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Set the Bar Mixshow

DJ Oplex

Rated top 50 best underground Hip-Hop podcast, The Set The Bar Mixshow is a podcast hosted by DJ Oplex that caters to music lovers who appreciate good vibes and meaningful conversations. It features a mix of hip-hop, R&B, and soul music while delving into topics like culture, mental health, and spirituality. This show provides a space for listeners to enjoy high-quality music and engage in thought-provoking discussions, making it a unique experience for those who want to explore self-discovery and consciousness through music.

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S3 · E125
Saturday · 1 hr
Authenticity Trap: Ep. 125
In Episode 125 of the Set the Bar Mix Show, the conversation tackles hip-hop's complex relationship with the concept of "keeping it real." Drawing a comical but sharp parallel between the viral scammer who cosplayed as a San Francisco 49ers player to finesse women and the rap industry's surplus of studio gangsters, the episode examines how fans eagerly consume street-life fiction. While the culture demands "no cap" lyrics, this relentless emphasis on authenticity ultimately becomes a double-edged sword. Listen to the full episode to find out exactly why this toxic standard is hip-hop's biggest scam hiding in plain sight. Access this and all previous episodes at www.oplexmusic.com Episode 125 Playlist Feelin A Way – Fat Joe & Steven Mackie (Organized Rhyme) | 4:44 Back In Paris – Paul Wall, Termanology, & DJ.Fresh (Repeat Repeat Repeat) | 3:02 Good Mournings – Ransom (The Price of Clarity) | 3:48 Show Me Love – Skilla Baby (The Price Of Fame) | 3:08 Bunce Road Blues – J. Cole, Future & Tems (The Fall-Off) | 5:11 Black Love – Rapsody & Malice (God Gotta Afro & Gold Hoops) | 5:36 Reasons – Dani Offline (reasons) | 2:14 Really Real – DJ Chose, Chose & Lil' Keke (Nostalgia 3) | 3:22 40 Nights – The Game & Kanye West (The Documentary III) | 4:21 Peace Sign – MARCO PLUS (Peace Sign)
S3 · E124
August 15 · 51 min
Gooses & Snakes - Ep. 124
Brace yourself for a throwback edition of STB! This week's Artist Showcase features a heavy-hitting appearance by Dennis Hobbs, who also faces the heat in our signature "5 Deadly Questions" segment. We are diving deep into his brand-new project, SILLY GOOSE, alongside fresh drops from rap heavyweights like LE$, Busta Rhymes, Logic, Freddie Gibbs, and more. For all info on DJ Oplex, visit www.oplexmusic.com. Artist, email your tracks to djoplex@oplexmusic.com Peace, Love and Music on Top Featured Tracklist Catch Me If You Can – Logic (Paradise Records Compilation) [3:35] Runnin in Place –LE$ is More Vol. 4... Current Affairs*) [2:38] BANG – Courtney Bell, Royce Da 5'9 & Benny The Butcher (It Gets Greater Later) [3:00] Summertime Homicide – Freddie Gibbs (You Only Die 1nce (Deluxe)) [3:02] SPAZZZ – Busta Rhymes & J Dilla (SPAZZZ) [3:17] Chest Hurt – Dennis Hobbs (SILLY GOOSE) [3:17] Rice & Cornbread – Dennis Hobbs (SILLY GOOSE) [2:39] Insane Behavior, Pt. 2 – Dennis Hobbs (SILLY GOOSE) [2:39]
S3 · E123
July 19 · 58 min
Parental Advisory: Ep. 123
Hip-Hop is undeniably a multiverse of messages , acting as a raw mirror to society and black culture while simultaneously serving as arguably the most profane music genre in the world. In this episode, DJ Oplex strips back the layers of respectability politics to explore the genre's complex relationship with explicit expression. By dissecting the polarizing reception of Yung Miami's smash anthem, "Spend Dat", we confront a glaring double standard in modern music curation. Why does a listener condemn a high-energy anthem of criminal independence, yet willingly applaud tracks that vividly celebrate extreme violence, street trauma or immorality? This deep dive challenges how audiences digest urban culture. We break down the different archetypes in Black culture, proving that Hip-Hop is not a monolith, but a vast collection of contrasting truths. Marlon Craft – Find Me (From the album: The Internet Killed The Neighborhood) – 3:42 Navy Blue – Sir Render (From the