Entertainment
Deborah Riley Draper on the Making of Say It Loud: A Deep Dive into the Legacy of James Brown
Deborah Riley Draper directed “James Brown: Say It Loud,” a four-part documentary series produced by QuestLove and Mick Jagger. Courtesy
Deborah Riley Draper is a pioneering filmmaker with a talent for unearthing compelling narratives that bring cultural history to life. With roots in promoting and a passion for storytelling, Draper has carved out a distinct segment for herself in the documentary world, highlighting the wealthy and sometimes ignored features of African American heritage. Characterized by in-depth research and vivid storytelling, her work has gained critical acclaim and established her as a robust voice in historical documents.
In her recognized documental series Draper dives into the electrifying life of the legendary James Brown. The film takes viewers on an exciting journey through the ups and downs of Brown’s storied profession, from his humble beginnings to his meteoric rise as the “Godfather of Soul.” Draper combines archival footage, insightful interviews and expert commentary to create a narrative that not only celebrates Brown’s spirit and musical genius, but in addition highlights his pivotal role in Civil Rights Movement. Through her lens, Brown emerges not only as an entertainment icon, but in addition as a life force for social change, as his music and activism intertwine into the tapestry of American history.
Draper’s portrayal of Brown is each intimate and expansive, offering a multi-layered exploration of the man behind the music. The documentary highlights Brown’s dynamic performances, his constant motivation and his lasting impact on music and culture. By placing Brown’s story in the broader sociopolitical context of his time, Draper presents a nuanced and comprehensive portrait that goes beyond his stage persona to disclose the complexity of his legacy.
Ahead of the Emmy Awards, Draper shared with Essence details of the meticulous research and inventive decisions behind the craft, offering a behind-the-scenes have a look at the making of the documentary. She shared anecdotes from interviews with those that knew Brown best, discussed the challenges of portraying such a various figure, and explained how she managed to reconcile the musical and sociopolitical features of his life. This conversation shed light on Draper’s commitment to preserving and honoring African American history through her insightful storytelling, and her insights undoubtedly deepen our appreciation of each her work and the legacy of James Brown.
ESSENCE: What inspired you to delve into the life and legacy of James Brown for this docuseries?
Riley-Draper: James Brown played a pivotal role for the Black community on and off stage during critical moments of the Civil Rights Movement and in conveying the message of the Black Power Movement and hip-hop. When I believe of James Brown, I believe of my father, who was born in rural South Carolina and raised in Georgia. I believe of my uncles and cousins who held James Brown in high esteem not only as a singer but in addition as a black man who, despite seemingly insurmountable odds, was capable of achieve global fame. He is an incredible example of the lived experience of Black America; is a masterclass in work ethic and self-determination, and that alone is value exploring.
How did you come to work with executive producers QuestLove and Mick Jagger and what unique perspectives did they create to the project?
Questlove and Mick Jagger were already executive producers after I joined the project as director. They each have a deep knowledge of music history, especially James Brown. So it was my responsibility to seek out recent features of James Brown’s life and present them in recent and exciting ways. I loved reaching back to Questlove and Mick Jagger’s early exposure to James Brown’s music and the way it impacted their trajectory and position as artists and entrepreneurs as an instance its generational and global impact.
What challenges did you face in attempting to capture the essence of James Brown’s story in a four-part series?
James Brown definitely has enough life to fill an eight-part series. The challenge was to decide on which storylines to focus on with a view to give the audience as much as possible in 4 episodes, while maintaining energy and a coherent story and creating episodic cliffhangers. Because James Brown’s journey is so intertwined with the Black experience and a few of the most transformative moments in American history, I needed to create space for historical context in order that viewers could understand his decisions, actions, and reactions.
Can you highlight any particularly surprising or lesser-known features of James Brown’s life and profession that viewers can expect to see on Say It Loud?
I used to be surprised to learn that in the late Nineteen Sixties, James Brown created the Black and Brown trade stamps in collaboration with Oakland Raider Art Powell and Donald Warden, who were co-founders of the African American Association, the most fundamental institution of the Black Power movement. Members included Huey P. Newton, Bobby Seale and the parents of U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris. The front of the stamps featured James Brown’s face and encouraged support for black businesses. In its first yr, the enterprise grew to incorporate 1,000 dealers throughout California, generating over $1 million in sales.
