The Underground Lounge

This week in the Lounge, the guys tap in with music executive and LVRN co-founder Justice Baiden for a conversation that goes way beyond the music industry.From his early days making mixtapes and realizing he had an ear for talent, to building one of the most influential creative collectives in the game, Justice breaks down what it really takes to turn passion into a career.The episode is full of real stories that show how unpredictable the journey can be. Justice talks about taking bold risks, including booking last-minute international flights just to chase an opportunity, and why putting yourself in position is the only way the universe can meet you halfway.The conversation also dives into the reality of today’s music business, where analytics and social media metrics often outweigh true artist development. Justice keeps it honest about the lack of passion in the industry, the importance of having people who genuinely care about the art, and why artists need to be more intentional about who they do business with.Along the way, the guys touch on everything from first artist experiences and building buzz from nothing, to discovering talent in unexpected places and turning small moments into major opportunities. There’s also insight into balancing management and label roles, navigating relationships in the industry, and why staying solid with people can come full circle in ways you never expect.As always, the episode is packed with laughs, unfiltered moments, and real-life gems, blending game, storytelling, and perspective in a way only the Underground Lounge can.

In this episode, Domani pulls up to the Underground Lounge and proves real quick why he’s carved his own lane.From growing up around fame to intentionally stepping away from it, he breaks down why he chose to bet on himself instead of taking the easy route, and how that decision shaped his sound, his work ethic, and his identity as an artist. He opens up about discovering music at a young age, finding his creative voice through consistency, and why writing still matters to him.The conversation gets deeper as he talks about fatherhood, independence in the music industry, and the pressure of building something real without shortcuts. He also shares his unique studio process, why he creates best in solitude and how real-life moments, fuel his music.Things take an interesting turn when he speaks on responding to 50 Cent, revealing that the record wasn’t planned, it just came from a real moment. Even crazier, there was no heads-up… his dad found out the same way everyone else did, when the song dropped. It sparks a real conversation about standing on your own as a man, making your own decisions, and dealing with the aftermath.Of course, it wouldn’t be the Underground Lounge without some wild stories and laughs, from saving a life in the studio, to industry run-ins, to unfiltered takes on money, mistakes, and moving smarter with success.They wrap it up with the “F*** It Bucket,” dropping gems on wisdom vs. wit, trusting your own vision, and learning when to block out outside noise.Raw, funny, and insightful, this episode is all about growth, independence, and doing it your way.

In this episode of the Underground Lounge, the crew sits down with Big Boss Vette for a conversation that blends wild humor with real-life depth. The episode kicks off with jokes, off-the-cuff stories, and hilarious takes on everything from nights out to relationships, keeping the energy loose and entertaining from the start.But the tone shifts as Vette opens up about her battle with stage four sinus cancer—a rare and aggressive diagnosis that had already spread by the time doctors caught it. What began as what seemed like normal sinus issues turned into a life-threatening situation, with her facing a 50/50 chance of survival. She shares the moment she found out, the emotional weight of it all, and what it was like going through chemo, radiation, and the physical toll of the fight.Even in the middle of such a serious journey, the conversation never loses its personality. There are real laughs woven throughout as she finds humor in the experience, and the crew keeps things balanced without taking away from the gravity of her story.By the end, Vette shares her victory, beating cancer and stepping into a new chapter with a stronger mindset and a powerful story to tell. It’s funny, raw, emotional, and inspiring all at once, everything you expect from the Underground Lounge.

