Queue Points

Queue Points LLC
Queue Points

Queue Points is the Black Podcasting Award and Ambie Award nominated music podcast that is dropping the needle on Black Music history and celebrating Black music through meaningful dialogue. The show is hosted by DJ Sir Daniel and Jay Ray. Visit https://queuepoints.com to learn more. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp

  1. Triple Threat Queens: Debbie Allen, Phylicia Rashad & Sheryl Lee Ralph’s Musical Legacy

    3 DAYS AGO

    Triple Threat Queens: Debbie Allen, Phylicia Rashad & Sheryl Lee Ralph’s Musical Legacy

    In this electrifying episode of Queue Points, DJ Sir Daniel and Jay Ray drop the needle on the musical legacies of three legendary Black women who dominated stage, screen, and sound—Debbie Allen, Phylicia Rashad, and Sheryl Lee Ralph. Did you know these powerhouse performers also pursued music careers? From Debbie Allen’s Special Look album, which could have been a hit if released just a year earlier, to Phylicia Rashad’s disco-infused Josephine Superstar, and Sheryl Lee Ralph’s club anthem In The Evening, these women proved they were more than just icons in acting. Join us as we break down their impact, celebrate their versatility, and reminisce about the Broadway-to-Billboard moments that often get overlooked. Expect laughter, deep musical knowledge, and a celebration of the Black women who paved the way for today’s multi-talented artists. 🎶 5, 6, 7, 8… It’s time to pay in sweat! 🔊 Hit play, share, and subscribe to Queue Points for more Black music history! This episode is sponsored by "What's Poppin' Penny?"  Parents, caregivers, teachers and trusted adults, go on over to YouTube and subscribe to "What's Poppin' Penny?" so that your Brownstone buddies can check out the animated version of the podcast when it is released this Spring. Subscribe by visiting: https://qpnt.net/wppsub1 Links to Content Referenced in This Episode "Debbie Allen: Doing It All - Her Way!!!" (Ebony Magazine - November, 1989)"Sheryl Ralph's Dreams Are Coming True" (Billboard - February 9, 1985)Phylicia Allen - "Josephine Superstar"Sheryl Lee Ralph - "In The Evening"Debbie Allen - "Special Look"Friday Night Videos (1989) Hosted by Debbie Allen and Kadeem Hardison Get More From Us Pandora: https://qpnt.net/pandoraRead Our Magazine: https://magazine.queuepoints.com Support Us Become A Member: https://magazine.queuepoints.comShop Our Store: https://store.queuepoints.comBuy Us A Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/queuepointspodContribute: https://cash.app/$queuepointspod Follow Us On Social Media Facebook: https://facebook.com/queuepointspodInstagram: https://instagram.com/queuepointspodTwitter: a href="https://twitter.com/queuepointspod" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

