Conversations About Victory Lap feat. DJ Hed and Mike & Keys

In this episode of No Ceilings , Glasses Malone is joined by DJ Hed and acclaimed production duo Mike & Keys for a deep dive into the legacy of West Coast hip-hop and the making of Victory Lap. The conversation traces the evolution of West Coast rap from the post-G-funk era through movements like hyphy, jerk, and ratchet music, while examining how blogs, digital media, and the internet helped reshape the region’s identity.

Glasses also reflects on his own reluctance to embrace social media and podcasting before encouragement from Charlamagne Tha God led him to expand his platform during the pandemic. The discussion offers rare behind-the-scenes insight into the creative process behind Victory Lap and the vision of Nipsey Hussle.

Mike & Keys share stories from their early days in San Diego studios to producing for artists such as Xzibit and Dom Kennedy, while the group breaks down song selections, sequencing decisions, unreleased records, and the near exclusion of “Double Up” due to sample clearance costs. Blending music history, industry knowledge, and personal memories, this episode highlights the importance of ownership, authenticity, and preserving artistic vision in hip-hop culture.

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