On this episode of The Underground Lounge, Lou Williams and Spank Horton welcome Philadelphia legends Gillie Da Kid and Wallo267, the dynamic duo behind the massively popular podcast Million Dollaz Worth of Game.The conversation quickly turns into a hilarious and unfiltered reunion as the guys reflect on their long history together, their early days in Philadelphia, and the relationships that helped shape their careers in sports, music, and media. Lou shares stories from his NBA journey and what it was like coming up in Philly, while Gillie and Wallo break down how they built Million Dollaz Worth of Game into one of the biggest podcasts in the culture.The crew talks about the evolution of podcasting and why platforms like theirs became so important for athletes, artists, and entertainers who wanted a place to speak freely and tell their stories without filters. They also get into how podcast culture changed the media landscape and why authenticity always wins with audiences.As the conversation unfolds, the lounge fills with classic storytelling and nonstop jokes about NBA locker room life, Philly sports fans, social media trolls, and the realities of being in the spotlight. Lou reflects on the pressure of playing in one of the toughest sports cities in America, while Gillie and Wallo explain how their perspective on life, business, and culture helped them turn a podcast into a movement.This episode is packed with raw conversation, wild moments, and real insight from four voices who know the game from every angle.

The fellas are joined by legendary R&B group 112 for a conversation packed with music history, hilarious stories, and real talk about surviving three decades in the industry.With over 30 years in the game, the group reflects on their journey from Atlanta to becoming one of the most recognizable voices of the late-90s and early-2000s era. They talk about the early grind, how the opportunity that changed their lives came together, and what it was like stepping into the spotlight during one of the biggest eras in R&B and hip-hop.The conversation dives into the making of some of their most iconic records, the stories behind the music, and how songs like Only You, Cupid, and Peaches & Cream became timeless records that still hit just as hard today. They also share what it was like touring during the peak of their success, the pressure that comes with global hits, and how fans across generations still show love whenever those records come on.Of course, it wouldn’t be The Underground Lounge without the jokes. The hosts kick things off trying to audition as backup singers and dancers, leading to plenty of laughs before the conversation turns into a deep dive on longevity in the music business, the importance of brotherhood within a group, and what it really takes to keep a legacy alive in an industry that constantly changes.From wild tour stories to reflections on building a catalog that defined an era, this episode gives fans a rare look behind the curtain from artists who helped shape the sound of modern R&B.If you grew up on 90s and 2000s R&B, this episode is a must watch.

In this episode of Underground Lounge After Hours, the crew gets into an honest and hilarious conversation about relationships, situationships, and the moment when casual starts turning into something deeper. The discussion begins with a simple but loaded question: when do you actually start developing real feelings for someone? Is it about time, exclusivity, or just a vibe you can’t ignore? From long-term situationships to relationships that never officially get labeled, the crew shares their different perspectives on how men and women approach commitment.The conversation also dives into the realities of dating in the social media era. Should you post your partner online, or does putting your relationship on display just invite outside opinions and unnecessary drama? The group breaks down why some people prefer to keep their love life private, how oversharing can bring both praise and criticism, and why sometimes the best relationships are the ones the public doesn’t know everything about.As the discussion continues, the crew gets into ego, competition, and the dynamics that come with dating when you have options. They debate whether men naturally compete with each other over women, what it means to be “tender,” and why some people believe their success rate in relationships speaks for itself. The jokes and storytelling keep the energy light while still touching on some real truths about modern dating.Of course, because it’s After Hours, the conversation doesn’t stay on track for long. Things eventually shift into behind-the-scenes podcast talk, habits in the studio, and the unfiltered banter that happens when the mics are on and nobody is trying to be politically correct. The result is a wild mix of relationship talk, personal stories, and the kind of off-the-cuff moments that make After Hours exactly what it’s supposed to be real, raw, and completely unpredictable.

