Donwill Chats With Shad in the Fourth Episode of The Almanac of Rap's Season 4

Donwill's intense curiosity, expertise in hip-hop, and appreciation for the genre's history make The Almanac Of Rap one of the most captivating podcasts available. The latest, audio-only episode of the 2x Webby Award-winning podcast includes Donwill's discussion with Shad, the acclaimed, Juno Award-winning rapper and Peabody-winning journalist (for his contributions to Hip-Hop Evolution).

Originally from London, Ontario, Shad has been a beloved figure in Canada's hip-hop scene for nearly twenty years, earning the title of the 2nd best Canadian rapper of all time by the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation. He gained prominence during the Blog Era and has continued to produce music while also becoming a well-known broadcaster for the CBC. Donwill and Shad have a history of collaboration, most notably on the track "Rose Garden," featuring Donwill and his Tanya Morgan bandmate Von Pea. This episode of The Almanac Of Rap delves into Shad's upbringing in London, situated between Toronto and Detroit, and examines the growth of Canadian rap from its origins in 70s block parties to the emergence of Drake in the 2010s (Shad shares a story about winning Rap Album of the Year over Drake at the 2011 Juno Awards). Additionally, Shad and Donwill enjoy some light-hearted moments, discussing Shad's dream festival headliners (he chooses KRS-One, Alvvays, and "Weird Al" Yankovic), his experiences interviewing legends like Dolly Parton, Denzel Washington, and Paul Simon, and evaluating the current state of rap media. 

The fourth episode of Season 4 continues what Donwill describes as "The Almanac of Rap’s most ambitious undertaking ever." The podcast aims to release a new episode every week for an entire year, alternating between audio/video and audio-only formats. Donwill, a master of engaging conversation, draws on his experience as a rapper (he is part of the group Tanya Morgan) and his lifelong love of music to explore under-explored areas, unveiling different facets of his distinguished guests. The seasoned rapper keeps the content fresh each week with recurring segments, such as the hot take-focused "The Ballistics" and "The Big Playback," where Donwill and his guest celebrate an underappreciated or underrated gem.

The Season 4 Premiere, featuring an interview with Cupid, the Line Dance King, reached the Top 10 of Apple Music's Top Shows (Music) chart. Recent guests have included 9th Wonder & Reuben Vincent, and Seattle producer Jake One. As the season progresses, Season 4 promises a distinguished lineup of influential guests, including Bun B, Raekwon, Havoc, 9th Wonder & Reuben Vincent, Jharrel Jerome, LaRussell, Mr. DJ, and more.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S8NFaZfLJww