album: Sir Render) – 3:06 Blu & Exile (feat. Black Thought) – T.S.O.D. (From the album: Time Heals Everything) – 3:26 Juicy J & Project Pat – Southern Hospitality (From the album: Dem Goats) – 3:01 Rick Ross & Jeezy - Maybach Music VII (feat. Don Toliver From the album: Set In Stone) Lucky Daye – Nowhere Fast (From the album: Nowhere Fast) – 2:57 Black Milk – FIN (From the album: FIN) – 2:21 GENA – Lead It Up (From the album: Lead It Up) – 2:49 Deante' Hitchcock – Pretty Things (From the album: Junkie in The Sun) – 4:37 Stixx & Hugh Masekela (feat. The Bless) – Market Place 2.0 (From the album: Market Place 2.0)
S3 · E122
June 20 · 56 min
The Culture for Sale - Ep.122
On Episode 122 of the Set the Bar Mixshow,DJ Oplex is putting the industry on notice by examining exactly what a "culture vulture" is, why it's a strictly behavior-based title, and how our own consumer habits are funding the exploitation. We're putting the mirror up to external extractors who treat Hip-Hop like a transactional cash cow, while laying down the ultimate truth of the genre. To keep the vibe uncompromised, the soundtrack is packed with heavy rotation, featuring major new heat like Freddie Gibbs breaking boundaries from his deluxe You Only Die 1nce, Isaiah Rashad cutting deep on his latest drop IT'S BEEN AWFUL, and smooth R&B textures from Haley Smalls' fresh Matches (Deluxe). Hit play and tap into the culture. Lupe Fiasco, Nu Deco Ensemble, Jacomo Bairos & Sam Hyken – Hip Hop Saved My Life (Live from Miami Beach) (feat. Nikki Jean) Foul Mouth & Kain Cole –PESTO Haley Smalls – Static DJ Shadow, Run The Jewels, Denzel Curry & TiaCorine –Nobody Speak Part 2 Freddie Gibbs – Rabbit Mode 38 Spesh & Che Noir – Mental Health Clipse (Live)- POV The Roots (Live) - Step Into the Realm Apollo Brown - Angels & Diamond Isaiah Rashad – AIN'T GIVIN' UP Haley Smalls – Lil Bit in Love
S3 · E121
May 30 · 55 min
The Kendrick Effect - Ep.121
In episode 121, DJ Oplex pulls back the curtain on the fundamental law of the genre: authenticity. He discusses how Hip-Hop acts as the ultimate land of the authentic where a single whiff of synthetic behavior is the easiest way to get your cultural clearance revoked. He dives deeper into the seemingly inevitable paradox Drake faces post Kendrick beef while spinning new Hip-Hop from Courtney Bell, Kendall Spencer, Trem Sol and more. Getcha popcorn ready and press play. Follow Oplex on IG and FB. www.oplexmusic.com Playlist Couple Hunnid - Trem Sol Immigrants - Freddie Gibbs Everyday - Courtney Bell The LAnd - RJMrLA Final Score - Ro Thoro How it Is - Lord Sko & Statik Selektah Head in a Jar - Khamari Confused - Cortex Guardian Angel - Lee Rene On Me - 6lack & Odeal Eye of the Needle - Smel and Kendall Spencer
S3 · E120
May 14 · 46 min
Man in the Mirror - Ep.120
Growth is the single most important factor in our evolution as humans, but let's be real—outgrowing your old self can be a messy process if we let it. In Episode 120 DJ Oplex begins unpacking that internal friction you feel when your comfort zone gets way too tight, and why we constantly "pump fake" the exact opportunities we've been praying for. Backed by a flawless playlist featuring new music and fresh cuts from Durand Bernarr, DJ Harrison and more, this episode is the ultimate soundtrack for leveling up and breaking the chains that stop growth. Hit play, catch these vibes, and let's get to growing. Follow DJ Oplex here: Playlist 10,000 Lifetimes - Durand Bernnarr feat. Sevyn Streeter Make it Last - Dave East feat. Crutch Calhoun, Scram Jones, Mike & Keys High Enough - Jasper Logan Growth - Lizzie Berchie Fly - Tone Stith Sit Yuh Self Down - AJ Mcqueen feat. Londrelle Let Me (Live Rendition) - Victoria Monet It's All Love - DJ Harrison feat. Yazmin Lacey
S3 · E119
January 31 · 52 min
Season 3: Ep. 119