Grammy and Academy Award-winning producer and entrepreneur DJ Paul steps into the Lounge for a powerful, wide-ranging conversation that goes far beyond music. From his early days in Memphis selling cassette tapes in school hallways and car stereo shops, to building one of the most influential movements in hip-hop history, he breaks down the blueprint behind the grind.Paul reflects on the origins of the sound that shifted the culture, creating his own bass-heavy production style, learning organ as a kid, and how linking with Juicy J helped form a legacy that would eventually earn an Oscar and multiple Grammys. He shares stories about the evolution of crunk music, the early independent hustle in Atlanta, and how records like “International Players Anthem” took on a life of their own. The episode also touches on the Verzuz moment, reality television before it was cool for rappers to do it, and what it felt like navigating success at the highest level.But this conversation isn’t just about plaques and trophies. Paul opens up about fatherhood, losing close friends and group members, and how those experiences pushed him to prioritize health and longevity. He speaks candidly about building wealth outside of music, owning 19 properties, remodeling homes, running a restaurant on Rodeo Drive, and embracing the mindset of having multiple streams of income. His approach to business is strategic, disciplined, and rooted in long-term vision.This episode is a masterclass in reinvention, ownership, and staying culturally relevant for decades. From Memphis to Hollywood, from underground tapes to global stages, the journey is proof that evolution is the key to lasting success.

This episode of The Underground Lounge: After Hours turns into a soulful, grown, and wildly unfiltered conversation as the crew welcomes Grammy-nominated/Winner R&B staple Raheem DeVaughn to the couch. From the moment he steps in, the vibe is family. What starts with playful banter about his name and Ramadan quickly expands into a rich conversation about culture, hometown pride, and the evolution of DC nightlife, from mumbo sauce debates to the city’s go-go era and how things shifted post-Covid.Raheem takes listeners back to his origin story, revealing how he went from being a scholarship track athlete to dropping out of college to pursue music full time, despite the understandable concerns from his parents. He opens up about grinding through open mics across DC, Baltimore, and Philly, moving CDs out the trunk before the industry caught up, and eventually landing his first major label deal.The conversation then shifts into a powerful breakdown of independence, ownership, and why artists must understand the business as much as the art. Raheem explains his direct-to-consumer strategy, selling music through tiered fan support and physical collectibles, vinyl, CDs, cassettes, and exclusive drops, proving there’s still value in tangible art in a streaming era.And because it’s After Hours, things don’t stay strictly business. The energy turns spicy when the crew addresses a viral clip from his live show, leading to candid talk about stage theatrics, intimacy, and the undeniable connection between R&B and real-life romance. Raheem breaks down the art of performance, studying comedians to sharpen his timing, and why creating an escape for fans, whether through laughter, music, or love songs, is the ultimate goal.Insightful, funny, sensual, and packed with game, this episode blends grown man wisdom with After Hours chaos in the best way possible. When the Love King pulls up, the conversation doesn’t just flow, it pours.

On this episode of The Underground Lounge, Lou and Spank sit down with hip hop royalty as Layzie Bone steps into the lounge to tell the unfiltered story behind the rise of Bone Thugs-N-Harmony. What starts as a nostalgic conversation quickly turns into a masterclass on hunger, originality, and longevity in the music industry.Layzie takes it back to Cleveland talent shows, forming as kids, and the early grind that eventually led the group to Los Angeles with nothing but bus tickets, big dreams, and relentless belief. He breaks down how they chased down Eazy-E, why they were determined to sign with him specifically, and what it was like going from homelessness to platinum success. The story of how the group name evolved, the competitive spirit within the crew, and how their harmonized, melody-driven flow changed the sound of rap gives real insight into what made Bone different from everyone else at the time.The conversation also dives into the making of timeless records like “Crossroads” and “First of the Month,” the real-life pain and loss that inspired their biggest records, and why those songs still connect decades later. Layzie shares behind-the-scenes stories about working with icons like The Notorious B.I.G., 2Pac, and Mariah Carey, along with reflections on how the industry shifted from artist development to chasing trends. He speaks candidly about originality, “style biting,” independence, and why protecting your legacy matters more than ever.It’s funny, reflective, and full of game from a true pioneer who helped shape the sound of a generation. This episode is more than a trip down memory lane, it’s a real conversation about building something timeless and surviving every era of hip hop.