How do you think that James Brown’s influence extends beyond the realm of music and into broader cultural and social landscapes?
From his hairstyle to his impeccable fashion sense, James Brown created a design that inspired his fans to emulate for generations. He was the first African American to own a non-public jet. He expanded what the American Dream can mean for marginalized communities. Dozens of entrepreneurs from James Brown’s restaurant owners, restaurants and record labels. Additionally, James Brown ought to be a Harvard Business School case study in marketing and branding. He understood the power of using his name and image in packaging, merchandise, and the musical performances he produced.
What archival materials or interviews were crucial in piecing together the narrative of James Brown’s life, and the way did you ensure the accuracy and authenticity of your portrayal?
I’m a researcher. I start with primary source material. I reviewed a whole lot of hours of interviews, listened to studio conversations, read a long time of newspaper accounts, and studied photos. The interviews were useful because I used to be capable of hear from James Brown and turn out to be accustomed to his body language, inflection and word alternative. It was very eloquent and informative. That’s why I selected James Brown as director to take us through each episode. James Brown brings his story to life. Our stories too often fall victim to reductive and reactive storytelling. Through archival footage, we witness James Brown say what he feels and “Say it loud.”
As a filmmaker, what do you hope audiences take away from Say It Loud in terms of understanding James Brown’s impact on music, activism and popular culture?
In November 1969, the cover of Look magazine asked the query: Is James Brown the most vital black man in America? I need viewers to know that James Brown was one of the most vital black men of the twentieth century. His music liberated our community and transformed us from Negro to Black people. This transformation was significant after the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King, King, when our community had to know what the future might hold. The anthem “Say it Loud” is timeless and a staple in each the late Nineteen Sixties and today. During the summer of 2020, the lyrics and meaning of the song were chanted repeatedly. Without James Brown, would Janelle Monae, Usher and Bruno Mars exist as we all know them? Would hip-hop exist without James Brown, especially considering how foundational “Funky Drummer” is? James Brown had over 15,000 samples taken – that speaks for itself.
How did you approach balancing the celebration of James Brown’s achievements with a nuanced exploration of his personal struggles and controversies?
James Brown’s life began with trauma – he was stillborn. He struggled with internal and external challenges to get his life together. Like most human beings, his life is a road map full of right turns and just a few mistaken ones. The essence is to make use of your good and bad decisions as a lifelong curriculum. His life experience teaches us about ambition, trauma, fame, anger, blackness, anti-blackness, and work ethic. We have to see and understand what went mistaken in the same way we see what went right – that is how we unpack life.
What importance do you see in telling James Brown’s story now, especially in today’s sociopolitical climate?
When “Say it Loud” was written in 1968, the African-American community was in mourning and needed something tangible to positively mobilize. The Black community feared that civil rights gains could be rolled back. Then and now. The tenets of James Brown’s activism focused on education, pride in all things black, self-empowerment, and constructing systems and institutions that serve the needs of the black community. He believed that those that experienced celebrity owed their fans and viewers examples and paths for constructing community and thriving through educational and ownership opportunities.
How do you think that James Brown’s legacy continues to resonate with audiences each old and recent, and what does it mean for future generations?
James Brown’s work ethic, commitment and commitment to community are master class. Excellence in craftsmanship and exertions never gets old. He is the original of one.
Entertainment
Kim Kardashian’s lingerie photoshoot draws criticism from fans who say it’s ‘extremely shameful’
Kim Kardashian’s latest SKIM partnership appears to be under fire for the second time, lower than per week after the serial businesswoman announced her collaboration with Dolce & Gabbana.
Initially, critics accused Kim and her sister Kourtney Kardashian – each of Armenian descent – of attempting to imitate the style and aesthetic of Italian icons comparable to Sophia Loren in promotional photos for the Dolce & Gabbana and SKIMS collaboration.
However, the newest response focuses on Kim wearing a Catholic rosary during a promotional shoot.
