The podcast episode from Rolling Stone Music Now delves into the standout music of 2024, focusing on Beyoncé’s Cowboy Carter and Kendrick Lamar’s “Not Like Us.” Beyoncé’s album is highlighted not just as a country record but as a profound exploration of the Black roots of American music, blending various genres with memorable pop tracks. The discussion suggests that Cowboy Carter deserves recognition as Album of the Year at the Grammys, particularly given Beyoncé’s history of being overlooked for such honors.
Kendrick Lamar’s “Not Like Us” is also praised, not only for its role in the ongoing Lamar-Drake rivalry but for its dense lyrical content and musical complexity. Despite its depth, the song is noted for being incredibly engaging and replayable, making a strong case for both Song of the Year and Record of the Year.
The episode features Rolling Stone staff member Mankaprr Conteh, who joins host Brian Hiatt to share her top picks in R&B, hip-hop, and Afropop. They cover a wide range of artists and albums, discussing the cultural and musical significance of each. The conversation reinforces the idea that 2024 has been a remarkable year for music, with these artists pushing creative boundaries.
Listeners are encouraged to check out the full episode on various podcast platforms like Apple Podcasts and Spotify. The podcast not only covers new releases but also delves into a rich archive of interviews and discussions with legendary artists across different genres.
The podcast provides an in-depth exploration of the year’s standout music, highlighting the artistic brilliance and cultural significance of artists such as Beyoncé and Kendrick Lamar. It encourages listeners to engage with the music of 2024 through thoughtful, critical analysis while celebrating the industry’s diversity and innovation.