Episode 119, Season 3 explores the evolution of the Set the Bar Mixshow and discusses how the show has evolved over the last three years. Since Episode 84 in 2023, the show has transitioned from a guest-heavy format into a Music Podcast that balances quality sounds with uplifting substance. New music from Jill Scott, King Rab, Gainstaville and More!!! Playlist Weather Man - Gainstaville X DJ Oplex Feels like Love - Tanarelle P.O - IDK Right Back - King Rab Bittersweet- Naomi Sharon Chamomile - Kofi Stone feat. Ady Suleiman Ask for Me- Hit Boy feat. Alchemist U Ain't Gotta Chance - Big L feat. Nas Please, Stop The Violence In Hip Hop - Juicy J feat. Black Thought All That I Hope For - Joseph Rutakanga Beautiful People - Jill Scott 12. Everywhere I Go - BYNX ft. Kid Cudi & Royksopp Sign up to DJ's Oplex's email list to stay current on new, music, gigs and more at www.oplexmusic.com Follow Oplex on IG
S2 · E118
Dec 18, 2025 · 56 min
Strategic Maturity - Ep. 118
In this episode of Set the Bar Mix Show, DJ Oplex unpacks the concept of "Strategic Maturity"—the pivotal shift from measuring success by what you can do, to defining value by what you won't do. As we approach the New Year, Oplex breaks down how true growth implies moving away from the brute force of youthful potential and embracing the precision of adult boundaries. It's a lesson on how to stop leaking energy and start moving with intention. To soundtrack this evolution, the decks are loaded with a heavy lineup of new music, including the latest heat from Nas, the soulful return of De La Soul, and fresh storytelling from Kofi Stone, Lordkez, and more. Playlist Thorns - Kofi Stone Reinvention - DJ Premier feat. Ransom Closer - Trem Sol feat. Enigma Sept & King Redd Enn Eff - De La Soul feat. Black Thought Aweh - lordkez feat. Cassper Nyovest PS118 - Jurin Asaya feat. Rapsody Speed of Love - Chance the Rapper feat. Jazmine Sullivan Track 01 - Max & Sabrina Claudio Rock With Me - Kem (Marsha Mix) My Story, Your Story - Nas & AZ Trap Phone - Give Me Ring - Lordkey www.oplexmusic.com
S2 · E117
Oct 1, 2025 · 56 min
Organic Authenticity - Ep. 117
DJ Oplex speaks on an explosive topic that includes exploring the advantages and disadvantages of AI in music creation. He discusses how it will impact listeners and its potential to compromise Organic Authenticity. Meanwhile he features new music from Mobb Deep, Victoria Noellel, RJ Payne and more. Don't miss this controversial episode!! Playlist Life on Mars - Jay Electronica Anthem - Victoria Noelle Intervention - Sabis The God I'm Still - Hilari Amira Kitchen - West Side Gunn (feat. Tom Soos & AA Rashid) Moon - Daniel Caesar (feat. Bon Iver) Both Eyes Closed - Asap Rocky Evil Streets - RJ Payne Taj Mahal - Mobb Deep & The Alchemist When I Feel Like It - Willie the Kid & Soop Sign up to DJ's Oplex's email list to stay current on new music, gigs and more at www.oplexmusic.com Follow Oplex on IG
S2 · E116
Sep 1, 2025 · 54 min
Now is Your Last Day - Ep. 116
On this episode, DJ Oplex scans through a plethora of new releases to find bar setting songs that are meaningful for the culture. Only new released music graces the show including new music from Chance the Rapper, Emi Secrest, Teyana Taylor and more. Meanwhile, he explores the idea of being notified that this is your last day to live. The plot thickens as he dives into a discussion centered around mortality and legacy. Join DJ Oplex's mailing list on my website to stay plugged on his newest news and updates. Follow DJ Oplex on IG Playlist The Negro Problem - Chance the Rapper (feat. BJ the Chicago Kid) Palaces - Lupe Fiasco (feat. Troy Tyler) Arrival - No Spirit & Satyr Caught up In This Illusion - Juicy J & Endea Owens (feat. Kenneth Whalum) Prick - Westside Gunn Rain Every Season - Evidence (feat. The Alchemist) Numb - Giveon Cotton Candy Blvd - India Shawn (feat. Lucky Daye) Ruby Blue - Emi Secrest (feat. Juicy J) Pum Pum Jump - Teyana Taylor (feat. Jill Scott & Tyla) Lalelani - Kazba De Small & DJ Maphorisa (feat. Zaba, Njelic & Dlala Thukzin) *Peace, Love & Music on Top
S2 · E115
Jul 15, 2025 · 54 min
Divine Authenticity - Ep. 115
