The Underground Lounge

The Underground Lounge is back with another classic. This time, the crew welcomes Grammy-winning singer, songwriter, and all-around R&B hitmaker Eric Bellinger to the couch for a full-on vibe session. From the moment he walks in, it’s clear this one’s about good energy, real music, and unapologetic conversation.Eric opens up about his journey from singing in church and earning a football scholarship to USC, to making the bold move to follow his passion for music—a decision that would eventually lead him to writing and performing hits for artists like Usher and Chris Brown. He shares how he first got noticed as a songwriter, what it was like giving away songs that later became global hits, and how he learned to balance being a behind-the-scenes pen with stepping into the spotlight as an artist.The crew dives deep into the evolution of R&B, from the era of slow jams and rain-soaked music videos to today’s viral hits, and why the genre is having a real resurgence. Eric breaks down how the club scene, R&B parties, and social media all helped bring that soulful sound back, and why the culture needed it. He also talks about his creative process, the importance of setting the right vibe in the studio, and how a little “trophy smoke” helps him tap into his most inspired zone.From there, things get hilarious. The conversation turns to karaoke horror stories, the real difference between singers and rappers, and why comedians never have panties thrown at them on stage. Eric also opens up about his viral Tiny Desk moment with Usher, explaining how that one surprise performance reset his career and introduced him to a whole new audience.The conversation doesn’t stop at music either. The crew gets into the business side—Eric talks about starting his label, mentoring new artists, and staying independent in an industry that’s constantly changing. They even explore the rise of AI in music, how it’s reshaping the creative process, and why real artistry will always win over algorithms.By the end, it’s clear why Eric Bellinger has remained one of the most respected voices in R&B, he’s talented, grounded, and still just as passionate about the craft as the day he started. Whether you’re a diehard R&B fan, a creative chasing your dream, or just here for the laughs, this episode delivers it all: game, humor, and heart.

This week on The Underground Lounge, Lou Williams and Spank Horton welcome Grammy-nominated hip-hop artist, educator, and actor D Smoke into the Lounge for one of the most layered and inspiring conversations yet. Coming straight out of Inglewood, D Smoke opens up about growing up in a musical household led by his gospel-singing mother, who taught him and his brothers the fundamentals of music from an early age. From learning piano at five to earning a full academic scholarship to UCLA, he shares how his foundation in discipline and faith set the tone for everything that came after.D Smoke takes the crew through his early start in the industry, writing for Jaheim at 19, building a home studio with his brothers, and navigating the highs and lows of being young and talented in Los Angeles. He talks about the family legacy that runs deep through his bloodline, including his grandmother’s work with legends and the tough choices his mom made between touring with Stevie Wonder and raising her kids.The conversation dives into his time on Netflix’s Rhythm + Flow, where his viral exchange with Snoop Dogg and eventual win put him on the global map, and the lessons he learned from that experience about authenticity and preparation. D Smoke also discusses his passion for teaching and how his work as an educator helped him connect to his community beyond music.From mastering Spanish and bringing bilingual storytelling into hip-hop, to finding balance between the streets and spirituality, D Smoke breaks down how duality shaped his artistry and worldview. He also opens up about stepping into acting, from early roles as a teen to his recent work on Mayor of Kingstown, and how storytelling in all forms fuels his purpose.The Lounge closes out with real talk on faith, family, boxing, mentorship, and what it means to lead with integrity in an industry built on perception. It’s an episode that celebrates intellect, art, and the grind it takes to rise from Inglewood to international acclaim.

The Underground Lounge goes ghostly for Halloween with a special guest who’s seen things most people wouldn’t dare to imagine. Paranormal investigator and Ghost Brothers co-founder Dalen Spratt steps into the lounge to talk spirits, energy, and the afterlife like you’ve never heard it before.Dalen breaks down how he went from working wardrobe on The Mo’Nique Show to becoming one of TV’s first Black ghost hunters, chasing shadows through slave plantations, cemeteries, and America’s most haunted places. He talks about using real tech to communicate with the dead, the emotional weight of helping families reconnect with loved ones, and what it’s like to stand face-to-face with energy that refuses to leave this world.From chilling stories about The Conjuring House and Emmett Till’s gravesite to exploring the line between faith, fear, and the unknown, this episode balances laughs, deep insight, and spine-tingling moments. The crew keeps it funny, honest, and just spooky enough to make you question what you believe.It’s the Underground Lounge Halloween Special, where comedy meets the paranormal and curiosity meets the afterlife. You might walk away believing… or still thinking it’s all cap. Either way, this one’s unforgettable.

