The Lupe and Royce Show

The Lupe and Royce Show was a weekly podcast by American rappers Lupe Fiasco and Royce da 5'9" featuring Tom Frank, produced by Say What Media. The first four episodes were released on October 8, 2020, with their final episode posted on July 22, 2021. After the two went their separate ways, it wrapped up as the first season and continued with new hosts.
Aswin Pranam of Forbes gave a positive review, writing, "It's gritty, unfiltered, and doesn't feel as 'commercial' as other ad-supported podcasts with content buried under long-stretches of audio promo. While it will take time to hit their stride, build audio chemistry, and smooth out the edges, the show serves as a useful window into the minds of two of hip-hop's most talented."Pranam, Aswin (October 17, 2020). "The Lupe & Royce Show Is Podcasting At Its Finest". Forbes.
== Description ==
The Lupe and Royce Show is a weekly podcast about... hell if we know. Half conversation between friends, half interview show, and 100% weird, it MIGHT make you think and will definitely make you laugh. Two prolific MCs, one white guy with two first names: What could go wrong? The Lupe and Royce Show is hosted by Lupe Fiasco, Royce da 5'9" and Tom Frank and is a production of Say What Media. It's recorded and mixed by Claude Jennings and our head writer is Lauren Sloat. Questions for the dudes? Email us at saywhatdotmedia@gmail.com
== Biography ==
Wasalu Muhammad Jaco, better known by his stage name Lupe Fiasco, is a Chicago-born, Grammy award-winning American rapper, record producer, entrepreneur, and community advocate. Rising to fame in 2006, following the success of his debut album, Food & Liquor, Lupe has released more than four acclaimed studio albums; his latest being Drogas Wave released fall 2018. His efforts to propagate conscious material helped solidify him as GQ's Man of the Year in 2006, and garnered recognition as a Henry Crown Fellow. While musical genius and ingenuity are at the forefront of Lupe's achievements, the artist extends his innovation to projects that aim to foster creative discourse and opportunities in underprivileged and impoverished communities.
Ryan Daniel Montgomery, better known by his stage name Royce da 5'9", is an American rapper from Detroit, Michigan. He is best known for his longtime association with Eminem as well as his solo career, recording primarily with producers Carlos "6 July" Broady and DJ Premier, as well as ghostwriting for the likes of Diddy and Dr. Dre. Royce is one half of the hip hop group PRhyme with DJ Premier as well as Bad Meets Evil with Eminem. Most recently, Royce launched the Ryan Montgomery Foundation to to implement sustainable community programs that give individuals and families access to resources and opportunities needed to achieve their fullest potential.
And Tom Frank, known on the show as the "regular dude," provides a unique perspective and helps guide the conversation between our two prolific MCs. Having traded in dreams of being the second baseman for the Pittsburgh Pirates, Tom dove headlong into the world of communications. This is where he first met Lupe and the two worked on several projects over the span of the past ten years. Tom is a co-host as well as partner in the show's production company, Say What Media. In Tom's day job as Executive Director of Marketing at Streetsense, an experience-focused strategy and design collective that creates brands people love and places people love to be, he calls upon 20+ years of strategy and design work in political campaigns, issue advocacy and corporate branding to lead the creative and marketing teams.
== Background ==
Fiasco announced in his now-deleted Instagram post, "SURPRISE!!! Me & @royceda59 decided to do a podcast 2 gether like 2 real geniuses."Okon, Wongo (October 4, 2020). "Lupe Fiasco and Royce Da 5'9" Are Joining Forces for Their New Podcast, 'The Lupe & Royce Show'". Uproxx.
Over an Instagram livestream, Fiasco said that the podcast was discontinued because of creative differences. He explained, "I'm not doing that no more. But again, it's not something that's done out of ill will, this is something that's been kind of building for a little bit. And again, my heart wasn't 100% in the podcast anyway, with Royce, without Royce, by myself, on my own. So shoutout to everybody who tuned into the podcast, really appreciate it... But yeah man, that's probably the end of an era. And just kind of moving on to other things." He added that he mainly joined the podcast for his friend, Tom Frank.Blanchet, Brenton (July 24, 2021). "Lupe Fiasco Says Podcast with Royce da 5'9' Is Over: 'End of An Era". Complex.
Additionally, the co-hosts traded diss tracks to one another that heightened tensions, with Royce's "Silence of the Lambda" and Fiasco's response, "Steve Jobs: SLR 3 1/2."Brown, Preezy (July 22, 2021). "Lupe Fiasco and Royce 5'9" Trade Diss Tracks on Lyrical Battle". Vibe. Fiasco informed HotNewHipHop, "I think we just reached a state now where that's kind of like an untenable relationship."Abrams, Joe (July 23, 2021). "Lupe Fiasco & Royce Da 5'9" Podcast Is Officially Done". HotNewHipHop.
Royce reflected on The Breakfast Club a year later, "I think he's such an incredible lyricist and I think he's so different from me, but I think that through music we can find neutral things that we agree on, and we can also learn to agree to disagree on the things we don't agree on without having to try to change how the other feels." When asked if he regretted their argument, he replied, "Do I regret it? I don't know if 'regret' is the right word, but I'm not happy about saying that, 'cause I don't think he's a bitch. I don't think we should speak to each other that way, but I do understand why I said it, 'cause it was just a reaction. It was a point that I got pushed to, and I feel like I gave a lot of warning points. I gave a lot of lean into it, and that's me knowing myself. I don't feel good about it, I think I would regret it if he had apologized, then I definitely would apologize, and then it would go down as a regret, but as of right now, like the way that everything got kinda summed up, it is what it is, but I don't feel good about it."Marie, Erika (August 9, 2022). "Royce Da 5'9" "Doesn't Feel Good About" Tension With Lupe Fiasco". HotNewHipHop.
== Episodes ==
 	Title 	Original broadcast
0 	"Introducing the Lupe and Royce Show" 	October 8, 2020
Who thought it would be a good idea to give these two a show?! Introducing The Lupe & Royce Show: the first podcast from Lupe Fiasco (a rapper), Royce da 5'9" … also a rapper 😜and some white guy with two first names, Tom Frank. 	Who thought it would be a good idea to give these two a show?! Introducing The Lupe & Royce Show: the first podcast from Lupe Fiasco (a rapper), Royce da 5'9" … also a rapper 😜and some white guy with two first names, Tom Frank. 	Who thought it would be a good idea to give these two a show?! Introducing The Lupe & Royce Show: the first podcast from Lupe Fiasco (a rapper), Royce da 5'9" … also a rapper 😜and some white guy with two first names, Tom Frank.
1 	"Nino" 	October 8, 2020
Lupe gets a sword, and confesses to something he stole in Detroit. They discuss "Black Panther" & Royce's unusual approach to movie-watching. Royce recalls his faux pas the time he met Wesley Snipes & Leon Robinson. The conversation ends on a more serious note, reflecting on Jacob Blake and the state of policing in the U.S., with Lupe, Tom and Royce each offering a unique viewpoint. 	Lupe gets a sword, and confesses to something he stole in Detroit. They discuss "Black Panther" & Royce's unusual approach to movie-watching. Royce recalls his faux pas the time he met Wesley Snipes & Leon Robinson. The conversation ends on a more serious note, reflecting on Jacob Blake and the state of policing in the U.S., with Lupe, Tom and Royce each offering a unique viewpoint. 	Lupe gets a sword, and confesses to something he stole in Detroit. They discuss "Black Panther" & Royce's unusual approach to movie-watching. Royce recalls his faux pas the time he met Wesley Snipes & Leon Robinson. The conversation ends on a more serious note, reflecting on Jacob Blake and the state of policing in the U.S., with Lupe, Tom and Royce each offering a unique viewpoint.
2 	"Cruise" 	October 8, 2020
In episode two, the fellas debate who would be hip-hop's best candidate for U.S. President; Lupe challenges Royce and Tom to a fanciness contest; and Royce educates Lupe on the Boblo Boat and Detroit cruise culture. Mark your calendars for the "Live from a Cruise Somewhere" podcast special, downloadable on a phone near you in 2022! 	In episode two, the fellas debate who would be hip-hop's best candidate for U.S. President; Lupe challenges Royce and Tom to a fanciness contest; and Royce educates Lupe on the Boblo Boat and Detroit cruise culture. Mark your calendars for the "Live from a Cruise Somewhere" podcast special, downloadable on a phone near you in 2022! 	In episode two, the fellas debate who would be hip-hop's best candidate for U.S. President; Lupe challenges Royce and Tom to a fanciness contest; and Royce educates Lupe on the Boblo Boat and Detroit cruise culture. Mark your calendars for the "Live from a Cruise Somewhere" podcast special, downloadable on a phone near you in 2022!
