Best Oronde Stephens Podcasts (2025)

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Strategic Maturity - Ep. 118 56:02

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7d ago56:02

56:02

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 o…

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Organic Authenticity - Ep. 117 56:44

3M ago56:44

56:44

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 …

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Now is Your Last Day - Ep. 116 54:43

4M ago54:43

54:43

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 thic…

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Divine Authenticity - Ep. 115 54:22

6M ago54:22

54:22

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.co…

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Lose Yourself- Ep. 114 55:33

7M ago55:33

55:33

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. J…

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Flowers, Acknowledgement & Validation - Ep. 113 48:55

9M ago48:55

48:55

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…

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Know What You Like - Ep. 112 58:50

10M ago58:50

58:50

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…

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Be Realistic - Ep. 111 46:46

11M ago46:46

46:46

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 …

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STB Year End Review 2024 - Ep. 110 1:29:35

1y ago1:29:35

1:29:35

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 mom…

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Silent Disruptors - Ep. 109 42:49

1y ago42:49

42:49

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 fo…

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Detach Opinions - Ep. 108 1:06:47

1y ago1:06:47

1:06:47

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 Opl…

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Who Are You? - Ep. 107 58:42

1y ago58:42

58:42

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…

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Wise Ones - Ep. 106 50:41

1y ago50:41

50:41

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 Court…

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No Regrets - Ep. 105 52:49

1+ y ago52:49

52:49

Episode 105 of the Set The Bar Mix Show features DJ Oplex discusses the true purpose of life through a time management lense and playing new music from Danielle, LL Cool J, Kendall Spencer, and Iz316, along with chill-hop, R&B, soul, and hip-hop vibes for your musical pleasure. Follow DJ Oplex here: https://www.instagram.com/oplexmusic/ Support by …

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Set The Bar Mixshow Ep. 104 - The Moment 56:15

1+ y ago56:15

56:15

DJ Oplex takes down a road of impermanence. He discusses being in the moment while spinning some of today's hottest Hip-Hop and Soul music.. How does being in the moment affect how you listen to music? It's the place where quality Hip-Hop, Soul and R&B is always showcased. Tap in to the Set The Bar Mixshow!! Follow me here: https://www.instagram.co…

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DeMystification - Ep. 103 1:02:27

1+ y ago1:02:27

1:02:27

DJ Oplex discusses how interpreting and undestimating the mystery of life signifcantly impacts how we process what we feel and what is real and in the meantime, a premium curation of Soul and Hip-Hip Hop music is all here. Are you ready? Follow Oplex: https://www.instagram.com/oplexmusic/ Playlist Credits: Slummer 4 Junkies - Killa Mike Issues - Co…

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In The Mix of Things - Ep. 102 52:21

1+ y ago52:21

52:21

DJ Oplex unleashes a 52 minute mix covering some of the best Hip-Hop and R&B in the land. Featured artists include Notorious BIG, Moplex, Stoop Lee, Common, The Roots and much more. Sit back and enjoy bar setting music. Follow me here: https://www.instagram.com/oplexmusic/By Oronde Stephens

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Back to Basics - Ep. 101 56:25

1+ y ago56:25

56:25

DJ Oplex drops an onslaught of urban, indie Hip-Hop to showcase the authenticity of Hip-Hop Music and proves that in order for one to cut a good record, it often means the artist loves what he or she is doing. Episode 101 goes back to basics since most of the artists featured were guest on the Set the Bar Mixshow. Follow me here: https://www.instag…

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It's a Hip-Hop Thang - Episode 100 59:49

1+ y ago59:49

59:49

After a much needed break, Dj Oplex flexes his muscles on his radar on urban Hip-Hop Music and dispels the myth of Hip-Hop being a cookie cutter genre. Hip-Hop has always thrived in the underground and episode 100 is...what it is. It's Me, You and Hip-Hop!!!!? The Set The Bar Mixshow represents authentic Hip-Hop that is NOT influenced by major labe…

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What's Beef - Ep. 99 49:25

1+ y ago49:25

49:25

DJ Oplex gives a wake up call to outsiders of Hip-Hop and spins some of the best battle rap beef songs of all time. Meanwhile, he hones in on who is winning the Drake vs. KDOT Beef. Follow DJ Oplex: https://www.instagram.com/oplexmusic/ Listen to Oplex: https://oplexmusic.com/discography-2/By Oronde Stephens

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300 Million Dollars - Ep. 98 49:27

1+ y ago49:27

49:27

DJ Oplex goes down a deep rabbit hole of desires that may or may not lead to your freedom. Meanwhile, G Perico, Tyla, Anita Baker, Prince, Stoop Lee and more paint his vision clear. How free are you? Follow DJ Oplex: https://www.instagram.com/oplexmusic/ https://oplexmusic.com/about-me/By DJ Oplex

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Set The Bar Mixshow Ep. 97 - Have it Your Way 48:09

