Shots Fired Podcast

Detroit MC/producer Black Milk & Motown’s Quelle Chris & Denmark Vessey join Jeff & Nocando to talk about Detroit music on this week’s Shots Fired! They discuss early Motown, Detroit techno, the Hip Hop Shop, and rappers from Esham to Danny Brown. Plus, they talk about <a href="http://www.negativland.com/news/?page_id=17">Steve Albini’s “The Problem with Music."</a> Be sure to get yourself a copy of Jeff’s book “<a href="http://www.amazon.com/2pac-vs-Biggie-Illustrated-Greatest/dp/0760343675/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1368666557&sr=8-1&keywords=2pac+vs+biggie">2pac vs. Biggie: An Illustrated History of Rap’s Greatest Battle</a>,” Nocando’s mixtape “Tits ‘N Explosions” at <a href="http://hellfyreclub.bandcamp.com/">http://hellfyreclub.bandcamp.com</a>, Black Milk's new album “No Poison In Paradise” at <a href="http://blackmilk.biz/">http://blackmilk.biz/</a>, Quelle Chris’ latest album at <a href="http://quellechris.bandcamp.com/">http://quellechris.bandcamp.com</a>, and keep firing shots of your own by calling us at (424) 216-6230!

LA rapper, singer, producer Ty Dolla $ign joins Jeff & Nocando to talk about his single “<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eGd-nuaQmDQ">Paranoid</a>,” being compared to Nate Dogg, working with Juicy J, his dad being in the all time great Funk band Lakeside, J Dilla being his favorite producer, and writing/producing “<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uWlMhiEL9Mc">Toot It and Boot It</a>.” Plus, Nocando responds to an Earwolf forum commenter, Jeff tells us about being stood up by Nicki Minaj, and we hear a shot from an overseas listener. Be sure to get yourself a copy of Jeff’s book “<a href="http://www.amazon.com/2pac-vs-Biggie-Illustrated-Greatest/dp/0760343675/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1368666557&sr=8-1&keywords=2pac+vs+biggie">2pac vs. Biggie: An Illustrated History of Rap’s Greatest Battle</a>,” Nocando’s mixtape “Tits ‘N Explosions” at <a href="http://hellfyreclub.bandcamp.com/">http://hellfyreclub.bandcamp.com</a>, Ty Dolla $ign’s latest mixtape “Beach House 2” at <a href="http://www.datpiff.com/Ty-Dolla-ign-Beach-House-2-mixtape.494390.html">http://www.datpiff.com/Ty-Dolla-ign-Beach-House-2-mixtape.494390.html</a>, and keep firing shots of your own by calling us at (424) 216-6230!

Jeff & Nocando are joined by rappers Pistol McFly & Snubnose Frankenstein on this week’s episode of Shots Fired! They talk about <a href="http://blogs.laweekly.com/westcoastsound/2013/09/riff_raff_real_story.php">RiFF RaFF’s LA Weekly cover story</a>, Gucci Mane’s Twitter rant, Atlanta rappers, train life, 2 Chainz’s new album “ B.O.A.T.S II My Time,” <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ab9176Srb5Y">Eminem’s latest Beastie Boys inspired video</a>, and The Weeknd. Plus, we find out what is everyone’s most played iTunes track. Be sure to get yourself a copy of Jeff’s book “<a href="http://www.amazon.com/2pac-vs-Biggie-Illustrated-Greatest/dp/0760343675/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1368666557&sr=8-1&keywords=2pac+vs+biggie">2pac vs. Biggie: An Illustrated History of Rap’s Greatest Battle</a>,” Nocando’s mixtape “Tits ‘N Explosions” at <a href="http://hellfyreclub.bandcamp.com/">http://hellfyreclub.bandcamp.com</a>, Snubnose Frankenstein’s latest album at <a href="http://snubnosefrank.bandcamp.com">http://snubnosefrank.bandcamp.com</a>, Pistol McFly’s latest album at <a href="http://mars2.bandcamp.com">http://mars2.bandcamp.com</a>, and keep firing shots of your own by calling us at (424) 216-6230! Trap Lord in stores now!