In the photo sent on her Instagram, the 44-year-old mother of 4 is seen wearing white underwear from the SKIMS and Dolce & Gabbana lines. Although the rosary just isn’t the focus of the shoot, its presence was met with heavy criticism on social media, with many individuals questioning the appropriateness of pairing a non secular symbol with revealing underwear.
Social media users didn’t refrain from commenting on The Daily Mail.
“Why does she always wear a cross when she’s half naked… like wtaf,” one person asked.
Another joked: “Nothing about you is sacred, take off your rosaries lol.”
A 3rd commenter said: “Uhm, did you ever consider the rosary before you took a half-naked photo of him? This is beyond shameful for your actions!”
Some critics have compared her to Madonna, who was famous for incorporating religious symbols into her provocative fashion selections within the Nineteen Eighties.
One person wrote in Spanish: “Quizás se inspira de la cantante Madonna,” which translates to “Maybe she was inspired by the singer Madonna.”
Another noted: “Madonna made a splash with this style in the 80s, but it was a stylish twist,” before adding: “She’s just blah, lazy and disrespectful. The worst thing is that she doesn’t even know that she is insulting thousands and thousands by attempting to be upset. Just thirsty.
The response deepened, with one user sarcastically asking: “Where is the holy water!!??? It must be splashed.
For Catholics, the rosary is a sacred symbol of piety and prayer. Traditionally it’s used as a tool to guide worshipers through a meditative sequence of prayers, with each bead representing a selected a part of the ritual.
It is usually utilized by Roman Catholic believers to reflect on significant events within the lives of Jesus Christ and the Virgin Mary. A full rosary normally incorporates 59 beads, divided into five groups, or dozens, each containing 10 smaller prayer beads.
Kim Kardashian posed in white SKIMS underwear paired with a rosary, revealing her washboard belly.
The photos sparked controversy amongst some social media users who accused Kim of mocking Catholicism due to the religious symbolism of the rosary. pic.twitter.com/PBDuAe7MyJ
— Reporter (@thereportercom) November 24, 2024
This just isn’t the primary time Kim has faced criticism for wearing religious symbols.
After recently celebrating her forty fourth birthday, she made headlines after wearing an Attallah cross, a big amethyst and diamond pendant famously worn by Princess Diana.
A cross fabricated from gold, silver and precious stones was one in all Diana’s signature items. Kim acquired the pendant in 2023 and wore it on November 2 on the Art+Film gala on the Los Angeles County Museum.
Critics accused her of being “obsessed” with wearing items that after belonged to deceased iconic women.
Adding fuel to the fireplace, Kim styled the cross by wearing a white Gucci gown with a plunging neckline, allowing the pendant to rest between her neckline. Fans called the look disrespectful, arguing that it reduced a big symbol to a mere accessory.
Although there’s at all times controversy surrounding the Kardashians, the cooperation with the Italian brand turned out to be extremely successful.
The vCollection officially launched in select stores and on SKIMS.com on November 19. According to to page six, the positioning crashed as a result of heavy traffic.
The SKIMS x Dolce & Gabbana collaboration features luxury underwear described as “curve-emphasizing pieces for everyday confidence.” It also includes sexy items that may be worn outdoors, like a skintight leopard print dress that retails for $498.
Despite the backlash, neither Kim Kardashian nor her team responded to the controversy. Why should they? It seems that the controversy has pushed her brand and made it the mega money-maker that it’s.
Entertainment
Tina Turner turned to Cher for advice years before 1976. The beating that led to Ike Turner’s breakup reveals new memories
Pop singer Cher has never forgotten the connection advice she gave to her longtime friend Tina Turner; a conversation that could have helped save Tina’s life.
In her bomb new memoir, Cher: The Memoir Part 1, Cher recalls how Tina turned to her for advice on how to leave her abusive husband, Ike Turner. The memoir gives an insight into the “Believe” singer’s personal life and reveals shocking details of her early relationship with Sonny Bono, who she says was “abusing” her.
In the Seventies, the “Queen of Rock ‘n’ Roll” appeared twice on Cher’s variety show along with her husband Ike. Cher recently left Bono, citing infidelity and involuntary servitude, and the 2 singers became fast friends.
