I liked the idea of having two shorter shows that supported the longer actual 50 For 50 episode. The Top 5 was an easy one because it was putting together a list, but in audio form. But I also wanted a show where we could review a current music documentary, book, show, or whatever else was related to music and the artists we were talking about. I’ve always loved Ad-Rock’s line from “The New Style” when he started that song by saying, “And on the cool check-in…”

What the hell is the cool check-in? I’m not sure. But it’s a dope line and I’ve always wanted to use it on a project. So I decided that we’d use that as the title of our third podcast within this project.

And then, I decided to start writing my own Substack. And I looked and looked for a title. And that title kept coming back to The Cool Check-In. But I couldn’t steal that. Not from 50 For 50. But I remembered that I had a second option to The Cool Check-In that I really liked. It was called The Dope Spot. And here we are. The Cool Check-In is now my personal Substack name and The Dope Spot is the new name of our podcast.

In this episode:

• Mike and I talk about John Mayer’s new single, “Tom and Jerry,” announced on his 49th birthday. John should’ve been a part of this podcast. If only he were one year older.

• We also talked about Jay-Z choosing himself to be the half-time act at the Super Bowl. That was always going to happen.

• Lastly, we talked about John Legend’s new album, Muse, produced by Pharrell Williams.

Listen above or find us everywhere else below.

• 🌐 Website: 50for50.net

• 🎙️ Apple Podcasts: 50 For 50: Life, Music, Friendship

• 🎧 Spotify: 50 For 50

• 📺 YouTube: @50_For_50

A Different World is back y’all. It’s pretty incredible that Netflix decided to re-boot (re-launch?) a show from the Cosby universe back when sitcoms ruled Thursday nights. But there might not be a better time than now, in 2026, when we need more culture on our screens.

Mike and I discuss the first two episodes of the new series and wonder where things may go. Might we see some Lisa Bonet?

One of our favorites, Ne-Yo, dropped a new album, and it’s country-inspired. Mike and I dug in and found it to be very good and worth a listen. While we both wouldn’t put it on par with Year of the Gentleman, which we went into full detail on a prior episode of 50 For 50, it’s an excellent lean for him in 2026 and shows that the man still has chops.

Listen above, or you can watch the YouTube video below.

Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@50_For_50

More from the show: https://www.50for50.net/

Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/50-for-50-life-music-friendship/id1857746432

Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0ADmN7bp4fXQzAZsnSuFQj

The central problem addressed is the "lost crossover"—the moment Selena was murdered just as she was poised to dominate the English-speaking market. By analyzing her business savvy, fashion branding, and fan connection, Garrett and Mike explore the provocative theory: Would Selena have achieved Taylor Swift-level global dominance had she lived?

Listeners will benefit from a deep breakdown of her musical evolution and a critical look at how the documentary handles her legacy without focusing solely on the tragedy. Whether you are a lifelong fan or a newcomer discovering her through Netflix, this episode contextualizes Selena’s impact on modern pop stardom.

Contact Us

https://www.50for50.net/

https://www.youtube.com/@50_For_50

GG@BSPNMedia.com