Jeff & Nocando welcome Low End Theory DJ/Producer Nobody and returning guest Busdriver on today’s episode of Shots Fired! They’ll talk about bear meat, adopting puffins, Lil Wayne’s new mixtape, Juicy J’s writing process, incidental rappers, street DVDs, and Lil B’s Bitch Mob. Be sure to get yourself a copy of Jeff’s book “<a href="http://www.amazon.com/2pac-vs-Biggie-Illustrated-Greatest/dp/0760343675/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1368666557&sr=8-1&keywords=2pac+vs+biggie">2pac vs. Biggie: An Illustrated History of Rap’s Greatest Battle</a>,” Nocando’s mixtape “Tits ‘N Explosions” at <a href="http://hellfyreclub.bandcamp.com/">http://hellfyreclub.bandcamp.com</a>, Nobody’s latest album “<a href="http://www.alphapuprecords.com/releasepage.php?UPC=669158524884">Vivid Green</a>,” and keep firing shots of your own by calling us at (424) 216-6230! Look out for the Hellfyre Club compilation album “Dorner Vs. Tookie” in October!

Jeff, Nocando, and Open Mike Eagle welcome Stones Throw rapper Homeboy Sandman on this week’s episode of Shots Fired! They discuss Kanye West’s “Kris” interview, Martin Luther King Jr. being compared to Macklemore, Miley Cyrus acting a fool, and various music based websites. Be sure to get yourself a copy of Jeff’s book “<a href="http://www.amazon.com/2pac-vs-Biggie-Illustrated-Greatest/dp/0760343675/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1368666557&sr=8-1&keywords=2pac+vs+biggie">2pac vs. Biggie: An Illustrated History of Rap’s Greatest Battle</a>,” Nocando’s mixtape “Tits ‘N Explosions” at <a href="http://hellfyreclub.bandcamp.com/">http://hellfyreclub.bandcamp.com</a>, Open Mike Eagle’s latest EP “Sir Rockabye” at <a href="http://openmikeeagle.bandcamp.com/">http://openmikeeagle.bandcamp.com</a>, Homeboy Sandman’s latest album “All That I Hold Dear” at <a href="http://www.stonesthrow.com/store">http://www.stonesthrow.com/store</a>, and keep firing shots of your own by calling us at (424) 216-6230!

BEeFF (Bertran, Evan and every fucking female) returns to talk about Kendrick Lamar’s “Control” verse, some of the many responses, and whether it will have a positive impact on Hip-Hop. They also discuss Earl Sweatshirt’s new album “Doris,” what makes a hit record, and A$AP Ferg. Plus, Jeff talks about speaking at a high school Career Day and Nocando tells us about his time on the Low End Theory Europe tour. Be sure to get yourself a copy of Jeff’s book “<a href="http://www.amazon.com/2pac-vs-Biggie-Illustrated-Greatest/dp/0760343675/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1368666557&sr=8-1&keywords=2pac+vs+biggie">2pac vs. Biggie: An Illustrated History of Rap’s Greatest Battle</a>,” check out Nocando’s mixtape “Tits ‘N Explosions” at <a href="http://hellfyreclub.bandcamp.com/">http://hellfyreclub.bandcamp.com</a>, and keep firing shots of your own by calling us at (424) 216-6230!

On this week’s episode of Shots Fired, Jeff & Nocando discuss good/bad new music from Yung Lean, Spark Master Tape, Forest Swords, Drake, and Breezy Lovejoy. Plus, Jeff tells us about his recent experience at a Phish concert, he has a mini ep of <a href="http://www.earwolf.com/show/analyze-phish/">Analyze Phish</a> with Nocando, and they both show some love to the late George Duke. Be sure to get yourself a copy of Jeff’s book “<a href="http://www.amazon.com/2pac-vs-Biggie-Illustrated-Greatest/dp/0760343675/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1368666557&sr=8-1&keywords=2pac+vs+biggie">2pac vs. Biggie: An Illustrated History of Rap’s Greatest Battle</a>,” check out Nocando’s mixtape “Tits ‘N Explosions” at <a href="http://hellfyreclub.bandcamp.com/">http://hellfyreclub.bandcamp.com</a>, and keep firing shots of your own by calling us at (424) 216-6230!

Head of Stones Throw Records and well known DJ/producer, Peanut Butter Wolf joins Jeff & Nocando to explain how he would describe Stones Throw to people on a plane, talk about discovering Madlib, the Stones Throw philosophy, living with Madlib & DOOM for a time, and how he ended up meeting J Dilla. Plus, Jeff & Nocando share their thoughts on social media, discuss the current state of Nocando’s weekly Sunday hip-hop party Daylight, and respond to some of your shots. Be sure to get yourself a copy of Jeff’s book “<a href="http://www.amazon.com/2pac-vs-Biggie-Illustrated-Greatest/dp/0760343675/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1368666557&sr=8-1&keywords=2pac+vs+biggie">2pac vs. Biggie: An Illustrated History of Rap’s Greatest Battle</a>,” check out Nocando’s mixtape “Tits ‘N Explosions” at <a href="http://hellfyreclub.bandcamp.com/">http://hellfyreclub.bandcamp.com</a>, and keep firing shots by calling us at (424) 216-6230!

