Hard Knock Radio Presents End-of-Year Music Wrap-Up PT.1

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As 2024 comes to a close, Hard Knock Radio host Davey D engages in an insightful conversation with KQED music columnist Nastia Voynovskaya, producer and Golden State Warriors official DJ D-Sharp, Bay Area favorite DJ Lady Ryan, and KALW radio host. Together, they explore the music trends that shaped the year—from the resurgence of veteran hip-hop artists and the rise of regional sounds to the ever-growing influence of Afrobeats. This end-of-year discussion provides a fresh and dynamic perspective on the evolving music landscape.

Veteran Hip-Hop Artists Take Center Stage

One of the standout trends in 2024 was the increasing prominence of veteran hip-hop artists, defying the industry’s ageist tendencies. Davey D highlights how icons like Snoop Dogg, LL Cool J, Big Daddy Kane, and Public Enemy continue to produce music that resonates deeply with listeners. DJ D–Sharp adds that as DJs and producers, experience enhances their craft, likening it to seasoned rock bands like The Rolling Stones. Both agree that the industry’s barrier of limiting hip-hop to younger artists is no longer relevant.

Nastia Voynovskaya shares her admiration for Bamboo, a rapper known for his politically charged lyrics. She notes how his album brought back the old-school political hip-hop vibe, which aligns with the rising class consciousness among listeners.

The Bay Area’s Growing Influence

Throughout the discussion, the Bay Area’s cultural impact on music is a recurring theme. DJ D–Sharp points out how artists like LaRussell and Larry June have continued to rise in prominence, asserting their dominance in the national scene. Nastia praises LaRussell for his grassroots approach, notably his “pay-what-you-want” concert model and his viral Tiny Desk performance. The Bay Area’s sound and style continue to gain respect, both locally and nationally, as these artists break new ground.

The Global Takeover of Afrobeats

Afrobeats continues to gain momentum globally, transcending boundaries and genres. Davey D talks about the cross-genre appeal of Afrobeats and its growing presence in mainstream music. From collaborations with big names like Drake to its infusion into hip-hop and pop, Afrobeats has become a force to be reckoned with. DJ D–Sharp shares a memorable experience DJing for Guapole at South by Southwest, where the crowd went wild for an Afrobeats remix of her track “Closer.”

As global artists continue to collaborate, the genre continues to blur the lines between different musical styles. Nastia also mentions the rise of “Amapiano,” a South African genre making waves worldwide. She highlights how artists are incorporating Amapiano into their sets, adding an international flavor to their performances.

Breakout Artists and the Future of R&B

While hip-hop and Afrobeats dominate much of the conversation, R&B has not been left behind. Nastia praises artists like Kehlani for her intimate songwriting and soulful tracks that are bringing a sense of vulnerability back to the genre. D–Sharp highlights Leon Thomas’ album Mutt as a standout, noting the album’s blend of classic R&B with modern sensibilities. Both experts agree that R&B is experiencing a resurgence, thanks to its ability to blend elements of Afrobeat and modern soul.

The Battle Between Drake and Kendrick Lamar

The ongoing battle between Drake and Kendrick Lamar also takes center stage in the conversation. Nastia reflects on how Kendrick Lamar took the entire West Coast with him on his journey, from incorporating Bay Area turf dancers into his “Squabble Up” video to honoring the legacy of Bay Area hip-hop. D–Sharp, however, remarks that while Kendrick’s reign is undeniable, Drake’s global reach remains impressive. Despite their differences, both artists have shaped 2024’s music landscape.

The End of Genre Boundaries

As streaming continues to change the way we listen to music, the traditional boundaries between genres continue to fade. Davey D talks about how listeners are no longer confined to one genre based on demographics. He points out that music lovers are embracing an eclectic mix, from Taylor Swift to Kendrick Lamar, and even country music. Nastia also emphasizes the role of streaming platforms in promoting genre-crossovers, allowing artists to blend sounds without restrictions.

The Passing of Icons

The year also saw the passing of several music legends, including the likes of DJ Clark Kent, Frankie Beverly, and Tito Jackson. Nastia and D–Sharp reflect on how these losses have impacted the music community, particularly the legacy of DJ Clark Kent, who was known for his pivotal role in the rise of artists like Biggie and Jay-Z. The conversation touches on the importance of recognizing these icons while celebrating the legacy they’ve left behind.

Final Thoughts and 2025 Predictions

Looking ahead, both Nastia and D–Sharp predict more genre fusion, with artists continuing to experiment and push boundaries. DJ D–Sharp emphasizes the importance of energy in music, particularly in live settings. He suggests that the key to success in 2025 will be producing tracks that elevate the mood and connect with listeners on a deep level. Nastia, on the other hand, predicts a continued focus on political and social issues within music, as artists like Bamboo lead the way with politically charged albums.

Recommended Tracks and Albums

As the conversation winds down, both Nastia and D–Sharp offer some final recommendations. D–Sharp urges listeners to check out Leon Thomas’ Mutt, Freddie Gibbs’ latest release, and his own project with St. Spitting, Risk and Reward. Nastia encourages people to listen to Kev Choice’s All My Love, Glorilla’s Glorious, and the politically poignant work of Sammy Shablack.

2024 has been a transformative year for music, with old-school veterans and emerging talents reshaping the landscape. As we head into 2025, it’s clear that the evolution of music is far from over.

Guests:

DJ D Sharp

Derrick “DJ D-Sharp” Robinson was born in Oakland, California and started DJing professionally at age 15. DJ D-Sharp has been the Warriors’ in-house DJ for all three of the team’s recent title runs.

Lady Ryan

is another Bay Area favorite – Her passion for music can be heard throughout the Bay Area and beyond, whether she’s energizing the crowd at Warriors games, hosting one of her celebrated Soulovely or Sweetspot parties, or gracing the airwaves of 91.7 KALW in San Francisco.

Nastia Voynovskaya is a reporter and editor at KQED Arts & Culture. She’s been covering the arts in the Bay Area for over a decade, with a focus on music, queer culture, labor issues and grassroots organizing.

Hard Knock Radio is a drive-time Hip-Hop talk show on KPFA (94.1fm @ 4-5 pm Monday-Friday), a community radio station without corporate underwriting, hosted by Davey D and Anita Johnson.

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