1+ y ago48:09

48:09

Oplex cuts the diamond with precision on his feelings of, you can't have it your way. Meanwhile, Jamiroquai, Robert Glasper, Dave East, Jay-Z, Junez and more paint a more vivid picture of his emotions. Follow DJ Oplex: https://www.instagram.com/oplexmusic/ https://www.patreon.com/Setthebarmixshow https://oplexmusic.com/…

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Be The Best - Ep. 96 48:44

2y ago48:44

48:44

DJ Oplex speaks on Kendrick's rebuttal and seems to be stuck on what being the best means. Meanwhile, a mix including new music from LosLauren718, Yunie, Kendall Spencer, Umbravo, Moplex and more is all here! The real Hip-Hop is back! Follow DJ Oplex: https://www.instagram.com/oplexmusic/ https://www.patreon.com/Setthebarmixshow https://oplexmusic.…

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The Best Rapper - Ep. 95 58:45

2y ago58:45

58:45

DJ Oplex rants about what he feels is missing in mainstream Hip-Hop. Perhaps the age of rapping is gone and he uses artists like King Rab, Flying Lotus, Jay Electronica, MF Doom, Black Thought, Slum Village and more to explain his narrative. Thank you for supporting the Set The Bar Mixshow!!! Check out our Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/Setthebar…

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Trouble Minded Love Ep. 94 54:45

2y ago54:45

54:45

DJ Oplex speaks on how diabolical love can be by using artists like PJ Morton, Cassandra Wilson, Musiq Soulchild, and more to elaborate on the topic. It's too late for Valentine's Day. Let's talk love. https://www.instagram.com/oplexmusic/ https://oplexmusic.com/By Oronde Stephens

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Love & Gang Bangs - Ep. 93 45:35

2y ago45:35

45:35

DJ Oplex speaks on the Black Panthers, Love and gang life, even though he has never been in a gang. He discovers he is in a gang on the show and you are too. Meanwhile, Bill Withers and Anita Baker battle in the Song of the Week Faceoff. Benny the Butcher is the focus for the showcase of the week. Did I Set The Bar for you? Listen and hear. To supp…

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The Return of Funk & Tupac - Ep. 92 49:38

2y ago49:38

49:38

DJ Oplex speaks on the dangers of using AI in the music industry while showcasing an AI Project featuring Tupac and others. Meanwhile, Devon the Dude and Black Milk square off in the Song of the Week Faceoff and much more!!! Urban Indie Music: One Down - Jasper Logan Spread Out - King Rab To support Set the Bar join our patreon here!!! Follow DJ Op…

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Edgy Shopping Music (Hip-Hop) - Ep. 91 44:51

2y ago44:51

44:51

DJ Oplex weighs in on the Mos Def Drake beef and speaks on self-hate in the culture. Song of the Week Faceoff features 21 Savage vs. Arrested Development (All new music) New music from The Game and Big Hit, Umi, as well as music from Drake, Mos Def, and Dram. Follow us: https://www.instagram.com/setthebarmixshow/ Follow DJ Oplex here Artist: To sub…

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Set The Bar Mixshow - Ep. 90 57:51

2y ago57:51

57:51

DJ Oplex spins an hour of fyah music including, Black Wolf, Emily King, Elzhi, Drake, Dwele, Kanye West, 607, Larry June and more. Oplex discusses the origins of Hip-Hop and how "cheesy" rap songs are needed in Hip-Hop.

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Set The Bar Mixshow - Ep. 89 (Hip-Hop 50th Edition) 59:27

2+ y ago59:27

59:27

DJ Oplex takes us back to the Golden Era of Hip-Hop by discussing how he became a Hip-Hop Junkie. He discusses Hip-Hop origins, and what seperates Hip-Hop from other genres while spinning bar setting, classic Hip-Hop Tunes. From Run DMC to Benny The Butcher, this HipHop50 edition is a must listen episode.…

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Set The Bar Ep. 88 - Supreme Curation V1 47:01

2+ y ago47:01

47:01

DJ Oplex spins 47 minutes of commercial free Hip-Hop and Soul Music. From Big Piph to Jay-Z, Volume 1 of this curation is Supreme.

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Set The Bar - Ep. 87 58:42

2+ y ago58:42

58:42

DJ Oplex curates an hour of non stop Indie Hip-Hop for your musical pleasure. This week's featured artists are Baang, Valid & Stretch Money, Yunie, Jasper Logan and more!

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Set The Bar Ep. 86 59:39

2+ y ago59:39

59:39

DJ Oplex scans the airwaves to bring you an hour of bar setting music. Episode 86 features Kendrick Lamar, AZ, Camp-Lo, Fire in Little Africa, Nipsey Hustle and more. Tap in and tell a friend!

