#Throwback Episode - w/ Dave Mays & Benzino | (Ep. 10)

N.O.R.E. & DJ EFN are the Drink Champs and we're taking it back to some of the most legendary moments in Drink Champs history Classic interviews, unforgettable stories, and iconic guests who shaped the culture. In this classic throwback episode of Drink Champs, N.O.R.E. and DJ EFN chop it up with the legends themselves, Dave Mays and Benzino! Co-founders of The Source magazine—Dave & Benzino talk about the legacy, controversy, and cultural impact of the iconic publication.

From the origin story of The Source as a Harvard newsletter to becoming the “Hip-Hop Bible,” Benzino and Dave Mays recount how they changed the game with the legendary 5 Mic rating system and gave a platform to countless rap legends before they blew up.

The episode touches on the rise and fall of The Source, the magazine’s fierce rivalry with XXL, and how internal beefs and external pressure—including industry politics and legal troubles—impacted their careers. Benzino opens up about his time on Love & Hip-Hop, reality TV’s effect on his image, and addresses long-standing controversies surrounding Eminem and Dr. Dre. Dave Mays shares insights on how race and authenticity in hip-hop media shaped their editorial vision.

With raw stories, wild behind-the-scenes moments, and unfiltered opinions, this episode is a true celebration of hip-hop history, journalistic legacy, and resilience. It's a must-watch for anyone who lived through the golden era or wants to understand how The Source helped shape the culture forever.

Make some noise for Dave Mays and Benzino!! 💐💐💐🏆🏆🏆 -Originally published on May 27th, 2016:

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