While celebrating the life of Biggie Smalls AKA Notorious B.I.G. AKA Christopher Wallace yesterday, we couldn’t help but think back to the good old days when hip-hop signified more. What was once a reflection of inner city turmoil filled with messages of inspiration and hope has regrettably devolved into a continuous parade of shallow bling. And even though Biggie sometimes rolled in that lane, you could also empathize with his personal struggle and desire to make a better life for his family despite the challenges.
That is why we are so excited to come across this great early hip-hop documentary directed by Dick Fontaine, who coincidentily is the father of Smokey Fontaine, Chief Content and Creative Officer at Interactive One. As you will see, the cast includes Afrika Bambaataa, DJ Kool Herc – the film includes footage from Herc’s original dance parties The Cold Crush Brothers, Jazzy Jay, Brim Fuentes, and The Dynamic Rockers, and is narrated by Imhotep Gary Byrd. Originally part of the Arena television series, it was among the first crop of documentaries celebrating hip-hop.
Enjoy!