In this episode of The Underground Lounge, Lou Williams and Spank sit down with R&B icon Case for an unfiltered, hilarious, and nostalgic deep dive into the highs, lows, and wild stories of a true 90s rockstar life. From his early grind in New York City to becoming the last artist Russell Simmons personally signed to Def Jam, Case walks us through his come-up, the legendary sessions that birthed hits like “Touch Me, Tease Me”, and the moment he realized his life had officially changed.Case opens up about growing up with a father who once sang with Cameo, his first demo being written by Faith Evans, and what it was really like navigating the golden era of R&B. He shares stories about promo tours, sleeping in cars between gigs, and the kind of hustle artists today rarely experience, back when getting signed actually meant something, and you had to earn your shine through radio runs, live shows, and word of mouth.The conversation quickly shifts from music to madness, with Case recalling wild nights in Philly, hanging with Allen Iverson, and the unforgettable moment that got him banned from Hot 97. From jumping out of hotel windows to being mistaken for a rockstar, the singer holds nothing back as he paints a vivid picture of the fast-paced, no-phones era of fame and chaos.Lou and Spank dive into the evolution of R&B, debating whether today’s singers have lost that soulful edge. Case breaks down why real R&B never died, you just have to know where to find it , while name-dropping some of the new generation artists who still carry the torch. He also gets candid about why he refuses to listen to his own music in the bedroom, how cell phones would’ve ruined his prime, and what it’s like trying to perform through the flu while touring with Dru Hill.From his wildest groupie encounters to his funniest onstage fails, Case brings stories that are as unbelievable as they are entertaining. Between the laughs, he drops real gems about longevity, creativity, and the freedom that comes with still loving what you do decades later.This one’s packed with raw energy, R&B nostalgia, and plenty of moments that’ll have you saying, “They don’t make ‘em like this anymore.” Whether you grew up singing “Faded Pictures” or you’re just discovering Case, this episode is pure gold, a reminder of when talent, personality, and passion ruled the music game.

This week on The Underground Lounge, Lou and Spank sit down with one of comedy’s most authentic and versatile voices Lil Rel Howrey, a Chicago legend whose hustle, humor, and honesty made him a standout in Hollywood. From hoop dreams on the West Side to headlining major films and creating his own projects, Lil Rel opens up about the road that got him here, the highs, the setbacks, and the lessons learned along the way.The conversation starts with basketball nostalgia, as Rel recalls his days playing high school ball in Chicago during the city’s golden era, when Kevin Garnett, Ronnie Fields, and other prep legends ruled the courts. That same competitive energy carried into his comedy career, where he wrote his first romantic comedy script at just 17 and started performing stand-up before most people knew what open mics even were.Rel talks about betting on himself, walking away from day jobs, and carving out his lane in an industry that doesn’t always make room for originality. He breaks down his love for rom-coms, the grind of directing his own feature films, and the vulnerability that comes with being critiqued once your name’s in lights. From running his Chicago comedy festival to mentoring the next generation, his focus on giving back shines through every story.But it’s not all serious talk, the laughs come nonstop as the crew swaps wild stories about college hoops, Chicago culture, internet trolls, and even the strangest rumors that have followed him through fame. Rel’s blend of humility, wit, and perspective makes for one of the realest and funniest conversations you’ll hear all season.Whether you’re chasing your dream, finding your lane, or just here for the jokes, this episode is a reminder that the grind never stops, and neither do the laughs.

