The concert features a number of guest performances including a seminal contribution by Beyonce whose flare, composure, intelligence and power are a testament to the brilliance of black people. And so, alongside footage of George’s death and subsequent protests, AmericanGods_250520 runs segments of this performance - a counterpoint of talent and skill framed against the rudimentary brutality of a hateful murder.Ī standout moment of the documentary depicts an interaction between Jay-Z and Kanye West, where Jay-Z (whose alternative moniker J-Hova is a play on the word Jehovah - the Hebrew word for God) seems to be proclaiming Kanye as the prodigal son.

In this scene Jay-Z is recognising Kanye’s capacity, at an early moment in his career, to develop into the idol he has today become. But respect for these two American gods differs wildly Jay-Z is hailed as the role model drug-dealer turned successful billionaire, whilst Kanye is considered a tortured artist who has lost his way. However, within the black community globally, both are considered icons and the tension between these contradictory personalities, and projected black culture in general, is explored within AmericanGods_250520 through imagery depicting both brilliant control and brilliant chaos.įade to Black, took place at Madison Square Garden, the great modern day cathedral of America. Those on stage are at once preacher, priest, pope and pastor. I Just Wanna Love You (feat.The concert was to commemorate Jay-Z’s “retirement”, his departure from this world - only for him to return at a later date with, arguably, more soul. Missy Elliott, Twista, & Memphis Bleek)ġ8. Check the tracklist, download, and enjoy.ġ2. And there are some gems here: From the Amil-less version “You Me Him Her” to the Ghostface & Beyoncé version of “Summertime” to even the studio sessions with Rick Rubin, Kanye West, & Timbaland (Just to name a few).

Most people know that this is from the Jay-Z documentary Fade To Black. I got the audio from the film a while ago but never figured out why it was never officially released. I then remembered how much I like that version. Halfway through the beat changed to David Banner’s “Like A Pimp”. The other day I was listening to a live version of “Big Pimpin'” on my iPod.

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