3 	"Meat" 	October 8, 2020
In this episode, Lupe and Royce share their perspectives on drinking, explore why Royce never found his "signature drug," discuss a must-visit city, talk about cars, and tell a "man massage story" that may or may not be podcast-appropriate. Grab your O'Doul's and get ready to book your next basement haircut! 	In this episode, Lupe and Royce share their perspectives on drinking, explore why Royce never found his "signature drug," discuss a must-visit city, talk about cars, and tell a "man massage story" that may or may not be podcast-appropriate. Grab your O'Doul's and get ready to book your next basement haircut! 	In this episode, Lupe and Royce share their perspectives on drinking, explore why Royce never found his "signature drug," discuss a must-visit city, talk about cars, and tell a "man massage story" that may or may not be podcast-appropriate. Grab your O'Doul's and get ready to book your next basement haircut!
4 	"Music" 	October 8, 2020
Lupe & Royce school Tom with a little Music 101, educating him on the nuances between artists, musicians, lyricists, songwriters, and singers. Royce reveals who he considers to be the greatest hip-hop producer of all-time — and which up-and-comer may be next.
The fellas discuss why remakes create great hip-hop records, and discuss the role of the back office in the record business. Finally, they unpack the meaning of "relevancy," and the genres that began and influenced music in Chicago and Detroit. Is "Kick Push" a relevant record? Listen to learn Royce's hot take … and the origin story behind it and some of the dudes' other most popular songs. 	Lupe & Royce school Tom with a little Music 101, educating him on the nuances between artists, musicians, lyricists, songwriters, and singers. Royce reveals who he considers to be the greatest hip-hop producer of all-time — and which up-and-comer may be next.
The fellas discuss why remakes create great hip-hop records, and discuss the role of the back office in the record business. Finally, they unpack the meaning of "relevancy," and the genres that began and influenced music in Chicago and Detroit. Is "Kick Push" a relevant record? Listen to learn Royce's hot take … and the origin story behind it and some of the dudes' other most popular songs. 	Lupe & Royce school Tom with a little Music 101, educating him on the nuances between artists, musicians, lyricists, songwriters, and singers. Royce reveals who he considers to be the greatest hip-hop producer of all-time — and which up-and-comer may be next.
The fellas discuss why remakes create great hip-hop records, and discuss the role of the back office in the record business. Finally, they unpack the meaning of "relevancy," and the genres that began and influenced music in Chicago and Detroit. Is "Kick Push" a relevant record? Listen to learn Royce's hot take … and the origin story behind it and some of the dudes' other most popular songs.
5 	"Vote" 	October 15, 2020
As Lupe puts it: This episode may be offensive to a range of people. Lupe and Royce discuss who they're voting for in the upcoming election and what it means to be American. The fellas describe their experiences with COVID-19 testing, Lupe asks Tom to describe the taxonomy of white people, Royce explains what happened between him and Eminem stans, and they discuss the concept of "the sacred space" — and how social media has blurred the lines between public and private. The gentleman discuss their sophisticated relationships with golf, and not-so-sophisticated experience with brothels. Finally, Tom and Lupe congratulate Royce on the launch of the Ryan Montgomery Foundation (www.ryanmontgomeryfoundation.org), which empowers underprivileged communities through advocacy, education and personal enrichment. 	As Lupe puts it: This episode may be offensive to a range of people. Lupe and Royce discuss who they're voting for in the upcoming election and what it means to be American. The fellas describe their experiences with COVID-19 testing, Lupe asks Tom to describe the taxonomy of white people, Royce explains what happened between him and Eminem stans, and they discuss the concept of "the sacred space" — and how social media has blurred the lines between public and private. The gentleman discuss their sophisticated relationships with golf, and not-so-sophisticated experience with brothels. Finally, Tom and Lupe congratulate Royce on the launch of the Ryan Montgomery Foundation (www.ryanmontgomeryfoundation.org), which empowers underprivileged communities through advocacy, education and personal enrichment. 	As Lupe puts it: This episode may be offensive to a range of people. Lupe and Royce discuss who they're voting for in the upcoming election and what it means to be American. The fellas describe their experiences with COVID-19 testing, Lupe asks Tom to describe the taxonomy of white people, Royce explains what happened between him and Eminem stans, and they discuss the concept of "the sacred space" — and how social media has blurred the lines between public and private. The gentleman discuss their sophisticated relationships with golf, and not-so-sophisticated experience with brothels. Finally, Tom and Lupe congratulate Royce on the launch of the Ryan Montgomery Foundation (www.ryanmontgomeryfoundation.org), which empowers underprivileged communities through advocacy, education and personal enrichment.
6 	"Cube" 	October 22, 2020
Royce tells us more about the launch of the Ryan Montgomery Foundation, considers some of the stigmas associated with therapy, and reveals why he believes so strongly in its power that he's on a mission to make it more accessible. Lupe addresses his "Vote Joe Biden" Instagram post this week, and along with Royce and Tom welcomes the show's first guest — LA Times columnist Erika D. Smith — to discuss both Ice Cube and Diddy's forays into politics with the "Contract with Black America" and "Our Black Party," respectively. The fellas discuss Killer Mike's new digital bank, and consider opening an account for The Lupe & Royce show's dirty, freaky money. Lupe & Royce attempt to answer a listener question about which songs or artists have had a profound impact on their lives, and Lupe reveals his latest obsession. Is a Lupe & Royce road trip on the horizon? Are massausages the next big trend? Listen to find out! 	Royce tells us more about the launch of the Ryan Montgomery Foundation, considers some of the stigmas associated with therapy, and reveals why he believes so strongly in its power that he's on a mission to make it more accessible. Lupe addresses his "Vote Joe Biden" Instagram post this week, and along with Royce and Tom welcomes the show's first guest — LA Times columnist Erika D. Smith — to discuss both Ice Cube and Diddy's forays into politics with the "Contract with Black America" and "Our Black Party," respectively. The fellas discuss Killer Mike's new digital bank, and consider opening an account for The Lupe & Royce show's dirty, freaky money. Lupe & Royce attempt to answer a listener question about which songs or artists have had a profound impact on their lives, and Lupe reveals his latest obsession. Is a Lupe & Royce road trip on the horizon? Are massausages the next big trend? Listen to find out! 	Royce tells us more about the launch of the Ryan Montgomery Foundation, considers some of the stigmas associated with therapy, and reveals why he believes so strongly in its power that he's on a mission to make it more accessible. Lupe addresses his "Vote Joe Biden" Instagram post this week, and along with Royce and Tom welcomes the show's first guest — LA Times columnist Erika D. Smith — to discuss both Ice Cube and Diddy's forays into politics with the "Contract with Black America" and "Our Black Party," respectively. The fellas discuss Killer Mike's new digital bank, and consider opening an account for The Lupe & Royce show's dirty, freaky money. Lupe & Royce attempt to answer a listener question about which songs or artists have had a profound impact on their lives, and Lupe reveals his latest obsession. Is a Lupe & Royce road trip on the horizon? Are massausages the next big trend? Listen to find out!
7 	"Fire" 	October 30, 2020
Lupe gives an update about the wildfires near his home, eventually leading to a discussion about unusual conspiracy theories. Tom gives kudos to Lupe for his shoutout from LL Cool J, and the fellas reflect on the moments that still make them feel like kids when it comes to artists they admire. The dudes give an update about what COVID life looks like these days, debate whether it's safe to fly, and try to imagine vaccine roll-out. Finally, Lupe reveals the most interesting Halloween costume he never wore. Listen to the show while making some spaghetti or wandering around your substantial property. P.S.: Subaru — call us! 	Lupe gives an update about the wildfires near his home, eventually leading to a discussion about unusual conspiracy theories. Tom gives kudos to Lupe for his shoutout from LL Cool J, and the fellas reflect on the moments that still make them feel like kids when it comes to artists they admire. The dudes give an update about what COVID life looks like these days, debate whether it's safe to fly, and try to imagine vaccine roll-out. Finally, Lupe reveals the most interesting Halloween costume he never wore. Listen to the show while making some spaghetti or wandering around your substantial property. P.S.: Subaru — call us! 	Lupe gives an update about the wildfires near his home, eventually leading to a discussion about unusual conspiracy theories. Tom gives kudos to Lupe for his shoutout from LL Cool J, and the fellas reflect on the moments that still make them feel like kids when it comes to artists they admire. The dudes give an update about what COVID life looks like these days, debate whether it's safe to fly, and try to imagine vaccine roll-out. Finally, Lupe reveals the most interesting Halloween costume he never wore. Listen to the show while making some spaghetti or wandering around your substantial property. P.S.: Subaru — call us!