This week on The Underground Lounge, the crew sits down with actor, creator, and all-around entertainer Jackie Long for a real conversation that blends career wisdom, comedy, and heart. Known for his memorable roles in ATL, Idlewild, and countless cult classics, Jackie takes the Lounge deep into his journey, from growing up in Los Angeles to finding his lane in Hollywood through persistence, personality, and pure love for the craft.Jackie opens up about how he got his first big break on Moesha, why he always viewed background acting as a stepping stone rather than a setback, and how mentorship, curiosity, and faith guided him through every stage of his career. He recalls learning from legends like Terrence Howard, André 3000, and Big Boi on the set of Idlewild, and shares stories from ATL, including how the cast bonded through skate camp and how that film still connects generations today.The conversation also dives into Jackie’s collaboration with Paul George on the Podcast P Show, his thoughts on staying humble in an industry built on ego, and why fear has no place in chasing your dreams. He breaks down the art of auditions, the pressure of seeing big names in the waiting room, and the mindset that helped him overcome doubt and find confidence in front of any camera.Beyond Hollywood, Jackie talks about family, faith, and legacy, crediting his grandparents for instilling the values that keep him grounded. The Lounge crew explores astrology, energy, and personal growth, leading to an unfiltered and hilarious exchange about life, purpose, and staying authentic even when fame calls.From classic movie moments to motivational gems, this episode is packed with game, gratitude, and genuine laughs. Whether you know Jackie Long as Esquire from ATL or as one of Hollywood’s most consistent personalities, this sit-down proves why his story, and his spirit, still resonate today.

The Underground Lounge links up with two of hip-hop’s most respected producers and rappers, The Alchemist and Hit-Boy, for an unfiltered conversation that blends creativity, competition, and legacy.In this episode, the duo opens up about their first time connecting and how mutual respect turned into collaboration, leading to the creation of their new joint album and short film. They share how the project came together, the inspiration behind the sound, and how their two worlds, Alchemist’s gritty, sample-driven soul and Hit-Boy’s polished, anthemic energy, merged to create something fresh for the culture.The Alchemist talks about balancing multiple creative lanes, including his food how with Action Bronson where he explores culinary experiences around the world through the same lens he applies to music, curiosity, taste, and storytelling. He opens up about how staying creative outside of music feeds his artistry and keeps him evolving.Hit-Boy reflects on his early beginnings, sharing stories about growing up around music and how his uncle’s success in a hip-hop group sparked his desire to make beats. He walks through his journey from bedroom producer to Grammy-winning powerhouse, breaking down how staying consistent and fearless allowed him to produce for legends and still innovate with each record.Throughout the conversation, both producers talk about the friendly competition that pushes them to keep raising the bar, the respect they have for each other’s grind, and what it means to create music that stands the test of time. They speak on mentorship, influence, and how they view the next generation of producers coming up behind them.Candid, funny, and filled with insight, this episode captures two musical giants at the top of their craft, discussing artistry, discipline, and the mindset it takes to stay relevant while remaining authentic. It’s not just a conversation about beats and bars, it’s a masterclass in evolution, collaboration, and creativity from two of hip-hop’s best.

The Underground Lounge presents a Special After Hours episode, co-hosted with Holly Joso, featuring Bay Area icon Too $hort. A pioneer whose name is etched into the fabric of West Coast hip-hop, $hort joins Lou, Spank, and Holly for an unfiltered conversation filled with history, laughs, and hard-earned wisdom from nearly four decades in the rap game.Too $hort opens up about his early hustle selling tapes out of his trunk in Oakland, and how that grind set the tone for a career defined by independence, authenticity, and relentless determination. He reflects on what it took to put the Bay on the map, the cultural impact of his legendary “pimping” persona, and how he’s stayed relevant across generations while never losing his signature voice.With Holly co-hosting, the dialogue dives deeper into the culture that shaped his artistry, the wild stories that built his legend, and the mindset that keeps him pushing forward after all these years. From building his brand before the industry caught up, to collaborating with some of music’s biggest names, Too $hort shares the triumphs, challenges, and lessons that come with longevity in hip-hop.This After Hours episode is raw, hilarious, and insightful, an inside look at a rap pioneer who helped shape the West Coast sound and remains as unapologetic and influential as ever.