One day while filming, Tina broke down and asked her friend and fellow singer to apply makeup to cover up a bruise on her arm. In her memoir, the Grammy winner recalled the “Private Dancer” artist, asking how she found the courage to leave Bono, who owned all of the rights to her music.
“I looked at her and said, ‘I just left and moved on,'” Cher writes.
The “I Got You Babe” singer met Bono when she was 16 and he was 27, and the couple moved in together while waiting to get married. Bono had just divorced his first wife, Donna Rankin, which required a waiting period under California law, and Cher was too young to legally marry. It was during this time that Cher had a terrifying encounter along with her late ex-husband, during which he pushed her against a wall after pushing their dog together with his foot.
“He didn’t scream or hit me, but he held my arms and his face was tight,” Cher revealed in her memoir via “People” “I was so against the abuse because I saw my mom go through it that I was like, F— this.”
Cher and Tina Turner performing “Shame, Shame, Shame” on The Cher Show, 1975 pic.twitter.com/ISgNY3pDTa
— David Rush (@dav1drush) May 24, 2023
“If you touch me like that again, I will leave your ass and that will be the last time you see me,” Bono said. They married in 1969 and in the identical 12 months their child Chaz was born. The pop duo eventually divorced in 1975.
Meanwhile, Tina endured much worse horrors while living with Ike, as she wrote about in her autobiography, “I, Tina,” published in 1986, during her meteoric rise as a solo artist – and nine years after the divorce. Their story was also documented within the film “What’s Love Got to Do with It” starring Angela Bassett and Lawrence Fishburne.
Like Cher, Tina was just a teen when she met 25-year-old Ike, and three years later they’d a son, Ronnie Turner.
In a 1981 interview with People, the “Nutbush City Limits” singer recalled the terrifying night of July 1, 1976, when she finally escaped from her abusive ex while on tour and staying in a Dallas hotel. Two more years passed before they officially divorced.
“Ike got a bit irritated that day and hit me with the back of his hand. I wagged my finger at him and said, “Okay, you.” Then he beat me all the best way from the airport to the hotel,” she said. “When he fought, he used things, not only his hands. When we got to the hotel, the left side of my face was swollen like a monster. But I never cried. I laughed. I laughed because I knew I used to be leaving. No more of this.
Stop posting joyful family photos of Ike and Tina Turner when she herself said, “I was so scared of that man.”
As a black woman exposing the horrors of domestic violence within the Nineteen Eighties, she stood up for all women. She broke the silence.
We owe it to her, very much. pic.twitter.com/HpHqaU56nc
— Dr. Charlotte Proudman (@DrProudman) May 25, 2023
Turner convinced a friend to buy her a plane ticket to Los Angeles, and he or she flew out that evening with 36 cents in her pocket. Ike eventually died of a cocaine overdose in 2007, and Tina later admitted that she never forgave him for abusing her.
In her memoir, Cher writes that she noticed Ike’s stoic personality during his time on her show. She stated that during rehearsals, Ike “didn’t smile once” and played the guitar “without any emotion”.
“I just knew that whatever I was feeling, it wasn’t good,” she recalled.
After leaving Ike, Tina returned to the Cher show in 1977 as a solo star, making her first television appearance without Ike, singing “Makin’ Music is My Business”. Cher and Tina would remain lifelong friends until Tina’s death in 2023.
Reactions to the reports have been mixed on social media, with some wondering why Cher, now 78, is digging into Tina’s personal life. “Cher, don’t comment on Tina, give her a break, thanks to the management,” one among them commented Instagram user as one other said: “Why are you bringing this up now, Cher!?”
However, many praised Cher for telling the reality about her dear friend. One person wrote: “I LOVE TT and Cher!!! And one thing Cher doesn’t do is lie.”
“Tina probably almost overdosed, or read her book, or watched what love has to do with it. Ike gave her hell,” said one other person.
Another added: “You can tell who really knows their friendship story and who doesn’t. Cher was one among the last people to see Tina alive and visited her. Tina and Cher have been dead for a long time. You guys are weird with this false failure.