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Set The Bar - Ep. 85 59:45

2+ y ago59:45

59:45

DJ Oplex unleashes another hour of all urban, indie Hip-Hop for your pleasure. Featured artists include Valid & Stretch Money, Joey Hustle, Jasper Logan, Trem Sol, Thakur and more.By Oplex

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Set The Bar - Ep. 84 57:09

2+ y ago57:09

57:09

After a much needed break, Set The Bar strikes back with a "slowed down hour" of R&B, soul and Hip-Hop Music all curated by DJ Oplex. Urban indie artists like Desmond Days and Dajuan Dupri hang out with Lil Yachty and Emily King. The only way to know how it plays out is to listen.By MoPlex Productions

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Moose & Crawfish - Ep. 82 56:12

2+ y ago56:12

56:12

Moplex brings a special guest from Louisiana: Moose Harris. We talked about some of his experiences being a seasoned veteran of hip-hop and while he saw stormy days in the 5 Deadly Questions, the crawfish looked delicious. We apologize for times when the audio was compromised. Enjoy.

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100% Throttle - Ep. 81 1:08:17

2+ y ago1:08:17

1:08:17

We suffered from technical problems in episode 80 but we struke back with a vengeance with DJ Bush! He brought 4 winning songs from his 60 Second Showcase and they all were bar setters!By MoPlex Productions

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No More Dead Fish - Ep. 79 1:14:21

3y ago1:14:21

1:14:21

Los Lauren returned to the Set The Bar Mixshow to walk us through his most recent release, Jabs. We also learned about how not to eat Deadfish which is something our Dads warned us about as a kid. It's all here in episode 79.By Moplex Productions

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Motor City Speed - Ep. 78 1:09:04

3y ago1:09:04

1:09:04

Platinum producer Nick Speed had a lot to say and had a very difficult time in the #5DeadlyQuestions. However, his rich hip-hop resume includes producing for Lloyd Banks, 50 Cent and Elzhi. We got the scoop on how all this happened and it's strange how Kanye West played a role in Speed's success.By MoPlex Productions

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Highly Favored Hip-Hop - Ep. 77 58:47

3y ago58:47

58:47

Azariah and his producer Laddie touched down all the way from Rochester, NY to exhibit their new LP, Phase 3: Blessed and Highly Favored. What we found was hip-hop that is reminiscent of the golden era (1990-2000) when beats and bars had more value by artists and their listeners. Luckily for you, it's all here in this episode.…

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Gone in 60 Seconds - Episode 76 58:29

3y ago58:29

58:29

On one hand, you might ask how did this episode become episode 77. Have no fear, DJ Bush is here and you should know it's always lit when he appears on the mixshow. We have 3 songs locked and loaded, #5DeadlyQuestions and lots of good talk in between.By MoPlex Productions

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Dupri Up Next - Ep. 75 58:44

3y ago58:44

58:44

Hailing out of Tulsa, Oklahoma, Dajuan Dupri graced the the mixshow to showcase tracks from his new LP, the Afterthought. We discovered that Tulsa consistently has premium talent lurking on the indi hip-hop scene and lucky for you, you get to hear it.By MoPlex Productions

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Mayor Chizzle - Ep. 74 59:39

3y ago59:39

59:39

Due to technical difficulties, we had to skip episodes as they were plagued with audio issues. Umbravo, the Southern Lyricist, returns to the mixshow to showcase tunes from his new, Magnum Opus LP. It got really interesting in the Snakes Den as he navigated through the #5Deadly Questions. Will he survive?…

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The Uncanny Logan - Ep. 72 1:00:50

3y ago1:00:50

1:00:50

Jasper Logan returns to the STB mixshow for a record breaking three times to showcase his most recent LP, Fall Back 2. Learn why we attribute Logan to something different than just a last name.By MoPlex Productions

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Return of the King - Ep. 71 56:52

3y ago56:52

56:52

The King returned on the mixshow to showcase his most recent LP, Let Me Explain. The King proved that he can consistently set the bar. The question becomes, does this project raise it?By MoPlex Productions

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Certified Valid - Ep. 70 1:08:03

3y ago1:08:03

1:08:03

Detroit is certified in kicking out premium hip-hop for the world. But what happens when we certify Valid as an Indi, Detroit artist that sets the bar? We spun his records to prove to you our certification is Valid.By MoPlex Productions

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Lit on the 69th! - Ep. 69 1:04:37

3y ago1:04:37

1:04:37

Moplex bounces back to their fellow brother, DJ Bush of the 60 Second Showcase to listen to some of the best songs spun on his platform in the last 30 days. But of course, because there will only be one episode 69, this one got interesting.By Moplex Productions

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Fire Piph - Ep. 68 1:07:43

3y ago1:07:43

1:07:43

Big Piph is not your average artist. He's also a hip-hop ambassador that has traveled the world teaching the youth how to use hip-hop effectively. Put that along side of his dope music and we have a "one of those" kind of episode.

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The Island Heavyweight - Ep. 67 59:07

3y ago59:07

59:07

Hailing from Tallahassee by way of the UK, Ladii Tii showed us why she is indeed, The Island Heavyweight. Her Reggae, Hip-Hop fusion style is unique and deserves a lot of attention. That's what the show is here for!!!

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The STB Cure - Ep. 66 59:47

3y ago59:47

59:47

ThaKur, repping Memphis/Atlanta/New Orleans, touches down and makes Set The Bar history by being the first duo and the first artist to have 3 music videos for all three songs curated for your pleasure. WARNING: This episode contains exceptional hip-hop records and a dynamic duo!!!