LOS ANGELES, November 5, 2024 - Phil Becker, EVP of Content at Alpha Media, recently welcomed Bootleg Kev, host of the Premiere Networks-syndicated Hip-Hop program “The Bootleg Kev Show,” to his “Phil-Osophy with Phil Becker” podcast for a conversation about the rise of Country music. The opinionated duo attempts to answer the question: “Is Country music the new Hip-Hop?”

Becker and Bootleg Kev discuss game-changing collaborations like Morgan Wallen with Lil Durk, and how Country artists are ditching traditional aesthetics for something that resonates with today’s audience. They also explore what’s diluting Hip-Hop’s appeal and why the genre might be losing some of its edge; how TikTok and streaming have blurred genre lines; and the similar raw and rebellious nature of Country and Hip-Hop. Bootleg Kev also shares personal stories from his work with artists who are redefining what music can be, like the genre-bending Jelly Roll, who credits Kev with his move to Country music.

Below is a highlight from the conversation, which can be heard HERE.

Becker: “Is it (Country) in fact becoming the new Hip-Hop, or do you think this is just a 6-12 month run?”

Bootleg Kev: “I think that Country and Hip Hop have always had interesting parallels. If you listen to Waylon Jennings - he's got a song called ‘Outlaws.’  That's really some gangster rap from the 70s. A lot of the subject content of Country music is very kind of Hip-Hop in spirit. … I don't think it's gonna be a six to 12-month thing.  What I do think is the Internet has made fans less genre driven... with like Tik Tok and with just the access to the entire world at a given second, you might go to a Kendrick Lamar concert AND you might go see Morgan Wallen.”

Listen to this special episode of the “Phil-Osophy with Phil Becker” podcast on iHeartRadio HERE.

About Phil-Osophy with Phil Becker
Phil-Osophy, hosted by Phil Becker explores the intersections of media, music, and motivation. As a highly accomplished media executive, Becker is known for his progressive thinking, innovative approach to content, and motivational candor. Phil has been instrumental in the creation of several nationally syndicated programs, has worked for some of the largest broadcast companies, and has helped expose countless platinum-selling artists to the world. Join him for thought-provoking conversations that unravel the intricate threads of media, business, and life. Hit play on your favorite podcast platform and get Phil-Osophical.

About Bootleg Kev
Hosted by Kev, one of the biggest DJs in the Hip Hop and Rhythmic CHR format, along with co-host and comedian James Andre Jefferson Jr. and producer DJ Sam I Am, “The Bootleg Kev Show” features fun, authentic and hilarious conversations on the latest hot topics and pop culture, along with interviews with the biggest names in music and entertainment. “The Bootleg Kev Weekend Show” features a mix of the top hits, along with appearances by the artists. Nominated for a 2024 BET Hip-Hop Award in the “Best Hip-Hop Platform” category, the popular Premiere Networks-syndicated programs have a growing affiliate roster of 90 stations in major markets nationwide. In addition to hosting his popular nationally-syndicated weekday and weekend radio shows, Kev hosts The Bootleg Kev Podcast, which has more than 150 MM views on YouTube. Fans can follow @bootlegkev on social media.

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