Netflix is about to unleash a firestorm of female talent with their upcoming documentary, Ladies First: A Story of Women in Hip-Hop. With a star-studded lineup featuring some of the most iconic and trailblazing women in the industry. This film promises to be a celebration of women’s contributions to hip-hop.
Set to premiere on August 9, the documentary dives deep into the history and evolution of women in hip-hop. Showcasing their struggles, triumphs, and unwavering determination. From the pioneers who shattered glass ceilings to the contemporary artists breaking barriers today. Altogether, Ladies First promises to be a powerful and insightful look into the world of female rappers.
What To Expect From Ladies First
The first trailer of the documentary packs a punch, leaving viewers eager for more. It’s a sneak peek that teases the raw honesty and unapologetic attitude that define these fierce women. With a backdrop of thumping beats and electrifying visuals, the trailer sets the tone for what appears to be an fascinating experience.
Another aspect that sets Ladies First apart is its stellar cast of interviewees. Netflix has created an A-list of hip-hop royalty. The likes of Queen Latifah, MC Lyte, Da Brat, and Remy Ma bring their iconic presence to the screen. Providing firsthand accounts of their struggles and victories. Their stories are bound to inspire not only aspiring artists, but anyone with a dream in their heart.
However, the star power doesn’t stop there. The documentary also delves into the roots of hip-hop with legendary figures like Sha-Rock and Roxanne Shante. Reminding us of the often overlooked but significant role women played in the genre’s foundation.
As the trailer flashes through time, it becomes evident that the legacy of these pioneers continues with the new generation. Coi Leray, Tierra Whack, Kash Doll, Saweetie, and more, are all featured. Showing viewers that all in all the future of hip-hop is in capable hands.
The documentary’s release comes hot on the heels of several other successful music-related releases from Netflix. Reaffirming their commitment to delivering top-notch content for music enthusiasts. With the recent Wham! documentary, the announcement of the Scott Pilgrim anime series, as well as Erykah Badu’s appearance in The Piano Lesson, the streaming giant is clearly striking the right chords with its audience.
As we wait eagerly for Ladies First to hit our screens, there’s no doubt that it will speak to viewers worldwide. Also, it will serve as a powerful reminder that women have always been at the forefront of hip-hop. Spitting rhymes and breaking stereotypes with every beat.
So mark your calendars for August 9, because Ladies First: A Story of Women in Hip-Hop is coming in hot. And it is sure to leave a mark on the music industry. Overall, prepare to be inspired, empowered, and entertained by these incredible women who continue to change the game, one verse at a time.
Get ready to witness an epic collaboration between Mandopop sensation JJ Lin and Afro-Korean musician Anderson .Paak! These two musical prodigies have teamed up for the first time to produce a sensational song, “In The Joy,” for the upcoming East West Bank documentary film “The Bridge.” This powerful track celebrates life’s joys, promotes unity, and fosters understanding. What better way to kick off Asian Pacific American Heritage Month in May?
East West Bank’s Role In Empowering The Asian-Pacific American Community
Step right up and get ready to be transported on a cinematic journey unlike any other! Evan Jackson Leong, the brilliant director behind “The Bridge,” takes you on a captivating exploration of the Asian-Pacific American Community’s rich history spanning five decades. This extraordinary documentary shines a light on the pivotal role of East West Bank, empowering countless generations of APA businesses and visionaries.
Prepare to have your mind blown as you witness a thought-provoking perspective on the Asian American experience, conveyed through the unique lens of a bank founded in 1973 to serve this community. “The Bridge” is more than just a film; it’s a tribute to the triumphs and struggles of an entire generation, a testament to the indomitable human spirit that continues to thrive despite adversity.
As one of the largest mainstream commercial banks in the country, East West Bank has expanded its reach while maintaining a solid commitment to building bridges across communities, fostering cross-border and cross-cultural understanding, and building meaningful relationships.
