CWTFB Radio is ringing in the new year with a special episode that marks five years since its inception. Despite host Cash’s absence, original team member Fifty (aka Rick) joined the crew for an engaging recap of notable 2024 moments, music reviews, and a thoughtful discussion on Boston’s evolving music scene.
A Look Back at Notable Episodes & Guests
Reflecting on a busy 2024, the hosts highlighted several standout episodes:
- Episode 208 (“Lessons Learned”) featuring D Adams was described as a personal favorite for his encyclopedic knowledge of Boston hip-hop and Black history.
- Episode 210 (“Stay Scheming”) welcomed Chilla Jones, hailed as Boston’s top battle rapper. The hosts praised his wordplay and battle rap strategy while noting he remains underappreciated in the broader battle rap community.
- Episode 212 brought back Rosewood Bap, whose growth since his 2020 interview impressed the hosts. They appreciated the honest discussion around fatherhood, his career, and his ties to the late PnB Rock.
Other memorable episodes included the freestyle-heavy session with Teo, who impressed the crew with her genuine, off-the-cuff performance, and a high-energy appearance by HZ Friends in Episode 213, where they analyzed his “traced” freestyle.
The crew reviewed two recent projects:
- Philly G’s “Before Summer Ends” received a score of 3.4/5. While they appreciated the production, they criticized the vocal delivery and energy.
- Prince Smooth’s “Trapped in Nola” earned a higher rating of 4/5, with praise for its music and a suggestion for stronger narrative development regarding the New Orleans connection.
In a serious turn, the hosts discussed Boston’s notably low homicide rate in 2024, which hit its lowest since the 1950s, with just 24 homicides. This led to a critique of local drill rappers who, despite statistical evidence of reduced violence, continue to promote violent personas. The crew expressed concern about young artists putting themselves in harm’s way by portraying false images of street life, encouraging them instead to explore more authentic and positive narratives in their music.
The episode included a reflection on Episode 215 (“Thank You Jeff”), featuring Jeff Two Times and DJ Dex, which sparked backlash from veteran DJs over controversial remarks made during the discussion. Despite the fallout, the hosts stand firm in their mission to foster open, unfiltered dialogue, emphasizing that it’s these candid moments that define CWTFB Radio’s authenticity.
As CWTFB Radio embarks on its sixth year, the team promises to keep delivering bold content that challenges norms and uplifts Boston’s vibrant hip-hop scene.
