A Story Of Love, Theft, Dope Beats, And The Legendary Chris Lighty

Chris Lighty's story is the story of hip-hop, in one person. 

Mogul is an insanely ambitious undertaking by the team at Gimlet Media and the Loud Speakers Network. It's the story of the mythical Chris Lighty and his rise from the Bronx to the boardroom to become one of the most powerful players in hip-hop. He managed Nas, Missy Elliot, LL Cool J, Busta Rhymes, and 50 Cent among many others. 

First, you need to know that Chris Lighty was found dead in the Bronx in 2012. The proclaimed cause of death: suicide. This rocked the world of hip-hop, and personally rocked Mogul's host Reggie Ossé, AKA Combat Jack. Throughout Mogul's six-part series, Reggie dives deep into Lighty's journey, the stigma of suicide and depression in the hip-hop community, the response from friends and family, and Reggie's own intimate connection with the aftermath of Chris' passing.

This is one of the few podcasts I've re-listened to in its entirety for a couple of reasons. It is an unbelievable story produced with such vivacity and life force. The music is outstanding, the writing is brutally honest, and the importance of Lighty's story in the music industry is unquestionable. Another big reason is that shortly after this podcast wrapped production, beloved host and hip-hop personality Reggie Ossé died of cancer. 

The first time I heard this series, Reggie was alive. I was so captivated by his telling of the story that I measured all other shows I listened to against it. It was real, it was vulnerable, and did justice to a highly complicated figure. With Combat Jack gone, his voice somehow has even more weight and emotion to it, and makes this show pivotal listening for anyone invested in the human experience and the nuances of success.

Mogul totally took my brain into overdrive, left me heartbroken, inspired, and fired up. This show will sound as fresh and beautiful in 40 years as it does today. That – is a work of art. There are few shows I recommend with more urgency. Listen now.