Executives and board members of East West Bank rang the Nasdaq opening bell in New York in February 2019 to mark the company’s 20th anniversary of going public. Credit: East West Bank
Celebrating The Achievements Of The APA Community
As the audience watches the film, they will witness the remarkable achievements of the Asian-Pacific American (APA) community. These achievements are highlighted through various anecdotes shared by Dominic Ng, the Chairman and CEO of East West Bank, who highlights the collective successes of the APA community.
Furthermore, the film includes interviews with several notable personalities, including Michelle Yeoh, an Oscar Award-winning actress; Andrew and Peggy Cherng, the CEO and Co-CEO of Panda Restaurant Group; and Janet Yang, the President of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, along with other prominent individuals. These interviews provide insights into the experiences, struggles, and victories of influential individuals in the APA community, adding depth and context to the film.
“The Asian Pacific American community has been able to make tremendous strides in business, education, entertainment, the arts, and more in large part due to East West Bank’s support and financial commitment to this community,” said Leong, known for his films such as “Linsanity” and “Snakehead.” “While we’ve come so far, there is still more work to be done and some of those same challenges to overcome today.”
Confronting Challenges And Building Bridges With Film And Song
The emphasis on unity and understanding in both the film and the song aims to celebrate the incredible efforts of Asian-Pacific Americans in society. However, it also confronts the bitter truth that challenges such as prejudice and discrimination still exist. “Now more than ever, Asian Pacific Americans are empowered to make a positive impact as valued members of our society, leading to greater representation and contributions across industries,” Ng said.
The East West Bank has been an integral part of bridging the gap between the East and West financially and culturally. To celebrate this remarkable achievement, the bank has come up with a unique approach to showcasing its story through film and song, offering a meaningful way to connect with the creative community. This initiative celebrates the bank’s heritage and progress in the United States.
In addition, it allows younger generations to experience the joy, promise, and hope of a brighter future. East West Bank CEO Dominic Ng is confident that this creative initiative will contribute significantly to preserving cultural heritage and bridging the gap between generations. By showcasing its journey through music and film, the bank aims to foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of its heritage and culture among people of all ages and backgrounds.
Listen to “In The Joy” below.
Discovering The Multi-Talented Anderson .Paak
Listen up, music lovers! I’ve got some insider information that will blow your mind: the one and only Anderson .Paak, a true musical prodigy, was born and raised in the sunny city of Oxnard, California. Even as a teenager, his talent was unquestionable, as he honed his skills playing drums in his local church band. But that was just the beginning.
With the release of his debut album “Venice” and its jaw-dropping follow-up “Malibu” in 2016, Anderson .Paak emerged as a force to be reckoned with in the industry. And with not one, not two, but a whopping EIGHT Grammy Awards to his name, this multi-talented artist has proven that he’s not just a performer – he’s a top-tier producer, songwriter, and director too.
Trust me; you won’t want to miss a minute of Anderson .Paak’s unparalleled talent and infectious energy!
Anderson .Paak. Credit: Linda Nylind/The Guardian
Anderson .Paak’s “Lockdown”: A Powerful Song Recognized By The President And The Grammy Awards
It’s undeniable that many individuals have suffered mistreatment at the hands of law enforcement, wouldn’t you agree? Now picture this: A rising star in the music industry, who is also an advocate for social justice, writes a song that resonates with millions of people but also receives critical acclaim. That’s exactly what happened with Anderson .Paak, when he penned the lyrics for “Lockdown” after attending a protest against police brutality in Los Angeles.
His raw and emotional performance on the track earned him the coveted Grammy Award for Best Melodic Rap Performance in 2020, pushing him further into the spotlight. But the recognition didn’t stop there. “Lockdown” was also featured on several “Best of” lists and even caught former President Barack Obama’s attention, who included it on his annual “Favorite Music” list.
While it’s true that presidents are just as human as the rest of us, knowing that one of them takes a keen interest in your music can be a pretty cool experience. This recognition is a testament to the impact and significance of Anderson .Paak’s music entertains, ignites passion, and provokes thoughtful discussions on vital issues.