8 	"Live" 	November 5, 2020
In our first live recording on YouTube, Royce talks about surprising voters at the polls in the Detroit area. The fellas debate American media and the challenges with cable news, prompting Lupe to talk about his desire to move abroad — and Tom to ask about the role of the "American Dream" in contributing to some of the successes he's achieved today. Lupe and Royce talk about raising children, and recall getting disciplined when they were kids. They also revisit the powers of The Flash, leading Lupe to discuss his titillating childhood comic book collection. Lupe waxes poetic about taking showers, and ponders the zen of washing dishes. The three tell their experiences being pulled over by police, and investigate Tom's wholesomeness. Finally, Royce reveals some of the odder jobs he had in his youth — and makes it clear that nobody puts Royce in a corner with his Kool-Aid. Is show merch on the horizon? Does Tom have a new nickname? Scrub-a-dub-dub, listen to this one in the tub! 	In our first live recording on YouTube, Royce talks about surprising voters at the polls in the Detroit area. The fellas debate American media and the challenges with cable news, prompting Lupe to talk about his desire to move abroad — and Tom to ask about the role of the "American Dream" in contributing to some of the successes he's achieved today. Lupe and Royce talk about raising children, and recall getting disciplined when they were kids. They also revisit the powers of The Flash, leading Lupe to discuss his titillating childhood comic book collection. Lupe waxes poetic about taking showers, and ponders the zen of washing dishes. The three tell their experiences being pulled over by police, and investigate Tom's wholesomeness. Finally, Royce reveals some of the odder jobs he had in his youth — and makes it clear that nobody puts Royce in a corner with his Kool-Aid. Is show merch on the horizon? Does Tom have a new nickname? Scrub-a-dub-dub, listen to this one in the tub! 	In our first live recording on YouTube, Royce talks about surprising voters at the polls in the Detroit area. The fellas debate American media and the challenges with cable news, prompting Lupe to talk about his desire to move abroad — and Tom to ask about the role of the "American Dream" in contributing to some of the successes he's achieved today. Lupe and Royce talk about raising children, and recall getting disciplined when they were kids. They also revisit the powers of The Flash, leading Lupe to discuss his titillating childhood comic book collection. Lupe waxes poetic about taking showers, and ponders the zen of washing dishes. The three tell their experiences being pulled over by police, and investigate Tom's wholesomeness. Finally, Royce reveals some of the odder jobs he had in his youth — and makes it clear that nobody puts Royce in a corner with his Kool-Aid. Is show merch on the horizon? Does Tom have a new nickname? Scrub-a-dub-dub, listen to this one in the tub!
9 	"Dream" 	November 12, 2020
Señior Lupe describes a crazy dream he had recently, and makes a prank call that Royce does not find amusing. Lupe suffers a back injury, and he and Royce discuss past forays in fashion. The fellas talk about election fraud claims and the pageantry of politics, and William Howell joins as the show's second guest. William is the Sydney Stein Professor in American Politics at the University of Chicago Harris School of Public Policy, a professor in the Department of Political Science and the College, and the director of the Center for Effective Government. Shoutout to Claude "Scorpion" Jennings — our audio engineer extraordinaire — it's his birth-week! 	Señior Lupe describes a crazy dream he had recently, and makes a prank call that Royce does not find amusing. Lupe suffers a back injury, and he and Royce discuss past forays in fashion. The fellas talk about election fraud claims and the pageantry of politics, and William Howell joins as the show's second guest. William is the Sydney Stein Professor in American Politics at the University of Chicago Harris School of Public Policy, a professor in the Department of Political Science and the College, and the director of the Center for Effective Government. Shoutout to Claude "Scorpion" Jennings — our audio engineer extraordinaire — it's his birth-week! 	Señior Lupe describes a crazy dream he had recently, and makes a prank call that Royce does not find amusing. Lupe suffers a back injury, and he and Royce discuss past forays in fashion. The fellas talk about election fraud claims and the pageantry of politics, and William Howell joins as the show's second guest. William is the Sydney Stein Professor in American Politics at the University of Chicago Harris School of Public Policy, a professor in the Department of Political Science and the College, and the director of the Center for Effective Government. Shoutout to Claude "Scorpion" Jennings — our audio engineer extraordinaire — it's his birth-week!
10 	"Menagerie" 	November 20, 2020
Comedian and actor Tony Baker joins the show to share his take on violence in entertainment, fatherhood, the coronavirus vaccine, comedy during COVID, coach v. first class, and — yes — cruises. Royce gives an update on Heaven Studios. Tom plays show-and-tell with an award he won filming an AIDS documentary in Nigeria. Lupe recalls the day he won a Grammy but couldn't accept the award in person, and he and Royce reminisce on past Grammy experiences and collaborations, and debate the decoupling of violence and hip-hop. Finally, Tony interviews Lupe and Royce about music and their careers, and Lupe gives a mini tour of his "menagerie of collectibles." 	Comedian and actor Tony Baker joins the show to share his take on violence in entertainment, fatherhood, the coronavirus vaccine, comedy during COVID, coach v. first class, and — yes — cruises. Royce gives an update on Heaven Studios. Tom plays show-and-tell with an award he won filming an AIDS documentary in Nigeria. Lupe recalls the day he won a Grammy but couldn't accept the award in person, and he and Royce reminisce on past Grammy experiences and collaborations, and debate the decoupling of violence and hip-hop. Finally, Tony interviews Lupe and Royce about music and their careers, and Lupe gives a mini tour of his "menagerie of collectibles." 	Comedian and actor Tony Baker joins the show to share his take on violence in entertainment, fatherhood, the coronavirus vaccine, comedy during COVID, coach v. first class, and — yes — cruises. Royce gives an update on Heaven Studios. Tom plays show-and-tell with an award he won filming an AIDS documentary in Nigeria. Lupe recalls the day he won a Grammy but couldn't accept the award in person, and he and Royce reminisce on past Grammy experiences and collaborations, and debate the decoupling of violence and hip-hop. Finally, Tony interviews Lupe and Royce about music and their careers, and Lupe gives a mini tour of his "menagerie of collectibles."
11 	"Sandwiches" 	November 26, 2020
Royce is out sick, but Tom & Lupe congratulate him for his "Best Rap Album" Grammy nomination, and Lupe shares some game theory on how Grammy nominations work, calling upon his experience as a 14-time nominee and governor of a board. Lupe & Tom discuss their Thanksgiving traditions and reflect on what they are thankful for this year. The fellas welcome musician, producer, and songwriter Kaelin Ellis to the show, and Lupe talks to the rising star on his path from sandwich maker to multi-platinum music producer, starting with playing drums in church with his grandparents to working with one of K-pop's biggest supergroups and collaborating on the HOUSE EP with Lupe himself. The two discuss hip-hop's roots in the church, the relationship between music and video games, J Dilla's influence on Kaelin's career, and how to make money with music. Lupe breaks down the art of rap from an anthropological & sociological standpoint, and Tom shares a special merch discount — and how to win a guest spot on an upcoming episode. Do you call it "filling," "stuffing," or "dressing?" Settle the score on social using #lupeandroyce!	Royce is out sick, but Tom & Lupe congratulate him for his "Best Rap Album" Grammy nomination, and Lupe shares some game theory on how Grammy nominations work, calling upon his experience as a 14-time nominee and governor of a board. Lupe & Tom discuss their Thanksgiving traditions and reflect on what they are thankful for this year. The fellas welcome musician, producer, and songwriter Kaelin Ellis to the show, and Lupe talks to the rising star on his path from sandwich maker to multi-platinum music producer, starting with playing drums in church with his grandparents to working with one of K-pop's biggest supergroups and collaborating on the HOUSE EP with Lupe himself. The two discuss hip-hop's roots in the church, the relationship between music and video games, J Dilla's influence on Kaelin's career, and how to make money with music. Lupe breaks down the art of rap from an anthropological & sociological standpoint, and Tom shares a special merch discount — and how to win a guest spot on an upcoming episode. Do you call it "filling," "stuffing," or "dressing?" Settle the score on social using #lupeandroyce!	Royce is out sick, but Tom & Lupe congratulate him for his "Best Rap Album" Grammy nomination, and Lupe shares some game theory on how Grammy nominations work, calling upon his experience as a 14-time nominee and governor of a board. Lupe & Tom discuss their Thanksgiving traditions and reflect on what they are thankful for this year. The fellas welcome musician, producer, and songwriter Kaelin Ellis to the show, and Lupe talks to the rising star on his path from sandwich maker to multi-platinum music producer, starting with playing drums in church with his grandparents to working with one of K-pop's biggest supergroups and collaborating on the HOUSE EP with Lupe himself. The two discuss hip-hop's roots in the church, the relationship between music and video games, J Dilla's influence on Kaelin's career, and how to make money with music. Lupe breaks down the art of rap from an anthropological & sociological standpoint, and Tom shares a special merch discount — and how to win a guest spot on an upcoming episode. Do you call it "filling," "stuffing," or "dressing?" Settle the score on social using #lupeandroyce!