In this special episode of The Underground Lounge, Lou and Spank welcome an icon who truly needs no introduction: Flea, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame bassist for the Red Hot Chili Peppers. Known for his explosive stage presence and innovative bass lines, Flea takes us through the journey of his life and career with honesty, humor, and reflection.The conversation begins with his early childhood and the jazz influences that shaped him, from Miles Davis to John Coltrane, and how picking up a bass in high school completely changed his world. Flea shares how his lifelong friendship with Anthony Kiedis sparked the foundation of the Red Hot Chili Peppers, and how their bond, while tested over the decades, has been the glue holding the band together through lineup changes, global tours, and creative evolution. He recalls the band’s rise from gritty L.A. clubs to massive stadiums, memorable festival moments, and the infamous chaos of Woodstock.Beyond the music, Flea opens up about his personal growth. He discusses the turning point that led him to give up hard drugs in his 30s, the role of sobriety in helping him embrace health and creativity, and how fatherhood continues to shape his perspective. He emphasizes the importance of self-love, learning from childhood traumas, and finding joy in constant growth, whether through reading, exploring new art, or picking up a basketball to shoot around at 57 years old.Naturally, basketball plays a big role in the conversation. A die-hard Lakers fan, Flea reminisces about the Showtime era with Magic and Kareem, the ups and downs of the team over the years, and his respect for LeBron James’s longevity and excellence. The discussion connects the worlds of sports and music, highlighting how teamwork, trust, and chemistry are just as crucial on the court as they are on stage.The crew also touch on the cultural shifts in music, from the originality demanded in earlier eras to today’s algorithm-driven sameness, and Flea reflects on the importance of pushing boundaries and staying true to individuality. He also shines a light on his nonprofit, the Silverlake Conservatory of Music, which has been teaching hundreds of kids every week for over two decades, giving them the same gift of music that changed his own life.From smashing guitars to smashing stereotypes, Flea proves why he’s one of the most compelling figures in modern music. This episode is equal parts funny, insightful, and inspiring, offering a rare glimpse into the mind of a rock legend who’s still as passionate, curious, and relentless as ever.

in this hilarious and inspiring episode of The Underground Lounge, Lou and Spank welcome comedian, entrepreneur, and cultural force KevOnStage. From his roots in El Paso to building his own entertainment empire, Kev shares stories of hustle, resilience, and staying true to himself.The conversation kicks off with Kev explaining how his stage name came about and why he chose to keep his comedy clean . He opens up about his early struggles, the first time he hit the stage, and how his faith and family shaped his approach to stand-up . The crew dives into his creativity during the pandemic, highlighting his groundbreaking “Keep Your Distance” comedy shows that kept laughter alive when the world was shut down.Kev also talks entrepreneurship, selling candy as a kid, building his own studio, launching projects like Churchy, and creating opportunities outside of the Hollywood system . He reflects on the wins and the tough losses that come with blazing your own path , and the guys get into the competitiveness of comedy, dream lineups with legends like Dave Chappelle and Chris Rock, and why comedy festivals are so powerful.Of course, no Underground Lounge episode is complete without games and fun. Kev takes on the infamous F**K It Bucket* and the “F**K You Camera,” delivering laughs while staying true to his clean style.The episode closes with Kev speaking on loyalty, legacy, and why representation matters for the next generation of comics.From behind-the-scenes gems to laugh-out-loud moments, this episode is a masterclass in comedy, creativity, and carving your own lane.

The Underground Lounge starts of Season 3 by welcoming NBA champion, entrepreneur, and media trailblazer Matt Barnes for a conversation that’s equal parts raw, insightful, and hilarious. Matt chops it up with the crew about life after basketball and how he and Stephen Jackson broke barriers by launching All the Smoke, turning it into a full production company that continues to change the way athletes control their own narratives. He reflects on the struggles of navigating traditional media, what inspired him to jump into podcasting, and why authenticity has been the key to connecting with fans.From there, it’s story time with Barnes and Lou reliving their playing days together, including locker room chaos, wild rookie lessons, and behind-the-scenes moments with coaches like Mo Cheeks and Doc Rivers. They break down what really went wrong with the Clippers, how toxic locker rooms can derail success, and the impact of leaders who know how to build confidence in their players. Matt also opens up about the rise of Steph Curry, the evolution of the modern game, and the debate of today’s Warriors versus the ’90s Bulls.Of course, no Underground Lounge episode is complete without laughs and unfiltered honesty. From drinking bets on team buses to the “Fuck You Camera” sendoff, Matt proves why he’s always been unapologetically himself, on and off the court. This one is a deep dive into the mind of a competitor turned culture shaper, and a reminder that the stories behind the game are just as powerful as the ones on the court.