Hold on tight because there’s more to the talented Anderson .Paak then meets the eye! He’s not only a Grammy-winning musician with a distinctive and soulful sound that has taken the world by storm, but he’s also a multifaceted artist who wears many hats with panache. It’s no wonder that the acclaimed shoe brand Vans has chosen him as their first-ever Global Music Ambassador!
A Visionary Musician, Director, And Entrepreneur
On top of that, Anderson’s directorial skills are out of this world, as evidenced by his masterful work on Leon Bridges’ “Motorbike” music video. And let’s not forget his unparalleled collaboration with the one and only Bruno Mars. The Silk Sonic duo has set the bar high with their debut single, “Leave The Door Open,” which has amassed an impressive 460 million streams and 350 million official video views!
It’s about time we recognize this dynamic duo with the recognition they deserve. Not only have they masterfully recreated the soulful sounds of the 1970s, but their music lifts listeners’ moods and transports them to a more positive state. It’s truly remarkable how this group has managed to capture the essence of a bygone era and breathe new life into it, creating something that’s both nostalgic and fresh all at once.
Oh, and get this: .Paak has just unveiled his very own record label, APESHT, in partnership with the mighty Universal Music Group (UMG). This man never ceases to amaze us with his unwavering passion and dedication to music. Now he’s using his incredible platform to uplift emerging artists and give them the exposure they deserve. What an absolute icon!
Mandopop Sensation JJ Lin Dominating The Music Industry
Now, let me tell you about JJ Lin, the talented singer-songwriter who took the music industry by storm. With his debut album, “Music Voyager,” JJ made waves and never looked back. He’s been churning out hit after hit for 20 years, making him one of the most in-demand artists in Asia.
JJ Lin. Credit: The Straits Times/TEAM SMG
If you haven’t seen JJ perform live, you’re missing out on the experience of a lifetime! His mesmerizing vocals and limitless range always leave the audience spellbound. Having taken the stageat an incredible 132 tour stops, JJ is no stranger to the limelight. His virtual concerts have garnered over 100 million views, earning him the nickname “The Walking CD” among his devoted fans.
It’s no surprise that with 120 billion streams worldwide on leading music platforms, JJ’s music has captured the hearts of millions. JJ’s talent and charm are irreplaceable, from his electrifying live shows to his chart-topping hits.
And he’s not just a one-person show. JJ has collaborated with big names in the music industry, including Steve Aoki, Anne Marie, and Luis Fonsi, to name a few. Additionally, he has made history by becoming the first Mandopop singer to hold an arena-sized concert in Seattle and sell out two consecutive nights at the New York Barclays Center. Talk about breaking records!
From Music Tours To Entrepreneurship
Imagine the electrifying atmosphere in Hong Kong as JJ wrapped up an exhilarating 6-show marathon, leaving fans clamoring for more. With a well-deserved rest under his belt, JJ is now gearing up for the next leg of his JJ20 World Tour. After finishing his tours in Australia this month, JJ has set his sights on conquering Paris, London, Europe, and other global hotspots. As if that wasn’t enough, JJ’s creative juices are flowing, and he’s hard at crafting a brand-new album. The album, set to be released in April, commemorates his 20th anniversary in the music industry.
Expect nothing but the best from JJ as he thrills fans across the globe with his explosive performances and chart-topping hits.
Moreover, the “If Only” singer is not just a musical icon but also a wise entrepreneur with multiple business ventures under his belt. In addition to his music career, JJ has diversified his portfolio with experiences in fashion, coffee, esports, and art. What’s more, he also actively engages in innovative projects that bridge the gap between the Web2 and Web3 worlds. For instance, he collaborates with local start-up GRAYCRAFT. Furthermore, as a Co-Founder of ARC, a unique app-based community for co-creation and nurturing the next generation of Asian ventures, JJ plays an instrumental role in supporting budding entrepreneurs.