DJ Oplex rants on his qualms with the music industry while explaining that being yourself is what is expected in Hip-Hop and what you should do. He speaks on systemic problems with the genre while spinning new music from Clipse, Bizarre, Living Legends and more. Dust off your woke card. Episode 115 is here. Follow DJ Oplex: https://www.instagram.com/oplexmusic/ Supreme Curation: Inglorious Bastard - Clips (feat. Ab Liva) Tempo - Living Legends (feat. Reverie) High Stakes - Benny the Butcher (feat. 38 Spesh) Whole Lotta $ - LE$ & DJ Mr. Rogers 99 (feat. Daecolm) Olamide, Seyi Vibez, Asake & Young John Die With A Buzz - Sam Be Yourself & Nathan Hui-Yi Chandeliers - Clipse (feat. Nas) Motion - Bizarre (feat. King Gordy & X-Factor) So Long - Old Man Saxon & Bei Ru Evolve - Big Piph (feat. Bijoux)
S2 · E114
Jun 8, 2025 · 55 min
Lose Yourself- Ep. 114
DJ Oplex returns from a 2 month hiatus while still listening to bar setting music. Not only does he unleash new music from DMX, Junetober, Stoop Lee and more, he also discusses his feelings on when you feel you are losing yourself and how that plays out, when you're in Vegas. Tap in for the moment: Ep. 114 is here. Bring Out The Worse - DMX feat. Joyner Lucas Hey - G Perico Health Science - West Side Gunna feat. Brother Tom Sos Dotted Lines - Stoop Lee & Jailyn Rimbaud Cool - S Gawd Painting The Stars - Xavier Omar feat. Jai_Len Josey City - Master Killa feat. Jamall Ray Like This - Brynn Elise Missing in Atlanta - Junetober Calming Storms - Oplex Ebasini (feat. Tman Xpress, Visca, Ceeka RSA & Sjavasdadeejay) - Bonus Track
S2 · E113
Mar 29, 2025 · 48 min
Flowers, Acknowledgement & Validation - Ep. 113
In this episode, DJ Oplex's highlights the critical need for artist validation. Inspired by a late Arkansas rapper, he stresses giving validation to talent while they're here, not after. While touching on how music celebrates life and death, he also highlights that Hip-Hop artists' music often resonates the strongest in their local community making them unsung legends in smaller demographics. It's "one of those" shows packed with dope music and insightful dialogue. Follow Dj Oplex: https://www.instagram.com/oplexmusic/ Feel - Kendrick Lamar Duece To This - Tem Nel Casa Lopez - Venna Welcome - Deezy Hollow No Caption - Trem Sol Outro - Tem Nel Oh My Mind - Junetober Bezwen Ou - Fridayy Pragmatic - Ransom Find Our Way - Kendall Spencer (Produced By August Fanon) To You - Juicy J feat. Robert Glasper La La - Slum Village
S2 · E112
Mar 13, 2025 · 58 min
Know What You Like - Ep. 112
Is there such a thing as bad music? DJ Oplex thinks so. In episode 112, he explains his February hiatus AND breaks down why opinions on music doesn't make them truth. Get ready for a thought-provoking discussion! #MusicDebate #PodcastAlert #DJOplex #BadMusicExplained Follow DJ Oplex here: https://www.instagram.com/oplexmusic/ (Click the link in bio to get plugged) PlayList: One Time - Sam Be Yourself Out of the Blue - Mereba Here For You - Junetober Super Hero - Dave East Feat. Scram Jones Let it Out - Ana Pshokina Rhythm and Blues - Ayra Starr Top Down - C Red feat. Jack Freeman My Window - Lucky Daye I Can't Wait to Get There - Wknd All The While - J. Brown Lossy Enid - Rich Gang 93 Octane - Oplex Forged By Fire - Kendall Spencer OverCompass - 607
S2 · E111
Jan 31, 2025 · 46 min
Be Realistic - Ep. 111
On Episode 111 of the Set the Bar Mixshow, DJ Oplex kicks off 2025 with a fresh perspective and shares one of his personal goals for the year. He dives into the art of goal-setting, offering insights on how to choose objectives that resonate deeply with yourself. He then connects this concept to his passion for music, curating a powerful selection of tracks that bridge 2024 and 2025. As always, Oplex blends soulful hip-hop and indie vibes, creating an inspiring soundscape for listeners. Don't miss this impactful start to the new year—tune in and set your bar high! Follow DJ Oplex: https://www.instagram.com/oplexmusic/ DJ Oplex: https://oplexmusic.com/about-me/ Playlist: This is the Way - Logic Steel - Yunie feat. Tish Hyman Hey Now - Kendrick Lamar feat. Dody6 Welcome - Deezy Hollow Feels Like Ectasy - Junetober Time's Up - Kasey Hill Suicide Doors - Juicy J feat. Cordae Only You - Oplex Rabbit Island - Freddie Gibbs Passion - LL Cool J Mis Amigos - Apollo Brown & CrimeApple Montera Freestyle - Dayo Gold & Leo Pastel