In this special wrap-up edition of The Underground Lounge, Spank takes a moment to look back at everything that made Season 2 one for the books. From the ladies who brought their unique perspectives, to the athletes, actors, and comedians who sat down in the Lounge, he runs through the funniest, realest, and most unforgettable moments of the season. Along the way, Spank shares his personal favorite highlights and reflects on how each guest helped shape the Lounge into a space where comedy, culture, and conversation collide.But he’s not just looking back, Spank also gives listeners a preview of what’s next. Season 3 is on the horizon, and with it comes bigger conversations, more guests, and even more reasons to tune in. Plus, for the die-hard supporters, he announces the launch of a brand-new Patreon, where fans can tap into exclusive shows, behind-the-scenes content, and never-before-seen Lounge moments.If you’ve been rocking with the Lounge from the start or just jumped on in Season 2, this episode is the perfect bridge between what’s been and what’s coming next.

Lou and Spank wrap up Season 2 of the Underground Lounge with a mix of jokes, reflection, and real talk about how far the show has come. They look back on standout moments, from Tony Baker bringing the laughs, to unforgettable sit-downs with athletes, comedians, and entertainers who turned the Lounge into a must-watch. Favorite “F*** It Bucket” questions resurface, along with behind-the-scenes stories about guests, live shows, and even some unexpected gifts that sparked hilarious debates.The duo also show love to the entire Underground Lounge team, from producers and editors to bartenders and photographers, acknowledging the hard work that makes each episode possible. They keep it transparent about the grind of building a podcast, balancing partnerships, and doing the work without a major network running things behind the scenes.Looking ahead, Lou and Spank preview what’s next for Season 3, bigger names, more diverse guests, live activations in cities like D.C., Miami, Houston, and Toronto, and interactive elements to get fans more involved. They tease new Patreon content that gives a behind-the-scenes look at Spank’s stand-up life on the road and Lou’s coaching and family life, while also hinting at dream guests they’d love to land, from Michelle Obama to Katt Williams.The finale leaves fans with gratitude, laughter, and plenty to look forward to. Season 2 may be in the books, but the Underground Lounge is only just getting started.

This week on the Underground Lounge, Lou, Spank, and Holly keep it in the family with an episode featuring just the three of them. With no guests in the building, the crew lets loose and covers a little bit of everything, fast food love life analogies, building a brand new league with no rules, and what it means to grind from the ground up in the podcast world.Holly reflects on her first year with the Lounge, talking about how she’s grown into her role and learned the ins and outs of podcasting while balancing comedy and the business side. Lou and Spank share how much they’ve enjoyed carving out a unique lane in the podcast game, even as athletes, entertainers, and friends reach out to be part of the show. The conversation shifts to dream future guests, from comedians and athletes to current living legends, with some hilarious debates about nicknames and respect attached to real names.From there, the trio dives into a spirited debate about the lottery, whether those massive jackpots are real, what they’d do if they hit for hundreds of millions, and why winners always seem to disappear. That naturally leads to deeper conversations about money, generosity, and how life changes when you’ve been exposed to a certain lifestyle.Relationships and dating also take center stage as they swap stories about who pays for dinner, thoughtful gestures that stand out, and the sometimes wild expectations people bring to first dates. Spank even shares a storytime from one of his past dating adventures that had everyone laughing and questioning “standards” in dating today.The crew doesn’t shy away from heavier discussions either, breaking down the realities of athletes in the media spotlight, how personal life choices can cost careers, and the ongoing tension between chasing opportunity and protecting your reputation. They also touch on the culture in Los Angeles, women dating in entertainment, and what lessons they want their kids to take with them as they grow up.Packed with humor, honesty, and plenty of back-and-forth, this no-guest episode strips the Lounge down to its essence, just Lou, Spank, and Holly holding it down, mixing sharp insight with comedic storytelling, and keeping listeners locked in from start to finish.

