Less than two weeks ago, Statik Selektah released his ninth compilation-style album, The Balancing Act. The esteemed producer/DJ/Showoff Records founder involves a cast that includes Nas, Black Thought, Killer Mike, Sean Price, Jack Harlow, Method Man, Benny The Butcher, Evidence, Joey Bada$$, and Jadakiss, to name a few. However, the album, its title, and concept supersede any compilation. As Statik shared with Ambrosia For Heads’ What’s The Headline podcast, the collection of songs fit 2020, for Statik, and for so many of us.

In a roughly one-hour discussion, Statik opens up about putting together a labor of love in music form. The veteran explains how The Balancing Act falls on the 25th-anniversary of a meaningful milestone in his career. Statik highlights songs, ranging from “Time” with emerging multi-platinum sensation Jack Harlow, to the profound significance of linking posthumous Sean P! vocals alongside Thirstin Howl The 3rd on “Ralph Laurens Closet.” Statik also walks fans through the making of Nas and Joey Bada$$’ first-ever collaboration.

Statik Selektah Releases His 1st Instrumental Album. Stream It Here.

However, one of the interview highlights is Statik underlining his love of Hip-Hop culture and music, and his conviction to preserve it. “I’m gonna protect this Hip-Hop sh*t. Because if you don’t—and I know you guys [Ambrosia For Heads] do too—if we don’t, it will go to sh*t. It has to certain levels. But at the same time, it hasn’t, because Griselda is shining, Alchemist and Freddie Gibbs are up for a f*ckin’ Grammy [with Alfredo]—things are great, but at the same time, there’s a lot of nonsense going on,” he said ahead of the 42:00 mark.

A few minutes later, Statik added what Heads can do for the culture’s protection. “Education is everything for the next generation to understand what Hip-Hop actually is. I know there’s a lot of people teaching college courses now, but I think that should trickle down to high school more—even junior high school, because Hip-Hop is one of the most powerful cultures in the world.” The ShowOff founder points to fashion, language, and other places that are informed by Hip-Hop. At the same time, he contends that the word is also used too loosely. “[The word] gets thrown around, and that’s the part I don’t like. I don’t care if someone says ‘Rap,’ but ‘Hip-Hop’ should be protected because it’s not a novelty; it’s a way of life.” Statik Selektah believes the culture shaped politics, peace movements, and more. “Hip-Hop’s had a lot of great, great influence on the world.” The Balancing Act captures this lifelong Head’s passion for what he advocates.

Heads can catch other recent AFH What’s The Headline interviews with Lyric Jones, The LOX, MC Eiht, Mobb Deep’s Havoc, Duckwrth, Lord Finesse, and Prince Paul & Don Newkirk. All episodes of the show are available wherever you stream your pods.

Statik Selektah, Paul Wall & Benny Team Up With A Message From The Soul (Audio)

Here Is What Else Is Happening Of Note:

Breakin’ or break-dancing is officially an Olympic sport. It will make its a debut at the Paris games in 2024. (ESPN)

Kurtis Blow has undergone a successful heart transplant. (Revolt)

Boo-Ya T.R.I.B.E. MC and producer Ganxsta Ridd has died from COVID-19. Ted Devoux was 55 years old. (Mxdwn)

Charlamagne Tha God signs five-year extension with iHeartMedia. C.T.G. will remain at his Breakfast Club post. (Variety)

Biz Markie is reportedly still being hospitalized following some serious health complications. (HipHopDX)

#BonusBeat: Ambrosia For Heads’ official playlist, featuring new music from Statik Selektah’s The Balancing Act as well as joints from AZ, Tobe Nwigwe, Royce 5’9, Black Thought, Busta Rhymes, Ill Bill, Nana, Cordae, Lyric Jones, Nas, Oddisee, Boldy James, Benny The Butcher, 2 Chainz, REASON, Jack Harlow, MC Eiht, The LOX, and others.

Press photograph provided by Statik Selektah.