Dave Chappelle has enlisted the legendary Morgan Freeman to narrate the trailer for his upcoming Netflix special, "The Dreamer," scheduled to premiere globally on New Year's Eve.
The Oscar winner sets the stage in the teaser, posing a compelling question to the audience: "What do you dream about? Not the dreams you have in your sleep: the ones you hold in your heart." Freeman's iconic voice invites viewers to peek into the essence of Chappelle's latest creation, encouraging them not to be intimidated by the audacity of their dreams but to find inspiration in them. He playfully notes, "What happens to a dream deferred? Lucky for Dave, he doesn't know."
Filmed at the historic Lincoln Theatre in Chappelle's hometown of Washington, D.C., "The Dreamer" follows the success of 2021's "The Closer" and marks Chappelle's seventh collaboration with Netflix. The teaser offers a tantalizing glimpse into the narrative style and comedic exploration that fans can expect from Chappelle's latest venture.
Emmy Award-winning director Stan Lathan, a longtime collaborator with Chappelle, returns to direct "The Dreamer," ensuring a seamless continuation of their creative partnership.
Chappelle's previous Netflix special, "The Closer," sparked controversy with its candid discussions on transgender issues, leading to a walkout by some Netflix staff members. Despite the uproar, Netflix stood by the Emmy-winning comic, and "The Dreamer" is poised to make its mark on the streaming service.
The Lincoln Theatre in Washington, D.C., serves as the picturesque backdrop for "The Dreamer," where Chappelle's comedic prowess takes center stage. Known for his Emmy-winning Netflix specials like "Sticks & Stones" and "Equanimity & The Bird Revelation," Chappelle has garnered five Emmy Awards and four Grammy Awards for his outstanding contributions to comedy.
Receiving the Pollstar Award for Comedy Tour of the Year in 2023, 2018, and 2014, Chappelle's influence in the entertainment industry is undeniable. In 2019, he received the prestigious Mark Twain Prize for American Humor, further solidifying his status as a comedic icon.
To catch a sneak peek of what's in store, watch the teaser below:
Tuesday, December 26, 2023
Watch: Morgan Freeman Narrates 'The Dreamer' Trailer – Dave Chappelle's Netflix Special, Dec. 31
Monday, December 18, 2023
Watch: From Geto Boys to Grandmaster, Scarface Reigns in Soulful Tiny Desk Concert
Anticipation for Scarface's Tiny Desk appearance crackled after DJ Cuzzin B, the series' producer, declared on X (formerly Twitter) last week, "Just watched an edit of Scarface's Tiny Desk. Yeah.... it's the best hip-hop Tiny Desk we've ever put out. A new crown holder.... Monday." The hype proved prescient.
I just watched an edit of Scarface's Tiny Desk. Yeah.... it's the best hip-hop tiny desk we've ever put out. A new crown holder.... Monday.
— DJ Cuzzin B (@DJCuzzinB) December 13, 2023
From introducing his backup band to the final song, Scarface took the audience on an intimate lyrical and musical journey, raw and unflinchingly honest yet undeniably entertaining.
Mike Dean, grabbing the mic, interjects with humor, questioning, “You were high?” Scarface responds affirmatively, "That's going to be the basis of all our f—ing songs, man. I swear," before launching into the rap star's signature tune, "On My Block." The performance is gritty, soulful, and captures the essence of what has made Scarface's hip-hop career special.
The Tiny Desk concert offered a rare glimpse of Scarface not just as a seasoned emcee but as a conductor, navigating through multiple eras of his extensive catalog. Classics like "Mary Jane," "Smile," "Fk Faces," and the bone-chilling "I Seen a Man Die" all made the setlist.
Days before the show, Scarface added a surprise element by bringing in Dean, elevating the performance with unmatched authenticity and shared stories. This dynamic collaboration underscored the profound impact Dean's production has had on Scarface's classics and Rap-A-Lot records.
Scarface's influence extends beyond the stage, as evidenced by his recent recognition alongside Rakim with the inaugural Hip-Hop Grandmaster Award from the Paid in Full Foundation. This accolade, coupled with substantial financial and healthcare support, reaffirms Scarface's place as a pivotal figure in hip-hop history.
Watch the entire performance in the video below.
