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Deborah Riley Draper on the Making of Say It Loud: A Deep Dive into the Legacy of James Brown

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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in-depth research and vivid storytelling, her work has gained critical acclaim and established her as a robust voice in historical documents.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.

Director Deborah Riley Draper explores James Brown's legacy in a docuseries
Atlanta – CIRCA 2005: James Brown “The Godfather of Soul” performs at the Lakewood Amphitheater in Atlanta, Georgia 2005 (Photo by Rick Diamond/Getty Images)

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.”

Director Deborah Riley Draper explores James Brown's legacy in a docuseries
NEW YORK – MAY 3: James Brown visits Harlem, New York to fulfill fans on May 3, 1979. (Photo by Richard E. Aaron/Redferns)

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.

This article was originally published on : www.essence.com
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Fans warn Shedeur Sanders to beware of Kardashian curse after Colorado star spotted with Kendall Jenner

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Deion and Shedeur Sanders call out constant disrespect from their doubters.

Shedeur Sanders has been generating quite a bit of buzz recently and is claimed to be a highly anticipated prospect in next 12 months’s NFL Draft.

But being the Colorado Buffaloes quarterback and son of former NFL player and current Colorado coach Deion Sanders also brings with it a potentially unwanted highlight. Shedeur’s clip goes viral after the 22-year-old was spotted embracing Kendall Jenner.

Deion Sanders' son Shedeur defends his father's coaching skills after criticism from former athletes.
Deion Sanders’ son Shedeur speaks out in defense of his father’s coaching skills after being criticized by former athletes. (Photo: @deionsanders/Instagram)

The content creator posted the clip and wrote, “Shedeur Sanders met up with Kendall Jenner, who was recently in Boulder.” Jenner was in Boulder — the house of the University of Colorado — because she was traveling to different cities to promote her brand of liqueur 818 Tequila.

Since the video only shows Jenner’s upper body and Shedeur’s back, who happened to be wearing a hoodie, it’s unclear if she was serving drinks during their meeting, but it surely appeared he was waiting in line to greet her. After a couple of people in front of him moved out of the way in which, he went over to hug Jenner and said, “How are you?” before the video ended.

Many fans warned Shedeur against getting close to Jenner.

One person said, “Nothing good happens when a BLACK athlete dates a Kardashian/Jenner,” and one other said, “Oh no. I’m scolding, I’m scolding!”

A 3rd person wrote: “Stay away from our quarterback. Kardashian/Jenner can’t remember the last athlete who had a successful relationship with one of these girls.”

Of all five Kardashian-Jenner girls, Khloé and Kendall have mostly dated NBA players. Khloé, who’s best known for her marriage and divorce from NBA player Lamar Odom, dated Minnesota Timberwolves player Rashad McCants from 2008 to 2009. He was then traded to the Sacramento Kings, where he played just one season and was never drafted by one other team.

Speaking to Charlotte’s Observer in 2017, McCants said his relationship with Khloé made people query his commitment to the NBA. “Without that in-game situation, I’m a $60-70 million player,” McCants said. “Easily.”

Later in 2009, after only one month of dating, Khloe married Los Angeles Lakers star Odom. The two documented their wedding on the truth show Khloe and Lamar, but their relationship began to crumble, and Odom’s secret struggles with substance abuse began to come to light in 2013. Later that 12 months, Odom was arrested for driving under the influence. From 2011 to 2014, he played for the Lakers, Dallas Mavericks, after which the LA Clippers before becoming a free agent. He then went to the EuroLeague, where he played in two games before injuring his back.

Then in April 2014 he signed with the Knicks before the team waived it in July of the identical 12 months.

Then there’s Khloé’s infamous relationship with Cleveland Cavaliers player Tristan Thompson. The Keeping Up with the Kardashians star had two children with Thompson, but their relationship was severely strained by Thompson’s repeated infidelities. Nevertheless, Thompson’s 13-year NBA profession didn’t end there, and he’s currently on the Cleveland Cavaliers roster.