Long Island bred rapper/producer Roc Marciano joins Jeff & Nocando to talk about growing up in Hempstead, when he started recording music, what he learned from working with Pete Rock, his collaborations with Busta Rhymes, Q-Tip, and GZA, and producing his entire upcoming album “Marci Beaucoup.” Plus, they discuss the Death Row incident at the 1995 Source Awards and its aftermath. Be sure to get yourself a copy of Jeff’s book “<a href="http://www.amazon.com/2pac-vs-Biggie-Illustrated-Greatest/dp/0760343675/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1368666557&sr=8-1&keywords=2pac+vs+biggie">2pac vs. Biggie: An Illustrated History of Rap’s Greatest Battle</a>,” check out Nocando’s mixtape “Tits ‘N Explosions” at <a href="http://hellfyreclub.bandcamp.com/">http://hellfyreclub.bandcamp.com</a>, and keep firing shots by calling us at (424) 216-6230!

LA based rapper Zeroh & Hellfyre Club rapper Milo join Jeff Weiss & MC Nocando to talk about their unexpected influences such as Ludacris, Nas, and B-Legit. They also talk about R. Kelly, Beats by Dre, skinny jeans, and art rap. Be sure to get yourself a copy of Jeff’s book “<a href="http://www.amazon.com/2pac-vs-Biggie-Illustrated-Greatest/dp/0760343675/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1368666557&sr=8-1&keywords=2pac+vs+biggie">2pac vs. Biggie: An Illustrated History of Rap’s Greatest Battle</a>,” Nocando’s mixtape “Tits ‘N Explosions” & Milo’s latest EP “Calvacade” at <a href="http://hellfyreclub.bandcamp.com/">http://hellfyreclub.bandcamp.com</a>, Zeroh’s latest EP “Bred” at <a href="http://horez.bandcamp.com/">http://horez.bandcamp.com/</a>, and keep firing shots of your own by calling us at (424) 216-6230!

Jeff, Nocando, and Open Mike Eagle welcome Dessa of the Minneapolis indie hip-hop collective Doomtree on this week’s Shots Fired! They discuss how Dessa got involved with the Doomtree collective, the different kinds of literature she’s written, and all share their thoughts on the George Zimmerman verdict. Be sure to get yourself a copy of Jeff’s book “<a href="http://www.amazon.com/2pac-vs-Biggie-Illustrated-Greatest/dp/0760343675/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1368666557&sr=8-1&keywords=2pac+vs+biggie">2pac vs. Biggie: An Illustrated History of Rap’s Greatest Battle</a>,” Nocando’s mixtape “Tits ‘N Explosions” at <a href="http://hellfyreclub.bandcamp.com/">http://hellfyreclub.bandcamp.com</a>, Open Mike Eagle’s latest EP “Sir Rockabye” at <a href="http://openmikeeagle.bandcamp.com">http://openmikeeagle.bandcamp.com</a>, Dessa’s new album “Parts of Speech” at <a href="http://www.doomtree.net/dessa/">http://www.doomtree.net/dessa/</a>, and keep firing shots of your own by calling us at (424) 216-6230!

Jeff & Nocando reflect on Jay-Z’s career as they take a look at his latest album, “Magna Carta...Holy Grail” on this week’s Shots Fired! They’ll discuss his early Hawaiian Sophie days with Jaz-O all the way to his grown-up record that samples the likes of Gonjasufi, Adrian Younge, and Nirvana that is the Holy Grail. Plus, they tell us about their 4th of July weekend and Nocando explains why he’s never done molly. Be sure to get yourself a copy of Jeff’s book “<a href="http://www.amazon.com/2pac-vs-Biggie-Illustrated-Greatest/dp/0760343675/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1368666557&sr=8-1&keywords=2pac+vs+biggie">2pac vs. Biggie: An Illustrated History of Rap’s Greatest Battle</a>,” check out Nocando’s mixtape “Tits ‘N Explosions” at <a href="http://hellfyreclub.bandcamp.com/">http://hellfyreclub.bandcamp.com</a>, and keep firing shots of your own by calling us at (424) 216-6230!

