No Bars Off is the home of innovative, insightful, and entertaining breakdowns of hip-hop verses from all eras, regions, and subcultures. Boardwalk Brown (Aki Davis) and Sha Stimuli (Sherod Khaalis) are word connoisseurs and lovers of the technical proces
This week, Sha Stimuli sits down with Bernadette Price, wife of the late great Sean P. They take the time to reflect on Sean P's legacy, the journey through loss, and the triumph of bringing new music to fans Topics discussed: New album and how it came together Preserving Sean Price's legacy & family perspective Lessons, healing, and moving forward Links mentioned in this episode: http://hashtaglegday.com https://youtu.be/t8OfUbC-O04?si=yIBcwor7-7pjWzml This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm
This week, Sha Stimuli and Boardwalk Brown break down “F.I.C.O.” from Clipse's new album "Let God Sort Em Out". We cover the craftsmanship in the rhyme schemes, themes, and why this cut stands out. Production choices and quotables get the microscopic NBO treatment. Topics discussed: Standout lyrics & layered wordplay Beat selection and how it frames the verses Where “F.I.C.O.” ranks on the album Links mentioned in this episode: http://hashtaglegday.com https://youtu.be/1U6We9yGc_4?si=gf2e8G4fJVOvQRrL This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm
This week, Sha Stimuli and Boardwalk Brown look at heavy bar work from Clipse on the highly acclaimed "Chains & Whips". We discuss the otherworldly feature from the Boogeyman himself, Kendrick Lamar. Topics discussed: Best verse breakdowns & double entendres Delivery, cadence, and presence Final verdict: who had the upper hand? Links mentioned in this episode: http://hashtaglegday.com https://youtu.be/t_J7ccCTcl0?si=ABk-FQf3wRLGrEM_ This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm
This week, Sha Stimuli and Boardwalk Brown revisit Eminem's classic verse from "The Way I Am" to test its timelessness. From internal rhymes to cultural impact, we examine whether the verse still hits in 2025 Topics discussed: Technical rhyme schemes & pocket control Punchlines vs. storytelling Longevity: does it still resonate? Links mentioned in this episode: http://hashtaglegday.com https://youtu.be/ooKm3eNbmnE?si=uwfA4esJhlqIvx2H This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm
This week, Sha Stimuli and Boardwalk Brown take a first look at some of this year's XXL Freshmen freestyles—what worked, what didn't, and who surprised us. We react to delivery, originality, and standout lines from Eem Triplin, BabyChiefDoIt and Ray Vaughn Topics discussed: Eem Triplin's approach to pocket & tone BabyChiefDoIt's energy and quotables Ray Vaughn's control and presence Links mentioned in this episode: http://hashtaglegday.com https://youtu.be/HFR5tciZ2h0?si=pWU499WuIgmn0rqd This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm
This week, [someone], [someone else] and [another person] cover [topic]..... Topics discussed: A&R insights from major sessions The writing process & keeping bars sharp Career pivots and future plans Links mentioned in this episode: http://hashtaglegday.com https://youtu.be/KkskWr2D7RI?si=hTcYYt-9fa9eXp8p This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm
This week, Sha Stimuli and Boardwalk Brown dissect and digest Ghostface Killah's gut-wrenching imagery from his classic "All I Got Is You", featuring the angelic voice of none other than Mary J. Blige. Topics discussed: Vivid storytelling & references The depths of despair contained in the story Timelessness of Ghost's style Links mentioned in this episode: http://hashtaglegday.com https://youtu.be/RThkA2UHSoo?si=kIs0hncN-I2dyfhH This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm
This week, Sha Stimuli and Boardwalk Brown spontaneously react to Clipse's chemistry and pen work on their single "Ace Trumpets", and the album stakes. Are we hearing the makings of a classic? Topics discussed: Immediate takeaways from the record Bars vs. beat: who steals the show? What it signals for the full album Links mentioned in this episode: http://hashtaglegday.com https://youtu.be/6wbUBVbiBNQ?si=A9LXSj73NFmNI8Ep This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm
This week, Sha Stimuli and Boardwalk Brown react to “Maria,” from Lil Wayne's "Carter 6". We unpack Wayne's wordplay and Wyclef's musical textures. Hooks, structure, and the moments that make this collab pop Topics discussed: Wayne's punchlines & schemes Wyclef's arrangement and melodies Replay value & standout sections Links mentioned in this episode: http://hashtaglegday.com https://youtu.be/5pUG4DqTBYQ?si=WzoD00O4J_KBafkv This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm
This week, Sha Stimuli and Boardwalk Brown revisit Nas' hood classic "Shootouts" and see how well it has aged over the last few decades. Does this vivid story from the late nineties hold up today? Is it still as dope as it was then? Topics discussed: Multi-syllabic patterns & imagery Thematic depth and the characters we identify with How it stacks up against Nas classics Links mentioned in this episode: http://hashtaglegday.com https://youtu.be/s7CNpVxjbj8?si=G_RMCD5-QZT7SPvX This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm
This week, Sha Stimuli and Boardwalk Brown sit down with Tracey Lee sits with NBO to unpack his record “The Pivot”: concept, bars, and the life shifts that inspired it. We talk craft, longevity, and growth. Topics discussed: Concept & songwriting choices Bar work and quotables Career evolution & next moves Links mentioned in this episode: http://hashtaglegday.com https://youtu.be/g7U59Hhqdnk?si=HbARBUGeED1B87r2 This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm
This episode, Sha Stimuli and Boardwalk Brown bring the next installment of our "Still Ill" segment and revisit The Notorious B.I.G.'s otherwordly cameo on Tracey Lee's "Keep Ya Hands High". Topics discussed: The sparring session that produced one of the greatest back and forth rap records to date Were BIG's verses overhyped? The dichotomy between the Brooklyn flower and the Philly spitter Links mentioned in this episode: http://hashtaglegday.com https://youtu.be/NlfOUB-ax5o?si=sot2zsBVcIKb2DHG This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm
This episode, Sha Stimuli and Boardwalk Brown introduce a new segment to the No Bars Off show - "Still Ill". We revisti classics of yesteryear to see if they still hold up Topics discussed: The insane production and sample origination by Just Blaze The flow and mastery of Jay's skill set After all this time, is it still ill? Links mentioned in this episode: http://hashtaglegday.com https://youtu.be/qK8DLBbYMQg?si=MtRTooqyxmwHHApb This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm
This episode, we revisit Kanye West and his staccato-filled flow on "Pt. 2". Topics discussed: Was this verse as dope as we initially thought it was? How much he revealed of himself in this short 12-bar barrage Being in the news for everything other than his music, as of late Links mentioned in this episode: http://hashtaglegday.com https://youtu.be/QJ9NcAOl1Ck?si=s_0dnVXBsAv5ME7I This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm
This episode, Sha Stimuli and Boardwalk Brown revisit Jay Electronica's highly anticipated classic debut, "Exhibit C". Topics discussed: How Jay Electronica shook up the hip-hop world back in 2009 with his unorthodox, conversational flow The infinite amount of cosigns that preceded his arrival Was the hype worth it? Was "Exhibit C" that great of a song? Links mentioned in this episode: http://hashtaglegday.com https://youtu.be/DyG2CIPEkMM?si=sukTugKX4MqFR44V This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm
This episode, Sha Stimuli and Boardwalk Brown discuss the return of rap icon Snoop Dogg and his latest song "Missionary". Topics discussed: How Snoop flexes his pen game and delivers some of his best bars in years His iconic status and his ability to still dominate the mic Giving Snoop his flowers Links mentioned in this episode: http://hashtaglegday.com https://youtu.be/ddwfebq3Jho?si=nZWJqzYH-BmjFcCj This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm
This episode, Sha Stimuli and Boardwalk Brown dissect and breakdown J.I.D. and Ab-Soul's recent collaboration on the track "Crazier". Topics discussed: The dark, eerie and moving beat production The next-level flows and hard-hitting rhymes that make this song a standout How J.I.D. and Ab-Soul continue to push the boundaries of the genre. Links mentioned in this episode: http://hashtaglegday.com https://youtu.be/Pd10zg_fOUY?si=xejwRnN6cyxTp1r5 This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm
This episode, Sha Stimuli and Boardwalk Brown dive deep into Kendrick Lamar's anthemic "TV Off" track from his latest release "GNX". Topics discussed: Why "TV Off" deserves more attention What makes it a hidden gem on the album We analyze the production, lyrics and overall vibe of the track Links mentioned in this episode: http://hashtaglegday.com https://youtu.be/lQZw3mnQkz4?si=i5JGOHrLHJH5z3jR This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm
This week, Sha Stimuli and Boardwalk Brown get into Kendrick Lamar's surprise project, "GNX" and the topics he addressed on "Wacced Out Murals". Topics discussed: GNX and the West Coast victory lap feel of the album Drake, Snoop and others addressed in "Wacced Out Murals" Is Kendrick staking claim to the top spot in the game? Links mentioned in this episode: http://hashtaglegday.com https://youtu.be/0KkV8crg8RY?si=vYnDHD99w-U4LTDC This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm
This week, Sha Stimuli and Boardwalk Brown sit down with Grammy-award winning producer Focus. Sha and Focus go back over a decade and have collaborated on multiple projects. Focus gets deep and reveals a lot of the pain that went into the featured verse. "N.C" is a soul-stirring song where Focus speaks to the instrumentation as if it's a therapist. Tap in. Topics discussed: Focus talks how the song and project came to be. The pain that went into the verse on the featured song "N.C." Using music and tattoos as therapy Links mentioned in this episode: http://hashtaglegday.com https://youtu.be/WYnC-qPbh8A?si=RhphNdJJo87-2jBf This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm
This week, Sha Stimuli and Boardwalk Brown discuss Big Sean - his place in the game and his recent project, Better Me Than You. Topics discussed: The single "Precision" from his new project. Is Big Sean slept on? His flows, bars and presence Links mentioned in this episode: http://hashtagelegday.com https://youtu.be/QnXwcDTM2ig?si=NJn6KcioPO0Sbf1p This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm
This week, Sha Stimuli and Boardwalk finally address J. Cole's position and reasoning on "Port Antonio" Topics discussed: J. Cole addressing why he chose to step away from the simmering beef - was it smart in hindsight? Was there a better way to bow out of the battle? Apology and exit notwithstanding, is Cole still top tier? Links mentioned in this episode: http://hashtaglegday.com https://youtu.be/CNsQyK3Mjgw?si=CNQm2r_RwUVZsG5D This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm
This week, Sha Stimuli and Boardwalk Brown ask the question: Is Eminem fat shaming or sharing concern on his song "Road Rage". Topics discussed: Is Slim Shady toeing the line of "cancel culture" with his new song, "Road Rage"? Eminem takes a shot at Lizzo Does, or should, this spark a larger conversation about weight concerns? Links mentioned in this episode: http://hashtaglegday.com https://youtu.be/f5UFwCFqnNU?si=BZ5MxK86cw4njMqW This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm
This week, Sha Stimuli and Boardwalk Brown discuss Killer Mike and his Grammy-award winning project, "Michael". We get into the record, "Shed Tears" Topics discussed: Is Killer Mike ranked too low (#14) on the Atlanta best rapper list? The emotion and transparency of the soulful "Shed Tears" Killer Mike and his perseverance to sweeping the Grammys in his 40s. Links mentioned in this episode: http://hashtaglegday.com https://youtu.be/SkLoqpgo468?si=-97kylmBxn5YyL-7 This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm
This week, Sha Stimuli and Boardwalk Brown revisit Jay-Z's classic "Coming of Age II (Da Sequel)" featuring Memphis Bleek. A cinematic follow-up to their first collab, "Coming of Age", this song was a story told completely by thoughts. Let's dive in! Topics discussed: This classic was an interaction told completely by thoughts - mind blowing The evolution of the relationship from the original "Coming of Age" Is this peak Jay-Z? Links mentioned in this episode: http://hashtaglegday.com https://youtu.be/IoCipodseac?si=Js-vpONhDLzZpHNs This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm
This week, Sha Stimuli and Boardwalk Brown discuss LL Cool J and his new single "Passion" from his newly released project, The Force Topics discussed: How is LL still this good after 40 years in the game? Is he overlooked in the GOAT conversation? Breakdown some of the bars from his record "Passion" Links mentioned in this episode: http://hashtaglegday.com https://youtu.be/gbHAy3R3F-8?si=yGyhEn0xYDFJ0goN This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm
This week, Sha Stimuli and Boardwalk Brown tap in and give 2024 XXL Freshman class a listen Topics discussed: 1.What is the next generation bringing to the game? XXL Freshman freestyles Is there a star among the group? Links mentioned in this episode: http://hashtaglegday.com https://youtu.be/mnhV7hv8RLc?si=QHjKyi-VYYsN4mAD This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm
This week, Sha Stimuli and Boardwalk Brown break down the wizardry and wordplay of J.I.D. and Eminem on "Fuel" from his new project "The Death Of Slim Shady" Topics discussed: Was J.I.D. able to hold his own rhyming with Em? Eminem's wordplay is undeniably top tier. How Em is always willing to give young talent a shot. Links mentioned in this episode: http://hashtaglegday.com https://youtu.be/rnGo6uxa3k4?si=WqcBkD2C_J-8M-np This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm
This week, Sha Stimuli and Boardwalk Brown discuss Twista's inspiring appearance on Joyner Lucas' "Still Alright". A story of perseverance and perspective. Topics discussed: Twista having to work at the car wash Being on the train the first time he heard himself on the radio on "Po' Pimp". His perserverance and inspirational path to stardom Links mentioned in this episode: http://hashtaglegday.com https://youtu.be/VEeBShWM5t8?si=sqC3eyqvpyz9lVvQ This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm
This week, Sha Stimuli and Boardwalk Brown share their reaction to Cyhi The Prynce's freestyle appearance on On The Radar radio. Topics discussed: Just how underrated is Cyhi? How secure his place in the game is. Is his pen game Top 5? Links mentioned in this episode: http://hashtaglegday.com https://youtu.be/om5_IBw-KP8?si=qFcM8YZIh26kJSvG This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm
This week, Sha Stimuli and Boardwalk Brown wrap-up the Drake vs. Kendrick beef, go line by line and score the dopest bars from each song. Topics discussed: We give points, ranging from 1-3, for each dope line by an artist Where there were dope lines that couldn't be scored Who was the winner? Links mentioned in this episode: https://youtu.be/0GqGJZYRWDs?si=MqeSLqqKT9KtqwBI http://hashtaglegday.com This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm
This week, Sha Stimui and Boardwalk Brown dissect Andre 3000's otherworldly lyrical display on the classic "The Art of Storytellin', Pt. 4" Topics discussed: The poetic format and construction of 3 Stacks' story Being the antithesis of what is considered a "real one" in the Black community The top tier wordplay and entendres Links mentioned in this episode: https://youtu.be/5QA9xcbMJFI?si=TgctvUFV0GnHCbv7 http://hashtaglegday.com This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm
This week, Sha Stimuli and Boardwalk Brown with long time friend and brother, Torae, and just chop it up. We dedicate this episode to Tor's recently transitioned spouse, Kimberly Durham-Carr. Topics discussed: Releasing new music, "The Bubble Chip", after a long hiatus Penning hits for other artists and then interviewing them Dealing with the tragic loss of his spouse Links mentioned in this episode: https://youtu.be/537gXZZTTUg?si=E_geKBmpja962p77 http://hashtaglegday.com This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm
