Today’s guest, THERAVADA, has experienced a huge 2025 so far. Releasing his latest solo album, THE YEARS WE HAVE, producing half of Earl Sweatshirt’s Live Laugh Love, contributing a guest verse to Evidence’s Unlearning Vol. 2, and producing a bonus track off billy woods’ new album.
You’d think, given the build-up of features and production credits that were released before his new album, that THERAVADA meticulously calculated this expertly crafted roll-out. But on the contrary, it was simply a serendipitous coincidence, made possible by years and years of dedication to his craft, a true love for the art, and a genuine desire to build authentic connections with those in the community.
In this episode, we discuss the importance of hip-hop and New York on his upbringing, working with Earl on Live Laugh Love, the signature sound of THERAVADA, and the creative process behind his deeply personal new album, THE YEARS WE HAVE.
Listen on to learn more about one of the best dual-threat rappers and producers in the game.
Finally, for folks in Toronto, I have a special treat for you... I will be hosting an evening of amazing hip-hop and experimental music featuring cross-country acts that include: Wave Generators, jesse the Tree, NAHreally, GhostboyRJ, and bridge of sand.
Join us on October 16th at BSMT 254 - tickets on sale now, buy here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/rmpp-presents-wave-generators-jesse-the-tree-nahreally-live-in-toronto-tickets-1672174632339?aff=oddtdtcreator
The Plug (0:41).
The Interview (2:45).
The response to recent releases (3:36).
The importance of New York in THERAVADA’s career (9:34).
The importance of hip-hop on THERAVADA’s upbringing (15:09).
THERAVADA’s relationship with Earl (21:28).
The “THERAVADA sound” (36:19).
Key influences to THERAVADA’s style (43:24).
Primary inspirations to the introspective THE YEARS WE HAVE (50:31).
The spiritual / mental impact of creating TYWH (56:16).
Instrumental direction of TYWH (1:04:29).
Points of pride from creating TYWH (1:09:17).
TYWH pop-up event and future Animoss album (1:12:35).
Buy/stream THE YEARS WE HAVE here: https://its2000.bandcamp.com/album/the-years-we-have
Follow THERAVADA on Twitter here: https://x.com/THERAVADA
Follow THERAVADA on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/thrvd/?hl=en
Intro/Outro beat by: BLOODBLIXING
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