South Central LA based singer/producer/rapper/dancer Tee FLii joins MC Nocando & Jeff Weiss to bring positive energy to Shots Fired! He talks about growing up two blocks from Nocando, krumping with his uncle at age 12, why he believes Michael Jackson is the best, what it means to get a co-sign from DJ Quik, and collaborating with DJ Mustard on his latest mixtape “Fireworks.” Be sure to get yourself a copy of Jeff’s book “<a href="http://www.amazon.com/2pac-vs-Biggie-Illustrated-Greatest/dp/0760343675/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1368666557&sr=8-1&keywords=2pac+vs+biggie">2pac vs. Biggie: An Illustrated History of Rap’s Greatest Battle</a>,” check out Nocando’s mixtape “Tits ‘N Explosions” at <a href="http://hellfyreclub.bandcamp.com/">http://hellfyreclub.bandcamp.com</a>, and keep firing shots by calling us at (424) 216-6230!

On this week’s episode of Shots Fired, Jeff Weiss & MC Nocando discuss Mac Miller’s “Watching Movies with the Sound Off,” J Cole’s “Born Sinner,” and of course Kanye’s “Yeezus.” Plus, they answer your questions regarding LA radio, 2Pac, and Hip-Hop artists defending their art. Be sure to get yourself a copy of Jeff’s book “<a href="http://www.amazon.com/2pac-vs-Biggie-Illustrated-Greatest/dp/0760343675/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1368666557&sr=8-1&keywords=2pac+vs+biggie">2pac vs. Biggie: An Illustrated History of Rap’s Greatest Battle</a>,” check out Nocando’s mixtape “Tits ‘N Explosions” at <a href="http://hellfyreclub.bandcamp.com/">http://hellfyreclub.bandcamp.com</a>, and keep firing shots of your own by calling us at (424) 216-6230!

The following is a Shots Fired presentation. TV host, radio personality, and entrepreneur DJ Skee joins MC Nocando & Jeff Weiss to talk about how he went from making mixtapes at 15 to working full-time at Loud Records at 16, why producing Game’s infamous “<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GtbHx7Hexow">300 Bars</a>” is one of his favorite accomplishments, the current state of DJing, running Skee.TV, which broadcasts worldwide along with being shown in various restaurants, gas stations, & airports, and creating Skee 24/7, a live streaming internet radio. Plus, the guys share their thoughts on “Yeezus.” Be sure to get yourself a copy of Jeff’s book “<a href="http://www.amazon.com/2pac-vs-Biggie-Illustrated-Greatest/dp/0760343675/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1368666557&sr=8-1&keywords=2pac+vs+biggie">2pac vs. Biggie: An Illustrated History of Rap’s Greatest Battle</a>,” check out Nocando’s mixtape “Tits ‘N Explosions” at <a href="http://hellfyreclub.bandcamp.com/">http://hellfyreclub.bandcamp.com</a>, and fire shots of your own by calling us at (424) 216-6230!

Korean rapper, entertainer, and man behind Knocksteady, Dumbfoundead joins MC Nocando & Jeff Weiss to talk about coming up through the battle rap scene, how Project Blowed taught him to not be shy while on the mic, finding out that he has a huge Nepalese fanbase, being compared to white rappers, and never straying away from his Asian roots. Plus, the guys go through some of the most amazing/ridiculous things Kanye West said in his recent <a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2013/06/16/arts/music/kanye-west-talks-about-his-career-and-album-yeezus.html?pagewanted=all&_r=1&">New York Times interview</a>. Be sure to get a copy of Jeff’s new book “<a href="http://www.amazon.com/2pac-vs-Biggie-Illustrated-Greatest/dp/0760343675/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1368666557&sr=8-1&keywords=2pac+vs+biggie">2pac vs. Biggie: An Illustrated History of Rap’s Greatest Battle</a>,” check out Nocando’s mixtape “Tits ‘N Explosions” at <a href="http://hellfyreclub.bandcamp.com/">http://hellfyreclub.bandcamp.com</a>/, and fire shots of your own by calling us at (424) 216-6230!

2Pac’s mentor and first manager Leila Steinberg & 2Pac Vs. Biggie: Rap’s Greatest Battle co-author Evan McGarvey join MC Nocando & Jeff Weiss for a LIVE episode from Lot 1 in Echo Park. Jeff explains why 2Pac can wear leather, Evan describes Biggie’s rhyme pattern and style, Leila tells us how meeting 2Pac ultimately changed her life, Nocando shares how both Biggie & 2Pac have influenced him, and everyone discusses the impact that both legendary artists have had on their lives.

