announcing her “retirement album” and debates whether this
The Power Rankings Suck
Ep 159Cole Jackson breaks down Complex’s 2026 Hip-Hop Media Power Ranking and questions whether these lists still have credibility.From Akademiks defending his spot to debates over Kai Cenat, Charlamagne, On The Radar, and relationship politics in media, this episode looks at whether hip-hop media rankings reward real work or just popularity and connections.Timestamps(0:28) The top 5 picks(1:04) A
No Hip Hop for Old Men
Ep 158Jay-Z has the culture debating again.In a recent interview, he said older rappers making “young music” comes off forced — and fans can tell when it’s not authentic. In this episode, Cole breaks down the statement, the pushback, and what it really means for hip-hop today.Plus, Cole reacts to the Rick Ross vs. French Montana Verzuz announcement and explains why it’s not hitting like it should
Don't Go Public!
Ep 157Meg Thee Stallion and Klay Thompson are done — but the internet turned it into something way bigger than it needed to be. In this episode, we break down what actually happened, why people are picking sides, and how narratives are driving the conversation more than facts. Then we get into Vince Staples’ “Blackberry Marmalade” video and the split reaction around it — did he go too far, or are
No Need For an Intro
Ep 156In this episode of The Stem Society, Cole Jackson breaks down two major conversations in hip hop.Drake begins his latest rollout, sparking debate about strategy, timing, and what comes next.Plus, Complex drops its list of the hottest rappers right now, and the reaction says everything.Tap in and join the conversation.Timestamp(0:26) Drake’s rollout begins(5:43) Is Drake controlling the narra
You Don't Know How To Move
Ep 155Lil Wayne speaks out about being left out of today’s biggest moments, which leads to a bigger question about relevance and legacy in hip hop.The Game jumps into the Drake conversation and blames fans for the current state of the culture, sparking debate about what actually drives success.Plus, Ice Spice goes viral after a public incident that raises concerns about how artists move and protec
The Verzuz We Wanted
Ep 154This week, Cole tackles multiple topics.He dives into Isaiah Rashad’s rollout and why this could be his best — and possibly final — album.Next, Cole breaks down the Chris Brown & Usher tour, why it feels bigger than a moment, and whether this is the closest thing we’ll get to a Verzuz. He also asks: is this finally the move that puts Chris Brown in position for a Super Bowl Halftime show
Can You Tell Me Everything?
Ep 153Gucci Mane is catching heat after his latest track sparked a “snitching” debate, and the internet is split on whether he crossed the line or not.Meanwhile, Offset is back in the headlines following a shooting incident, but the bigger conversation is about his recent pattern and how he’s been moving.Cole Jackson breaks down both stories, the reactions behind them, and what it means for each a
You Got To Pay the Price!
Ep 152Kanye keeps talking—but this time, people aren’t just tweeting about it… they’re acting on it. What used to be outrage is starting to turn into real consequences, and the industry might finally be drawing a line.In this episode, Cole Jackson breaks down what Kanye said, why the backlash feels different, and asks the real question—why do we keep letting this slide?At some point, it stops bein
Cursed!
Ep 151Cole Jackson breaks down the growing tension between Gucci Mane and Pooh Shiesty, and what this situation reveals about loyalty, contracts, and how things can spiral in the industry. Then, we get into Kanye West’s latest run—sold out shows, major headlines, and the bigger question: does success erase everything?Timestamps(0:00) Cole Open(0:36) How did we get here?(4:20) Gucci Mane's Labe
Is the Fall Off All Cap?