On this episode of After Hours, the crew sits down with comedian Keon Polee for an unfiltered and hilarious conversation about stand-up comedy, confidence, bombing on stage, and the real difference between going viral and mastering the craft.Keon takes us back to his early days, from chasing basketball dreams to realizing comedy was the lane he was truly built for. He explains how growing up competitive gave him thick skin, why bombing doesn’t shake him, and how missing shots in front of a crowd prepared him for silence in a comedy club. He shares the story of one of his worst bombs and why moments like that are necessary if you actually want to grow as a performer instead of just chasing quick laughs.The conversation dives deep into the gap between internet comedians and true stand-ups. Keon keeps it honest about social media fame versus real stage presence, why some people want attention while others want to be elite at the craft, and how repetition and discipline separate professionals from personalities. He breaks down how he learned to work every type of room, from churches and clean corporate settings to hood rooms and late-night crowds, and why being able to adjust without losing your voice is a skill that takes years to build.Beyond comedy, the episode takes a real turn into parenting. Keon talks about being the dad in the stands, choosing not to project his own expectations onto his son, and making sure the focus stays on fun and growth instead of pressure. The crew gets into failed dreams, overzealous sports parents, and how some adults try to relive their glory days through their kids. One of the standout moments is the reminder that parenting isn’t about control, it’s about communication. Keon shares the importance of actually checking in with your kids, asking them if you’re doing a good job as a parent, and being open enough to hear the answer. That vulnerability and accountability hit just as hard as any punchline.This episode blends laughs with real perspective on discipline, ego, failure, fatherhood, and what it truly means to build something the right way. It’s funny, honest, and full of gems for anyone chasing greatness, on stage or at home.If you’re a fan of stand-up comedy, real conversations, and After Hours energy with substance behind it, this is an episode you don’t want to miss.

The Underground Lounge links up with the crew from the Club 520 Podcast featuring 11-year NBA vet and NBA champion Jeff Teague, Bishop B Hen, and DJ Wells, for an episode that feels like a live locker room session mixed with a comedy show.Recorded during the energy of NBA All-Star Weekend, this conversation goes way beyond just the festivities. The guys dive into how the 520 podcast really got started , from organic conversations between friends to building one of the most authentic player-driven platforms in sports media. Jeff opens up about the transition from being in the league to becoming a full-time media personality, how viral moments helped elevate the show, and why keeping it real, even when it’s uncomfortable is what made the audience connect.The episode blends serious basketball insight with nonstop humor. There’s real talk about NBA culture, how media narratives are shaped, and the difference between how former players view the game versus how it’s discussed on television.There are also stories from the early 520 days, reflections on building something from scratch, and conversations about friendship, loyalty, and navigating life after basketball. The back-and-forth feels natural, like friends roasting each other one minute and dropping real gems the next.Once the “F**K IT BUCKET” enters the chat, the energy shifts immediately. What starts as a simple pull turns into one of the funniest stretches of the episode. It’s classic Underground Lounge chaos in the best way.This episode isn’t just about All-Star Weekend. It’s about storytelling, evolution, media, and the kind of humor that only comes from real relationships. From hoops insight to laugh-out-loud moments, this one delivers from start to finish.

This week on Underground Lounge: After Hours, the fellas sit down with social media star, actor, and impression assassin Nick Darnell , and it’s pure creative chaos in the best way.Nick breaks down how a kid who grew up imitating everybody around him turned “Most Talented” in high school into a real shot at Hollywood. From college theater dreams getting shut down by the pandemic to building a following online with no real plan, just raw talent and consistency, Nick explains how Snapchat checks, viral impressions, and relentless creativity opened doors he didn’t even know existed.The conversation dives into his now-legendary Grinch run during the holidays, the comparisons to Jim Carrey, and the fine line between honoring legends and carving out your own lane. Nick keeps it real about never wanting to be labeled the “Black version” of anyone, just being undeniable in his own right.The guys also get into comedy politics, gatekeeping, stand-up pressure, and why impressions might actually be Nick’s cheat code to something bigger. From dream roles to big-screen ambitions, he talks about wanting the real deal, not the parody version, and what it’ll take to level up from viral to timeless.Of course, it wouldn’t be After Hours without a few wild tangents: ranking classic Black sitcoms and movies, debating sequels, and breaking down why certain eras of comedy just hit different.This episode is funny, honest, and inspiring a real conversation about betting on yourself, protecting your creative space, and knowing your moment is coming.After Hours is looser, louder, and a little more unfiltered, but it’s all for entertainment.