Rapper Snow tha Product & MySpace writer Rebecca Haithcoat join MC Nocando & Jeff Weiss to discuss female rappers and misogyny in Hip-Hop. They talk about the use of the word “bitch” in Hip-Hop, the difficulty of having to be careful of what to say as a woman, the sexualization of women in Hip-Hop, and female rappers having to deal with being looked down upon by male rappers. Be sure to get a copy of Jeff’s new book “<a href="http://www.amazon.com/2pac-vs-Biggie-Illustrated-Greatest/dp/0760343675/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1368666557&sr=8-1&keywords=2pac+vs+biggie">2pac vs. Biggie: An Illustrated History of Rap’s Greatest Battle</a>,” check out Nocando’s mixtape “Tits ‘N Explosions” at <a href="http://hellfyreclub.bandcamp.com/">http://hellfyreclub.bandcamp.com</a>/, and fire shots of your own by calling us at (424) 216-6230! If you’re listening to this on the day it drops come to a live taping of Shots Fired, Thursday, May 30 at Lot 1 in Echo Park. 8 p.m. 1533 W. Sunset Blvd. Featuring guests Evan McGarvey, co-author of 2Pac Vs. Biggie: Rap’s Greatest Battle, and 2Pac’s mentor and first manager, Leila Steinberg.

<a href="http://www.worldstarhiphop.com/videos/">WorldStarHipHop.com</a> gets around 4-6 million hits a day. Q is the man behind this juggernaut of a website and joins MC Nocando & Jeff Weiss to talk about his early beginnings selling mixtapes online with DJ Whoo Kid, where he got his inspiration to make WorldStar a central hub for entertainment, when WorldStar started getting huge, which is the highest trafficked video, how rappers can get on WorldStar, criticisms the site has received from the fight videos, and the future ventures of WorldStarHipHop. Be sure to get a copy of Jeff’s new book “<a href="http://www.amazon.com/2pac-vs-Biggie-Illustrated-Greatest/dp/0760343675/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1368666557&sr=8-1&keywords=2pac+vs+biggie">2pac vs. Biggie: An Illustrated History of Rap’s Greatest Battle</a>,” check out Nocando’s mixtape “Tits ‘N Explosions” at <a href="http://hellfyreclub.bandcamp.com/">http://hellfyreclub.bandcamp.com</a>/, and fire shots of your own by calling us at (424) 216-6230! Also, come to a live taping of Shots Fired, next Thursday, May 30 at Lot 1 in Echo Park. 8 p.m. 1533 W. Sunset Blvd. Featuring guests Evan McGarvey, co-author of 2Pac Vs. Biggie: Rap's Greatest Battle, and 2Pac's mentor and first manager, Leila Steinberg.

Rapper, producer, and all around internet entity Wax joins MC Nocando & Jeff Weiss to talk about having a number one hit in Europe with his song “Rosana,” the phenomenon of being big in another country, and the truth behind making something go viral. Be sure to get a copy of Jeff’s new book “<a href="http://www.amazon.com/2pac-vs-Biggie-Illustrated-Greatest/dp/0760343675/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1368666557&sr=8-1&keywords=2pac+vs+biggie">2pac vs. Biggie: An Illustrated History of Rap's Greatest Battle</a>,” check out Nocando’s mixtape “Tits ‘N Explosions” at <a href="http://hellfyreclub.bandcamp.com">http://hellfyreclub.bandcamp.com</a>/, and fire shots of your own by calling us at (424) 216-6230!

Music writer/scholar/DJ Oliver Wang of soul-sides.com & 3rd member of Shots Fired Open Mike Eagle join MC Nocando & Jeff Weiss this week to discuss recent controversies in the Hip-Hop community. They talk about Open Mike Eagle being removed from a Hollywood Bar show the day before the performance due to their “no rap” policy, Dr. Boyce Watkins calling Tyler the Creator’s Mountain Dew commercial racist, Lil Wayne receiving backlash from his Emmett Till lyric, Rick Ross losing his Reebok sponsorship over his date rape lyric, and Scarface claiming that record executives are brainwashing a generation of Hip-Hop fans in a conspiracy against black people in Hip-Hop.

West Coast rapper/producer Alexander Spit joins MC Nocando & Jeff Weiss this week to discuss Psychedelic Rap. They’ll get into the roots of Psychedelic music, what is considered Psychedelic Rap, and which rappers were influenced through the use of Psychedelics. Plus, the guys talk about the first time they got high, burning out on Psychedelics, and bad smelling hippies.

