It was the first of times, it was the worst of times.

This time we welcome hip-hop's most mannered MC, it's Mr.B the Gentleman Rhymer, who in mid-July will head to Idler Festival, the magazine-spawned weekend of 'philosophy and merriment' at the plush Fenton House and gardens, in Hampstead.

Joining him will be a medley of entertaining thinkers including Emma Thompson, Stewart Lee, and Michael Palin, among others. Mr.B quips about the quaint setting of Fenton House being more to his taste than the sticky floors of typical comedy clubs.

Mr.B is set to perform at the Edinburgh Fringe and has a new album titled B-Curious. He promises to mix new tracks with old favorites that suit the Idler theme.

Reflecting on his first gig at Frogstock in 2007, Mr.B recalls being nervous but ultimately successful, selling out of CDs. He fondly remembers supporting Sparks at the Royal Albert Hall as a career highlight.

Conversely, a Brit Awards afterparty at the O2 Arena proved disastrous due to poor organization, though it was his best-paid gig. He humorously notes polite heckles and unexpected interactions, like a peculiar proposal from an audience member.

Influenced by Reggie Perrin and others like George Formby and Chuck D, Mr.B takes pride in his unique style. He addresses the infamous 'Chap-Hop Beef' with Professor Elemental, assuring they're now chums.

Despite challenges in the independent music industry and the impact of algorithms, Mr.B remains optimistic, celebrating his career longevity in music. As Julian Cope says, "I may be a has-been, but if I keep at it I'll be a legend."

Mr.B the Gentleman Rhymer plays Idler Festival in Hampstead, London, from July 11-13. Tickets