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. Kelly, Foxy Brown, Pharrell, and Questlove and The Illadelphonics along with appearances by hip hop icons Damon Dash.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. Guest performers included Jay-Z's closest friends and music industry colleagues: Beyoncé, Mary J. Yet this one night also defined a musical generation, showcasing the evolution and reach of the world's most popular music genre. The event was a spectacular culmination of Jay-Z's recording career prior to his self-proclaimed retirement from solo performing. Nearly one year later, fans and artists alike still reflect on this monumental musical night. In an unprecedented event, a hip-hop artist sold out an arena in only two hours. The film chronicles the legendary concert of Jay-Z's performance at Madison Square Garden in November 2003. An intimate look at hip-hop artist Shawn Carter, Jay-Z, revealing the multiple Grammy Award winning artist as never before, from his background and rise to fame to the recording of his last album.

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