On this episode of The Underground Lounge, the crew welcomes legendary producer, songwriter, and musical innovator Teddy Riley for a deep, unfiltered conversation that traces the roots of his genius and the realities behind a career that helped shape modern music.Teddy takes it all the way back to Harlem, breaking down how his environment, family, and community influenced his love for music at an early age. He talks about teaching himself multiple instruments as a kid, experimenting with sound before he even had access to real studio equipment, and how curiosity and discipline became the foundation of his creative process. From building beats with minimal tools to understanding how to “make the sound” instead of just chasing trends, Teddy explains what separated him from the pack early on.The conversation dives into mentorship, creative confidence, and the responsibility that comes with being both a producer and a composer. Teddy reflects on navigating the music business as a teenager, learning hard lessons early, and why ownership, loyalty, and trust matter just as much as talent. He opens up about working relationships, creative tensions, and how ego, envy, and business decisions can either strengthen or fracture collaborations.Beyond music, Teddy shares personal stories that shaped him off the stage, from life lessons learned on the road to moments of loss, reflection, and growth. He discusses health, discipline, spirituality, and why staying grounded became essential to his longevity in an industry that constantly changes. The episode also touches on touring stories, behind-the-scenes moments fans rarely hear, and the mindset required to keep evolving while honoring where you come from.Throughout the episode, the laughs are real, the stories are raw, and the gems are nonstop. Teddy Riley doesn’t just talk about success, he breaks down the sacrifices, the patience, and the perspective it takes to build something that lasts across generations.This is more than an interview. It’s a masterclass in creativity, resilience, and staying true to your purpose, classic Underground Lounge energy with one of music’s true architects.

On this episode of Underground Lounge: After Hours, the lounge turns into a master class in comedy, survival, and self-belief as comedians and actors BT Kingsley, London Brown, and Justin Hires from the KillinIt Pod pull up for an unfiltered, wide-ranging conversation.The fellas dive deep into their individual journeys, coming up in comedy, grinding through auditions, booking commercials, and learning how to navigate Hollywood when the rules are constantly changing. They break down the reality of being talented but overlooked, the frustration of waiting for “permission,” and why creating your own opportunities has become the real cheat code in today’s industry.From early YouTube days and stand-up stages to television roles, film projects, and podcasting, the conversation touches on ego, rejection, money, loyalty, and the mental toughness it takes to stay in the game long enough to win. They compare comedy to professional sports, talk about knowing your role while still believing you belong at the highest level, and give honest insight into how artists can get boxed in, or break free.As only After Hours can deliver, the episode is packed with raw laughs, industry stories, and hard truths about fame, friendships, and financial growth. It’s funny, reflective, and occasionally reckless, but always real. Whether you’re chasing a creative dream or just love hearing how the sausage gets made, this episode gives you a rare behind-the-scenes look at what it really takes to keep killing it.

In this episode of The Underground Lounge, Bow Wow steps into the Lounge for a raw, unfiltered conversation that spans his entire journey, from child stardom to global fame, and everything that comes with growing up in the public eye. With a career that crosses music, movies, touring, and television, he reflects on the pressure, the highs, the mistakes, and the moments that shaped him into who he is today.The conversation flows naturally as the drinks start pouring, touching on early industry experiences, wild touring stories, and how fame hits differently at various stages of life. Bow Wow opens up about maturity, fatherhood, personal growth, and learning how to balance fun with responsibility while still enjoying the ride. From legendary party moments to serious life lessons, nothing is off limits.True to Lounge form, the energy stays loose and honest, full of laughter, side stories, and real talk about relationships, trust, marriage, and navigating success when the whole world is watching. It’s reflective, funny, chaotic at times, and exactly the kind of conversation that only happens when the cameras are rolling and everyone’s comfortable.This is Bow Wow like you don’t usually get him, relaxed, candid, and fully in his element. Pull up, pour one, and kick it in the Lounge.