Ep 150Cole Jackson breaks down two major interviews that have the culture talking — and they couldn’t feel more different.J. Cole finally sits down, but instead of clarity, it raises more questions. From dodging the Drake situation to redefining himself as a battle rapper, something about this rollout isn’t landing right.Then there’s Jay-Z. In a rare interview, Hov speaks openly on his current min
What's Wrong and What's Right
Ep 149In this episode of The Stem Society, Cole Jackson tackles two conversations that show how quickly the culture picks sides.First, Cole breaks down the backlash around LaRussell after a clip from his unreleased track “Heaven Sent” sparked outrage online. With controversial references getting clipped and spread, the question becomes — is this real concern, or just selective outrage from the int
Hip-Hop Gatekeepers Strike Again
Ep 148First, Cole reacts to comments from Ebro Darden that sparked debate across the internet after he criticized fans for their album opinions. The conversation raises a bigger question about credibility in hip-hop media — who really gets to decide what’s good music: the media personalities or the fans who live with the music every day?Then Cole looks at the controversy surrounding independent ar
Mr. EGOT Tells All
Ep 147CyHi returns with new music, including a diss aimed at J. Cole and a record explaining the fallout from the G.O.O.D. Music era. While the songs show his lyrical ability, it raises a bigger question about CyHi’s career and whether fans should still take him seriously when he steps back into the spotlight.Later, Cole Jackson reacts to Jess Hilarious speaking about the reaction to The Breakfast
One Sided Beef?
Ep 146 On this episode of The Stem Society, Cole Jackson breaks down the escalating T.I. vs 50 Cent back-and-forth and asks the real question — who actually needs this more?With T.I. dropping multiple diss tracks and rapping with clear urgency while 50 stays silent on the mic, the energy feels uneven. Is this strategic patience from 50, or does this moment simply mean more for T.I.’s legacy?Cole a
The Stem Society Presents: Artist Stock Market
Patreon FreebieArtitst Stock Market This is where I break down artists like assets — momentum, trust, direction, and whether what we’re seeing is real motion or just noise.This week’s portfolio:Isaiah RashadBaby KeemLarry June x Curren$y x The AlchemistJoey Bada$$OVO Sound x McDonald'sJack Harlow
You Can't Say That!
Ep 144This week on The Stem Society, Cole Jackson breaks down the backlash to LaRussell’s comments about Lil Wayne and questions whether hip-hop fandom has become too sensitive for real opinions.Then, Cole reacts to Vlad’s viral tweet about Jay-Z and asks the uncomfortable question — would other bloggers get sued for the same move? Why do some media personalities avoid accountability?This episode
IT’S NOT THAT SIMPLE
Ep 143This week on The Stem Society, Cole Jackson tackles three conversations that say a lot about where hip hop stands right now.First, Geechi Gotti’s arrest in Ohio sparks a deeper discussion about battle rap economics. Are battle rappers really getting paid enough to sustain their lifestyle, or are we ignoring the financial realities behind the culture?Next, Gene Simmons questions hip hop’s pla
Mr. Untouchable
Ep 142On this episode of The Stem Society, Cole dives into why hip-hop media stays quiet when Jay-Z’s name is mentioned in connection with the Epstein files — and asks the real question: is Jay-Z untouchable in rap culture?Next, Cole reacts to GloRilla’s sister Scarface going viral after her TMZ interview and breaks down how moments like this can affect an artist’s public image and brand.Finally,
2026 Grammy Recap: Did They Get It Right?
Ep 141In this episode of The Stem Society, Cole breaks down the biggest moments from the 2026 Grammy Awards, including his favorite highlights from the night, Kendrick’s major win, and the controversy surrounding Rap Album of the Year.He compares his predictions to the actual winners, discusses the biggest surprises and snubs, and looks at what the results say about the current state of hip-hop an
The Best in the Biz?
Ep 140J. Cole’s Birthday Blizzard ’26 sparked major debate across hip-hop — but much of the conversation missed the point.In this episode of The Stem Society, Cole breaks down his real experience buying the mixtape, why direct-to-fan releases matter in today’s music industry, and where the rollout fell short.More importantly, he explains why the music itself delivered, how Cole shifted the narrati
Who Slapped Ak?
Ep 139First, Cole reacts to the recent incident involving DJ Akademiks and asks the real question: was this random, or was he set up? From label money and industry relationships to questions about journalistic integrity, Cole examines whether Akademiks can still be seen as an independent voice in hip-hop media — and why this moment matters.Then, Cole dives into Kanye West’s latest apology letter.