As for her younger sister Kendall, she briefly dated Brooklyn Nets player Ben Simmons from 2018 to 2019. Simmons was named Rookie of the Year in 2018 and an All-Star in 2019. However, the next seasons became difficult for Simmons after his Philadelphia 76ers team lost to the Atlanta Hawks within the Eastern Conference semifinals in an especially close seven-game series in 2021. He apparently felt that blamed for the Game 7 loss, Simmons never played for the 76ers again before being traded to Brooklyn. He ultimately missed the whole 2021-22 season, even after arriving in Brooklyn mid-season. Since then, battling knee and back injuries — which resulted in each knee and back surgeries — Simmons has played in only 57 games over the past three seasons.

Following this relationship, Kendall dated Phoenix Suns player Devin Booker for 2 years from 2020 to 2022.

It is currently unclear what her relationship status is, but it surely looks like she is likely to be rekindling her relationship with Puerto Rican rapper Bad Bunny in 2023. They were spotted together in Paris, holding hands in June of this 12 months.

Shedeur’s relationship status is uncertain, because it appears he and actress Storm Reid have quietly split after making their red carpet debut last 12 months.


This article was originally published on : atlantablackstar.com
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Kamala Harris’ Reproductive Freedom Bus Tour Turns Into ‘Scandal’ Cast Reunion

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Gladiators reunite within the name of democracy.

The solid of Shonda Rhimes’ hit series Scandal will reunite to affix Vice President Kamala Harris and her partner Tim Walz in Michigan for his or her Reproductive Freedom Bus Tour. Actors Kerry Washington, Tony Goldwyn, Guillermo Díaz, Bellamy Young, Katie Lowes, Dan Bucatinsky, Scott Foley, Portia de Rossi, George Newbern, Jeff Perry and Cornelius Smith Jr. will join Harris-Walz for the campaign launch in Madison Heights.

According to The Hollywood ReporterThe solid’s appearance on the political tour is an element of the Democratic presidential candidate’s technique to win the 2024 election. According to the Harris-Walz campaign, the tour’s mission is to “highlight the stark contrast between Vice President Harris and Governor Walz, who will restore Roe v. Wade protections when Congress passes legislation to that effect, and Donald Trump and J.D. Vance, who will enact their dangerous Project 2025 agenda to ban abortion nationwide, restrict access to contraceptives, force states to report women’s miscarriages and abortions, and threaten access to in vitro fertilization.”

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The Reproductive Freedom Bus Tour, which kicks off September 3 in Florida, plans to go to key states across the country to debate the stakes of reproductive rights with Democratic and Republican communities. During the last presidential debate, attention focused on abortion rights and in vitro fertilization (IVF), as Harris pledged to revive nationwide reproductive rights, while Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump refused to commit to vetoing a nationwide abortion ban if he wins the election.

In August, “Scandal” stars Washington and Goldwyn, known for his or her iconic roles as Olivia Pope and fictional President Fitzgerald Grant, thrilled fans by reuniting to co-host the 2024 Democratic National Convention. Over the years, Washington has develop into known for her political advocacy. As a Democratic supporter, the actress has not only partnered with nonprofits to debate abortion rights, but additionally launched her own nonprofit, Influence Change, which “recruits other artists to promote civic engagement.”

“Democracies work best when everyone votes. As a public figure, it’s important to me to remind people of their political power and share any information I have that helps them step into their power,” she said, as previously reported by theGrio. “Artists, musicians, athletes, actors and creators have a unique opportunity to encourage voters. The combined reach of our networks can be used to inspire participation and ensure that more people take their rightful place as active participants in our democracy. I’m not speaking out because I’m an artist; I’m speaking out because I’m an American.”

This article was originally published on : thegrio.com
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Former Bad Boy artist Shyne reveals his true feelings about Diddy’s role in sending him to prison following Mogul’s recent arrest

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Former rapper turned politician Moses “Shyne” Barrow has broken his silence on the recent arrest of Sean “Diddy” Combs.

