The Underground Lounge

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Finding The Funny W/ Deon Cole | The Underground Lounge S3 E.14 Dec 03, 2025

Show notes

This week on The Underground Lounge, Lou and Spank sit down with the legendary Deon Cole for a conversation that’s equal parts hilarious, insightful, and absolutely unpredictable. From the moment he steps into the Lounge, Deon brings that unmistakable Chicago energy and a lifetime of stories from the road, including his early days grinding in the Chicago comedy scene, rocking Timbs on stages that demanded suits, and literally changing the culture just by showing up as himself.

Deon opens up about discovering stand-up almost by accident, the moment he realized comedy was his purpose, and the unforgettable Def Jam tour experience that pushed him to level up his writing and craft. He breaks down how embracing silence became his comedic superpower, the origins of his iconic notebook on stage, and why he sometimes enjoys bombing on purpose just to keep audiences honest.

Lou and Spank dig into Deon’s wild journey from the clubs to becoming one of the most respected writers in the game, from helping craft Ricky Smiley’s classic prank call CDs, to joining Comic View, to eventually making history as the first Black writer on Late Night with Conan O’Brien. Deon shares behind-the-scenes stories from the writers’ room, how one unexpected bit turned into Emmy nominations, and the moment he almost quit the show before everything changed overnight.

The conversation goes even deeper as Deon talks about landing Angie Tribeca, becoming “Charlie” on Black-ish (a role originally written for Charlie Murphy), and navigating Hollywood in a way that’s stayed authentic to who he is. Along the way, the guys swap stories about clubs, cities, strip lounges, and why Chicago produces some of the funniest comedians in the world.

This episode is packed with gems for comedy fans, creators, and anyone who appreciates a raw, unfiltered look at the grind behind the glow-up. Deon’s honesty, humor, and perspective shine from start to finish, making this one of the most entertaining and inspiring sit-downs ever in the Underground Lounge.

Tune in now and enjoy the ride.

Soundtrack Of A Generation W/ Bryan Michael Cox | The Underground Lounge S3 E.13 Nov 26, 2025

Show notes

This episode dives deep into the legacy, discipline, and creative genius of Bryan Michael Cox, one of the most influential producers and songwriters in modern R&B. Bryan walks the crew through his early grind between Houston and Atlanta, breaking down how mentorship, structure, and relentless preparation shaped his direction long before the hits came. He talks about studying the greats, sharpening his pen, and the years of groundwork that positioned him for the run that would change the sound of a generation.

From there, Bryan opens up about the making of some of his biggest records and the sessions that defined entire eras. He breaks down the creative process behind career-shifting albums, how one of the most iconic R&B projects almost went in a completely different direction, and the competitive studio energy that pushed everyone to level up. He explains the magic of honest storytelling, the instincts that guide timeless music, and why great records happen when artists stop following trends and start telling the truth.

Bryan also shares the business and personal lessons learned along the way, navigating egos, protecting the craft, and maintaining longevity in an industry that moves fast and forgets quickly. From missed flights that turned into hits to late-night sessions that rewrote history, he gives a masterclass on collaboration, consistency, and staying grounded while shaping chart after chart.

Packed with laughs, behind-the-scenes gems, and real game from a true architect of the culture, this episode is a deep look into how Bryan Michael Cox built a legacy that continues to influence the sound of R&B today.

Hollywood Highlights: One Life, Two Worlds W/Alex Thomas | The Underground Lounge S3 E.12 Nov 19, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of the Underground Lounge, Lou and Spank sit down with comedy legend Alex Thomas for a conversation that feels like a masterclass in culture, comedy, and survival. Alex takes the guys back to his childhood in South Central Los Angeles, where he was bused 40 minutes each day to become the first Black student at an elite Beverly Hills private school, an experience that shaped both his identity and his sense of humor.

He talks about being raised by two supportive parents who kept him too busy for the streets, the reality of growing up surrounded by violence, and how staying active in sports, music, and after-school programs helped him avoid the fate of so many childhood friends. The conversation shifts into his early dance career, including how he became a breakout talent on Soul Train, his relationship with Rosie Perez, and the pivotal moment when the Wayans family encouraged him to try stand-up.

