Hip Hop Uncovered (2021)

About Hip Hop Uncovered

"Hip Hop Uncovered" is an American television series that premiered in 2021. The series explores the paradox of America’s criminalization and commercialization of the genre. The show portrays the business of the genre through the eyes of the street personnel who were critical to its birth.

Making / Production

The series is produced by Lightbox and Industrial Media’s The Intellectual Property Corporation. It is directed by Rashidi Natara Harper. Eugene 'Big U' Henley, who’s also featured in the series, and Malcolm Spellman serve as executive producers on the project.

Actors

• Big U: As himself, Big U narrates his life story transitioning from a gangster to a hip hop manager, playing his role with sincerity and authenticity.
• Deb Antney: Deb Antney, playing herself, shares her struggles and triumphs in the music industry, recounting her life events with striking honesty.
• Trick Trick: Trick Trick stars as himself and provides details about his journey in hip hop, he impeccably encapsulates the character with his real-life experiences.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The series offers an unprecedented look at the lives of key figures in hip-hop who have largely remained behind the scenes.
• It is one of the few series that addresses both the commercialization and criminalization of hip hop.
• The series goes beyond music, addressing issues like systemic racism and social justice.

Quotes

• "I've always been against the system, it’s just now I notice what the system is." - Bimmy
• "Hip-hop saved a lot of lives." - Big U
• "I ain't against rap. But I am against those thugs." - Deb Antney

Music, Soundtrack

• The show's music largely includes hip hop tracks, both old and new, fitting the themes and episodes perfectly.
• Some of the tracks featured include classics from artists like Dr. Dre, Nipsey Hussle, and Ice Cube.