South African rapper Priddy Ugly has added his voice to the ongoing debate around podcast culture and its growing influence on hip-hop conversations.
While acknowledging the rise of podcasts and their role in shaping modern music discourse, he made it clear that he supports the platform itself.
“I like them. I subscribe to a lot of them,” he said, but quickly added concern about the level of knowledge behind some of the commentary circulating online.
“I do feel, however, that more podcasters need to be a little more certified.”
Reflecting on earlier eras of music journalism, Priddy Ugly pointed to broadcasters he believes earned their authority through years of experience and cultural engagement.
He referenced names such as Scoop, Sizwe Dhlomo, and DJ Fresh, describing them as figures who “have been doing it for 20 plus years” and deeply understand the culture they speak on.
His main concern, however, is what he sees as a disconnect between some modern commentators and the music they critique.
“Nowadays, we often find people talking about hip-hop who don’t even listen to it,” he said, questioning how informed such discussions can be. He even suggested that some voices lack basic familiarity with the artists they analyse, adding, “Ask them, check their Apple Music and check when they last streamed a hip-hop song. Most of them… they don’t really know what’s happening.”
For Priddy Ugly, the issue is not just about opinion, but responsibility.
He believes research should come before public commentary, regardless of the subject.
“My only advice to them is educate yourself a little bit more before you speak on any subject, not just hip-hop,” he said, arguing that the current digital space has made it too easy for people to speak without preparation.
“The podcasters also made it cool not to do research. You just speak what’s on your mind and what’s on your heart, which we love.”
He also highlighted the impact such commentary can have on artists who dedicate their lives to their craft.
“When you’re speaking on people like me, who live and breathe this thing every single day… and you haven’t heard more than five Priddy Ugly songs… It’s a little bit unfair,” he said.
Still, he stopped short of dismissing podcast culture entirely.
Instead, he encouraged honesty and self-awareness from commentators who may not be fully familiar with certain artists or genres.
“It’s okay to say, ‘I don’t really listen to him, so I can’t really say anything… It’s not my cup of flavour.’ Then that’s fine,” he noted.
Despite his criticism, Priddy Ugly remains optimistic about the space podcasts have created for discussion and expression.
“That’s why I love the podcast… It’s good for young creatives, and in the celebration of freedom, like freedom of speech, which we are all entitled to,” he said, before ending with a reminder: “With great power comes great responsibility. So be more responsible, guys.”