Hellfyre Club artist Taurus Scott & rapper Open Mike Eagle join MC Nocando & Jeff Weiss this week to talk about lead singer syndrome. They talk about rappers who live on their own time, how fame effects a rapper’s ego, and why conscious rappers sometimes have the worst case of lead singer syndrome. Plus, Taurus tells us about his time working with G-Unit, Open Mike Eagle shares lead singer syndrome stories from touring, and Nocando tells us about a rapper who had a meltdown while on tour in New Mexico.

Rapper/podcaster Intuition & Grantland writer Alex Pappademas join MC Nocando & Jeff Weiss to talk about what if scenarios. They talk about what if Biggie were still alive, The D.O.C. never damaged his larynx, Death Row signed Freestyle Fellowship, Ice Cube never left N.W.A, rappers get into performing musicals, Max B never went to jail, Big Pun were still alive, 50 Cent never got shot 9 times, RZA’s basement in Staten Island did not flood, and 2pac were still alive. Plus, Jeff & Nocando take a look at DMX reuniting with his son. Be sure to call and ask us questions at (424) 216-6230.

Richmond, California rapper and producer Iamsu! joins MC Nocando & Jeff Weiss to talk about the Bay area. They’ll talk about the history of Bay area rap, how Mac Dre changed everything for the Bay, and why you can’t hate on Lil B. Iamsu! also tells us which producers influenced him, how the Bay is coming back, and plays a track from his mixtape “$uzy 6 $peed.” Plus, the guys find out that Chris Brown made a “Shots Fired” song, take a listen to Ray J’s Kanye West diss, and are baffled by LL Cool J’s verse on Brad Paisley’s “Accidental Racist.”

I thought I told you that we won’t stop. Andy Rosen (Record Producer & 1/2 of the Totally Laime podcast) joins MC Nocando & Jeff Weiss to talk about the history of Pop Rap and crossovers. They’ll get into what makes something Pop, why certain rappers failed to maintain a stable career after having one crossover hit, and their thoughts on the modern era of Pop. Plus, the guys explain what ratchet is to Andy. Take that. Take that.

Producer/rapper Scoop Deville & Hellfyre Club rapper Rheteric Ramirez join MC Nocando & Jeff Weiss this week to discuss the history of latin contributions to Hip-Hop. They start off by talking about several Latin Hip-Hop pioneers such as DJ Disco Wiz, Prince Whipper Whip, The Mean Machine, and Prince Markie Dee of The Fat Boys. Then they explore the West Coast Latin rap boom by talking about Mellow Man Ace, Julio G, Kid Frost, Cypress Hill, Psycho Realm, MC BLVD, and A Lighter Shade of Brown. Next they bridge the gap between the West Coast & East Coast by talking about Delinquent Habits, Big Pun, The Beatnuts, Fat Joe, and N.O.R.E. Finally, they make their way down South as they talk about Baby Bash, Chingo Bling, and South Park Mexican. Plus, we’re treated to some tracks by Scoop & Rheteric.

Rapper extraordinaire Freddie Gibbs joins MC Nocando & Jeff Weiss to discuss athletes trying to rap. They talk about the Chicago Bears’ “Super Bowl Shuffle,” the LA Rams’ “Ram It,” Darryl Strawberry’s “Chocolate Strawberry,” Shaq’s “You Can’t Stop The Reign,” B-Ball’s Best Kept Secret, Kobe Bryant failed attempt at rap, Deion Sanders’ “Must Be The Money,” Tony Parker ft. Fabolous, Chris Webber ft. Kurupt, Allen Iverson’s “40 Bars,” Metta World Peace’s “Afghan Women,” Kevin Durant’s “Wired,” The Hyperizers’ “Don’t Criticize,” and Delonte West’s KFC Freestyle. Plus, the guys give their reasons for not going to SXSW this year.

Self Jupiter of Freestyle Fellowship & Fatlip of The Pharcyde join MC Nocando & Jeff Weiss this week to talk about their lives, their music, and what they’re doing now. Self Jupiter and Fatlip discuss early beginnings, the Good Life Cafe, and play some classic/current tracks. Plus, they talk about Drake’s trip to the strip club and MTV’s Hottest MC List.

British musician/producer/DJ Bonobo aka Simon Green joins MC Nocando and Jeff Weiss to talk about the electronic music scenes in the UK, how Hip-Hop was his introduction into exploring other genres of music, and learning how to operate a dance floor by playing a bunch of shows in a jazz room in Brighton. Bonobo also tells us why he chose to name himself Bonobo, the birthplace of the original dub-step, and plays a couple tracks from his upcoming album “The North Borders.” Plus, Jeff gives us a quick lesson on moon rocks.