Don't End Your Career
Ep 138On this episode of The Stem Society, host Cole Jackson breaks down why Drake’s decision to appeal his UMG lawsuit could have long-term consequences for his career, reputation, and legacy. Is this a smart legal move, or a risk that could hurt him in the long run?Then, Cole dives into the online back-and-forth between 21 Savage and Fivio Foreign after Fivio’s viral comments sparked debate acro
The Hussle Society
Ep 137This is a collab episode with The Hussle Report's Hussle Porter. In this episode Hussle and Cole talk about the Tenderism conspiricy, Druski's Church skit, Kai's current state, your worst break up and what we expect from J Cole's new album "The Fall Off" Make sure you tap in with Hussle Porter and The Hussle Report on IG: @hussle_porter & @hussleworldent
Adin Ross is NOT the Problem?
Ep 136On this episode of The Stem Society, Cole Jackson breaks down the Adin Ross and Doechii controversy following the release of Doechii’s song “Girl, Get Up.”Cole explores how early criticism from within the culture helped open the door for extreme outside commentary, the role platforms play in amplifying disrespect, and whether Glasses Malone’s response represents accountability—or escalation.
Leave the Streets Alone
Ep 13521 Savage just sent a message to the industry: “F* the Streets.”** On this episode of The Stem Society, Cole breaks down what that statement really means for hip-hop — is the street era finally fading out, or is this just another moment that’ll get flipped into marketing?Cole also dives into Charlamagne’s reported $200M deal with iHeart and Ebro’s reaction to it. Is it fair critique or somet
Too Much Talking
Ep 134In this episode of The Stem Society, Cole Jackson breaks down two conversations that are really about the same thing: legacy in hip-hop.Cole reacts to The Game claiming he’s the best rapper on the West Coast, and why Kendrick Lamar’s name immediately entered the conversation. Is greatness about pure skill, or do catalog, impact, and how an artist moves over time matter more?The episode then
What's the Point?
Ep 133In this episode, Cole breaks down why the new Diddy documentary adds nothing to the conversation. From 50’s ego play to the recycled information, Cole explains why the doc feels like a waste of time and money.Cole also reacts to Trap Lore Ross’ new video on NBA YoungBoy and talks about why creators who lean into street politics need to stand on their words when the pressure hits.Tap in for h
No Country For Fake Pods
Ep 132Cole breaks down why The Bigger Picture didn’t work long-term and what its ending says about the shallow state of hip-hop podcasting. He also dives into why labels pushing DSPs to raise streaming prices is a bad idea, and whether real alternatives to Spotify and Apple Music even exist. A full culture talk from someone who actually pays attention.Timestamps(0:00) Cole Open(1:08) The Bigger Pi
Worthless Deals
Ep 131This week on The Stem Society, Cole breaks down Drake’s new Complex interview and pulls out the moments that actually matter. From the “calm seas” comment to the mindset behind the Iceman rollout, Cole digs into what Drake is really trying to signal before the album drops.Then, we get into the Roc Nation Distribution announcement and why the timing and presentation of this move just feel off
Did Rory Really Get Cancelled?
Rory Farrell had one of the messiest weeks in podcast history. Old tweets and retweets resurfaced showing racist comments and disrespect toward Black women, and his reaction in a live X Space only added fuel to the fire — sarcasm, excuses, and an apology that didn’t land.In this episode, Cole Jackson breaks down the full story and asks the real question:Is Rory actually canceled… or is this anothe
Westside Gunn Gets Banned!
Westside Gunn says WWE kicked him out of Monday Night RAW in Buffalo — after years of sitting front row, spending thousands, and repping wrestling in his music.Cole Jackson breaks down why the fallout between Gunn and WWE hits deeper than a copyright issue. From cease and desists to cultural disrespect, this episode dives into how hip-hop helped make wrestling cool again — and why WWE still doesn’
Did The Grammys Get It Right?