"On My Block"
"Mary Jane"
"Smile"
"I Seen a Man Die"
"F**k Faces"
"Mind Playing Tricks on Me"
Musicians:
Scarface: Lead vocals, guitar
Mike Dean: Keys
Steven "Spud" Howard: Vocals
Takai "Cookie" Hicks: Vocals
Peigh Jones: Vocals, guitar
Corey "FunkaFingers" Stoot: Guitar
Josh Henderson: Keys
Jason "The Bishop" Allen: Keys
Savar Martin: Drums
Anthony "Antboogie" Nicholson: Bass, musical direction
Monday, October 30, 2023
Watch: Diddy Unveils Trailer for 'Off The Grid' Film: An R&B Love Story Linked to Latest Album
In the lead role, rising talent Eva Apio, an Ugandan actress and supermodel, makes her acting debut in this significant project. Her selection came after a three-month casting process.
"Working with Eva was an incredible experience; her talent and energy brought my vision to life," said Diddy of the decision to cast Apio, in a statement announcing the trailer which is closely related to his album, "The Love Album: Off the Grid," and provides a visual and emotional extension of the project.
"Off the Grid" marks a pivotal moment in Diddy's career, representing his debut as a director and screenwriter. The film also marks his eighth acting role in a movie.
In 2021, Diddy founded Love Records, an all-R&B label dedicated to creating timeless R&B music in collaboration with the next generation of artists, producers, and songwriters. The label's first artist, Grammy Award-winning singer-songwriter Jozzy, released her album "Songs for Women, Free Game for Nxxxas" in February 2023, setting a high standard for the label.
"The Love Album: Off the Grid," was released in September 2023, receiving critical acclaim. The album features prominent artists such as Justin Bieber, Abel Tesfaye (formerly known as The Weeknd), Mary J. Blige, Summer Walker, H.E.R., Jazmine Sullivan, and more. "The Love Album" secured a place in the top 10 of Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums, debuting at No. 19 on the Billboard 200 and reaching No. 2 on the Top R&B Albums chart.
The official release date for "Off the Grid" is yet to be announced. Watch the trailer below:
Monday, October 16, 2023
Watch: Smokey Robinson's Age-Defying Performance Delights NPR's Tiny Desk
On Monday, NPR presented the latest installment of its "Tiny Desk Concert" series, featuring legendary Motown icon Smokey Robinson. The 83-year-old music sensation graced the stage at NPR Headquarters in Washington, D.C., accompanied by a 12-piece ensemble.
Robinson's influence on the music industry is undeniable. Known for his pivotal role in shaping the Motown sound, R&B, and soul music, he remains a distinguished artist even at the age of 83.
The performance commenced with a rendition of his 1981 classic, "Being With You," showcasing the enduring charm of his falsetto.
Robinson continued by performing "The Tears Of A Clown," a song he co-wrote with Stevie Wonder during his time with The Miracles. This classic delighted the audience, and Robinson's talent shone through.
Two tracks from Robinson's latest album, "Gasms," were also part of this intimate performance. "Beside You" exuded romance, with a standout saxophone solo by Brandon Wright in "If We Don't Have Each Other."
Robinson concluded the concert with his timeless hit, "Cruisin'." The audience participated with enthusiasm, creating a heartwarming atmosphere.
Smokey Robinson's legacy as an influential figure in the world of R&B, soul music, and the Motown sound is well-documented. His ability to craft timeless and romantic tunes has set a standard for generations of songwriters.
The concert featured two tracks from Robinson's latest album, "Gasms," revealing his ongoing commitment to creating soulful and timeless music.
NPR's "Tiny Desk Concert" series has hosted other celebrated R&B artists this year, such as Babyface and Charlie Wilson, in line with its commitment to showcasing musical excellence.
Monday, October 2, 2023
Watch: Beyoncé's 'Renaissance World Tour' Comes Alive in New Film
Following the tour's triumphant finale in Kansas City, Missouri, on Sunday night, the iconic diva unveiled the hotly-anticipated trailer for "Renaissance: A Film by Beyoncé." This cinematic sensation is set to premiere worldwide in theaters on December 1.
The forthcoming film promises an inside look at the extraordinary journey of the "Renaissance World Tour," spanning its inception and grand opening in Stockholm, Sweden, to the climactic finale in Kansas City, Missouri.
