The Downside with Gianmarco Soresi The Downside with Gianmarco Soresi

#403 The Death of Freestyle with Prof

Sep 8, 2026 · 1h 35m

Summary

Russell Peters joins the show to discuss his Broadway run, the struggles of touring in New York, and the music industry's shift to streaming. He shares personal stories from his childhood in Minneapolis, including his father's death and his early experiences with battle rap. The conversation also covers his transition from freestyle battles to writing songs, the impact of Eminem on his career, and his views on AI and artist compensation.

Topics discussed

Intro and 9/11 anniversary podcast promo Touring struggles in New York vs. other cities Stand-up comedy style and music royalties Music industry gatekeepers and AI concerns Merch sales and meet-and-greet etiquette Live show sound mixing and freestyle rap Growing up in Minneapolis and early music influences Sponsor segment and Fashion Neurosis promo Shania Twain, Eminem, and learning about sex Relationship with father and his passing 8 Mile movie and General Z canceling Eminem Roast battles and freestyling with friends Freestyle danger and roast battle attacks Scribble Jam and getting features from artists Negotiating verses and writing hooks Ghostwriting and the state of rap music Monday Music Club promo and musical theater Stephen Sondheim and fake rap criticism Twitter jokes and defending Eminem's legacy Billboard rules and album sales controversy Industry independence and AI in music Busking, selfies, and Broadway notes Dustin Hoffman, Mount Everest, and veneers Stage door etiquette and Hawaii trip Poker nights, Patreon, and tour announcement
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