2-part documentary — "Miami's Richmond Heights: The Black Shangri-La." Image source: Unheard Voices Magazine.
In an exclusive announcement on Feb 2, Hip Rock Star announced a 2-part docuseries, “Miami’s Richmond Heights: The Black Shangri-La.” Crackle, Plex, and LG were among the streaming platforms that released the DocuSeries’ world premiere on Wednesday, Feb 15, 2023.
Hip Rock Star Advertising is an award-winning full-service media production and 360 agency specializing in digital content, music videos, documentaries, television programming, and all things creative. With offices in Miami and Los Angeles, Hip Rock Star focuses on creating inspiring and entertaining content.
What Is “Miami’s Richmond Heights” Based On?
Based on the book, “Images of America: Miami’s Richmond Heights” by co-authors Patricia Harper Garrett and The Historic Society’s Founder and Executive Director, Jessica Garrett Modkins, “Miami’s Richmond Heights: The Black Shangri-La” explores the lives of early Black World War II veterans in detail and the rationale of the white developer Captain Frank C. Martin who perpetuated social change during Jim Crow.
Writer and Director Jessica Garrett Modkins is joined from left to right by Daniella Levine Cava, Miami-Dade County Mayor; Mark Valentine, SBC Community Development Corporation; former Miami-Dade County Commissioner Dennis S. Moss; and Connie Kinnard, VP of Multicultural Tourism & Development, Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau. The group poses at the DocuSeries premier for Miami’s Richmond Heights: The Black Shangri-La. Image source: Hip Rock Star Advertising.
Furthermore, this book explores the unique circumstances allowing Black veterans to flourish despite suppression by the system. In 1949, Frank C. Martin made the courageous and unpopular decision to establish an autonomous community for these veterans. His pioneering work advocating for and developing the Black veteran community during difficult times was a beacon of hope. This demonstrated the power of one individual to bring about positive change.
Throughout this documentary series, we meet the grandchildren of the 1949 Black World War II veterans. We learn how they became successful in their professions and about their legacy. Additionally, the documentary explores the socioeconomic fabric of this period, including segregation and civil rights. For example, according to data from 2022, 74.6% of White households owned their homes, compared with 45.3% of Black households — a gap of more than 29 points.
A photograph from the film of one of the many homes in Richmond Heights. Image source: Hip Rock Star Advertising.
Premiere Comments
In her remarks at the premiere of the docuSeries, Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava said, “I’m thrilled that this is the way we’re kicking off Black History Month. I could not be more delighted that Jessica…put together this incredible tribute. We have great history right there in Miami-Dade County, right here, and must not be forgotten! I just wanna say I’m super, super proud of this great team.”
Watch the “Miami’s Richmond Heights” trailer below.
Jessica Garret Modkins, Executive Producer, Director, and Writer of Miami’s Richmond Heights: The Black Shangri-La, also declares her enthusiasm at being able to present the documentary. She argues that the documentary tells the story of the original residents, veterans, Tuskegee Airmen, doctors, and university professors.
“In 2017, we debuted the foundation in the documentary “The 49er.” This project focuses on the grandchildren living the wildest dreams of the original pioneers. It is beyond measure that these grandchildren are inventors, NASA scientists, NFL players, the vice-president of the NBA,” said Garret. Continuing, she said we personified Black World War II veterans’ dreams of a legacy and the birth of industry leadership.
Who Is In The Film, And With Whom Are They Partnering?
Furthermore, the film contains interviews with Samuel and Queen Armstrong, Jubbie Deon Battle, Jubbie Battle, LaTeef Battle, Senator Dwight Bullard, Marvin Dunn, Patricia Harper Garrett, Robert Linton II, MD, MBA, Frank Carroll Martin, Charles Minder, Jacquelyn Cambridge Porter, Melissa McGhee Proctor, Sheldrick Redwine, Dr. Alvin Smith, Larry Spring, LaTasha Stirrup, LaToya Stirrup, LaTrice Stirrup, Mark Valentine, Avery Washington, and Dr. Graylyn Swilley Woods.
