Mega Ran’s Inspiration Mix for his new album

We sat down with Mega Ran this week and talked through his “Mega Mix” — 17 songs! — that inspired his latest album, Live ‘95. We absolutely loved his new album — it honestly had moments where I would find myself chuckling at the fun he’s clearly having on the tracks — and also really enjoyed the lyrics as he goes through his love of basketball, and the NBA celebrating 75 years this year.

This hip-hop/rap mix is a first on our show, and we absolutely loved listening to it. There are so many incredible rappers and musicians on this mix, and Ran’s stories about each one were so much fun to listen to.

Below you can find his mix tape, and links to his new album. Give both a listen — you won’t regret it!

Here’s his mix tape:

1. Find a Way by A Tribe Called Quest

2. Proceed II by The Roots, Roy Ayers

3. Smiley Faces by Gnarls Barkley

4. Heavy In The Game by 2Pac, Richie Rich

5. I’m Outstanding by Shaquille O’Neal

6. Now You’re Mine by Gang Starr

7. Basketball by Kurtis Blow

8. Crossover by EPMD

9. For Da Love of Da Game by DJ Jazzy Jeff

10. All the Things by Dual Core

11. In & Out by Ohene

12. Chelsea Rodgers by Prince

13. Just Don’t by Raphael Saadiq, Yukimi Nakano

14. Cowboys to Girls by The Intruders

15. Champion by Pastor Troy

16. We Got Our Own Thang by Heavy D & The Boyz

17. Step Right Up by Tom Waits

You can find the playlist on Spotify here.

You can find his new album on Spotify as well.