J. Cole is finally speaking on the Drake vs Kendrick Lamar situation, but did he really tell the full story? In this episode of the Third Verse Podcast, the crew breaks down Cole’s recent interviews, the apology, and whether he would’ve taken the diss back if it actually succeeded. From behind-the-scenes industry conversations to Drake’s strategy and Kendrick’s rise, this is a deep dive into what really happened during one of hip-hop’s biggest moments and why the fallout still matters.

In this episode of The 3rd Verse, we break down the backlash of Jack Harlows "Got Blacker" comment, what he meant, and whether this moment helps or hurts his career moving forward. We also cover Sinners dominating the Oscars, Michael B. Jordan’s big win, and the impact of the film’s success. Plus, we get into the controversial 83-point NBA performance, debates around today’s game, and a range of unfiltered conversations you won’t expect.

The 3rd Verse breaks down the biggest conversations in hip-hop culture. This episode covers the Drake classics debate, Kanye’s return, 50 Cent vs TI, and the viral topics shaping the culture right now. Real talk, real perspective.

In this episode, we react to Lil Yachty calling “Rapper’s Delight” wack on Bootleg Kev and break down Michael Eric Dyson’s take on Kendrick Lamar’s “Not Like Us.” We also share a behind the scenes story about the planned New Money supergroup, while Stat Quo reflects on college, real-life essentials, and why he’s done with disingenuous apologies in the industry.

In this episode, we unpack the backlash from the BAFTAs after a shocking on-air moment during the SINNERS presentation with Delroy Lindo and Michael B. Jordan, and the broader conversation around race, accountability, and live broadcast responsibility. We also break down the escalating 50 Cent vs T.I. beef and the diss tracks asking whether the back-and-forth is going too far. Plus, we review Baby Keem’s CA$INO album and revisit Lupe Fiasco’s Food & Liquor 20 years later, reflecting on its lasting impact on hip-hop culture. Only on The 3rd Verse

In this episode of The 3rd Verse, we break down LaRussell’s viral take that he outgrew Lil Wayne’s music and whether the “no substance” claim holds up. We also review J. Cole’s The Fall-Off, analyze first-week sales, and discuss what it means for his Big 3 status. Plus, Baby Keem’s BOOMAN II mini doc and the rollout for CA$INO — what this era signals moving forward.

Baby Keem announces CA$INO with Kendrick Lamar attached, and we break down what Kendrick’s involvement really means for Keem’s career. Is this just collaboration or Kendrick stepping fully into his executive role and shaping the next phase of Keem’s trajectory? We also debate whether The Fall-Off cements J. Cole’s legacy. Is it a classic? Is it growth? Or is the title doing heavy lifting? And then there’s the controversy: Did French Montana take “Unforgettable” from Swae Lee — and why is the money conversation resurfacing now?

In this weeks episode we sit down with Steve Rifkind (@steverifkind), the legendary founder of Loud Records, for a wide ranging conversation on hip-hop history and resilience. He opens up about being bullied early in life, finding his footing in the music industry, and building one of the most influential labels of all time. Steve shares firsthand stories about his friendship with Tupac Shakur, signing Mobb Deep, the greatness of Kanye West, and discovering Three 6 Mafia. From industry risks to cultural impact, this episode captures Steve Rifkind’s wild journey through the backbone of hip-hop. Only on The 3rd Verse 🏆