Alex breaks down the unbelievable week where he bombed a major dance audition, got rained on with $60,000 in cash by Damon Wayans, booked his first-ever Hollywood audition, and accidentally landed one of the most iconic McDonald’s commercials of the ’90s.

The episode goes even deeper when Alex talks about eventually writing for The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, how Will Smith discovered him on stage at the Laugh Factory, and what it was like to be the only non-Philly member of a creative team that turned into a brotherhood.

Throughout the conversation, the guys touch on parenthood, the differences between public and private school, keeping kids safe in today’s world, and what it means to break generational cycles. Packed with laughs, real-life gems, hip-hop history, comedy stories, and authentic Underground Lounge energy, this episode is a must-watch for anyone who loves a good origin story rooted in hustle, culture, and heart.

Certified Vibe Setter W/ Eric Bellinger | The Underground Lounge S3 E.11 Nov 12, 2025

Show notes

The Underground Lounge is back with another classic. This time, the crew welcomes Grammy-winning singer, songwriter, and all-around R&B hitmaker Eric Bellinger to the couch for a full-on vibe session. From the moment he walks in, it’s clear this one’s about good energy, real music, and unapologetic conversation.

Eric opens up about his journey from singing in church and earning a football scholarship to USC, to making the bold move to follow his passion for music—a decision that would eventually lead him to writing and performing hits for artists like Usher and Chris Brown. He shares how he first got noticed as a songwriter, what it was like giving away songs that later became global hits, and how he learned to balance being a behind-the-scenes pen with stepping into the spotlight as an artist.

The crew dives deep into the evolution of R&B, from the era of slow jams and rain-soaked music videos to today’s viral hits, and why the genre is having a real resurgence. Eric breaks down how the club scene, R&B parties, and social media all helped bring that soulful sound back, and why the culture needed it. He also talks about his creative process, the importance of setting the right vibe in the studio, and how a little “trophy smoke” helps him tap into his most inspired zone.

From there, things get hilarious. The conversation turns to karaoke horror stories, the real difference between singers and rappers, and why comedians never have panties thrown at them on stage. Eric also opens up about his viral Tiny Desk moment with Usher, explaining how that one surprise performance reset his career and introduced him to a whole new audience.

The conversation doesn’t stop at music either. The crew gets into the business side—Eric talks about starting his label, mentoring new artists, and staying independent in an industry that’s constantly changing. They even explore the rise of AI in music, how it’s reshaping the creative process, and why real artistry will always win over algorithms.

By the end, it’s clear why Eric Bellinger has remained one of the most respected voices in R&B, he’s talented, grounded, and still just as passionate about the craft as the day he started. Whether you’re a diehard R&B fan, a creative chasing your dream, or just here for the laughs, this episode delivers it all: game, humor, and heart.

Straight Out Of Inglewood W/ D Smoke | The Underground Lounge S3 E.10 Nov 05, 2025

Show notes

This week on The Underground Lounge, Lou Williams and Spank Horton welcome Grammy-nominated hip-hop artist, educator, and actor D Smoke into the Lounge for one of the most layered and inspiring conversations yet. Coming straight out of Inglewood, D Smoke opens up about growing up in a musical household led by his gospel-singing mother, who taught him and his brothers the fundamentals of music from an early age. From learning piano at five to earning a full academic scholarship to UCLA, he shares how his foundation in discipline and faith set the tone for everything that came after.

D Smoke takes the crew through his early start in the industry, writing for Jaheim at 19, building a home studio with his brothers, and navigating the highs and lows of being young and talented in Los Angeles. He talks about the family legacy that runs deep through his bloodline, including his grandmother’s work with legends and the tough choices his mom made between touring with Stevie Wonder and raising her kids.

The conversation dives into his time on Netflix’s Rhythm + Flow, where his viral exchange with Snoop Dogg and eventual win put him on the global map, and the lessons he learned from that experience about authenticity and preparation. D Smoke also discusses his passion for teaching and how his work as an educator helped him connect to his community beyond music.

From mastering Spanish and bringing bilingual storytelling into hip-hop, to finding balance between the streets and spirituality, D Smoke breaks down how duality shaped his artistry and worldview. He also opens up about stepping into acting, from early roles as a teen to his recent work on Mayor of Kingstown, and how storytelling in all forms fuels his purpose.