12 	"Nominee" 	December 3, 2020
Royce recounts how he found out about his recent GRAMMY nomination — and the ups and downs of the last week. Lupe shares some recent conversations he's had with public health officials about the rollout of the COVID vaccine, and Royce discusses his perspective based on recent personal experience. The dudes talk about the upcoming Christmas Holiday Extravaganza episode, which will feature three lucky listeners as guests. Finally, the fellas talk about Jake Paul's knockout of Nate Robinson, and Lupe explains his goals for "No Sugar December." 	Royce recounts how he found out about his recent GRAMMY nomination — and the ups and downs of the last week. Lupe shares some recent conversations he's had with public health officials about the rollout of the COVID vaccine, and Royce discusses his perspective based on recent personal experience. The dudes talk about the upcoming Christmas Holiday Extravaganza episode, which will feature three lucky listeners as guests. Finally, the fellas talk about Jake Paul's knockout of Nate Robinson, and Lupe explains his goals for "No Sugar December." 	Royce recounts how he found out about his recent GRAMMY nomination — and the ups and downs of the last week. Lupe shares some recent conversations he's had with public health officials about the rollout of the COVID vaccine, and Royce discusses his perspective based on recent personal experience. The dudes talk about the upcoming Christmas Holiday Extravaganza episode, which will feature three lucky listeners as guests. Finally, the fellas talk about Jake Paul's knockout of Nate Robinson, and Lupe explains his goals for "No Sugar December."
13 	"Toothbrush" 	December 10, 2020
Lupe shares an update on his No Sugar December and the fellas discuss their exercise routines. Lupe breaks down the latest info on the Coronavirus vaccines — and shares a tip that'll have you replacing your toothbrush ASAP. The dudes discuss dog etiquette with neighbors, Royce explains sea moss, they talk about their experiences on the Clubhouse app, and the show closes with a discussion about role models. 	Lupe shares an update on his No Sugar December and the fellas discuss their exercise routines. Lupe breaks down the latest info on the Coronavirus vaccines — and shares a tip that'll have you replacing your toothbrush ASAP. The dudes discuss dog etiquette with neighbors, Royce explains sea moss, they talk about their experiences on the Clubhouse app, and the show closes with a discussion about role models. 	Lupe shares an update on his No Sugar December and the fellas discuss their exercise routines. Lupe breaks down the latest info on the Coronavirus vaccines — and shares a tip that'll have you replacing your toothbrush ASAP. The dudes discuss dog etiquette with neighbors, Royce explains sea moss, they talk about their experiences on the Clubhouse app, and the show closes with a discussion about role models.
14 	"Kingpin" 	December 17, 2020
The episode opens with the men unpacking the origins of the moonwalk. Tom asks Lupe & Royce to collaborate on a new jingle for the show intro. Lupe shares a fun fact about Russia, prompting Tom to share some stories about his work in Georgia (the country, not the state) and Nigeria. Lupe talks about an unusual new hobby and the dudes discuss the role of trauma in creating social currency. The show wraps with a heated debate of the best dressed holidays — and don't miss the NUMEROUS spontaneous musical interludes as Lupe gets fired up about past indiscretions … and his kiss from a seal. 	The episode opens with the men unpacking the origins of the moonwalk. Tom asks Lupe & Royce to collaborate on a new jingle for the show intro. Lupe shares a fun fact about Russia, prompting Tom to share some stories about his work in Georgia (the country, not the state) and Nigeria. Lupe talks about an unusual new hobby and the dudes discuss the role of trauma in creating social currency. The show wraps with a heated debate of the best dressed holidays — and don't miss the NUMEROUS spontaneous musical interludes as Lupe gets fired up about past indiscretions … and his kiss from a seal. 	The episode opens with the men unpacking the origins of the moonwalk. Tom asks Lupe & Royce to collaborate on a new jingle for the show intro. Lupe shares a fun fact about Russia, prompting Tom to share some stories about his work in Georgia (the country, not the state) and Nigeria. Lupe talks about an unusual new hobby and the dudes discuss the role of trauma in creating social currency. The show wraps with a heated debate of the best dressed holidays — and don't miss the NUMEROUS spontaneous musical interludes as Lupe gets fired up about past indiscretions … and his kiss from a seal.
15 	"Rewind" 	December 24, 2020
It's holiday week at The Lupe & Roye Show & the fellas reflect on their first fourteen episodes and replay some of their favorite moments from the show so far. 	It's holiday week at The Lupe & Roye Show & the fellas reflect on their first fourteen episodes and replay some of their favorite moments from the show so far. 	It's holiday week at The Lupe & Roye Show & the fellas reflect on their first fourteen episodes and replay some of their favorite moments from the show so far.
16 	"Boom" 	December 31, 2020
Lupe explains boom bap music and DJ Premier joins the show to share his take. Malik and Jaysean, two of our merch contest winners, join the show to ask Lupe & Royce some burning questions. Tom shares a photograph from our third contest winner, Chris, that catches Royce in a contradiction. Tom calls out Lupe for a previously undisclosed fun fact sent in by a fan, and the fellas discuss what they're looking forward to in 2021 … including Lu's suggestion of hosting a TV Show Club on the pod. 	Lupe explains boom bap music and DJ Premier joins the show to share his take. Malik and Jaysean, two of our merch contest winners, join the show to ask Lupe & Royce some burning questions. Tom shares a photograph from our third contest winner, Chris, that catches Royce in a contradiction. Tom calls out Lupe for a previously undisclosed fun fact sent in by a fan, and the fellas discuss what they're looking forward to in 2021 … including Lu's suggestion of hosting a TV Show Club on the pod. 	Lupe explains boom bap music and DJ Premier joins the show to share his take. Malik and Jaysean, two of our merch contest winners, join the show to ask Lupe & Royce some burning questions. Tom shares a photograph from our third contest winner, Chris, that catches Royce in a contradiction. Tom calls out Lupe for a previously undisclosed fun fact sent in by a fan, and the fellas discuss what they're looking forward to in 2021 … including Lu's suggestion of hosting a TV Show Club on the pod.
17 	"Honor" 	January 7, 2021
The fellas take a moment to honor the mystique of the late MF DOOM — is he the Elvis of hip-hop? Our third t-shirt contest winner, back from his Photoshopping convention, joins the show to defend himself. Royce reflects on the GRAMMY postponement, and Tom and Lu attempt to begin the "Your Honor" TV Club segment. The crew shouts out to the Golden State Warriors, including Steph Curry's 62 points. Lu shares some fun finance facts and discusses cryptocurrency, gives an update on his burgeoning incense business, and unpacks how microwaves work. Finally: Is there pus in cow milk? Unrelated: We're now accepting applications for sponsorship by any almond milk brand. 	The fellas take a moment to honor the mystique of the late MF DOOM — is he the Elvis of hip-hop? Our third t-shirt contest winner, back from his Photoshopping convention, joins the show to defend himself. Royce reflects on the GRAMMY postponement, and Tom and Lu attempt to begin the "Your Honor" TV Club segment. The crew shouts out to the Golden State Warriors, including Steph Curry's 62 points. Lu shares some fun finance facts and discusses cryptocurrency, gives an update on his burgeoning incense business, and unpacks how microwaves work. Finally: Is there pus in cow milk? Unrelated: We're now accepting applications for sponsorship by any almond milk brand. 	The fellas take a moment to honor the mystique of the late MF DOOM — is he the Elvis of hip-hop? Our third t-shirt contest winner, back from his Photoshopping convention, joins the show to defend himself. Royce reflects on the GRAMMY postponement, and Tom and Lu attempt to begin the "Your Honor" TV Club segment. The crew shouts out to the Golden State Warriors, including Steph Curry's 62 points. Lu shares some fun finance facts and discusses cryptocurrency, gives an update on his burgeoning incense business, and unpacks how microwaves work. Finally: Is there pus in cow milk? Unrelated: We're now accepting applications for sponsorship by any almond milk brand.
18 	"Chaos" 	January 14, 2021
The guys discuss the insurrection at the U.S. Capitol, and wonder whether chaos has become synonymous with freedom and, by extension, purpose. Lupe takes a moment to address listeners about the tone and goals of the show. On a less serious note, Lupe professes his obsession with "everything" bagels and the men debate the best ways to make popcorn. Tom shares some feedback from a listener, and starts a leaderboard to track (mostly Lupe's) use of curse words. Royce faces heat for his contributions to TV Club, and the fellas debate whether hip-hop money is as dirty as Trump money. Anyone giving out vaccines? Contact Lupe (and Tom)! 	The guys discuss the insurrection at the U.S. Capitol, and wonder whether chaos has become synonymous with freedom and, by extension, purpose. Lupe takes a moment to address listeners about the tone and goals of the show. On a less serious note, Lupe professes his obsession with "everything" bagels and the men debate the best ways to make popcorn. Tom shares some feedback from a listener, and starts a leaderboard to track (mostly Lupe's) use of curse words. Royce faces heat for his contributions to TV Club, and the fellas debate whether hip-hop money is as dirty as Trump money. Anyone giving out vaccines? Contact Lupe (and Tom)! 	The guys discuss the insurrection at the U.S. Capitol, and wonder whether chaos has become synonymous with freedom and, by extension, purpose. Lupe takes a moment to address listeners about the tone and goals of the show. On a less serious note, Lupe professes his obsession with "everything" bagels and the men debate the best ways to make popcorn. Tom shares some feedback from a listener, and starts a leaderboard to track (mostly Lupe's) use of curse words. Royce faces heat for his contributions to TV Club, and the fellas debate whether hip-hop money is as dirty as Trump money. Anyone giving out vaccines? Contact Lupe (and Tom)!
