Culture-Wise

The influence of Jamaican music on almost every aspect of our society is undeniable. The lingo, the fashion, and even our values and morals are shaped, in part, by our music culture. This week, The Crew takes a look at a few music moments that created shifts in our society and the consequences of being heavily “Under the Influence”

Jamaicans were all over the pop culture scene recently, so, naturally The Crew had to assemble to rant and review. On “Seal of Approval” we talk about self-expression through our Clarks and discuss a “new” take on the age-old topic of language and dancehall.

The Crew is back and we're kicking off season 2 with our usual antics! In episode 14 we sound off on some major developments in the music industry and share our hot takes on a few if the 2021 albums drops so far. YKTV. It's Culture-Wise!

This week, The Crew gets to reason with one of our favorite producers, the man streamlining the new sounds of our generation on hits like ‘Toast,’ ‘Be Honest’ and ‘Silver Tongue Devil,’ Izy Beats. Izy dishes on his journey so far, his coveted Grammy win, and the globalization of Jamaican sound. And no people - he’s not kidding.

This week the Culture-wise crew hol a reason with the infamous ZJ Chrome on his journey in the music business, responding to creative criticism, selfishness in dancehall, supportive parents, and much more!

It’s been a busy few weeks in the music world, with constant drops, packed pandemic concerts and the usual celeb drama - so the Culture-Wise Crew came together to do what we do best and jus meditate on it all in ‘Mask It or Casket.’

The Culture-Wise Crew is joined this week by popular local DJ and dancehall artiste, ZJ Liquid. We chat about his latest album, and get some answers to questions from throughout the season about the industry and the general music scene in Jamaica, from a true insider's "Point A View."

This week the Culture-Wise Crew is joined by Randall Grass, general manager and A&R at Shanachie Entertainment, where we hol’ a reason about all things reggae music. From his work with reggae legends like Bob Marley, to the direction he sees the culture going, the Crew gets the scoop from an industry icon.

This week the Culture-Wise crew talks about one of our favourite pre-quarantine pastimes: bein’ up Inna Di Dance. The dance is where all aspects of Jamaican culture and everyday life come together. From the dancer boys showcasing their the latest moves to Soupy outta road after the session, we highlight the best of the dance.

Talent shows are a universal platform for launching artistic careers of all kinds. International shows like American Idol and X Factor have produced certified popstars...but what about Risings Stars and Magnum Kings and Queens? This week the Culture-Wise crew asks: what’s preventing our talent platforms from propelling more reggae and dancehall acts into the spotlight?

On “Crew Love” the crew gets a little personal and talks about the influence music has on our lives. From the sounds of our childhood to the deep love of music that inspired the Culture-Wise podcast, the crew touches every bass.

Collectives and artiste groups are a fundamental part of Jamaican music & culture, but is there always strength in numbers? This week the culture-wise crew evaluates the pros and cons of moving as a collective, the impact of Gaza, Gully, and JOP as well as the future of collectives.

Jamaica’s influence in music is undeniable. From pioneering genres to becoming industry influencers, this week, the Culture-Wise crew unpacks the “Global Impact” of Jamaican music and culture.

In ‘Higher Place’ the Culture-Wise crew discusses neoreggae’s proliferation of the global soundscape, and how the approach of these artists can be modeled to further the agenda of Jamaican music.

This week, the Culture-Wise crew meditates on what makes Dancehall such a unique, dynamic, and globally resonant genre. Hol’ a reason with us as we try to piece together the “Formula” for one of Jamaica’s most iconic musical expressions.

In our first episode, "Politricks", the Culture-Wise crew discusses the benefits and drawbacks of Jamaican politicians' affinity for bringing dancehall and dancehall artistes into the political process. How has this relationship evolved during the 2020 election? Tune in to find out.

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