The Lounge closes out with real talk on faith, family, boxing, mentorship, and what it means to lead with integrity in an industry built on perception. It’s an episode that celebrates intellect, art, and the grind it takes to rise from Inglewood to international acclaim.

Halloween Special: Paranormal Activities W/ Daylen Spratt | The Underground Lounge S3 E.9 Nov 01, 2025

Show notes

The Underground Lounge goes ghostly for Halloween with a special guest who’s seen things most people wouldn’t dare to imagine. Paranormal investigator and Ghost Brothers co-founder Dalen Spratt steps into the lounge to talk spirits, energy, and the afterlife like you’ve never heard it before.

Dalen breaks down how he went from working wardrobe on The Mo’Nique Show to becoming one of TV’s first Black ghost hunters, chasing shadows through slave plantations, cemeteries, and America’s most haunted places. He talks about using real tech to communicate with the dead, the emotional weight of helping families reconnect with loved ones, and what it’s like to stand face-to-face with energy that refuses to leave this world.

From chilling stories about The Conjuring House and Emmett Till’s gravesite to exploring the line between faith, fear, and the unknown, this episode balances laughs, deep insight, and spine-tingling moments. The crew keeps it funny, honest, and just spooky enough to make you question what you believe.

It’s the Underground Lounge Halloween Special, where comedy meets the paranormal and curiosity meets the afterlife. You might walk away believing… or still thinking it’s all cap. Either way, this one’s unforgettable.

Tales Of An R&B Rockstar W/ Case | The Underground Lounge S3 E.8 Oct 29, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of The Underground Lounge, Lou Williams and Spank sit down with R&B icon Case for an unfiltered, hilarious, and nostalgic deep dive into the highs, lows, and wild stories of a true 90s rockstar life. From his early grind in New York City to becoming the last artist Russell Simmons personally signed to Def Jam, Case walks us through his come-up, the legendary sessions that birthed hits like “Touch Me, Tease Me”, and the moment he realized his life had officially changed.

Case opens up about growing up with a father who once sang with Cameo, his first demo being written by Faith Evans, and what it was really like navigating the golden era of R&B. He shares stories about promo tours, sleeping in cars between gigs, and the kind of hustle artists today rarely experience, back when getting signed actually meant something, and you had to earn your shine through radio runs, live shows, and word of mouth.

The conversation quickly shifts from music to madness, with Case recalling wild nights in Philly, hanging with Allen Iverson, and the unforgettable moment that got him banned from Hot 97. From jumping out of hotel windows to being mistaken for a rockstar, the singer holds nothing back as he paints a vivid picture of the fast-paced, no-phones era of fame and chaos.

Lou and Spank dive into the evolution of R&B, debating whether today’s singers have lost that soulful edge. Case breaks down why real R&B never died, you just have to know where to find it , while name-dropping some of the new generation artists who still carry the torch. He also gets candid about why he refuses to listen to his own music in the bedroom, how cell phones would’ve ruined his prime, and what it’s like trying to perform through the flu while touring with Dru Hill.

From his wildest groupie encounters to his funniest onstage fails, Case brings stories that are as unbelievable as they are entertaining. Between the laughs, he drops real gems about longevity, creativity, and the freedom that comes with still loving what you do decades later.

This one’s packed with raw energy, R&B nostalgia, and plenty of moments that’ll have you saying, “They don’t make ‘em like this anymore.” Whether you grew up singing “Faded Pictures” or you’re just discovering Case, this episode is pure gold, a reminder of when talent, personality, and passion ruled the music game.

Lessons Between Laughs W/ Lil Rel Howrey | The Underground Lounge S3 E.7 Oct 22, 2025

Show notes

This week on The Underground Lounge, Lou and Spank sit down with one of comedy’s most authentic and versatile voices Lil Rel Howrey, a Chicago legend whose hustle, humor, and honesty made him a standout in Hollywood. From hoop dreams on the West Side to headlining major films and creating his own projects, Lil Rel opens up about the road that got him here, the highs, the setbacks, and the lessons learned along the way.