19 	"Aquamistic" 	January 21, 2021
Lupe shouts-out Liquid Death, alludes to a forthcoming restock of his merch, and reveals his skull fixation. Royce sheds light on the hip-hop police and racial profiling while debating what racism means with Tom. Michael Ford joins the show to talk about Hip Hop Architecture Camp, a new collaboration with Herman Miller and the role rap can play in designing communities. 	Lupe shouts-out Liquid Death, alludes to a forthcoming restock of his merch, and reveals his skull fixation. Royce sheds light on the hip-hop police and racial profiling while debating what racism means with Tom. Michael Ford joins the show to talk about Hip Hop Architecture Camp, a new collaboration with Herman Miller and the role rap can play in designing communities. 	Lupe shouts-out Liquid Death, alludes to a forthcoming restock of his merch, and reveals his skull fixation. Royce sheds light on the hip-hop police and racial profiling while debating what racism means with Tom. Michael Ford joins the show to talk about Hip Hop Architecture Camp, a new collaboration with Herman Miller and the role rap can play in designing communities.
20 	"Dads" 	January 28, 2021
Royce asks Lupe about anime and the guys get nostalgic about the TV, movies, and music they grew up with — including The Last Dragon — and Lupe asks Royce to rank Sho' Nuff in the pantheon of black villains. Lupe and Royce recall some of the the unusual things they learned from their dads. Royce & Tom reminisce about serving as safety patrolmen. Lupe reveals the career he would have pursued if not music, and recalls his favorite meet-and-greet. Any other Gobots or Tranzor Z fans out there? 	Royce asks Lupe about anime and the guys get nostalgic about the TV, movies, and music they grew up with — including The Last Dragon — and Lupe asks Royce to rank Sho' Nuff in the pantheon of black villains. Lupe and Royce recall some of the the unusual things they learned from their dads. Royce & Tom reminisce about serving as safety patrolmen. Lupe reveals the career he would have pursued if not music, and recalls his favorite meet-and-greet. Any other Gobots or Tranzor Z fans out there? 	Royce asks Lupe about anime and the guys get nostalgic about the TV, movies, and music they grew up with — including The Last Dragon — and Lupe asks Royce to rank Sho' Nuff in the pantheon of black villains. Lupe and Royce recall some of the the unusual things they learned from their dads. Royce & Tom reminisce about serving as safety patrolmen. Lupe reveals the career he would have pursued if not music, and recalls his favorite meet-and-greet. Any other Gobots or Tranzor Z fans out there?
21 	"Manga" 	February 4, 2021
Royce gives up an update on Heaven Studios. Tim Hoffman, better known as Forneverworld on YouTube, joins the show to talk anime and manga, his forthcoming new collaboration with Noir Caesar, and the parallels between anime/manga on hip-hop. Tom reveals why he's looking forward to the big game. Royce talks about why he thinks the NFL is racist. Lupe reflects on a recent freestyle named for Kara Walker. 	Royce gives up an update on Heaven Studios. Tim Hoffman, better known as Forneverworld on YouTube, joins the show to talk anime and manga, his forthcoming new collaboration with Noir Caesar, and the parallels between anime/manga on hip-hop. Tom reveals why he's looking forward to the big game. Royce talks about why he thinks the NFL is racist. Lupe reflects on a recent freestyle named for Kara Walker. 	Royce gives up an update on Heaven Studios. Tim Hoffman, better known as Forneverworld on YouTube, joins the show to talk anime and manga, his forthcoming new collaboration with Noir Caesar, and the parallels between anime/manga on hip-hop. Tom reveals why he's looking forward to the big game. Royce talks about why he thinks the NFL is racist. Lupe reflects on a recent freestyle named for Kara Walker.
22 	"Poetry" 	February 12, 2021
The men discuss their favorite pizza delivery joints and debate which city is America's best for ice cream. Tom asks Lupe & Royce for their thoughts on the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame 2021 nominations. Lupe recaps his experience talking to Taimak from The Last Dragon. Author and poet Jovahna Marie, better known by her pen name J. M. Pozon, joins the show to discuss her creative process, the parallels between poetry and hip-hop, and to perform one of her more political works, "Castaways." Tom shares what he's learned about the origins of Valentine's Day, and reveals who won the last shirt the first edition of official Lupe & Royce show merch. The dudes discuss strategies for strengthening the immune system and don't forget that we have a birthday coming on next week's show. 	The men discuss their favorite pizza delivery joints and debate which city is America's best for ice cream. Tom asks Lupe & Royce for their thoughts on the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame 2021 nominations. Lupe recaps his experience talking to Taimak from The Last Dragon. Author and poet Jovahna Marie, better known by her pen name J. M. Pozon, joins the show to discuss her creative process, the parallels between poetry and hip-hop, and to perform one of her more political works, "Castaways." Tom shares what he's learned about the origins of Valentine's Day, and reveals who won the last shirt the first edition of official Lupe & Royce show merch. The dudes discuss strategies for strengthening the immune system and don't forget that we have a birthday coming on next week's show. 	The men discuss their favorite pizza delivery joints and debate which city is America's best for ice cream. Tom asks Lupe & Royce for their thoughts on the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame 2021 nominations. Lupe recaps his experience talking to Taimak from The Last Dragon. Author and poet Jovahna Marie, better known by her pen name J. M. Pozon, joins the show to discuss her creative process, the parallels between poetry and hip-hop, and to perform one of her more political works, "Castaways." Tom shares what he's learned about the origins of Valentine's Day, and reveals who won the last shirt the first edition of official Lupe & Royce show merch. The dudes discuss strategies for strengthening the immune system and don't forget that we have a birthday coming on next week's show.
23 	"Birthday" 	Feburary 18, 2021
It's Lupe's 39th birthday extravaganza episode! Royce shares an update about his upcoming live eConcert, Tom plays a song about the show written by Jayvin the rapper, and then they welcome a lineup of guests from various parts of Lupe's life: His podcast life (former podcast guests Tony Baker and Kaelin Ellis), his music life (fellow Chicago rapper Vic Mensa), and his childhood (his sister Ayesha, his fifth grade teacher Jerolyn Whitehead, and the grand finale: his mom!). Lupe recalls some of his favorite birthday traditions, Ayesha talks about her work with West Side United, and mom and Ms. Whitehead share some stories about young Lu. 	It's Lupe's 39th birthday extravaganza episode! Royce shares an update about his upcoming live eConcert, Tom plays a song about the show written by Jayvin the rapper, and then they welcome a lineup of guests from various parts of Lupe's life: His podcast life (former podcast guests Tony Baker and Kaelin Ellis), his music life (fellow Chicago rapper Vic Mensa), and his childhood (his sister Ayesha, his fifth grade teacher Jerolyn Whitehead, and the grand finale: his mom!). Lupe recalls some of his favorite birthday traditions, Ayesha talks about her work with West Side United, and mom and Ms. Whitehead share some stories about young Lu. 	It's Lupe's 39th birthday extravaganza episode! Royce shares an update about his upcoming live eConcert, Tom plays a song about the show written by Jayvin the rapper, and then they welcome a lineup of guests from various parts of Lupe's life: His podcast life (former podcast guests Tony Baker and Kaelin Ellis), his music life (fellow Chicago rapper Vic Mensa), and his childhood (his sister Ayesha, his fifth grade teacher Jerolyn Whitehead, and the grand finale: his mom!). Lupe recalls some of his favorite birthday traditions, Ayesha talks about her work with West Side United, and mom and Ms. Whitehead share some stories about young Lu.
24 	"Guns" 	February 25, 2021
The men discuss how they protect their vocal cords as performers, talk about the possibility of a battle between listener-written music, and issue a sarcasm warning. Maj Toure joins the show to talk about #BlackGunsMatter — a movement advocating for second amendment education and information for urban communities — and Lupe and Royce share their positions on de-escalation and gun ownership. 	The men discuss how they protect their vocal cords as performers, talk about the possibility of a battle between listener-written music, and issue a sarcasm warning. Maj Toure joins the show to talk about #BlackGunsMatter — a movement advocating for second amendment education and information for urban communities — and Lupe and Royce share their positions on de-escalation and gun ownership. 	The men discuss how they protect their vocal cords as performers, talk about the possibility of a battle between listener-written music, and issue a sarcasm warning. Maj Toure joins the show to talk about #BlackGunsMatter — a movement advocating for second amendment education and information for urban communities — and Lupe and Royce share their positions on de-escalation and gun ownership.