The Underground Lounge hits Atlanta for a special live taping with two comedy powerhouses, Ronnie Jordan and K Dubb, and the energy does not let up from the moment they hit the stage. Lou and Spank sit down with the Atlanta and Memphis-bred comedians to swap hilarious stories about the grind, the game, and the kind of moments you can only get from years of killing stages across the country.From their very first nights on the mic in the early 2000s to becoming respected veterans in the scene, Ronnie and K Dubb break down how they found their voices, learned to read a room, and built careers in two of the toughest cities for stand-up Atlanta and New York — where bombing can end you before you start. They share unfiltered stories from Uptown Comedy Club, touring with major acts, connecting with names like T.I., and watching the comedy hustle change with the rise of viral videos and internet personalities.The laughs keep rolling as they get into the art of creating material, how real-life situations turn into stage gold, and why some comedians can’t make the jump from skits to stand-up. They trade favorite comedy movie lists, roast bad performances, and give flowers to legends like J.B. Smoove who inspired them early on. In true Underground Lounge fashion, the “F**K IT BUCKET” makes an appearance, sparking off-the-wall confessions and wild tangents about sex, relationships, and stories you won’t hear anywhere else.Ronnie and K Dubb also talk upcoming projects, life on the road, and why after decades in the game they’re still chasing that next laugh like it’s their first. Between the jokes, the behind-the-scenes gems, and the live Atlanta crowd, this episode is a crash course in comedy culture from two voices who’ve seen it all, and are still having a damn good time doing it.

In this special live ATL edition of The Underground Lounge, Lou and Spank welcome two culture-driven guests. Media executive and former Roc-A-Fella insider Wayno, and hip hop archivist and collector NuFace, for a deep, funny, and honest conversation that covers music, legacy, and living life through the lens of the culture.Wayno reflects on his path from growing up in the Bronx and Harlem to becoming an influential voice in hip hop media. He talks about what it was like working at Roc-A-Fella during its peak, his early encounters with Kanye, and how watching artists rise and fall shaped his view of the business. He drops game on the sacrifices and politics of the industry, sharing hard truths about why talent alone isn’t enough, and how ego, timing, and support systems can make or break a career.NuFace brings a unique perspective as the man who’s “got something to say.” Known for preserving rare hip hop artifacts and curating moments that keep the culture alive, he shares his story of turning passion into purpose. From digging through crates to building museum exhibits, NuFace talks about the importance of documenting Black creativity and making sure the stories behind the music aren’t lost. He also touches on the impact of Atlanta’s scene and how his “NuFace Was There” brand grew from fandom into a cultural institution.The episode also gets into ATL nightlife memories, the lasting power of artists like Nas, and why certain regions and artists still don’t get their flowers. The crew debates the legacy of the Yin Yang Twins, where to rank them, and how they compare to acts like Travis Porter. There’s even a hilarious round of the “F** It Bucket”* where things get a little spicy.From thoughtful reflection to straight-up comedy, this episode blends the past, present, and future of hip hop culture through the eyes of two people who’ve really lived it. Whether you're into history, music industry game, or just crazy behind-the-scenes stories, this one checks every box.

The Underground Lounge took the show on the road and touched down in Atlanta for a legendary sit-down with none other than Jason Weaver, and this one is filled with gems, laughter, real-life lessons, and cultural insight you won’t get anywhere else.Live from ATL, Jason walks Lou Will and Spank through his iconic journey, from child star to industry veteran, and opens up in a way few artists ever do. He talks about getting his start in Chicago, navigating early fame, and the moment his mother made a contract decision that would set him up for life. From Smart Guy and Drumline to ATL and beyond, Jason breaks down how he’s remained relevant and respected for decades while moving with purpose, not ego.The convo dives into everything, his biggest financial mistake, how fame can become a trap if you’re not careful, and why loving the craft has to come before chasing the check. He offers honest advice to young Black performers about staying grounded and protecting your peace in an industry that often rewards the opposite.Jason also gives rare behind-the-scenes insight on working with legends like Whoopi Goldberg, Oprah and Michael Jackson, his early music career with Motown, and the truth about what’s happening (or not happening) with ATL 2. He gets real about the business side of entertainment, the power of ownership, and why artists today need to start thinking like bosses, not just performers.From heartfelt moments to hilarious stories to bar-for-bar wisdom, this ATL edition of the Underground Lounge is a masterclass in longevity, legacy, and staying 10 toes down.