<div>Stones Throw rapper Jonwayne & Hellfyre Club rapper Milo join MC Nocando & Jeff Weiss this week to talk about everything independent. Milo and Jonwayne discuss being influenced by independent rappers such as MF DOOM & Open Mike Eagle, the benefits of being on an independent label, and the pros and cons of coming up in the digital age of rap music. Also, Nocando tells us a funny Australia story, we learn why gangsters love Dragon Ball Z, and we are treated to some music from Jonwayne & Milo.</div>

Producer Paul Salva and rapper Marcel Carrion join MC Nocando & Jeff Weiss to discuss the greatest and worse dance songs in rap history. They talk about Rapper’s Delight, Planet Rock, Egyptian Lover, 2 Live Crew, N.W.A’s “Panic Zone,” Good Vibrations, Deee-Lite’s “Groove Is In The Heart,” The Jungle Brothers, Technotronic, The Dogs’ “You Mama’s On Crack Rock,” Missy Elliot’s “Lose Control,” Kanye West’s “Stronger,” The Black Eyed Peas, and Azealia Banks. The guys also talk about Hip house, G-funk, the rise of trap music, and of course the Harlem shake. Plus, Jeff tells us about going to a porn star attended funeral. Don’t go into a K-hole!

Chicago Reader’s Tal Rosenberg and Chicago bred rapper Open Mike Eagle join MC Nocando and Jeff Weiss this week to discuss everything Chicago. The guys talk about the history of Chicago rap starting with rappers like Common & Twista all the way to Chief Keef & King Louie, how House & R&B music dominated Chicago radio, and why rappers rarely blow up in Chicago. Plus, Open Mike Eagle defines words from the Urban Dictionary and we learn how to do the percolator.

Battle rappers Dizaster & Cadalack Ron join MC Nocando & Jeff Weiss today to talk about the art of battle rap. They discuss the origins of battle rapping, the transition between battling over beats to battling acapella, and how YouTube brought battle rapping to a world wide audience. Dizaster & Cadalack Ron also tell us about how they got into battle rapping, their most important moment in their battle rap careers, and their thoughts on ghostwriters.

Dan Weisman (Elitaste Inc. and former manager of Wale & Mike Posner) and Leeor Brown (FoF Music and manager of Salva & Shlohmo) join MC Nocando & Jeff Weiss to talk about the record industry. The guys discuss why it takes time for certain artists to gain a following, why having copycats is good promotion, and the ways the internet has drastically changed the music industry. Dan tells us how he started to work with Wale, Leeor tells about his first time meeting Salva, and they both explain why it’s harder today to get up on artists early. Plus, Nocando & Jeff talk about the music of Ronaiah Tuiasosopo.

This week Jeff Weiss and MC Nocando explore the connection between Hip-Hop and African music. The duo talk about the history of Afrobeat pioneer Fela Kuti, rappers who have sampled Fela Kuti songs, and finally play a Wale track. Legendary Afrobeat star Femi Kuti stops by to discuss the formation of Afrobeat, how he now must find a balance between Facebook, Twitter, and practicing his instruments, and the Afrobeat influence on Hip-Hop.

Fellow Earwolf podcaster Andrew Ti joins MC Nocando & Jeff Weiss this week to talk about racial issues in Hip-Hop. The guys discuss rappers of other races using the n-word, who can rap about what, and the idea of a post-racial America. They also look at Ice Cube’s “Black Korea,” Blood of Abraham’s “Niggaz & Jewz,” Professor Griff’s departure from Public Enemy after making anti-Semitic remarks, Action Bronson’s “Growin Up,” and ScHoolboy Q’s performance of “Blessed” at the Pitchfork Music Festival. L’Chaim!

NY based producer Blockhead & rapper Open Mike Eagle join MC Nocando & Jeff Weiss this week to talk about alter egos in a special episode taped from Jeff’s apartment. The guys discuss Rammellzee, Positive K’s female vocals on “I Got A Man,” Bushwick Bill’s “Chuckie,” Kool Keith as Dr. Octagon, Eminem’s evil alter ego Slim Shady, the super villain MF DOOM, Madlib’s high pitched rapping alter ego Quasimoto, and Blockhead’s Party Fun Action Committee. Plus, they talk about the more recent alter egos such as Serengeti’s Chicago Bears fan alter ego Kenny Davis, Flying Lotus as the cartoon rapper Captain Murphy, and Snoop Dogg’s Rastafarian awakening as Snoop Lion.

