No Ceilings with Glasses Malone

In this episode of No Ceilings, Glasses Malone is joined by Lex and Trap for a thought-provoking discussion on hip-hop culture, identity, and the ongoing debate surrounding cultural ownership. The conversation examines hip-hop’s origins and influence, responding to commentary from figures such as Lord Jamar and Crazy Legs while exploring questions of legacy, contribution, and recognition within the culture. The discussion also reflects on how hip-hop evolved from a local movement into a global force, and why conversations around identity, representation, and ownership continue to generate strong opinions across generations.
The dialogue expands into street culture, generational perspectives, and the historical relationships between different communities within urban America. Glasses, Lex, and Trap discuss contrasting experiences from Los Angeles and New York street culture, parent-child tensions, assimilation, prejudice, and the social dynamics that have shaped how communities identify themselves over time.
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In this episode of No Ceilings, Glasses Malone is joined by DJ Hed and acclaimed production duo Mike & Keys for a deep dive into the legacy of West Coast hip-hop and the making of Victory Lap. The conversation traces the evolution of West Coast rap from the post-G-funk era through movements like hyphy, jerk, and ratchet music, while examining how blogs, digital media, and the internet helped reshape the region’s identity. Glasses also reflects on his own reluctance to embrace social media and podcasting before encouragement from Charlamagne Tha God led him to expand his platform during the pandemic.
The discussion offers rare behind-the-scenes insight into the creative process behind Victory Lap and the vision of Nipsey Hussle. Mike & Keys share stories from their early days in San Diego studios to producing for artists such as Xzibit and Dom Kennedy, while the group breaks down song selections, sequencing decisions, unreleased records, and the near exclusion of “Double Up” due to sample clearance costs. Blending music history, industry knowledge, and personal memories, this episode highlights the importance of ownership, authenticity, and preserving artistic vision in hip-hop culture.

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In this episode of No Ceilings, Glasses Malone is joined by West Coast rap veteran Yukmouth for a passionate conversation about hip-hop history, regional pride, and the ongoing debate surrounding West Coast unity. The discussion celebrates the legacy of Luniz and the cultural impact of “I Got 5 on It,” while exploring the influence of Bay Area and Los Angeles artists on the broader hip-hop landscape. Glasses and Yukmouth also unpack the controversy surrounding Drake’s use of a Mac Dre-inspired record produced by P-Lo, debating whether the surrounding discourse has fueled unnecessary Bay Area versus Los Angeles tensions.
The conversation expands into media accountability, social media narratives, and the growing influence of bots, algorithms, and online perception in shaping public opinion. Glasses and Yukmouth discuss the difference between journalism and choosing sides, the meaning of “keeping it P,” and the importance of properly honoring hip-hop history and its pioneers. The episode also addresses commentary surrounding Tupac Shakur’s legacy, the value of authenticity in music culture, and the need for unity rather than division within West Coast hip-hop. Blending cultural commentary, industry insight, and unfiltered conversation, this episode offers a thought-provoking look at loyalty, influence, and preserving the integrity of the culture.
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In this episode of No Ceilings Live, Glasses Malone and the crew pull listeners behind the scenes as they map out plans for the evolving CCS/Crip Store space, discussing everything from studio design and vinyl flooring to retail displays, DJ booth concepts, and exclusive autographed gangster-rap memorabilia. What begins as a conversation about music quickly expands into entrepreneurship, brand building, and creating a cultural hub that reflects the history and influence of West Coast hip-hop. The crew also addresses the realities of online discourse, pushing back against social media-fueled narratives, manufactured rivalries, and the pressure to constantly “pick sides” in artist conflicts.
The episode takes a more personal turn as Glasses shares an emotional update on his brother Moses, reflecting on the challenges, frustrations, and resilience that come with a long recovery journey. Later, Snoop Dogg joins the conversation to address royalty disputes involving Daz Dillinger, breaking down music industry realities such as advances, recoupment, publishing, and artist compensation. Blending personal reflection, business insight, and hip-hop industry transparency, this episode offers a raw look at family, loyalty, entrepreneurship, and navigating conflict both online and behind the scenes.

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In this episode of No Ceilings, Glasses Malone sits down with writer and showrunner Malcolm Spellman for an in-depth conversation about Hollywood, storytelling, and the realities of large-scale television production. Spellman breaks down how major productions operate like “300-person machines,” with union dynamics, departmental politics, and the immense pressure placed on showrunners when projects succeed or fail. The discussion explores what makes timeless storytelling resonate, with praise for The Wire as a groundbreaking example of authentic, layered writing, while also unpacking how long-running shows often struggle to maintain quality without “jumping the shark.”
The conversation also dives into Malcolm Spellman’s unconventional journey into the entertainment industry, from selling a spec script to building a résumé that includes Empire, Truth Be Told, The Falcon and the Winter Soldier, Hip Hop Uncovered, Captain America: Brave New World, Bel-Air, and Snowfall. Together, they discuss how technology and streaming have shifted music and film into market-share businesses, while highlighting the importance of preserving authenticity and human storytelling in hip-hop and entertainment culture.

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