A photograph from the film of a few women being interviewed. Image source: Hip Rock Star Advertising.
“Miami’s Richmond Heights: The Black Shangri-La” works closely with the Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau (GMCVB). The GMCVB aims to promote Miami as a premier tourist destination by providing comprehensive visitor information, marketing, and sales services to ensure a successful visit for all travelers. Also, the film receives the support of APEX Content Ventures, which provides investment for Media Owners in exchange for media assets and deals in and around that project to enable them to create and obtain quality content.
Amazon Prime released a trailer for the upcoming documentary Untrapped: The Story of Lil Baby. The official summary states the film will be:
An intimate look at the life of Grammy®-winning rapper Dominique Armani Jones (aka Lil Baby) as he navigates his meteoric rise from the West Atlanta streets to the top of the Billboard charts with his roles as devoted father, son, community philanthropist and powerful voice in the fight for racial justice. Told through previously unseen footage and set to a soundtrack of his biggest hits.
Additionally, there are a number of featured interviewees that have played a role in Baby’s legacy as an artist. Some of them include Young Thug, Drake, and Coach K of Quality Control.
Lil Baby has worked for his spot in the pantheon of rappers since his debut in 2016. He has released several number one albums, collaborated with some of the biggest artists, and cemented himself as a future legend. He’s come from serving time in prison to becoming a platinum-selling, Grammy-winning artist.
Tribeca Film Festival Premiere
On June 11th, Lil Baby premiered UnTrapped: The Story of Lil Baby during the 2022 Tribeca Film Festival. After a screening of the film at The Beacan Theatre in New York, there was a Q&A session with Baby. During the Q&A session Lil Baby revealed that he had only seen the film a week prior to the premiere reports Bossip.com. “I actually waited. You know what I’m saying? I ain’t wanna just see it before. I seen it like first time this week. It made me drop a tear or two”, Baby said. Following the Q&A, the Atlanta MC ran through a medley of his biggest hits for the crowd.
Life Untrapped: The Future Ahead
With no signs of slowing down, it’s safe to say this is just the midpoint of Baby’s legacy. Untrapped: The Story of Lil Baby will give us the story so far and may provide glimpses of what’s to come. The documentary is set to begin streaming on August 26th, exclusively on Prime Video.
Malcolm “Laidback Mack” Morrow | IG: @mack_stay_manifesting | FB: The Hood Hippie MS | Twitter: @_laidbackmack_
Logic has released a new documentary called Vinyl DaysDocumentary. The hour-long film shows the rapper’s last few days of recording his album Vinyl Days. The album is also the rapper’s last on his former record label Def Jam, which he discusses in the documentary. “Leaving the only place I’ve ever known as a home for ten years,” he said. “To then go be independent and really do it on my own, it’s a scary thing. It’s a lot of things that I think are like building up and like so much going on and I just feel tired man.”
Earlier this year, Logic announced his move to record label BMG. With the new label, he will also be able to own his masters for every album he makes. In an interview with Billboard, Logic spoke about the label switch. “There’s a lot of bullshit in the music industry,” Logic added in a statement. “I’m just glad to move on to a place where I can be independent and respected as an artist, and feel like I’m in control of my career.”
He first signed with Def Jam in 2014, where he released his debut studio album Under Pressure. His other albums include The Incredible True Story, Everybody, YSIV, Confessions of a Dangerous Mind and No Pressure.
Logic’s Vinyl Days
Vinyl Days was released on June 24 and include features from Action Bronson, Curren$y, Russ, RZA, AZ, The Game, Royce Da 5’9″ and Wiz Khalifa. Logic will be hitting the road on a co-headlining tour with Khalifa this summer. The Vinyl Verse Tour will kick off July 27 in Irvine, CA. Other stops include Phoenix, Dallas, Nashville, Atlanta and Brooklyn. It will conclude September 2 in St. Louis, Missouri. 24KGoldn, DJ Drama, Fedd The God, C Dot Castro, Rubi Rose and Berner will play on select dates of the tour. Tickets are on sale now.