The Belize-born artist, once an integral a part of Diddy’s Bad Boy Records, has publicly shared his thoughts for the primary time on the music executive’s recent legal troubles.

Though he’s made it clear that Diddy’s legal troubles “don’t make him happy,” the “Bad Boyz” chart-topper stays adamant that his former boss “ruined” his life.

Former Bad Boy artist Shyne blames Diddy for his 10-year sentence for a 1999 nightclub shooting. (Photo: Prince Williams/WireImage; Paras Griffin/Getty Images)

Shyne’s statement got here just days after Combs was arrested on federal charges including extortion, human trafficking and prostitution, which resulted in Diddy being denied bail twice.

The case has made headlines, with many wondering about Diddy’s past. Not only are people bringing up his infamous “Freak-offs” and “Diddy Parties,” but in addition his infamous connection to an incident at a New York nightclub in 1999, where Shyne was partying with the Bad Boy founder and his then-girlfriend, Jennifer Lopez, before gunfire injured two people.

Shyne had no idea how his life would unravel after that night. His profession was cut short, and his life as a free man was marked by first-degree assault, possession of a weapon and reckless endangerment. The chart-topping star was sentenced to 10 years in prison in 2001 for his role in the altercation. He was eventually released in 2009 and deported to Belize.

Fast forward to 2024, and the 2 men appear to be on completely different paths. Shyne is now the leader of the opposition in the Belize House of Representatives, while Diddy faces charges that would land him a life sentence. Shyne shared his thoughts on his former boss’ case at a press conference in Belize.

“When I was an 18-year-old kid who wanted to do nothing but make my mother and Belize happy and be recognized for my talent and take over the world,” Shyne recalled in an interview with Channel 5 Belize. “I defended him and he turned around and called witnesses to testify against me.”

Shyne’s face remained impassive as he explained the role Diddy played in his legal struggles. “He contributed to… basically sent me to prison. That’s the context in which this (relationship) should always be described. I’ve forgiven. I’ve moved on. But let’s not pretend I was in Miami for Thanksgiving and Christmas.”

Shyne suggested that he and Combs aren’t as close as some might think. Despite his forgiving heart, he made sure to set the record straight about their relationship.

“So let’s not lose sight of the cold, hard facts,” Shyne said. “This is not someone I vacationed with and he and I had this wonderful, intimate brotherhood with. This is someone who destroyed my life and I have forgiven him and moved on.”

For years, Shyne has worked with Diddy to bring resources to Belize, but Diddy has clarified that their partnership is strictly business-related.

“Don’t distort it like we’re boom bally. This is someone who ruined my life,” he continued.

Shyne’s evolution from rapper to politician has not gone unnoticed. When The Shade Room published press conference, many praised him for his grace and wisdom in handling the situation, with one commentator noting, “Shyne is the true definition of someone who will sit back and let God do the work.”

Another person said, “This man has really grown. Holding on to bitterness and resentment only hurts you, not the perpetrator. Let life deal with people. Karma never loses its address.”

“Forgiving someone without an apology is powerful,” said a 3rd comment.

Not everyone was impressed. Some wanted him to admit his role in his death.

“First of all, you ruined your life…let’s take responsibility,” the Shade Room commentary admonished. “That’s the problem, people not taking responsibility for their actions and how it leads them to destruction.”

Despite his troubled past, Shyne stays focused on his future and the well-being of his country. “Nobody has to fail for me to succeed,” he said, further evidence of his growth.

Meanwhile, the producer behind the success of artists like Mary J. Blige, The Notorious B.I.G. and The Lox is facing legal troubles. His legal team had proposed a $50 million bail to secure his release, but a judge denied the request, citing concerns about witness intimidation and flight risk. The music mogul will remain behind bars in Brooklyn as his trial approaches.


This article was originally published on : atlantablackstar.com
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