The conversation starts with basketball nostalgia, as Rel recalls his days playing high school ball in Chicago during the city’s golden era, when Kevin Garnett, Ronnie Fields, and other prep legends ruled the courts. That same competitive energy carried into his comedy career, where he wrote his first romantic comedy script at just 17 and started performing stand-up before most people knew what open mics even were.

Rel talks about betting on himself, walking away from day jobs, and carving out his lane in an industry that doesn’t always make room for originality. He breaks down his love for rom-coms, the grind of directing his own feature films, and the vulnerability that comes with being critiqued once your name’s in lights. From running his Chicago comedy festival to mentoring the next generation, his focus on giving back shines through every story.

But it’s not all serious talk, the laughs come nonstop as the crew swaps wild stories about college hoops, Chicago culture, internet trolls, and even the strangest rumors that have followed him through fame. Rel’s blend of humility, wit, and perspective makes for one of the realest and funniest conversations you’ll hear all season.

Whether you’re chasing your dream, finding your lane, or just here for the jokes, this episode is a reminder that the grind never stops, and neither do the laughs.

Timing, Talent & Tenacity W/ Jackie Long | The Underground Lounge S3 E.6 Oct 15, 2025

Show notes

This week on The Underground Lounge, the crew sits down with actor, creator, and all-around entertainer Jackie Long for a real conversation that blends career wisdom, comedy, and heart. Known for his memorable roles in ATL, Idlewild, and countless cult classics, Jackie takes the Lounge deep into his journey, from growing up in Los Angeles to finding his lane in Hollywood through persistence, personality, and pure love for the craft.

Jackie opens up about how he got his first big break on Moesha, why he always viewed background acting as a stepping stone rather than a setback, and how mentorship, curiosity, and faith guided him through every stage of his career. He recalls learning from legends like Terrence Howard, André 3000, and Big Boi on the set of Idlewild, and shares stories from ATL, including how the cast bonded through skate camp and how that film still connects generations today.

The conversation also dives into Jackie’s collaboration with Paul George on the Podcast P Show, his thoughts on staying humble in an industry built on ego, and why fear has no place in chasing your dreams. He breaks down the art of auditions, the pressure of seeing big names in the waiting room, and the mindset that helped him overcome doubt and find confidence in front of any camera.

Beyond Hollywood, Jackie talks about family, faith, and legacy, crediting his grandparents for instilling the values that keep him grounded. The Lounge crew explores astrology, energy, and personal growth, leading to an unfiltered and hilarious exchange about life, purpose, and staying authentic even when fame calls.

From classic movie moments to motivational gems, this episode is packed with game, gratitude, and genuine laughs. Whether you know Jackie Long as Esquire from ATL or as one of Hollywood’s most consistent personalities, this sit-down proves why his story, and his spirit, still resonate today.

LA Clippers Media Day | The Underground Lounge Oct 11, 2025

Show notes

The Underground Lounge goes live from the Intuit Dome for an exclusive look inside LA Clippers Media Day, capturing authentic moments and unfiltered conversations with the players and coaching staff ahead of the new season.

In this special episode, hosts Lou Williams and Spank Horton sit down with Coach Tyronn Lue, Kris Dunn, Ivica Zubac, Bogdan Bogdanović, Bradley Beal, and Chris Paul for a series of candid interviews that go beyond the typical media day soundbites.

Coach Ty Lue opens up about setting the tone for the season, establishing chemistry, and leading a roster full of veterans with championship aspirations.

Kris Dunn discusses his defensive mindset and the energy he plans to bring to the floor each night.

Ivica Zubac reflects on his consistency and growth as the team’s anchor in the paint.

Bogdan Bogdanović shares insight on joining a talented lineup and the importance of bringing positive energy to the locker room.

Bradley Beal talks about fitting into the Clippers’ culture and his drive to compete at the highest level.

And Chris Paul, one of the game’s most respected veterans, reflects on returning to Los Angeles, the evolution of his leadership, and what it means to still be chasing greatness.

From laughs and behind-the-scenes stories to sharp basketball insight, this episode captures the personality, preparation, and purpose of a team built to win. Recorded live inside one of the NBA’s most anticipated new arenas, The Underground Lounge: Live from the Intuit Dome delivers exclusive access, authentic conversation, and a front-row look at the Clippers’ mindset heading into a pivotal season.

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