NEW YORK, NEW YORK - SEPTEMBER 12: Machine Gun Kelly attends the 2021 MTV Video Music Awards at Barclays Center on September 12, 2021 in the Brooklyn borough of New York City. (Photo by Jason Kempin/Getty Images)
Machine Gun Kelly is certainly a punk rock artist. He performed in Madison Square Garden earlier this week on his “Mainstream Sellout Tour”. The tour has 27 more stops and includes Trippie Redd, Willow, and Iann Dior. After the show was the after party of course. During the party, MGK decided to smash his face with a glass! He was on stage with a champagne class in one hand and the microphone in the other. After screaming that he didn’t care about anything, the rock star breaks the glass on his face. With blood coming out of his face, he remains on stage and performs his song, “My Ex’s Best Friend”.
People can’t stop talking about @MachineGunKelly smashing a champagne glass on his face and then bleeding while celebrating the premiere of his new @Hulu documentary and selling out Madison Square Garden (🎥: @machinegunkelly) pic.twitter.com/8ZOAG9JGmQ
On his Instagram page, you can see the two clips in which MGK looks as if nothing happened. In the morning after, he takes to social media again posting his reaction of what he did the night prior. The Ohio-raised rapper appeared shocked and disgusted. Yesterday, he appeared on “Late Night With Seth Meyers” where he explained the incident. He said he wanted to quiet the crowd, but he did not have a fork. So, he used his head instead. Also, this may be hard to believe, but MGK did not wait until after his concert to spark headlines. He was even on one during his sold-out show! During his set, Kelly decided to come at one of the crew members. He aggressively ran off the stage shouting towards the man until his team member held him back. MGK ran right back on stage to smash a guitar before the end of the show.
Machine Gun Kelly confronted a crew member at Madison Square Garden. Shortly after, he smashed his guitar on stage. pic.twitter.com/UQouprjyDf
Machine Gun Kelly has had a few dark times in his life. He details a time specifically in his new documentary, “Life in Pink”. Streaming on Hulu, the rapper turned rocker admits he almost committed suicide. In July of 2020, Kelly’s father passed away and he did not know how to cope. His girlfriend, Megan Fox, was out of town working while he was all alone. At that time, he was sleeping with a shotgun every night from dealing with paranoia. One day, he turned the shotgun on him, but fortunately he did not pull the trigger. As a result, Kelly decided to stay off drugs with the help of Fox and his daughter.
via YOUTUBE spotify "A Day in Ghana With Kendrick Lamar"
Kendrick Lamar released a four-minute documentary in collaboration with Spotify this past week (Jun. 17). What can fans expect?
Meeting Kendrick and Accra
We open with several rapid shots of Ghanaians living their everyday lives. Instantly, Kendrick presents his thesis; beautiful black people. This is an extremely persistent theme in Kendrick’s art, from his humble first mixtape Youngest Head Nigga in Charge (Hub City Threat: Minor of the Year), to his Grammy award-winning damn. The camera sets on Kendrick watching some boys box in the street, as he sets the stage.
“First time in Ghana,” he says, camera looming over his head.
The setting is Accra, Ghana. In his hometown of Compton, Kendrick would probably be dodging phone cameras and endless crowds. But In Accra, the 35-year-old can casually play some foosball outside.
“I can’t even tell you what day it is, I just be in the moment.”
The future of skating
Lamar’s ‘Crown’ echoes in the back while the camera pans across Freedom Skate Park. Skating has become a bit of a phenomenon with kids in Ghana recently. Skaters like Joshua Odamtten have launched the sport into popularity in the small nation. Now, Ghanaian boys and girls are going viral for their mainly self-taught tricks.