After Hours goes deep as the crew kicks it with comedian and actor Malik B for an honest, unfiltered conversation about his life, career, and the road it took to get there. Malik breaks down growing up around fighting and boxing, the discipline and survival mindset that came with it, and how those early experiences shaped who he became long before comedy and acting entered the picture. He opens up about family pressure, learning lessons the hard way, and how real-life experiences often become the foundation for the funniest stories.Malik also talks candidly about his early days in comedy, including bombing on stage, figuring out his voice, and pushing through self-doubt while trying to earn laughs in real rooms. The conversation touches on transitioning into acting, navigating Hollywood, and what it’s really like behind the scenes when opportunities start to show up. Along the way, the crew trades stories, jokes, and real perspectives on growth, consistency, and staying true to yourself in an industry that constantly tests you.This episode blends humor, reflection, and raw storytelling, making it a true After Hours experience. From laugh-out-loud moments to honest conversations about perseverance and evolution, this is one of those episodes where the mics stay on and nothing is off-limits.

In this powerful episode of The Underground Lounge, the crew sits down with artist, educator, and cultural truth-teller Dee-1 for one of the most honest conversations we’ve had to date.Dee-1 opens up about his journey growing up in New Orleans, battling a rare medical condition that altered his athletic dreams, and how life setbacks, from getting cut from teams to personal heartbreak, ultimately pushed him toward purpose. He breaks down his transition from school teacher to recording artist, explaining how education shaped his approach to music, performance, and responsibility as a voice in the culture.The conversation dives deep into conscious rap, accountability in hip-hop, and the pressure artists face when their influence reaches millions. Dee-1 reflects on moments that forced him to reevaluate his lyrics, including a tough reality check from his mother, and why he chose to build a career centered on honesty, faith, and impact rather than trends or controversy.From awkward label meetings and viral breakout moments to being labeled “different” in an industry that rewards excess, Dee-1 speaks candidly about navigating criticism, standing firm in his beliefs, and embracing the idea of being human first before being an artist. The episode also touches on spirituality in today’s culture, the role of the church beyond the four walls, and how music can either numb or heal a generation.This is a thoughtful, funny, and introspective episode that challenges listeners to think deeper about what they consume, what they promote, and how they show up in the world.

After Hours takes a deeper turn as the crew sits with some of the most honest conversations yet. What starts as a discussion about parenting quickly opens into a real look at how kids are growing up in a world dominated by social media, constant access, and influences parents never had to deal with before. The group breaks down the challenge of raising children while accepting that this generation is living in a completely different reality.From there, the conversation moves into fathers having uncomfortable but necessary talks, the differences in how sons and daughters are raised, and how early guidance or the lack of it can shape confidence, boundaries, and decision-making later in life. They reflect on growing up with strict parents versus “cool” parents, being overly protected versus left to figure things out alone, and how both extremes can leave lasting effects.The episode also dives into relationships, sexual experiences, and the double standards that exist around them. The crew discusses how early encounters, power dynamics, and cultural norms affect men and women differently, and why certain experiences are normalized for one gender but stigmatized for the other. Therapy, compartmentalization, emotional triggers, and unhealed trauma all come up as they explore how people cope or avoid coping altogether.As the night unfolds, the focus shifts to family dynamics, especially parent-child relationships. There’s an honest look at how siblings can grow up in the same household yet have completely different experiences, why parents show love in different ways, and how perspective changes with age. The episode closes with heartfelt reflections on aging parents, missed moments, and the importance of showing up while you still can.Raw, reflective, and unfiltered, this After Hours episode blends humor with vulnerability and reminds you why these late-night conversations hit different.