It also delves into Beyoncé's unwavering dedication, meticulous involvement in all aspects of production, boundless creativity, and unwavering commitment to crafting a lasting legacy while perfecting her artistry.
"The film encapsulates Beyoncé's unwavering determination, dedication, and comprehensive involvement in every facet of production, showcasing her creative genius and her mission to establish an enduring legacy while elevating her craft," underscores the official synopsis.
Get a sneak peek of this cinematic treat by watching the first trailer below.
Wednesday, September 13, 2023
Watch: Ben Affleck Fails to Impress Ice Spice With Rap Skills in New Dunkin' Donuts Commercial
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Monday, September 11, 2023
VP Kamala Harris Shimmies to Iconic Beats at Hip-Hop's 50th Bash
Photo by Tasos Katopodis/Getty Images for The Recording Academy |
The celebration marked a significant milestone in the genre's history, with hip-hop enthusiasts from across the nation gathering to honor its cultural impact. Harris, a self-professed fan of hip-hop, emphasized its profound influence on American culture.
The event, a collaborative effort between Harris's team, the Recording Academy's Black Music Collective, and Live Nation Urban, drew approximately 400 guests. DJ D Nice, renowned for his Club Quarantine events during the pandemic, co-hosted the celebration, adding musical flair to the festivities.Let's be clear: Hip hop culture is America's culture.
— Vice President Kamala Harris (@VP) September 10, 2023
It was a joy to celebrate 50 years of hip hop with some of the greats. pic.twitter.com/FgPKiPWu1b
Harris and Second Gentleman Douglas Emhoff embraced the hip-hop spirit, dancing to classic tunes, including Q-Tip's "Vivrant Thing." The celebration showcased hip-hop's evolution from a local phenomenon in the Bronx to a global cultural force, intertwined with social and racial justice movements.
Notable political figures in attendance included Sen. Raphael Warnock of Georgia, Gov. Wes Moore of Maryland and Rep. Cori Bush of Missouri. The event underscored Harris's connection to hip-hop, a cultural touchstone that resonates deeply with a diverse range of Americans.
The celebration also featured electrifying performances, with Lil Wayne making a surprise appearance and thrilling the audience with a rendition of "Mrs. Officer" from his critically acclaimed album "Tha Carter III."
Lil Wayne raps “Mrs. Officer” to celebrate the 50th anniversary of hip-hip at Kamala Harris’ DC residence pic.twitter.com/hx5yi9lJxF
— The Hollywood Reporter (@THR) September 9, 2023
Tuesday, July 25, 2023
Watch: Netflix Unleashes 'Ladies First: A Story of Women in Hip-Hop' Docuseries Honoring Genre's Female Pioneers
In anticipation of hip-hop's forthcoming 50th anniversary, Netflix is gearing up to pay tribute to the influential female legends who have played an essential role in the genre's evolution.
The network's four-part limited documentary, "Ladies First: A Story of Women in Hip-Hop," promises candid reflections from trailblazing artists like Queen Latifah and Da Brat, alongside an impressive array of other iconic female emcees.
The newly released official trailer from Netflix unveils the series' mission to recontextualize and elevate the irreplaceable contributions of women in hip-hop, placing them squarely at the core of the genre's history, from its inception to the present day. The documentary delves into the profound impact of the wider social, racial and political landscape that influenced these pioneering artists.
Queen Latifah, who released her debut album a mere decade after hip-hop's birth at the age of 19, asserts in the trailer, "We have come through a lot. We have stood back up, and we'll always keep standing back up. We will always be stronger together than we are apart."
The star-studded lineup of interviewees includes not only Da Brat and Queen Latifah but also other lauded artists such as Bahamadia, Coi Leray, Kash Doll, Latto, MC Lyte, Monie Love, Remy Ma, Rapsody, Roxanne Shante, Saweetie, Sha-Rock, Tierra Whack and Yo-Yo.
Produced by Culture House and executive produced by a team led by Dream Hampton, Troy Carter, Raeshem Nijhon, Carri Twigg, MC Lyte, Nicole Galovski, Justin Simien, and Jennifer Ryan, all four episodes of "Ladies First: A Story of Women in Hip-Hop" are set to premiere exclusively on Netflix on August 9.
Preview the compelling journey of these remarkable women in hip-hop by watching the full trailer below.