Freedom Skate Park is a former hospital repurposed for the youth of the community. This safe haven for Accra was developed by Skate Nation and Surf Ghana, and erected in Virgil Abloh’s honor. Abloh first reached out personally to Skate Nation after seeing them in Vogue Magazine. Immediately, the designer and skate crew saw eye to eye and began collaborating on the logo, brand identity, and ramp design of Freedom Skate Park.
A large portrait stands brightly in Freedom Skate Park to honor the entrepreneur, who tragically passed from cardiac angiosarcoma in November last year.
“How it makes them feel to be over here. Virgil, what he means to them you know, as far as letting them have this creative space for them to enjoy themselves. They’re special.” Kendrick explained upon being asked what he speaks to the East African youth about.
Getting some help
The doc quickly transitions to a more personal perspective, as the focus becomes Kendrick’s latest album Mr. Morale & the Big Steppers. In his fifth studio album, Kendrick explores the topic of mental health amongst his black male peers and the rejection of traditional therapy. This reflects his real experiences as the ‘DNA’ rapper just recently began unlearning the “black men don’t need therapy” trope.
“One of my favorite lines in the album is where’ll say you really need to go to therapy. And I say real niggas don’t go to therapy.” the West Coast artist says with a laugh. The image of Kendrick and a group of friends on the beach underlies this narrative of black men taking the steps to self-healing.
“Cause that’s how niggas feel. You know what I’m saying we grew up where our parents don’t know about that our grandparents don’t know about that. “ Kendrick explained.
“To challenge myself to go to therapy, that’s like a whole new step in a whole new generation. That’s growth.”
Show don’t tell
The visuals are the star of this show. Of course, Kendrick’s narrations and the accompanying music do their part. However, it’s the kids playing soccer, houses stacked by the brim, and friends smiling on the beach, that make ‘A Day in Ghana with Kendrick Lamar’ truly special. Getting an intimate look into a West African country outside of the usual lens of poverty is extremely refreshing.
This doc contains no sad violin music or starving bodies. Ghana specifically and purposefully isn’t portrayed as a place to feel pity for. ‘A Day in Ghana with Kendrick Lamar’ is a love letter to black adversities and experiences. Whether those experiences are a kid learning to skateboard in Accra, or a grown man in California going to therapy for the first time, they’re equally rich and valid. This is particularly reinforced through the doc’s final words and Kendrick’s ‘Duckworth’ serving as an epilogue soundtrack.
“Everything we do out here, everything that we say everything that’s been done, it’s all a representation of all of us.”
Although the video is admittedly short, it provides that signature Kendrick authenticity. It’s storytelling at its most simple, and it’s effective.
Watch for yourself and see what you think of ‘A Day in Ghana with Kendrick Lamar’.
XXXTentacion will receive a new compilation on June 10, titled “Look At Me: The Album.”. This is to go with the Hulu documentary about the late rapper, which released May 26.
This is going to be the third posthumous album released. The first album, “Skins”, was released in 2018, in the same year as his death. The other, “Bad Vibes Forever”, was released the following year, in 2019. Both of those albums debuted on Billboard 200’s Top 5.
The documentary, called “Look At Me: XXXTentacion”, focuses on his mental health issues, as well as some of the controversies surrounding X.. It features never before seen footage. It also has interviews of people that were close to him. This includes ex-girlfriends. The reason for the title is because that was X’s debut single.
X was a deeply disturbed person. However, he was also making it appear worse than it actually was for the publicity. He considered all publicity as good. That is also the reason for some of the controversies that he had caused. The more that people talked about him, the more that people can find him.
Look at Me: The Album
The album, which is called Look At Me: The Album, is divided into 2 parts. The first part is 11 songs and are focused around X’s early works. This is the first time that all of them are going to be available for streaming services. The second part is 13 fan favorite songs. The album closes in the same way as the documentary, with the song “True Love” which was also on Donda 2 by Ye.. Previously, the only way to get this song was through Ye’s $200 stem player.