Part 2 of The Cher Diaries is scheduled for release in 2025.
Entertainment
Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson’s surprise date for ‘Moana 2’ Hawaii premiere steals the show
Professional wrestler-turned-actor Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, 52, stars in the latest film “Moana 2.”
He attended the animated sequel’s world premiere on November 21 in Oahu, Hawaii, along along with his 76-year-old mother, Mataniufeagaimaleata “Ata” Johnson.
Disney’s verified Instagram account posted a video of The Rock and Ata during the premiere. They danced together alongside the Polynesian dance group Nonosina.
“I all the time say that if you’ve a great mother, you’ve a likelihood to turn out to be a great, caring person. This weekend, let’s all give our moms great gratitude and make them glad,” The Rock stated about Ata in a ceremonial speech Instagram post in June 2022
More Instagram users were excited to see the Hollywood entertainer lovingly interacting along with his mother during the “Moana 2” event.
One person in the Disney comment section on Instagram sent“I like it very much! “I can’t wait to take my children and my Samoan husband to see it.”
A second commenter wrote: “I absolutely love the way he loves his mom. You can see the love they’ve for one another. This bond is so strong that not only do they show you what love is, but once you see it, you may feel it.
Another mother shared her own child’s response to the clip, writing: “My daughter talks about this all the time! Can’t wait!”
As for Moana’s possible future plans, someone suggested, “They need to make a live-action movie ASAP.”
Other members of The Rock’s family joined him in Hawaii. His wife, Lauren Hashian, and their two children also saw the musical adventure film for the first time.
In addition to the former WWE champion being a part of the solid of “Moana 2,” Johnson’s daughters, 9-year-old Jasmine and 6-year-old Tiana, also participated in the film.
“It was the sweetest and funniest day! So exciting that Munchkins voiced characters in MOANA 2!! MOANA-BE!” Hassian wrote on Instagram.
Hashian added: “This film has truly always been the most important thing to them, and now they have an even more special bond.”
She also uploaded a behind-the-scenes video of Jasmine and Tiana recording dialogue for “Moana 2” at Walt Disney Animation Studios.
The Rock was born into wrestling on either side of his family. Ata Johnson (née Fitisemanu Maivia) is the adopted daughter of former Polynesian Pro Wrestling owner “High Chief” Peter Maivia.
Former WWF World Tag Team Champion Rocky Johnson is The Rock’s father. Rocky was one in every of the first black champions in WWF/WWE history.
Dwayne inducted his history-making father and legendary grandfather into the WWE Hall of Fame as a part of the 2008 class.
Due to his grandfather Maivia, The Rock has loose family ties to the famous Anoaʻi family, which incorporates WWE Superstars akin to Rikishi, Yokozuna, and Roman Reigns.
The Rock’s eldest daughter with ex-wife Dana Garcia, 23-year-old Simone “Ava” Johnson, currently works for WWE as the on-screen general manager of the NXT brand.
Ata gave birth to The Rock on May 2, 1972. The Seven Bucks Production founder’s childhood and teenage years were dramatized in the short-lived comedy series “Young Rock” on NBC, airing for three seasons from 2021 to 2023.
Three actors portrayed The Rock at different stages of his life – Adrian Groulx (10 to 14 years old), Bradley Constant (15 to 17 years old) and Uli Latukefu (18 to 26 years old).
Stacey Leilua played Ata on “Young Rock,” which ran for three seasons from 2021 to 2023. Joseph Lee Anderson played Rocky Johnson.
After conquering the pro wrestling world, The Rock turned to Hollywood to guide blockbusters akin to “Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle” and the “Fast and Furious” franchise.
In the original “Moana,” a TKO executive voiced Maui, a shape-shifting demigod. “Moana” premiered in 2016 and grossed over $643 million worldwide.
“The character of Maui, which I was fortunate enough to bring to life, was inspired by my grandfather and he is buried here. Damn, this is… something special,” The Rock said, in keeping with ABC7NY.
“Moana 2” will hit U.S. theaters on November 27. The voice solid also includes Auli’i Cravalho, Temuera Morrison and Nicole Scherzinger.
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