25 	"Nudge" 	March 4, 2021
Tom gives an update on his underground t-shirt business. Lupe helps Royce prepare for a possible GRAMMY acceptance speech, shares some of his favorite "decline stories," and checks in with the fellas on the 2021 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame nominees. The men discuss the next TV Club assignment, and get nostalgic about BET: Uncut. Tom attempts to play some listener voicemails, leading the dudes to discuss the supernatural before Lupe and Royce debate the existence of the perfect verse. 	Tom gives an update on his underground t-shirt business. Lupe helps Royce prepare for a possible GRAMMY acceptance speech, shares some of his favorite "decline stories," and checks in with the fellas on the 2021 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame nominees. The men discuss the next TV Club assignment, and get nostalgic about BET: Uncut. Tom attempts to play some listener voicemails, leading the dudes to discuss the supernatural before Lupe and Royce debate the existence of the perfect verse. 	Tom gives an update on his underground t-shirt business. Lupe helps Royce prepare for a possible GRAMMY acceptance speech, shares some of his favorite "decline stories," and checks in with the fellas on the 2021 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame nominees. The men discuss the next TV Club assignment, and get nostalgic about BET: Uncut. Tom attempts to play some listener voicemails, leading the dudes to discuss the supernatural before Lupe and Royce debate the existence of the perfect verse.
26 	"Underdog" 	March 11, 2021
Tom attempts to have a meaningful discussion about the Cecil Hotel documentary, and Royce tells the fellas about his Grammy-day plans. Comedian Tony Baker joins the show to interview Royce in honor of his nomination for Best Rap Album: Royce unpacks the differences between being an underdog and an underachiever, the importance of making a commitment to the universe, and the experience of being known alongside Eminem. He also describes what it's like to produce his own album, and talks about his favorite producers. Lupe talks about his approach to features, shares a tender sentiment with Royce, and reveals the artist who inspired him to trash an entire album. Finally, Tony takes us on a walk down memory lane to revisit Grammy lineups past. 	Tom attempts to have a meaningful discussion about the Cecil Hotel documentary, and Royce tells the fellas about his Grammy-day plans. Comedian Tony Baker joins the show to interview Royce in honor of his nomination for Best Rap Album: Royce unpacks the differences between being an underdog and an underachiever, the importance of making a commitment to the universe, and the experience of being known alongside Eminem. He also describes what it's like to produce his own album, and talks about his favorite producers. Lupe talks about his approach to features, shares a tender sentiment with Royce, and reveals the artist who inspired him to trash an entire album. Finally, Tony takes us on a walk down memory lane to revisit Grammy lineups past. 	Tom attempts to have a meaningful discussion about the Cecil Hotel documentary, and Royce tells the fellas about his Grammy-day plans. Comedian Tony Baker joins the show to interview Royce in honor of his nomination for Best Rap Album: Royce unpacks the differences between being an underdog and an underachiever, the importance of making a commitment to the universe, and the experience of being known alongside Eminem. He also describes what it's like to produce his own album, and talks about his favorite producers. Lupe talks about his approach to features, shares a tender sentiment with Royce, and reveals the artist who inspired him to trash an entire album. Finally, Tony takes us on a walk down memory lane to revisit Grammy lineups past.
27 	"NFT" 	March 18, 2021
Writer and editor Josie Thaddeus-Johns (https://josietj.com/ ) joins to the show to discuss nonfungible tokens — or NFTs — and her recent article on the subject in The New York Times. Originally from London and currently living in Cambridge, Massachusetts, Josie writes about art, culture and technology, including a forthcoming book about the relationship between reality, technology, and art. Also in the episode: Royce recaps his experience of the Grammys, and Tom faces heat for his knockoff Lupe merch (as seen on Royce during his virtual eConcert). Lupe gives an update on a merch restock, the fellas reminisce about the life of Marvin Hagler, and take a moment of silence to honor everyone impacted by the first year of the pandemic. 	Writer and editor Josie Thaddeus-Johns (https://josietj.com/ ) joins to the show to discuss nonfungible tokens — or NFTs — and her recent article on the subject in The New York Times. Originally from London and currently living in Cambridge, Massachusetts, Josie writes about art, culture and technology, including a forthcoming book about the relationship between reality, technology, and art. Also in the episode: Royce recaps his experience of the Grammys, and Tom faces heat for his knockoff Lupe merch (as seen on Royce during his virtual eConcert). Lupe gives an update on a merch restock, the fellas reminisce about the life of Marvin Hagler, and take a moment of silence to honor everyone impacted by the first year of the pandemic. 	Writer and editor Josie Thaddeus-Johns (https://josietj.com/ ) joins to the show to discuss nonfungible tokens — or NFTs — and her recent article on the subject in The New York Times. Originally from London and currently living in Cambridge, Massachusetts, Josie writes about art, culture and technology, including a forthcoming book about the relationship between reality, technology, and art. Also in the episode: Royce recaps his experience of the Grammys, and Tom faces heat for his knockoff Lupe merch (as seen on Royce during his virtual eConcert). Lupe gives an update on a merch restock, the fellas reminisce about the life of Marvin Hagler, and take a moment of silence to honor everyone impacted by the first year of the pandemic.
28 	"Action" 	March 25, 2021
The men address the most recent mass shooting in America and debate the legislative, economic, cultural and mental health actions that need to be part of the change. Tom and Lupe compare superhero action figures, and Tom introduces a new segment of rapid fire listener questions. Royce and Lupe share some dark-ass stories from their youth, and Lupe gives us a taste of his country music fandom and another spectacular item from his menagerie of collectables. 	The men address the most recent mass shooting in America and debate the legislative, economic, cultural and mental health actions that need to be part of the change. Tom and Lupe compare superhero action figures, and Tom introduces a new segment of rapid fire listener questions. Royce and Lupe share some dark-ass stories from their youth, and Lupe gives us a taste of his country music fandom and another spectacular item from his menagerie of collectables. 	The men address the most recent mass shooting in America and debate the legislative, economic, cultural and mental health actions that need to be part of the change. Tom and Lupe compare superhero action figures, and Tom introduces a new segment of rapid fire listener questions. Royce and Lupe share some dark-ass stories from their youth, and Lupe gives us a taste of his country music fandom and another spectacular item from his menagerie of collectables.
29 	"Empathy" 	April 1, 2021
The men discuss violence against the Asian community, the latest in the Derek Chauvin trial, and the need for more empathy to combat "America as usual." Also in this episode, Lupe gives us the scoop on his April 15 virtual show honoring the 15th anniversary of Food & Liquor — a nod to the Food & Liquor tour that got shut down during COVID — and the April 12 NFT drop with Origin Protocol. Shout to DJ Double O and Dame Dash Studios! The dudes also check in on the 2021 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame fan vote leaderboard, discuss the controversy surrounding Lil Nas X and the release of his music video for "Montero (Call Me Be Your Name)" and — finally — unpack how mental health is trivialized in "The Vanishing at the Cecil Hotel." 	The men discuss violence against the Asian community, the latest in the Derek Chauvin trial, and the need for more empathy to combat "America as usual." Also in this episode, Lupe gives us the scoop on his April 15 virtual show honoring the 15th anniversary of Food & Liquor — a nod to the Food & Liquor tour that got shut down during COVID — and the April 12 NFT drop with Origin Protocol. Shout to DJ Double O and Dame Dash Studios! The dudes also check in on the 2021 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame fan vote leaderboard, discuss the controversy surrounding Lil Nas X and the release of his music video for "Montero (Call Me Be Your Name)" and — finally — unpack how mental health is trivialized in "The Vanishing at the Cecil Hotel." 	The men discuss violence against the Asian community, the latest in the Derek Chauvin trial, and the need for more empathy to combat "America as usual." Also in this episode, Lupe gives us the scoop on his April 15 virtual show honoring the 15th anniversary of Food & Liquor — a nod to the Food & Liquor tour that got shut down during COVID — and the April 12 NFT drop with Origin Protocol. Shout to DJ Double O and Dame Dash Studios! The dudes also check in on the 2021 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame fan vote leaderboard, discuss the controversy surrounding Lil Nas X and the release of his music video for "Montero (Call Me Be Your Name)" and — finally — unpack how mental health is trivialized in "The Vanishing at the Cecil Hotel."
30 	"Demons" 	April 8, 2021
Episode 30 dives deep on demons: The kind that accompany big success, appear on the big screen, and that come with pandemic fatigue. Also in this episode, the men discuss the best 90s sitcoms and give an update on Lu's upcoming Food & Liquor Live show — including a way that Lupe & Royce Show listeners can win free tickets. Then, they share positive vibes for DMX and pay homage to his music and ability to translate hardcore style to mainstream success. Finally, the fellas respond to some fan questions. 	Episode 30 dives deep on demons: The kind that accompany big success, appear on the big screen, and that come with pandemic fatigue. Also in this episode, the men discuss the best 90s sitcoms and give an update on Lu's upcoming Food & Liquor Live show — including a way that Lupe & Royce Show listeners can win free tickets. Then, they share positive vibes for DMX and pay homage to his music and ability to translate hardcore style to mainstream success. Finally, the fellas respond to some fan questions. 	Episode 30 dives deep on demons: The kind that accompany big success, appear on the big screen, and that come with pandemic fatigue. Also in this episode, the men discuss the best 90s sitcoms and give an update on Lu's upcoming Food & Liquor Live show — including a way that Lupe & Royce Show listeners can win free tickets. Then, they share positive vibes for DMX and pay homage to his music and ability to translate hardcore style to mainstream success. Finally, the fellas respond to some fan questions.
31 	"Eggs" 	April 15, 2021
Tom gives a shout-out to the Food & Liquor Live ticket giveaway winner & Lupe gives a "randiness" warning on the content of his April 15 Food & Liquor Live performance. Get your tickets for the pre-show (April 15, 7:30 ET!) at futurestream.tv/lupefiasco. Lupe tells Tom & Royce about Ramadan.
The men discuss the tragic death of Daunte Wright, the need for police reform, and the centrality of guns in the American narrative. Royce announces his new workout regimen to combat melty milkyway syndrome and the fellas debate the "rapper fat" phenomenon. Anyone know an exercising monk? 	Tom gives a shout-out to the Food & Liquor Live ticket giveaway winner & Lupe gives a "randiness" warning on the content of his April 15 Food & Liquor Live performance. Get your tickets for the pre-show (April 15, 7:30 ET!) at futurestream.tv/lupefiasco. Lupe tells Tom & Royce about Ramadan.
The men discuss the tragic death of Daunte Wright, the need for police reform, and the centrality of guns in the American narrative. Royce announces his new workout regimen to combat melty milkyway syndrome and the fellas debate the "rapper fat" phenomenon. Anyone know an exercising monk? 	Tom gives a shout-out to the Food & Liquor Live ticket giveaway winner & Lupe gives a "randiness" warning on the content of his April 15 Food & Liquor Live performance. Get your tickets for the pre-show (April 15, 7:30 ET!) at futurestream.tv/lupefiasco. Lupe tells Tom & Royce about Ramadan.
The men discuss the tragic death of Daunte Wright, the need for police reform, and the centrality of guns in the American narrative. Royce announces his new workout regimen to combat melty milkyway syndrome and the fellas debate the "rapper fat" phenomenon. Anyone know an exercising monk?
32 	"Theater" 	April 22, 2021
This week was National Look-a-like Day and Tom celebrates with his best impression of Royce. The fellas react to the Chauvin trial verdict. Lupe is still fasting and therefore spending his extra time learning about Chinese ghost towns, investing in water solutions that are saving the world one town at a time, including Allensworth, CA, and writing quality radio theater. So, kick back and listen, especially if you are a talent scout from Netflix, to an original Lupe screenplay, "The Confession" featuring Detectives Royce and Lupe as they play good cop, bad cop in an attempt to extract a confession from a young street punk. 	This week was National Look-a-like Day and Tom celebrates with his best impression of Royce. The fellas react to the Chauvin trial verdict. Lupe is still fasting and therefore spending his extra time learning about Chinese ghost towns, investing in water solutions that are saving the world one town at a time, including Allensworth, CA, and writing quality radio theater. So, kick back and listen, especially if you are a talent scout from Netflix, to an original Lupe screenplay, "The Confession" featuring Detectives Royce and Lupe as they play good cop, bad cop in an attempt to extract a confession from a young street punk. 	This week was National Look-a-like Day and Tom celebrates with his best impression of Royce. The fellas react to the Chauvin trial verdict. Lupe is still fasting and therefore spending his extra time learning about Chinese ghost towns, investing in water solutions that are saving the world one town at a time, including Allensworth, CA, and writing quality radio theater. So, kick back and listen, especially if you are a talent scout from Netflix, to an original Lupe screenplay, "The Confession" featuring Detectives Royce and Lupe as they play good cop, bad cop in an attempt to extract a confession from a young street punk.
33 	"Therapy" 	April 29, 2021
Tom welcomes NFL safety Doug Middleton to the show to talk about his path to the Jacksonville Jags, tonight's NFL draft and his Dream the Impossible Initiative (https://www.dreamtheimpossible.org/), which works to address the lack of awareness surrounding mental health in the African American community. The discussion transitions into another riveting installment of Lupe's radio theater with Tom as radio executive and Royce playing MC Sensitive. 	Tom welcomes NFL safety Doug Middleton to the show to talk about his path to the Jacksonville Jags, tonight's NFL draft and his Dream the Impossible Initiative (https://www.dreamtheimpossible.org/), which works to address the lack of awareness surrounding mental health in the African American community. The discussion transitions into another riveting installment of Lupe's radio theater with Tom as radio executive and Royce playing MC Sensitive. 	Tom welcomes NFL safety Doug Middleton to the show to talk about his path to the Jacksonville Jags, tonight's NFL draft and his Dream the Impossible Initiative (https://www.dreamtheimpossible.org/), which works to address the lack of awareness surrounding mental health in the African American community. The discussion transitions into another riveting installment of Lupe's radio theater with Tom as radio executive and Royce playing MC Sensitive.
34 	"Special" 	May 6, 2021
This week's episode is a special tribute to Lupe Fiasco's Food & Liquor, with Tom & Royce interviewing the man himself using fan-submitted questions. Fifteen years after the album's debut, Lupe reflects on the record that put him on the map. 	This week's episode is a special tribute to Lupe Fiasco's Food & Liquor, with Tom & Royce interviewing the man himself using fan-submitted questions. Fifteen years after the album's debut, Lupe reflects on the record that put him on the map. 	This week's episode is a special tribute to Lupe Fiasco's Food & Liquor, with Tom & Royce interviewing the man himself using fan-submitted questions. Fifteen years after the album's debut, Lupe reflects on the record that put him on the map.
35 	"Wolf" 	May 13, 2021
The fellas give Tom a hard time for his birthday. Royce issues a mea culpa. Lupe officially invites Showtime Shawn Porter to come on the show and reveals his childhood celebrity crush. The men discuss halls of fame, Floyd Mayweather's new look, recreational sports, dealing with OCD and then enact another rendition of radio theater – this week's based on a classic film. 	The fellas give Tom a hard time for his birthday. Royce issues a mea culpa. Lupe officially invites Showtime Shawn Porter to come on the show and reveals his childhood celebrity crush. The men discuss halls of fame, Floyd Mayweather's new look, recreational sports, dealing with OCD and then enact another rendition of radio theater – this week's based on a classic film. 	The fellas give Tom a hard time for his birthday. Royce issues a mea culpa. Lupe officially invites Showtime Shawn Porter to come on the show and reveals his childhood celebrity crush. The men discuss halls of fame, Floyd Mayweather's new look, recreational sports, dealing with OCD and then enact another rendition of radio theater – this week's based on a classic film.
36 	"Showtime" 	May 20, 2021
Showtime Shawn Porter joins the show to clear up some beef and to discuss how to measure fame, the path to professional boxing, strong father figures, and his obligation to lay hands on Tom. Also in this episode: Royce shows off his tight shirt and Lupe shouts-out to DJ Simon Says for his fresh new fade. The fellas talk BAL and J Cole, and end with another installment of radio theater. 	Showtime Shawn Porter joins the show to clear up some beef and to discuss how to measure fame, the path to professional boxing, strong father figures, and his obligation to lay hands on Tom. Also in this episode: Royce shows off his tight shirt and Lupe shouts-out to DJ Simon Says for his fresh new fade. The fellas talk BAL and J Cole, and end with another installment of radio theater. 	Showtime Shawn Porter joins the show to clear up some beef and to discuss how to measure fame, the path to professional boxing, strong father figures, and his obligation to lay hands on Tom. Also in this episode: Royce shows off his tight shirt and Lupe shouts-out to DJ Simon Says for his fresh new fade. The fellas talk BAL and J Cole, and end with another installment of radio theater.
37 	"Detroit" 	May 27, 2021
In this week's episode, the men discuss big sugar and their efforts to avoid it. Tom proclaims his stern dislike for the cicadas currently taking over the Mid-Atlantic. Lupe and Royce discuss the best recording studios they've been to, and spar endlessly about Detroit v. Chicago. Shinola, you listening? And finally, please take the last 9 minutes of silence to remember George Floyd and why we must continue to acknowledge systemic racism and inequality in order to fulfill the promise of American freedom and justice for every citizen. 	In this week's episode, the men discuss big sugar and their efforts to avoid it. Tom proclaims his stern dislike for the cicadas currently taking over the Mid-Atlantic. Lupe and Royce discuss the best recording studios they've been to, and spar endlessly about Detroit v. Chicago. Shinola, you listening? And finally, please take the last 9 minutes of silence to remember George Floyd and why we must continue to acknowledge systemic racism and inequality in order to fulfill the promise of American freedom and justice for every citizen. 	In this week's episode, the men discuss big sugar and their efforts to avoid it. Tom proclaims his stern dislike for the cicadas currently taking over the Mid-Atlantic. Lupe and Royce discuss the best recording studios they've been to, and spar endlessly about Detroit v. Chicago. Shinola, you listening? And finally, please take the last 9 minutes of silence to remember George Floyd and why we must continue to acknowledge systemic racism and inequality in order to fulfill the promise of American freedom and justice for every citizen.