LA based rapper Speak, Westside Ty, and Young Corey join MC Nocando & Jeff Weiss today for a very rare discussion about the Based God himself, Lil B. The guys talk about how he has influenced a number of rappers including Soulja Boy, Riff Raff, SpaceGhostPurrp, Kreayshawn, Odd Future, and Trinidad Jame$. Plus, they talk about why it’s hard to hate on Lil B, give their definitions of based & based freestyles, and explain what the task force & bitch mob are. TYBG.

Paul Iannacchino, the director of "Adult Rappers," who is also one of the founding members of rap group Hangar 18 (under the name DJ paWL) joins MC Nocando and Jeff Weiss this week to discuss why rappers fall off. They talk about which rappers they think have fallen off, the issue with branding, and which rappers have stayed relevant over time. DJ paWL also tells us how he got the idea to create his documentary “Adult Rappers,” what his definition of an adult rapper is, and why Hip-Hop is a genre that doesn’t age well.

This week on Shots Fired, Jeff Weiss & MC Nocando wind down 2012 with their favorite songs of 2012. The duo talk about their choices for Epic Fail of the year, countdown their Top Ten Hip-Hop songs of 2012, and the best producers of the year. It will get turnt up.

Ben Westhoff (LA Weekly Music Editor) and rapper Marcel Carrion join MC Nocando & Jeff Weiss to celebrate the dub anniversary of the classic West-Coast album The Chronic. The guys discuss what the album means to them, the cultural impact it had on fashion, and the never ending quotable lines such as that “Deeez Nuuuts.” They also talk about the iconic ”Nuthin’ but a ‘G’ Thang” video, how the album captured the reality of L.A. after the riots, and why some people still don’t like it.

BEeff (Bertran, Evan and every fucking female) join MC Nocando & Jeff Weiss this week to talk about the great beefs in Hip-Hop history. They discuss the historic showdown between Kool Moe Dee and Busy Bee, KRS-One firing shots at The Juice Crew, Ice Cube annihilating N.W.A, Eazy-E & Dr. Dre’s West Coast feud, Canibus recruiting Mike Tyson for “Second Round K.O,” 2pac’s most insulting diss, Eminem taking down Benzino & The Source, 50 Cent ruining Ja Rule’s career, and Jay-Z’s “Takeover” versus Nas’ “Ether.” Plus, they talk about the real beef between Gucci Mane & Young Jeezy, the multimedia beef between 50 Cent & Rick Ross, and the light skinn'ded beef between Common & Drake.

Detroit DJ/producer House Shoes and LA rapper Busdriver join MC Nocando & Jeff Weiss this week to discuss white rappers. The guys talk about the origins of the white rapper with Blondie, Beastie Boys being the white Run-DMC, 3rd Bass dissing Vanilla Ice, rapping actors, and Eminem’s long lasting impact. They also explain why white rappers getting a co-sign is important, describe what differentiates white rappers and black rappers, and vent on why certain white rappers get to places that they don’t deserve.

On this week’s episode of Shots Fired, Jeff Weiss & MC Nocando discuss the phenomenon of ratchet. The duo talk about the many definitions of ratchet, Lil Boosie’s connection to the origin of ratchet, and countdown the Top 10 Greatest Ratchet Rappers of All Time. Plus, Jeff tells us his most ratchet story from his time covering Boosie’s murder trial in Baton Rogue. Free Boosie.

This week Jeff Weiss and MC Nocando explore the epidemic of Sad Robot Music. The duo talk about Kanye West being the Christopher Columbus of the Sad Robot, how T-Pain branched the Sad Robot into R&B, and ask who will kill the Sad Robot. Dam-Funk, the ambassador of modern Funk stops by to talk about the origin of Funk, what lead him to the Funk, which artists are funky, and plays some tracks of his latest EP “I Don’t Wanna Be A Star!”

Welcome to the first episode of SHOTS FIRED, a weekly look into what’s good, what’s bad, and what’s weird in the world of hip-hop, hosted by music journalist Jeff Weiss and underground hip-hop star MC Nocando. Today the duo explore the meaning of the word “Fanute” coined by French Montana, talk about the history of Swag Dracula, and discuss the possibility of Nas using ghostwriters. Underground DJ (and co-founder of L.A. hip-hop mainstay The Low End Theory) the Gaslamp Killer drops by to tell us how he met Gonjasufi, describes getting his life together after hitting rock bottom, and plays some tracks off his latest album “Breakthrough.”