They are playing with the names of the two parts, as well. The first part, with the early works, is called “Look at me then”. The other part with the big hitting songs and “True Love” is called “Look at me now”.
Samiel "Blacc Sam" Asghedom at The Marathon (Cultivation) Documentary
credit: Mark Escalante
Nipsey Hussle created a legacy that is still inspiring. Unfortunately, he has been gone for more than 3 years, but he continues to inspire. A new documentary about the journey Nipsey and his brother Samiel “Blacc Sam” Asghedom took to create a cannabis business has been released. This comes a month before The Marathon (Collective), a THC and CBD store, opens in Los Angeles.
The Marathon (Cultivation) Documentary
Complex reported that the premiere for the documentary took place about a week ago. A small group of friends, family and cannabis consumers gathered to watch it. Most importantly, they all loved what they saw.
Samiel “Blacc Sam” Asghedom at Documentary premiere Credit: Mark Escalante
Fans will get to see how the store came into existence. The documentary follows Nipsey and his close friends’ sales of cannabis on the streets to the successful creation of a cannabis store. The documentary also covers how Nipsey and the Cure Company teamed up to create Marathon OG.
Eventually, Nipsey gives a tour of the iconic Marathon OG grow room, Snoop Dogg makes an appearance and the audience receives glimpses of the Marathon (Collective) store.
Blacc Sam will open the store June 18th on Canoga Ave. in Los Angeles. This will be the first The Marathon (Collective) store, and it will act as the flagship for all future stores.
“This is something we always spoke about,” Blacc Sam said at the premiere.
Nipsey Hussle
Credit: The Marathon (Cultivation) DocumentaryThe Marathon brand will carry on as long as people are willing to carry on the legacy Nipsey Hussle left behind. Certainly, the hood needs us to continue reinvesting into it. Nipsey left the blueprint for us to follow; therefore, we should follow.
Cypress Hill Celebrates Hip Hop Career with "Insane in the Membrane" Documentary. Image Source: Showtime.
Today fans of classic Hip-Hop got a great gift of the Cypress Hill’s “Insane in the Membrane” Documentary.
Cypress Hill
If there was any group that impacted Hip-Hop, it was Cypress Hill. Hill’s fully infused sound blending a hot cultural and genre-blending mix was cutting edge. Not only were their sounds fresh to death but also their posture. When the promotion of weed was taboo, they blazed and amazed with their odes to Mary Jane. As a source notes,
“Cypress Hill has long blazed banana-boat-sized spliffs onstage during sets — whether or not local laws allowed it. Flouting authorities at every stop, Cypress Hill has helped define contemporary Los Angeles cannabis culture. Like the Beach Boys did for surfing and orange crate artists for the Southern California tourism industry.”
An Unexpected Destiny
A group of friends who weren’t entirely sold on what they had to offer when they stepped on the scene thirty years in the industry feels mighty good. And now it’s time to commemorate the fruits of their journey. And their documentary does just that.
“Insane In The Membrane:” Cypress Hill Story
The “Insane in the Membrane” documentary highlights Hill’s Journey told from Oriol’s perspective, an outsider to the group. However, very much an insider to the experience.
He lends his voice and lens the intimate perspective of an artist, friend, and travel companion to the group throughout their career. As a source notes,
“Though Estevan Oriol has never been a member, the photographer and filmmaker traveled with them for most of Cypress Hill’s 30-plus years as a group.”
He had captured their story on a reel for 25 years, and then the time came to pull it all together.
Cypress Hill Documentary Now Airing
Under Oriol’s direction and the production of Mass Appeal Insane in the Membrane arrives on Showtime on April 20th. As a bonus, it comes in time to celebrate Hip-Hop and its 50 years of impact on the industry, society, and people. And what is a better way to celebrate the anniversary of a Hip-Hop than with a look at some of the pioneers that helped shape it?