S2 · E110
Dec 26, 2024 · 1 hr 29 min
STB Year End Review 2024 - Ep. 110
On this special year-end edition, DJ Oplex brings you a curated selection of the finest urban indie hip-hop tracks, spotlighting artists who have graced the show and beyond. This mix reflects the authentic essence of hip-hop, steering clear of mainstream influence to deliver raw, organic sounds. Alongside the music, Oplex revisits some standout moments from the year, including self-development insights and a breakdown of the explosive Kendrick Lamar and Drake feud that captivated the hip-hop culture. Don't miss this celebration of indie artistry and cultural commentary! Follow DJ Oplex: https://www.instagram.com/oplexmusic/ Website: https://oplexmusic.com/about-me/ Set the Bar Setters - 2024 (Playlist) *Use of music is for promotional use only Penthouse Hideaway - Johnny Ciggs feat. DJ Billy Nguyen) Postgame Interview - Baang Just This Once - Leake (feat. JT London) Soul on Ice - Kendall Spencer No Ducking - Doeman Fleeing the Scene - Dennis Hobbs feat. Jacks Transmission Fluid - Esham feat. Stretch Money Kingdom Heartz - Dajuan Dupri Steel - Yunie feat. Tish Hyman Empty - Jasper Logan Feeling You - Courtney Bell feat. Ariel J. Precious Cargo - Dennis Hobbs feat. Moplex Something's Got a Hold of Me - Nicolay feat. Yahzarah Feels Like - Oplex Blow Drow - Gainstaville feat. Kendawg520 What Can I Do - Los Lauren feat Danesha Bullard Time Sake - Joey Hustle Never End - King Rab Telepathy - Feat. King Rab, Kendall Spencer & Joey Hustle Slide - Supa Star Six Staying Up -Trem Sol feat. King Reckless Only You - Oplex
S2 · E109
Dec 14, 2024 · 42 min
Silent Disruptors - Ep. 109
DJ Oplex explores frustrating communication styles and introduces the concept of "silent disruptors." While the episode features bold and direct hip-hop tracks, it contrasts the musical assertiveness with the subtlety of silent disruptors in our lives. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on whether they have such figures in their circles, making for a thought-provoking blend of commentary and hard-hitting tracks. Follow Me: https://www.instagram.com/oplexmusic/ New Oplex Music: Listen Here Support the movement by sharing the Podcast to others!!!!!! Playlist: G Perico - Turn Up the Flame Dusty Decks - Slipping Mats Oplex - Telepathy Kendrick Lamar - Tv Off Dajuan Dupri - 145th E. Freestyle Oplex - Replenish Payroll Giovani - 5's and 6's MC Breed feat. Tupac Gotta Get Mine (Remix) Nicolay - Atmospheres Collides (Feat. Bain) Oplex - 93 Octane
S2 · E108
Nov 17, 2024 · 1 hr 6 min
Detach Opinions - Ep. 108
Episode 108 focuses on navigating differences in opinions and the importance of letting go when disagreements arise. Meanwhile Dj Oplex drops new music from Snoop Dogg, Chance the Rapper and more. The question becomes can you let go of the tension you feel when someone doesn't agree with you? Follow Me: https://www.instagram.com/oplexmusic/ New Oplex Music: Listen Here Support the movement by sharing the Podcast to others!!!!!!
S2 · E107
Oct 24, 2024 · 58 min
Who Are You? - Ep. 107
In the latest episode of the podcast, DJ Oplex explores mental health, consciousness, and human well-being through Soul and Hip-Hop music. The episode emphasizes self-discovery, highlighting that, only the wise truly understand their identity. From Kendrick Lamar to Foreign Exchange, it's all here. The question becomes, who are you? Follow DJ Oplex here Support the movement by sharing and liking!
S2 · E106
Oct 8, 2024 · 50 min
Wise Ones - Ep. 106
Episode 106 of the Set The Bar Mixshow encourages listeners to reflect on living a life of no regrets. By blending jazz, hip-hop, soul, pop, gospel and fusion, DJ Oplex inspires people to make conscious decisions about how they want to live their lives by playing heartfelt music. ✌🏾❤️🎶 In the end, it's up to you. ✌🏾❤️🎶 From Michael Jackson to Courtney Bell, it's all here. ✌🏾❤️🎶 Follow DJ Oplex here Support the Set The Bar Mixshow by spreading the word! ✌🏾❤️🎶

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