In this bonus episode of Selective Ignorance, Mandii B is joined by music journalist Jayson Rodriguez and cultural curator A-King for a deep, soulful dive into the world of R&B. [00:00] The conversation kicks off with a look at R&B’s cultural impact, tracing how the genre has served as both a mirror and a balm for generations of listeners.

[03:08] The trio explores the evolution of R&B within the music industry, from its gospel and soul roots to its intersections with pop and hip-hop. They reflect on [06:01] what truly defines R&B, arguing that the emotional depth, lived experience, and vulnerability in the music are what make it timeless.

[08:48] The discussion shifts to the role of media in shaping R&B’s visibility, and how the genre’s presence has changed on major platforms. From there, they break down [12:07] today’s R&B landscape, spotlighting emerging artists, and asking whether the genre is truly experiencing a renaissance—or if it’s still fighting for space.

[15:00] Hip-hop’s influence on R&B comes into focus, both as a source of collaboration and creative tension. [17:48] Nostalgia enters the chat as the group reminisces about classic sounds, beloved groups, and the feeling that something essential has been lost in the transition to modern trends.

[20:40] They dig into the evolution of vocal standards, noting how raw vocal ability has often taken a back seat to aesthetics and production polish. That leads into [23:53] a conversation about the challenges and opportunities shaping R&B’s future—from streaming culture to label support and artist independence.

The episode doesn’t shy away from nuance. [38:47] They unpack the shift from "thug love" to hyper-masculinity in male R&B, questioning what this means for intimacy and expression. [42:29] The aesthetic evolution of artists—from fashion to persona—gets its own spotlight, while [44:24] nostalgia and critiques of the genre’s supposed "decline" add further layers to the dialogue.

[50:20] The conversation turns to women in R&B, debating whether they're thriving or still being boxed in by industry expectations. As the energy rises, the group shares their dream lineups for [54:36] future R&B tours and collaborations, imagining what a curated revival could look like.

To wrap things up, they discuss [01:00:29] the legacy of R&B through the lens of underrated and overrated albums, and [01:09:26] share their predictions and hopes for the future of the genre—highlighting artists to watch, sonic shifts on the horizon, and the timeless power of R&B when done right.

This episode is a love letter, a critique, and a call to action for anyone who’s ever had their heart healed by a hook or a harmony.

“No Holes Barred: A Dual Manifesto Of Sexual Exploration And Power” w/ Tempest X!
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Selective Ignorance, Welcome To Black Effect! Mandii B invites listeners into her world with a personal look at the journey behind her new book. [00:00] The episode opens with a candid introduction and book promotion, where Mandy shares the inspiration behind the project and the mission she hopes it will accomplish. [02:22] She revisits the purpose of the podcast itself, and the podcast officially joining the Black Effect Podcast Network emphasizing her commitment to challenging conventional thinking and sparking honest dialogue.

[04:48] Mandy talks about the challenges she faced launching the book, including moments of underestimation and the lessons learned about standing firm in her truth despite outside noise. The conversation then shifts in tone as she recounts [08:10] her experiences traveling through the South of France, blending reflections on self-discovery with stories about cultural encounters and personal growth.

The episode introduces [19:35] a brand new segment, “Double Down or Take It Back,” where Mandy revisits her own past opinions and decides whether she still stands by them or has changed her perspective. This honest exercise in self-accountability sets the tone for the deeper topics that follow.

[29:21] The discussion moves into a powerful exploration of sexual assault and consent, where Mandy and her team unpack how societal norms often fail survivors and protect those in power. They examine the importance of clear boundaries, the role of culture in shaping perceptions of consent, and why accountability must be more than a buzzword.

[39:19] The conversation continues with a look at accountability in relationships, focusing on how both partners must own their part in unhealthy patterns while working toward healing. Mandy shares insights on how personal experiences have shaped her views and how growth often requires facing uncomfortable truths.

Toward the close, [52:47] the episode broadens into political commentary, with Mandy weighing in on current events and cultural shifts happening in real time. Finally, [01:10:58] she offers predictions about the unfolding Diddy trial, reflecting on the complicated intersections of celebrity culture, power, and public perception.

“No Holes Barred: A Dual Manifesto Of Sexual Exploration And Power” w/ Tempest X!
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Mandii B Instagram/X @fullcourtpumps

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Selective Ignorance with Mandii B is now on The Black Effect Podcast Network. New episodes dropping every Tuesday.

Follow the host on Social Media
Mandii B Instagram/X @fullcourtpumps

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Instagram @selectiveignorancepod
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See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.