    31 min
  2. Sexyy Red, Kendrick Lamar, and Hip Hop's Future

    FEB 14

    Sexyy Red, Kendrick Lamar, and Hip Hop's Future

    Hip-hop is always evolving, but where is it headed next? In this episode of Queue Points, DJ Sir Daniel and Jay Ray drop the needle on the latest cultural shifts shaping the future of the genre. From Sexyy Red’s viral moment on The Jennifer Hudson Show to Kendrick Lamar’s game-changing halftime performance, the duo unpacks the growing tension between artistry, entertainment, and respectability politics. Are we witnessing the golden era of female rap, or is a commercial bust on the horizon? What role do gimmicks, image, and corporate influence play in shaping today’s hip-hop stars? And could a return to rap crews and creative collectives help revitalize the culture? With sharp insights, humor, and a deep love for Black music history, Queue Points dissects hip-hop’s evolution, its past inspirations, and where the next wave might take us. Don’t miss this conversation that blends education, nostalgia, and unfiltered cultural commentary. This episode is sponsored by "What's Poppin' Penny?" Parents, caregivers, teachers and trusted adults, go on over to YouTube and subscribe to "What's Poppin' Penny?" so that your Brownstone buddies can check out the animated version of the podcast when it is released this Spring. Subscribe by visiting: https://qpnt.net/wppsub1 Links to Content Referenced in This Episode KRS-One on Culture vs Corporate!! from B-Real TV Chapters 00:00 Intro Theme 00:16 Welcome to Queue Points Podcast 00:44 Jennifer Hudson Show and Sexyy Red 02:44 Shame and Respectability Politics 05:44 Women in Hip Hop: Then and Now 09:17 The Future of Female Rap 14:35 The Role of Gimmicks in Hip Hop 17:56 The Importance of Crews and Groups 21:34 What's Poppin' Penny? Ad 23:06 Kendrick Lamar Halftime Show 26:14 Controversy Over Kendrick Lamar's Performance 28:35 Cultural Cleansing and Critical Thinking 31:50 The Battle Between Culture and Corporations 40:37 The Chitlin Circuit Tour and Ticket Prices 44:37 Celebrating Spike Lee's School Daze 49:13 Hip Hop Love Songs 53:41 Wrapping Up and Final Thoughts 55:15 Outro Theme Get More From Us Pandora: https://qpnt.net/pandoraRead Our Magazine: https://magazine.queuepoints.com Support Us Become A Member: https://magazine.queuepoints.comShop Our Store: https://store.queuepoints.comBuy Us A Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/queuepointspodContribute: https://cash.app/$queuepointspod Follow Us On Social Media Facebook: https://facebook.com/queuepointspodInstagram: https://instagram.com/queuepointspodTwitter: https://twitter.com/queuepointspodTikTok: a href="https://tiktok.com/@queuepointspod" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

    56 min
  3. Larry Smith is Hip-Hop’s Forgotten Architect

    FEB 11

    Larry Smith is Hip-Hop’s Forgotten Architect

    Before the term "super producer" became a staple in hip-hop, Larry Smith was already crafting legendary productions that shaped the genre. On this episode of Queue Points, DJ Sir Daniel and Jay Ray drop the needle on one of hip-hop’s most unsung pioneers—Larry Smith. From his groundbreaking work with Run-D.M.C. and Whodini to his influence on the early sound of Def Jam, Smith’s musicianship set the foundation for what would become hip-hop’s golden era. But why isn’t his name as widely recognized as other production legends? The duo explores Smith’s deep roots as a bass player, his innovative production style, and why he ultimately walked away from hip-hop at its commercial peak. Join us as we celebrate the man behind classics like ‘Sucker MCs,’ ‘Friends,’ and ‘Freaks Come Out at Night,’ and discuss how his legacy still echoes in today’s music. If you’re a fan of hip-hop history, classic beats, and deep storytelling, this episode is a must-listen. Watch JayQuan’s “The Genius of Super Producer Larry Smith” on The Foundation: https://qpnt.net/TpWD #LarrySmith #HipHopHistory #SuperProducer #RunDMC #Whodini #OldSchoolHipHop This episode is sponsored by "What's Poppin' Penny?"  Parents, caregivers, teachers and trusted adults, go on over to YouTube and subscribe to "What's Poppin' Penny?" so that your Brownstone buddies can check out the animated version of the podcast when it is released this Spring. Subscribe by visiting: https://qpnt.net/wppsub1 Chapters 00:00 Intro Theme 00:00 Welcome to the Show 00:36 Introducing Larry Smith: The Unsung Pioneer 01:30 Larry Smith's Musicianship and Production Style 03:57 The Impact of Working with a Singular Producer 05:41 Larry Smith's Collaborations and Hits 08:34 Larry Smith's Legacy and Influence 12:40 What's Poppin' Penny? Ad 14:12 The Importance of 'Action' by Orange Crush 19:18 Larry Smith's Departure from Hip Hop 21:18 Conclusion and Final Thoughts 23:59 Supporting Queue Points Podcast 25:07 Outro Theme Get More From Us Pandora: https://qpnt.net/pandoraRead Our Magazine: https://magazine.queuepoints.com Support Us Become A Member: https://magazine.queuepoints.comShop Our Store: https://store.queuepoints.comBuy Us A Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/queuepointspodContribute: https://cash.app/$queuepointspod Follow Us On Social Media Facebook: https://facebook.com/queuepointspodInstagram: https://instagram.com/queuepointspodTwitter: https://twitter.com/queuepointspodTikTok: https://tiktok.com/@queuepointspod This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podtrac -...

    25 min
  4. The Grammys vs. The Moment: Are They Reading the Room?

    JAN 17

    The Grammys vs. The Moment: Are They Reading the Room?

