As 2024 draws to a close, Hard Knock Radio host Davey D is joined by music experts to reflect on the year’s biggest music trends. Joining him are KQED music columnist Nastia Voynovskaya, DJ D-Sharp, DJ Lady Ryan, and KALW radio host. Together, they discuss how veteran hip-hop artists, regional sounds, and Afrobeats have shaped the music scene in 2024.
Veteran Hip-Hop Artists Lead the Charge
Veteran hip-hop artists have dominated 2024. Despite the industry’s ageism, icons like Snoop Dogg, LL Cool J, Big Daddy Kane, and Public Enemy remain influential. Davey D highlights their enduring relevance. DJ D-Sharp agrees, noting that experience only enhances their artistry. He compares these veterans to classic rock bands like The Rolling Stones. Nastia Voynovskaya praises Bamboo for his politically charged lyrics, bringing back old-school political hip-hop.
The Bay Area’s Growing Influence
The Bay Area’s cultural impact continues to rise. DJ D-Sharp points out how artists like LaRussell and Larry June have gained national recognition. Nastia admires LaRussell’s grassroots approach, especially his “pay-what-you-want” concerts and viral Tiny Desk performance. The Bay Area’s sound is increasingly influential on a national level.
Afrobeats: A Global Music Revolution
Afrobeats continues to grow in popularity worldwide. Davey D discusses the genre’s cross-genre appeal, especially in hip-hop and pop. Collaborations with artists like Drake have helped Afrobeats break mainstream boundaries. DJ D-Sharp shares his experience DJing for Guapole at South by Southwest, where an Afrobeats remix of “Closer” energized the crowd. Nastia also highlights the rise of Amapiano, a South African genre gaining international attention.
Breakout Artists and the Resurgence of R&B
R&B is making a comeback. Nastia praises Kehlani for her vulnerable, intimate songwriting. DJ D-Sharp highlights Leon Thomas’ album MUTT, blending classic R&B with modern influences. Both agree that R&B is evolving by blending Afrobeat and soul sounds.
Drake vs Kendrick Lamar: A Battle for the Ages
The rivalry between Drake and Kendrick Lamar was a central theme in 2024. Nastia reflects on Kendrick’s influence on the West Coast, honoring Bay Area culture in his music videos. DJ D-Sharp acknowledges Kendrick’s dominance, but points out Drake’s global reach. Both artists have left a significant mark on the music landscape this year.
The End of Genre Boundaries
With streaming changing how we listen to music, genre boundaries continue to fade. Davey D observes that listeners are no longer confined to a single genre. People now embrace diverse artists, from Taylor Swift to Kendrick Lamar. Nastia highlights how streaming platforms promote genre-blending, allowing artists to experiment without limits.
The Loss of Music Icons
2024 also marked the loss of several influential music figures. DJ Clark Kent, Frankie Beverly, and Tito Jackson all passed away. Nastia and DJ D-Sharp reflect on their legacies. DJ Clark Kent, in particular, is remembered for his role in helping launch artists like Biggie and Jay-Z.
Predictions for 2025
Looking ahead to 2025, Nastia and DJ D-Sharp predict more genre fusion. DJ D-Sharp emphasizes the importance of energy in music, especially during live performances. He believes that successful tracks will connect deeply with audiences. Nastia expects a continued focus on political and social issues in music, inspired by artists like Bamboo.
Recommended Tracks and Albums
Before the conversation ends, both Nastia and DJ D-Sharp offer their music recommendations. DJ D-Sharp urges listeners to check out Leon Thomas’ MUTT, Freddie Gibbs’ latest album, and his own project Risk and Reward. Nastia recommends Kev Choice’s All My Love, Glorilla’s Glorious, and Sammy Shablack’s politically poignant work.
Conclusion pt1 : 2024’s Transformative Year in Music
2024 has been a transformative year for music, with veterans and newcomers reshaping the landscape. As we head into 2025, music’s evolution is far from over.
Hard Knock Radio 2024 End of Year Wrap-Up: A Deep Dive into Music Trends with DJ Lady Ryan
As part of Hard Knock Radio’s 2024 end-of-year wrap-up, DJ Lady Ryan joins the conversation to share her insights on the year’s music trends. From the continued influence of Afrobeats to the return of early 2000s sounds, Lady Ryan reflects on the evolving landscape and names standout artists and albums that defined the year.
The Return of 2000s Sounds
DJ Lady Ryan notes that 2000s music remains a key influence in the club scene. Tracks from artists like 50 Cent, Ying Yang Twins, and Ciara are still crowd favorites, blurring the line between the 90s and early 2000s. The nostalgia of this era continues to resonate with audiences, particularly those who grew up with these sounds.
Notable Artists in 2024
Lady Ryan highlights the rising talent of Dochi, whose lyricism is gaining significant attention in mainstream music. She also praises Rhapsody for her powerful new album, despite it being somewhat overshadowed by other releases. Additionally, Fantastic Negrito, a Bay Area artist, delivers an emotional and heartfelt album that Lady Ryan considers a standout.
South’s Influence and Blues Revival
Lady Ryan observes the growing popularity of Southern influences, especially within the country and blues genres. The recent surge in country music, including Beyoncé’s country album, has sparked interest in artists like King George and Tamia, with fans embracing Southern soul and blues styles. She also mentions the new sound emerging from South Africa, including Gome music, which she believes could be the next big trend in global music.
The Resurgence of Soul and R&B
Lady Ryan is excited about the return of classic soul sounds. Artists like Leon Bridges and groups like The Sacred Souls are reviving the 50s and 60s soul styles. This resurgence, along with the contributions of UK-based R&B artists like Snow Allegra, is shaping a fresh direction for the genre.
Moving Beyond Ratchet Hip-Hop
In response to comments from Fat Joe and D1 about the current state of hip-hop, Lady Ryan expresses her desire for a shift towards more authentic, less commercialized music. She acknowledges the oversaturation of “ratchet” music in the mainstream, particularly in clubs, and advocates for a more meaningful and diverse range of topics in hip-hop. Lady Ryan also shares her frustration with DJs who play offensive language, especially in clean formats, and hopes for more substantive discussions in the genre.
Music to Look Out for in 2025
Lady Ryan wraps up with her top recommendations for 2025. She encourages listeners to check out Tall Black Guy’s 10th Anniversary Edition of 8 Miles to Monart, Michelle Indegeocello’s No More Water: The Gospel of James Baldwin, and the posthumous album Roy Hargrove’s Grand Tear. These releases, along with Krungbin and Lalom, showcase a variety of musical styles that reflect the depth and diversity of modern music.
Guests:
- DJ D-Sharp: Derrick DJ D-Sharp Robinson, born in Oakland, California, started DJing professionally at 15. He has been the official in-house DJ for the Golden State Warriors during their recent title runs.
- DJ Lady Ryan: A favorite in the Bay Area, DJ Lady Ryan energizes crowds at Warriors games and is a beloved radio host on Wednesday nights 10Pm to midnight on 91.7 KALW in San Francisco.
- Nastia Voynovskaya: A reporter and editor at KQED Arts & Culture, Nastia has been covering Bay Area music, queer culture, and grassroots organizing for over a decade.
About Hard Knock Radio
Hard Knock Radio is a drive-time Hip-Hop talk show on KPFA (94.1fm, Monday-Friday 4-5 pm). Hosted by Davey D and Anita Johnson, the show provides insightful discussions on music, culture, and social issues. KPFA is a community radio station without corporate underwriting.
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