This week, Sha Stimuli and Boardwalk Brown highlight Russ and his craft from his "Said It" freestyle Topics discussed: Why is Russ so underappreciated in the game? His impeccable wordplay and visuals Why he is for divine ears only Links mentioned in this episode: https://youtu.be/WnBoEXKTM0c?si=pOzXyyFfB0GnfBK- http://hashtaglegday.com This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm
This week, Sha Stimuli and Boardwalk Brown breakdown and discuss the otherworldly appearances by everyone involved on J. Cole's track "Pi" featuring Daylyt and Ab Soul Topics discussed: Apology be damned, NOBODY is rapping like THIS! How good are Ab-Soul and Daylyt at the back and forth flow? Is anybody with the PEN than J. Cole? Links mentioned in this episode: https://youtu.be/z72OSpDCUP0?si=VdfIiQG9TY1QiS4Z http://hashtaglegday.com This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm
This week, Sha Stimuli and Boardwalk Brown keep the party going as K-Dot keeps the beef going with his response, "Meet The Grahams". Topics discussed: Kendrick's dark, spooky sound and approach to the record The timing of the song's release - mere minutes after Drake released "Family Matters" Do we care if Drake had someone feed Kendrick false information? Links mentioned in this episode: https://youtu.be/-na02R6GhEU?si=ilyHMFl7DnJFgAFg http://hashtaglegday.com This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm
This week, Sha Stimuli and Boardwalk Brown discuss Drake's latest drop "Family Matters" - the beef continues. Topics discussed: Is Angry Aubrey what we have been waiting for? The second verse - he left Earth!! Is this his final shot to fire back? Links mentioned in this episode: https://youtu.be/5-9IG8JBmBo?si=WdkS_BsJrihhRlS1 http://hashtaglegday.com This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm
This week, Sha Stimuli and Boardwalk Brown discuss Kendrick's shot back with "Euphoria". Topics discussed: Is Euphoria what the people have been waiting for in a response? Kendrick takes direct aim at Drake and holds nothing back Is Drake's half white-ness a topic of contention? Links mentioned in this episode: https://youtu.be/RCfFo1CpuiA?si=fEqoJ-2gcqQDEYhu http://hashtaglegday.com This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm
This week, Sha Stimuli and Boardwalk Brown breakdown and discuss Drake's Taylor Made Freestyle, the latest entry in his battle with Kendrick Lamar. Topics discussed: The brilliance of the unexpected pep talk-like approach Drake took Was the AI use a good play or a reach? Is the Taylor Made Freestyle a better effort than Push Ups? Links mentioned in this episode: https://youtu.be/a-804M2-Gwc?si=0Jd-okO1DXs6UzSD http://hashtaglegday.com This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm
This week, Sha Stimuli and Boardwalk Brown talk about the beef between Drake and Rozay. Topics discussed: The level of petty in each artist's song Being the "appetizer" beef compared to "main course" with Kendrick. Rappers taking the battle to IG Links mentioned in this episode: https://youtu.be/2Jjr8nu8Ack?si=_wMscaOi7rE8HH2M http://hashtaglegday.com This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm
This week, Sha Stimuli and Boardwalk Brown react to the apology from J.Cole. Topics discussed: Was it a moral judgment call? Does his apology affect Cole's place in the game. Finding perspective Links mentioned in this episode: https://youtu.be/mIMOT1YUZ-8?si=URTTNJaus4tPunq9 http://hashtaglegdaty.com This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm
This week, Sha Stimuli and Boardwalk Brown talk J. Cole's response (pre-apology), "7 Minute Drill" Topics discussed: Hearing the hesitancy in Cole's approach The feel of the overall project, "Might Delete Later" The context of the warning shots fired by both Links mentioned in this episode: https://youtu.be/Wvft5BwYc8E?si=wNWsbAZHAsLWiOLR http://hashtaglegday.com This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm
This week, Sha Stimuli and Boardwalk Brown discuss Kendrick Lamar's lightning rod of an appearance on his collab with Future on "Like That" Topics discussed: Is it time to pick a side? is Kendrick keeping the "sport" of rap and it's competitive nature alive? Kung-Fu Kenny is very different from Kendrick Lamar Links mentioned in this episode: https://youtu.be/xWotDJtTxMs?si=HQQe2ikxbRL0F1oU http://hashtaglegday.com This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm
This week, Sha Stimuli sits down with Skyzoo to talk about the new deluxe version of his Franklin Saint-themed album, "The Mind Of A Saint". Topics discussed: Going back in to the lab after Snowfall's final season The depths of darkness Skyzoo had to go to in order to become Franklin Saint The difference between nice and elite emcee skills Links mentioned in this episode: https://youtu.be/xj7xVf-cs8w?si=IjTsulDxpj1OOG7X http://hashtaglegday.com This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm
This week, Sha Stimuli and Boardwalk Brown talk sit down and chop it up with the legendary Masta Ace to talk his current project, "Richmond Hill" and how he stays relevant. Topics discussed: The new project and breakdown of the dope concept track "Connections" How he ended up with the opening verse on the classic "The Symphony". The work to remain relevant from the Slaughtahouse days to now. Links mentioned in this episode: https://youtu.be/mJ2-QtUm7Jk?si=tSV42WxHLkxy6Bpt http://hashtaglegday.com This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm
This week, Sha Stimuli and Boardwalk Brown discuss Cam'ron's set off Rocafella appearance on the team inspired joint "The R.O.C." Topics discussed: Was Cam's verse underrated? His career evolution from rapper to superstar podcast host. The makings of the move to Rocafella Links mentioned in this episode: https://youtu.be/lKTZ7hyxdyk?si=onMBMVRvME1R712k http://hashtaglegday.com This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm
This week, Sha Stimuli and Boardwalk Brown cover Coast Contra and their new single "Ayo" Topics discussed: Is Coast Contra actually underrated? The top-tier wordplay and entendres they bring Are they hip-hop's saviors? Links mentioned in this episode: http://hashtaglegday.com/collections/nbo https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dcMjKvhc2VE&t=27s This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm
This week, Sha Stimuli and Boardwalk Brown discuss Nas' Ether and it's impact Topics discussed: Is this the greatest diss song ever made? It's impact and how it shaped Nas' career Could anyone besides Jay-Z have survived this shot? Links mentioned in this episode: http://hashtaglegday.com/collections/nbo https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UUFkLJIxSgE&t=361s This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm
This week, Sha Stimuli and Boardwalk Brown discuss TakeOff and his crazy verse on "Having Our Way" feat. Drake Topics discussed: TakeOff and his otherworldly flow on this record Being the most talented, yet most overlooked, member of the Migos. A life ended too soon Links mentioned in this episode: http://hashtaglegday.com/collections/nbo https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qhgAgGZ8_lo This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm
This week, Sha Stimuli and Boardwalk Brown discuss Drake's "Red Button" from his Scary Hours version of his For All The Dogs release. Topics discussed: Are these shots directed at Joe Budden? Our love for Angry Aubrey Living in the era of dropping music when the mood strikes. Links mentioned in this episode: http://hashtaglegday.com/collections/nbo https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=35QIkBvSrwY This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm
This week, Sha Stimuli and Boardwalk Brown are joined by special in-studio guest, our brother, resident Pac fan, actor, emcee and new ATLien, LG aka Lord's Gift aka Jamar Greene, to discuss Pac and his heartfelt song "So Many Tears". Topics discussed: Did Pac's jail time bring out some of his best work? His vulnerability and embracing of his deepest fears How Pac's upbringing shaped his way of life Links mentioned in this episode: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ja4iR_N7tUA&t=493s http://hashtaglegday.com This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm