Charlamagne Tha God’s The Black Effect Podcast Network has given rise to several shows since he partnered with iHeartMedia in 2020 to launch the outlet for Black creators. Now in a first for the Black Effect, it is helping a show launch its own network. Black Effect is partnering with rapper-turned show host N.O.R.E. and Miami hip-hop pioneer DJ EFN to expand the impact of their hit Drink Champs series. The new The Drink Champs Podcast Network aims to become an outlet to bring even more new voices into podcast, as well as expand the legacy of culturally impactful storytelling rooted in hip-hop.
“We’re eager to share all we’ve learned over the years in helping trailblaze in this space,” N.O.R.E. and DJ EFN said in a joint statement. “Our goal is to set people up not only for success, but with the tools to forge their own lanes.”
Drink Champs launched in 2016, amassing nearly 100 million downloads over the past nine years. Each episode features co-hosts N.O.R.E. and DJ EFN enjoying free-flowing conversations over drinks with special guests and celebrities. The groups discuss the highs and lows of the hip-hop world from the past to the present, while reminiscing about their careers and events that brought them to today.
Started as an indie podcast, Drink Champs joined Interval Presents, Warner Music Group’s (WMG) in-house podcast network, in 2023. But WMG shuttered the podcast unit last year, which led the hosts to the Black Effect’s doorstep.
“This collaboration between The Black Effect Podcast Network and Drink Champs represents something special within the podcasting world,” said Dollie S. Bishop, President of The Black Effect Podcast Network. “We’re merging the energy and authenticity of hip hop culture with the vast reach of iHeartMedia, creating a unique platform for storytelling and culture-rich conversations. Our shared vision allows us to create a platform that not only amplifies the voices in music and hip hop but also connects with our audience on a deeper level.”
The Drink Champs Podcast Network will debut with ROC Solid, a new original podcast series hosted by hip-hop icon and Roc-A-Fella Records legend Memphis Bleek. After decades of making waves in the music industry, Bleek is flipping the script in the podcast, and now he’s the one asking the questions.
“We are excited to officially launch our network in partnership with iHeartMedia and The Black Effect Podcast Network, with ROC Solid as the first show,” said DJ EFN. “It’s only natural that Bleek—a Drink Champs fan favorite and repeat guest—would be the host of our debut show.”
The new original series will highlight voices from Bleek’s Roc-A-Fella past including N.O.R.E., Young Guru, Freeway, Lenny S, and more, and will expand beyond the music label to serve as a platform for culture-shapers across music, business, sports, and beyond who’ve made a lasting impact.
“After everything I’ve seen, done, and built in this game, it’s time to tell the real stories and hear from others who’ve stayed true to theirs,” said Bleek. “ROC Solid is about more than music. It’s about the mindset, the moves, and the moments that define greatness.”
In celebration of Black Music Month, ROC Solid will kick off with a debut episode featuring Ja Rule. In the conversation, Bleek and Ja Rule will reflect on their journeys as rap artists, Roc-A-Fella memories, and the state of the culture today.
“Launching the network with ROC Solid feels like the perfect fit,” Bishop said. “It’s the kind of show that gets to the heart of the music industry with raw stories, real voices and a lot of truth.”
Black Effect says additional shows for The Drink Champs Podcast Network will be announced later but offered that they will include a diverse range of content that resonates with hip hop fans. As part of its alliance with iHeart, all shows on The Drink Champs Podcast Network will be distributed by iHeartPodcasts and will be available everywhere.
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