38 	"Tour" 	June 4, 2021
On this week's show, Tom hypes the Washington Wizards and the NBA playoffs. Lupe & Royce recall strange fan encounters during shows, including a knife act, a collapsing stage and weather altering magic. The men discuss the highs and lows of being on tour as well as a few sports related topics including fans gone crazy, Naomi Osaka and the summer Olympics… 	On this week's show, Tom hypes the Washington Wizards and the NBA playoffs. Lupe & Royce recall strange fan encounters during shows, including a knife act, a collapsing stage and weather altering magic. The men discuss the highs and lows of being on tour as well as a few sports related topics including fans gone crazy, Naomi Osaka and the summer Olympics… 	On this week's show, Tom hypes the Washington Wizards and the NBA playoffs. Lupe & Royce recall strange fan encounters during shows, including a knife act, a collapsing stage and weather altering magic. The men discuss the highs and lows of being on tour as well as a few sports related topics including fans gone crazy, Naomi Osaka and the summer Olympics…
39 	"Jesus" 	June 10, 2021
Tom & Lupe are joined by the new-and-improved Royce da Fridge9. The men go deep on bananas, then debate the spectacle of boxing in the aftermath of #MayweatherPaul. Lupe asks big questions about the origins of martyrdom in hip-hop, leading to a meaningful discussion about the unexpected role of religion in culture. And don't miss the big announcement about our upcoming LIVE ZOOM HAPPY HOUR! 	Tom & Lupe are joined by the new-and-improved Royce da Fridge9. The men go deep on bananas, then debate the spectacle of boxing in the aftermath of #MayweatherPaul. Lupe asks big questions about the origins of martyrdom in hip-hop, leading to a meaningful discussion about the unexpected role of religion in culture. And don't miss the big announcement about our upcoming LIVE ZOOM HAPPY HOUR! 	Tom & Lupe are joined by the new-and-improved Royce da Fridge9. The men go deep on bananas, then debate the spectacle of boxing in the aftermath of #MayweatherPaul. Lupe asks big questions about the origins of martyrdom in hip-hop, leading to a meaningful discussion about the unexpected role of religion in culture. And don't miss the big announcement about our upcoming LIVE ZOOM HAPPY HOUR!
40 	"Father" 	June 17, 2021
Fr. James Rodriguez joins the fellas from St. Rose in Queens, New York to continue the conversation from episode 39 on the cultural impact of Jesus on young people, especially in urban neighborhoods. Also on this episode: Happy Birthday to Ayesha Jaco, Tom shouts out some of our founding Patreons and the fellas re-introduce themselves (kinda). 	Fr. James Rodriguez joins the fellas from St. Rose in Queens, New York to continue the conversation from episode 39 on the cultural impact of Jesus on young people, especially in urban neighborhoods. Also on this episode: Happy Birthday to Ayesha Jaco, Tom shouts out some of our founding Patreons and the fellas re-introduce themselves (kinda). 	Fr. James Rodriguez joins the fellas from St. Rose in Queens, New York to continue the conversation from episode 39 on the cultural impact of Jesus on young people, especially in urban neighborhoods. Also on this episode: Happy Birthday to Ayesha Jaco, Tom shouts out some of our founding Patreons and the fellas re-introduce themselves (kinda).
41 	"Baron" 	June 24, 2021
NBA legend Baron Davis joins the show to talk about his forays into tech and his directorial debut with the film he also co-wrote: "Domino: Battle of the Bones." Also on this episode: Tom tries to engage Lupe on human-eating whales and flying cars, Royce talks about his Monster relapse and the challenges of staying in shape. 	NBA legend Baron Davis joins the show to talk about his forays into tech and his directorial debut with the film he also co-wrote: "Domino: Battle of the Bones." Also on this episode: Tom tries to engage Lupe on human-eating whales and flying cars, Royce talks about his Monster relapse and the challenges of staying in shape. 	NBA legend Baron Davis joins the show to talk about his forays into tech and his directorial debut with the film he also co-wrote: "Domino: Battle of the Bones." Also on this episode: Tom tries to engage Lupe on human-eating whales and flying cars, Royce talks about his Monster relapse and the challenges of staying in shape.
42 	"Wallstreet" 	July 1, 2021
Actor & author Hill Harper — best known for his book "The Wealth Cure" as well as roles on The Good Doctor, CSI:NY and Limitless — joins the show to discuss generational wealth and his new app, The Black Wall Street (https://theblackwallstreet.com/), a wealth gap platform and the world's first black-owned digital wallet. 	Actor & author Hill Harper — best known for his book "The Wealth Cure" as well as roles on The Good Doctor, CSI:NY and Limitless — joins the show to discuss generational wealth and his new app, The Black Wall Street (https://theblackwallstreet.com/), a wealth gap platform and the world's first black-owned digital wallet. 	Actor & author Hill Harper — best known for his book "The Wealth Cure" as well as roles on The Good Doctor, CSI:NY and Limitless — joins the show to discuss generational wealth and his new app, The Black Wall Street (https://theblackwallstreet.com/), a wealth gap platform and the world's first black-owned digital wallet.
43 	"Bowling" 	July 8, 2021
Professional bowler and six-time PBA Player of the Year Jason Belmonte (https://www.jasonbelmonte.com/) joins the fellas to discuss the fine details of the sport of bowling. You'll be itching to get out on the lanes after this one and who knows we might just see our first Lupe and Royce bowling tournament in the very near future. 	Professional bowler and six-time PBA Player of the Year Jason Belmonte (https://www.jasonbelmonte.com/) joins the fellas to discuss the fine details of the sport of bowling. You'll be itching to get out on the lanes after this one and who knows we might just see our first Lupe and Royce bowling tournament in the very near future. 	Professional bowler and six-time PBA Player of the Year Jason Belmonte (https://www.jasonbelmonte.com/) joins the fellas to discuss the fine details of the sport of bowling. You'll be itching to get out on the lanes after this one and who knows we might just see our first Lupe and Royce bowling tournament in the very near future.
44 	"Zero" 	July 16, 2021
Lupe, Royce and Tom have an uncanny (get it?!) conversation about zero sugar sodas. Lupe illuminates the fellas on his fashion foray with Virgil Abloh for Louis Vuitton, and shares a story about when he was mistaken for Wiz Khalifa. Showtime Shawn Porter joins the show to answer a listener question and tell the dudes about his upcoming broadcasting gig at the summer games. 	Lupe, Royce and Tom have an uncanny (get it?!) conversation about zero sugar sodas. Lupe illuminates the fellas on his fashion foray with Virgil Abloh for Louis Vuitton, and shares a story about when he was mistaken for Wiz Khalifa. Showtime Shawn Porter joins the show to answer a listener question and tell the dudes about his upcoming broadcasting gig at the summer games. 	Lupe, Royce and Tom have an uncanny (get it?!) conversation about zero sugar sodas. Lupe illuminates the fellas on his fashion foray with Virgil Abloh for Louis Vuitton, and shares a story about when he was mistaken for Wiz Khalifa. Showtime Shawn Porter joins the show to answer a listener question and tell the dudes about his upcoming broadcasting gig at the summer games.
45 	"Gold" 	July 22, 2021
A cast of characters joins this very special episode dedicated to the fans (and Lupe's many medals). Our first live call-in happy hour show features some of our Patreon fam, friends and fans asking their burning questions face-to-face with the fellas. Don't miss this one or any of our first season's 45 episodes! 	A cast of characters joins this very special episode dedicated to the fans (and Lupe's many medals). Our first live call-in happy hour show features some of our Patreon fam, friends and fans asking their burning questions face-to-face with the fellas. Don't miss this one or any of our first season's 45 episodes! 	A cast of characters joins this very special episode dedicated to the fans (and Lupe's many medals). Our first live call-in happy hour show features some of our Patreon fam, friends and fans asking their burning questions face-to-face with the fellas. Don't miss this one or any of our first season's 45 episodes!
== Personnel ==
* Lupe Fiasco – host
* Royce da 5'9" – host
* Tom Frank – host, producer
* Lauren Sloat – producer
* Claude Jennings – recorded, mixer
== Gallery ==
File:The Lupe and Royce Show (2).jpg
== References ==
Category:Podcasts