On this episode of The Underground Lounge, comedian, author, and self-made mogul Kountry Wayne sits down with the crew in Atlanta for a raw, hilarious, and inspiring conversation about life, comedy, business, and everything in between. Known for his viral skits and clean comedy, Wayne takes us behind the scenes of his rise from hustling in small-town Georgia to building a multimillion-dollar brand rooted in faith, consistency, and authenticity.Wayne opens up about what made him shift from the streets to the stage, why he made a conscious decision to stop cursing in his act, and how his faith continues to guide him both creatively and personally. He talks about raising ten kids, navigating divorce, and why he’s not a fan of marriage paperwork even though he still believes in love and forever partnerships. The conversation gets deeper as the group explores how Wayne balances being funny and spiritual, how he handles industry hate, and the challenge of keeping his comedy grounded while still making it mainstream.He also breaks down the business side, how he wrote and voiced his own audiobook, developed a TV series, and kept ownership of his content instead of waiting for Hollywood’s approval. Whether it’s turning pain into purpose or using social media to outwork traditional gatekeepers, Wayne’s message is clear: bet on yourself and don’t stop working.And of course, it wouldn’t be The Underground Lounge without some off-the-wall moments from the infamous F**K IT BUCKET, revealing the most unexpected times Wayne went viral and his thoughts on celebrity crushes, dating, and the type of woman that really catches his eye.From laughter to life lessons, this episode is packed with motivation, entertainment, and a reminder that you don’t have to compromise your values to get to the top, you just have to believe in your purpose and outwork everybody.

In this special Underground Lounge live episode from Atlanta, R&B icons Jagged Edge step into the spotlight for a raw and unfiltered conversation about music, longevity, and the unbreakable bond between brothers. From their early days in Atlanta to becoming a staple in R&B history, the group reflects on the secrets behind staying together in an industry designed to split groups apart.The fellas don’t hold back, sharing stories about how they navigated the industry’s shift from CD sales to streaming, how label politics almost changed their path, and why today’s landscape isn’t built for groups like it used to be. They even admit to a couple of near-misses, including passing on a song that ended up becoming a massive hit for another artist.They also go deep on the real impact of love songs, how tracks like “Promise” and “Let’s Get Married” helped shape a generation, and reveal some of the personal stories behind the music. Things get even more interesting when the F** It Bucket* comes out, sparking hilarious debates about ghosting, the art of the compliment, and the unexpected wisdom in a woman who “don’t gotta take all her clothes off.”Whether it’s the origin of their group name, behind-the-scenes So So Def moments, or their favorite small cities to perform in, this episode is packed with soulful memories, industry game, and classic Jagged Edge energy. It’s a celebration of real R&B, real friendships, and real talk.

In this episode of The Underground Lounge, actor Kris D. Lofton pulls up for a raw, unfiltered, and hilarious conversation that traces his one-of-a-kind journey from the South Side of Chicago to Hollywood soundstages. You’ve seen him on Ballers, Snowfall, and Power Book IV: Force, but this sit-down reveals the real story behind the grind — and it didn’t start in acting class.Kris shares how a chance audition (that he thought was a baseball tryout) launched his acting career, and why he walked away from a full-ride college scholarship after getting emancipated at 17. From his early days filming Hardball to getting starstruck by Tommy on his first day on set of Power, Kris opens up about the highs, the humbling moments, and the real pressure that comes with landing your dream role on your favorite show.He also talks about his cooking alter ego (“I’m not a chef, just a n***a that cooks”), his relationship with 50 Cent, and what it feels like when the ops start following you around Miami. The episode takes a hilarious turn when he breaks down his theory that entertainers are the “new bad bitches,” and why being outside sometimes overshadows talent in the eyes of the public.And just when you think it can’t get more entertaining, the crew dives into a heated but respectful GOAT debate — Jay-Z vs. Drake, Kobe vs. LeBron, and why longevity, killer instinct, and personal style all shape how greatness is defined.From wild club stories to behind-the-scenes gems, this episode is packed with laughs, truth, and real-life plot twists — just like Kris’s career.