HIP HOP: THE SONGS THAT SHOOK AMERICA

AMC Networks’ RLJE Films features the DVD/Blu-ray debut of AMC’s fascinating docuseries HIP HOP: THE SONGS THAT SHOOK AMERICA on September 29, 2020. From executive producers Ahmir “Questlove” Thompson, Tariq “Black Thought” Trotter, Alex Gibney, and directors Erik Parker and One9, each episode of this six-part series focuses on a groundbreaking song pivotal to the evolution of American music and culture. Some of the songs featured in the series include Kanye West’s “Jesus Walks,” Kendrick Lamar’s “Alright,” Run-D.M.C.’s “Rock Box,” Queen Latifah’s “Ladies First,” and more. Now on a 2-Disc DVD or Blu-ray set ($34.97), it also comes with 30 minutes of bonus features including a Barbershop freestyle and additional interviews with music icons. Hip Hop: The Songs That Shook America previously premiered on AMC in October 2019.

Artists, their collaborators, and other influential musical and cultural figures deconstruct compositions, revisit the impact the song had on them personally, and dissect the socio-economic and cultural conditions that inspired the landmark work and gave voice to a generation.  

 

In addition to Thompson, Trotter, and Gibney, Hip Hop: The Songs That Shook America is also executive produced by Shawn Gee, Stacey Offman, Richard Perello, and Shea Serrano. Angie Day, Erik Parker and One9 also serve as co-executive producers.

 

 

Street Date: September 29, 2020                                                                                                      

DVD  2-Disc: 6 episodes   -- Approx. 270 min. –SDH Subtitles – UPC 014381131079       SRP: $34.97

Blu-ray 2-Disc: 6 episodes – Approx. 270 min. –SDH Subtitles – UPC 014381131086      SRP: $34.97

Bonus Features: Various featurettes including additional interviews, freestyles, and more (30 min)

 

My Thoughts 

Hip Hop Songs that Shook America is an awesome documentary series that brings you six episodes all about some of the greatest hip hop legends in history. There are features on hip hop music celebrities including Barbershop, Sounds of the South, and Rooftop Redemption to name only a few. There were also some great extras including commentary from several legendary artists.  Here is a little bit about each episode.

Jesus Walks: 2004 - Kenya West performs a Christian rap song that challenges the church.

Alight: 2015 - Kendrick Lamar pens protest music in support of Black Lives Matter,

Rock Box: 1984 - The first song to merge rock and rap.

Elevators: 1996 - Outcast redefines rap culture.

The Bridge: 1986 - This song would help foster community pride.

Ladies Firs: 1989 - Queen Latifah becomes the queen of rap.

This blu-ray set is a real contribution to the history of hip hop music and the culture surrounding it  and its a must-have for anyone who is a fan of  hip hop music. It would make a great holiday gift for anyone whose a fan of the genre.  If you'd like to purchase this awesome blu-ray,  you can find it it stores nationwide and online at Amazon.