Ep 129The 2026 GRAMMY nominations are in, and hip hop came to play. Kendrick Lamar leads with nine nods, but did the Academy finally get it right?Cole Jackson breaks down the biggest rap and R&B categories — from Clipse’s Let God Sort ’Em Out to Leon Thomas’s MUTT — and calls out who got snubbed. Then, Cole pivots to a new lawsuit accusing Spotify of ignoring fake bot streams and asks the ques
Dave – “The Boy Who Played Harp” | Honest Album Review
Four years later, Dave returns with The Boy Who Played Harp — a deeply personal album about faith, loss, and growth.This isn’t just a rap record; it’s a reflection of where he is as a man.In this episode, Cole breaks down how Dave uses spirituality, honesty, and vulnerability to tell his story. From “175 Months” to “Chapter 16” with Kano, this is Dave sounding more grounded — and more human — than
The Truth About Hip Hop ‘Falling Off
Bonus EpisodeEveryone keeps saying hip hop is dead, but the numbers don’t tell the full story. In this video, I break down why the culture is still alive — just evolving in new spaces. From charts to creativity, hip hop hasn’t flatlined, it’s just shifting.Social Media:@colejackon12 - Twitter@colejackson_bynk - Instagram
You Are the Problem Fool!
Ep 127This week on The Stem Society, Cole Jackson breaks down two moments that show what happens when hip-hop gets personal.First, Kevin McCall’s emotional podcast moment reignites old drama with Chris Brown — raising questions about money, pride, and how fame breaks artists.Then, Trap Lore Ross gets confronted by Central Cee’s team at ComplexCon — sparking a bigger conversation about accountabili
Is Tyler Anti Black?
Tyler, The Creator is catching heat again — this time for old anti-Black tweets from his early career that have resurfaced online. The backlash came right after he paid tribute to D’Angelo, and somehow, his own fanbase became part of the problem.Cole Jackson breaks down the controversy, the internet’s obsession with digging up the past, and how Tyler’s evolution as an artist challenges what “Black
Do I Have to Pick a Side?
Ep 125In this episode, Cole Jackson gets real about the downside of honesty in hip-hop media. After losing subscribers for calling Drake’s lawsuit a business move instead of a personal attack, Cole breaks down how fan culture and hive mind thinking are hurting small creators, hip-hop, and the conversations around it.From Drake vs Kendrick to Nicki vs Cardi, and even voices like Akademiks and Joe B
Drake Loses and Hip Hop Wins?
Ep 124Drake’s lawsuit against UMG over Kendrick Lamar’s “Not Like Us” has officially been dismissed. In this episode, Cole Jackson breaks down Judge Vargas’ 38-page opinion, how it frames rap beef as protected art, and what this means for the culture going forward.Timestamps:(0:00) Cold Open – Drake vs UMG dismissed(1:17) What the Dismissal Says(7:10) Drake’s claim about bots and pay-for-play(10:2
If You Take It There...
Ep 123 Cole Jackson dives into two of the week’s biggest stories in hip-hop: Cardi B and Nicki Minaj’s Twitter meltdown and Diddy’s sentencing. The episode breaks down how a $4.99 tweet turned into a family-level feud — and why Diddy’s four-year sentence says more about the system than it does about justice.Tune in for unfiltered commentary and cultural analysis that keeps it honest — because The
Young Thug’s UY Scuti Review | A Disappointing Return or Light Spin?
Young Thug’s UY Scuti is 20 tracks of highs and lows. In this review, I break down what worked, what didn’t, the production, and the features. Thug shows flashes of the artist fans know and love, but most of the project feels scattered and inconsistent. I explain why this album lands as a Light Spin and what it could mean for his future.📱 Follow Cole Jackson:IG → @colejackson_bynkX → @ColeJackson1
Hip Hop is Down Bad
Ep 122Cardi B just went back-to-back at #1 on the Billboard 200 with 208k first week — the first woman since Nicki Minaj to pull it off. But does that mean hip hop is thriving in 2025, or are we watching the culture stall out? Cole Jackson breaks down Cardi’s run, Nicki’s response, and why the game might be short on new stars.In the second story, Live Nation’s CEO claims concert tickets are “under
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