Shea and Mosa pulled up to Highstreet, and things got wild fast. The latest episode kicked off with the premiere of a brand-new banger from Mosa before spiraling into a freewheeling conversation covering everything from the state of music streaming to some truly out-of-pocket personal anecdotes.
Streaming 2.0: A Game-Changer or Just Another Money Grab?
One of the most heated discussions centered on “Streaming 2.0,” Universal Music Group and Spotify’s latest initiative aimed at “super fans.” The move, which promises exclusive content and merch offerings directly through streaming platforms, had the hosts divided. Is it a way for artists to better connect with fans, or just another method for major labels and DSPs to take a larger cut of an artist’s revenue? Shea and Mosa weren’t sold on the idea, arguing that independent artists could—and should—leverage their own platforms to maximize profits.
They also touched on AI’s increasing presence in the music industry, from Suno’s AI-generated tracks to Spotify’s AI DJ feature. Mosa even revealed he experimented with AI for an intro skit on his latest EP, proving that the technology isn’t just a looming threat but also a tool for innovation.
Trips, Trips, and More Trips
The conversation took a sharp left turn into psychedelic territory, as the crew swapped stories about their strongest trips on mushrooms. They broke down dosages, different strains, and the highs and lows of experimenting with psychedelics. Whether it was a mind-expanding revelation or an absolute nightmare of a trip, the hosts had plenty to say about how these substances impact creativity and self-reflection.
Boston Tales & Throwback Stories
Between music industry debates and mind-altering experiences, the hosts took a moment to reflect on their roots. From growing up in Boston neighborhoods to wild nights out at local clubs, their stories painted a vivid picture of the city’s culture. A quick tangent about Dominican Independence Day had Mosa reminiscing about family traditions, while Shea somehow managed to segue into a debate over who had the best celebrity crushes growing up.
Merch, Money & Making It as an Artist
The business side of music was another hot topic, with a deep dive into how artists make money beyond streaming. Merchandise, direct-to-fan sales, and platforms like TikTok Shop were all on the table as the crew debated whether artists should manage these revenue streams independently or rely on third-party services. Shea, ever the entrepreneur, even threw out a few unconventional business ideas—pre-workout supplements, anyone?
Shea vs. The Avengers?
The episode wouldn’t have been complete without Shea’s boldest claim of the night: that he could single-handedly take on the entire Avengers cast in a fight. The room erupted into laughter, but Shea stood firm on his stance. Whether it was delusion or confidence, one thing was clear—nobody was safe from reckless debates on this episode of Highstreet.