    The Grammy Awards are supposed to be a celebration of musical excellence, but when natural disasters strike, should the show go on? In this episode of Queue Points Live, DJ Sir Daniel and Jay Ray dive deep into the controversy surrounding the Grammys' decision to proceed despite the ongoing wildfires in Los Angeles. They discuss celebrity philanthropy, asking whether public figures have a responsibility to use their influence for good—or if it's all just great PR. The conversation expands into a broader discussion about musicians' role in humanitarian efforts, reflecting on iconic moments like “We Are the World” and whether today's artists could pull off a similar collective action. Plus, the hosts examine the impact of modern celebrity culture, the challenges of organizing relief efforts in the digital age, and whether award shows should adapt in times of crisis. As always, this episode blends education with entertainment, bringing insightful commentary on the music industry, culture, and history—all with the signature Queue Points flair. Tune in for a compelling discussion on music, responsibility, and the power of artists to make a difference. #Grammys #CelebrityPhilanthropy #MusicIndustry #AwardShows #WeAreTheWorld Chapters 00:00 Intro Theme 00:16 Introduction and Greetings 01:02 Weather and Snow Stories 02:33 Natural Disasters and Their Impact 04:13 Celebrity Responses to Disasters 07:31 Award Shows During Crises 13:19 The Role of Celebrities in Humanitarian Efforts 19:11 Collective Humanitarian Projects in Music 22:45 Modern Challenges in Organizing Humanitarian Efforts 30:19 Celebrity Opinions and Social Issues 32:06 Inauguration Performers and Country Music 33:22 The Village People Controversy 37:24 Wendy Williams' Conservatorship Struggles 42:23 Drake's Lawsuit Against Universal Music 47:04 Jay Ray's Ancestry DNA Results 49:18 Upcoming Events and Closing Remarks 55:10 Outro Theme Get More From Us Pandora: https://qpnt.net/pandoraRead Our Magazine: https://magazine.queuepoints.com Support Us Become A Member: https://magazine.queuepoints.comShop Our Store: https://store.queuepoints.comBuy Us A Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/queuepointspodContribute: https://cash.app/$queuepointspod Follow Us On Social Media Facebook: https://facebook.com/queuepointspodInstagram: https://instagram.com/queuepointspodTwitter: https://twitter.com/queuepointspodTikTok: https://tiktok.com/@queuepointspod Mentioned in this episode: What's Poppin' Penny on YouTube  Parents, caregivers, teachers and trusted adults, go on over to YouTube and subscribe to "What's Poppin' Penny?" so that your Brownstone buddies can check out the animated version of the podcast when it is released this...

    57 min
  5. Idris Goodwin on 'Doctor De Soto' and Sparking Imagination Through Storytelling

    JAN 14

    Idris Goodwin on 'Doctor De Soto' and Sparking Imagination Through Storytelling

    On this episode of Queue Points, we sit down with the award-winning playwright, creative, and author Idris Goodwin. We discuss his upcoming play, an adaptation of William Steig’s Doctor De Soto, which opens at the Alliance Theatre in Atlanta on January 18, 2024. Idris shares his journey of storytelling rooted in community and the importance of music in children’s theater. Don't miss this inspiring conversation that celebrates art, legacy, and intergenerational storytelling. Learn more about Doctor De Soto at the Alliance Theatre: https://qpnt.net/desoto-alliance #AllianceTheatre #BlackCreatives #DoctorDeSoto #TheaterForYouth #Storytelling Chapters 00:00 Intro Theme 00:15 Idris Goodwin Bio 02:32 Welcome to the Show 04:42 The Impact of Nikki Giovanni on Idris 05:46 The Role of Music in Children's Theater 10:24 Exploring Doctor De Soto 18:34 The Importance of Community in Theater 22:43 Closing 24:01 Outro Theme Get More From Us Pandora: https://qpnt.net/pandoraRead Our Magazine: https://magazine.queuepoints.com Support Us Become A Member: https://magazine.queuepoints.comShop Our Store: https://store.queuepoints.comBuy Us A Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/queuepointspodContribute: https://cash.app/$queuepointspod Follow Us On Social Media Facebook: https://facebook.com/queuepointspodInstagram: https://instagram.com/queuepointspodTwitter: https://twitter.com/queuepointspodTikTok: https://tiktok.com/@queuepointspod Mentioned in this episode: What's Poppin' Penny on YouTube  Parents, caregivers, teachers and trusted adults, go on over to YouTube and subscribe to "What's Poppin' Penny?" so that your Brownstone buddies can check out the animated version of the podcast when it is released this Spring. What's Poppin' Penny? February 2025 This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp

    26 min
  6. R. Kelly’s Legacy: Is He Really America’s Greatest Songwriter?

    JAN 10

    R. Kelly’s Legacy: Is He Really America’s Greatest Songwriter?

    In this lively episode of Queue Points Live, hosts DJ Sir Daniel and Jay Ray tackle one of the most polarizing questions in Black music history: Is R. Kelly the greatest American songwriter? 🤔 (Spoiler Altert - NO, he's not.) Fueled by viral social media hot takes, they unpack the complexity of R. Kelly’s legacy—from his undeniable musical genius to the societal implications of celebrating his work in light of his personal controversies. Through a mix of humor, cultural critique, and deep analysis, they explore how R. Kelly’s music became a cornerstone of Black nostalgia, his mastery of the pop music formula, and the reasons his songs still resonate despite his downfall. Is it possible to separate the art from the artist? And where does R. Kelly stand in the pantheon of great songwriters like Smokey Robinson and Carole King? Tune in to find out! #BlackMusicHistory #PodcastDiscussion #RKellyLegacy #MusicAndControversy, #SongwritingDebate Chapters 00:00 Intro Theme 00:00 Welcome and Shout out to Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity Inc. 01:17 Empathy for Los Angeles 04:49 Hot Takes on Social Media 05:29 R. Kelly's Controversial Legacy 12:38 The Impact of R. Kelly's Music 16:24 Debating R. Kelly's Songwriting 20:56 Nostalgia and R. Kelly's Influence 25:27 Trapped in the Closet Phenomenon 28:15 Upcoming Event: Trapped in the Closet Watch Party 29:32 R. Kelly's Magnetic Persona and Pop Music Formula 31:14 Analyzing 'You Are Not Alone' Lyrics 31:58 The Evolution of Pop Music and Songwriting 36:47 The Controversy of R. Kelly's Legacy 41:53 Community Reactions and Final Thoughts 48:20 Closing Remarks and Announcements 50:08 Closing Theme Get More From Us Pandora: https://qpnt.net/pandoraRead Our Magazine: https://magazine.queuepoints.com Support Us Become A Member: https://magazine.queuepoints.comShop Our Store: https://store.queuepoints.comBuy Us A Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/queuepointspodContribute: https://cash.app/$queuepointspod Follow Us On Social Media Facebook: https://facebook.com/queuepointspodInstagram: https://instagram.com/queuepointspodTwitter: https://twitter.com/queuepointspodTikTok: https://tiktok.com/@queuepointspod Mentioned in this episode: What's Poppin' Penny on YouTube  Parents, caregivers, teachers and trusted adults, go on over to YouTube and subscribe to "What's Poppin' Penny?" so that your Brownstone buddies can check out the animated version of the podcast when it is released this Spring. What's Poppin' Penny? February 2025 This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp

    52 min
  7. Y2K: The Bug That Shook the World and Saved the Future

    JAN 7

    Y2K: The Bug That Shook the World and Saved the Future

    Step into the time capsule with DJ Sir Daniel and Jay Ray as Queue Points rewinds to the dawn of the millennium! From the global Y2K panic to the futuristic vibes that shaped music, fashion, and pop culture, this episode explores the fears, fun, and moments that defined the year 2000. Relive the hype of iconic hits, flashy music videos, and trendsetting TV shows like 106 & Park, and reflect on how Black culture embraced the sci-fi aesthetic of the new millennium. Packed with humor, sharp insights, and nostalgia, this episode is a celebration of resilience, creativity, and cultural evolution. Whether you lived through Y2K or are hearing about it for the first time, Queue Points is here to drop the needle on Black music history and keep the conversation spinning. #Y2K #MillenniumBug #BlackMusicHistory #BlackPodcasters Chapters 00:00 Intro Theme 00:16 Welcome to Queue Points Podcast 00:40 Reflecting on the Year 2000 01:44 Y2K: The Global Panic 03:25 Breaking Down the Y2K Bug 08:00 The Cultural Impact of Y2K 12:29 Hip Hop and the Millennium 23:35 The Legacy of 106 & Park 27:46 Fashion Trends of the 2000s 33:43 Conclusion and Farewell 34:58 Closing Theme Get More From Us Pandora: https://qpnt.net/pandoraRead Our Magazine: https://magazine.queuepoints.com Support Us Become A Member: https://magazine.queuepoints.comShop Our Store: https://store.queuepoints.comBuy Us A Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/queuepointspodContribute: https://cash.app/$queuepointspod Follow Us On Social Media Facebook: https://facebook.com/queuepointspodInstagram: https://instagram.com/queuepointspodTwitter: https://twitter.com/queuepointspodTikTok: https://tiktok.com/@queuepointspod Mentioned in this episode: What's Poppin' Penny on YouTube  Parents, caregivers, teachers and trusted adults, go on over to YouTube and subscribe to "What's Poppin' Penny?" so that your Brownstone buddies can check out the animated version of the podcast when it is released this Spring. What's Poppin' Penny? February 2025 This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp

    37 min
  8. The Good, the Gag, and the Ugly: Queue Points Reflects on 2024

    12/31/2024

    The Good, the Gag, and the Ugly: Queue Points Reflects on 2024

    Queue Points is the podcast that drops the needle on Black music history and celebrates Black culture. In this special year-end episode, DJ Sir Daniel and Jay Ray take listeners on a reflective journey through 2024—a year that moved fast, shook things up, and left us with plenty to unpack. From personal milestones and hard-earned victories to jaw-dropping social media moments and cultural shifts, our hosts highlight the Good, the Gag, and the Ugly of the year. Jay Ray shares his pride in completing the AIR New Voices AMPLIFY program, while DJ Sir Daniel opens up about navigating career changes and discovering new creative opportunities. The conversation gets candid as they discuss the rise of unlikely internet stars, the challenges of preserving Black cultural legacy in the digital age, and the losses that rocked the music and DJ community. They also emphasize the importance of leaning into personal gifts, giving grace, and creating art as a form of resilience in turbulent times. Whether you're here for the laughs, the lessons, or the love of music, this episode has something for you. As we close out 2024 and look ahead to 2025, Queue Points reminds us to keep shining, keep creating, and keep the culture alive. Key Highlights: Reflecting on personal and professional wins in 2024The rise of social media-driven celebrities and what it says about cultureThe impact of recent losses in the DJ and music communitiesEmbracing talent and leaning into creativity in uncertain times #2024Reflections #TheGoodTheGagTheUgly #YearInReview2024 #ShineYourLight Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:37 Reflecting on 2024 03:58 The Good of 2024 08:53 The Gag of 2024 18:39 The Ugly of 2024 30:35 Conclusion and Looking Forward 32:11 Closing Theme Get More From Us Pandora: https://qpnt.net/pandoraRead Our Magazine: https://magazine.queuepoints.com Support Us Become A Member: https://magazine.queuepoints.comShop Our Store: https://store.queuepoints.comBuy Us A Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/queuepointspodContribute: https://cash.app/$queuepointspod Follow Us On Social Media Facebook: https://facebook.com/queuepointspodInstagram: https://instagram.com/queuepointspodTwitter: https://twitter.com/queuepointspodTikTok: https://tiktok.com/@queuepointspod Mentioned in this episode: What's Poppin' Penny on YouTube  Parents, caregivers, teachers and trusted adults, go on over to YouTube and subscribe to "What's Poppin' Penny?" so that your Brownstone buddies can check out the animated version of the podcast when it is released this Spring. What's Poppin' Penny? February 2025 This podcast uses the following third-party...

    34 min

Trailer

5
out of 5
16 Ratings

About

Queue Points is the Black Podcasting Award and Ambie Award nominated music podcast that is dropping the needle on Black Music history and celebrating Black music through meaningful dialogue. The show is hosted by DJ Sir Daniel and Jay Ray. Visit https://queuepoints.com to learn more. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp

You Might Also Like

To listen to explicit episodes, sign in.

Stay up to date with this show

Sign in or sign up to follow shows, save episodes, and get the latest updates.

Select a country or region

Africa, Middle East, and India

Asia Pacific

Europe

Latin America and the Caribbean

The United States and Canada