Father-and-son filmmakers Jason and Sam Pollard, known for their insightful and empathetic storytelling, have joined forces to produce the documentary “Ol’ Dirty Bastard: A Tale of Two Dirtys” for A&E. This compelling documentary provides an in-depth look into the life and legacy of the iconic Hip-Hop figure Big Baby Jesus.
The film offers unprecedented access to ODB’s inner circle, featuring exclusive interviews with his closest friends and family, including notable figures such as Mariah Carey, Wu-Tang Clan members Raekwon and Ghostface Killah, ODB’s wife Icelene Jones, his son Bar-Sun Jones, his parents, and recording industry executives such as Dame Dash
The documentary also showcases never-before-seen personal archive footage, a treasure captured by ODB’s wife, Icelene. This rare and intimate glimpse into ODB’s personal life presents him not only as a larger-than-life musical figure but also as a man, a father, and a husband. By exploring his life, the film aims to humanize ODB and shed light on his profound impact on music and culture, providing a comprehensive and intimate portrayal of his legacy and ensuring the audience feels intrigued by this exclusive footage.
Growing up in the nineties as a Hip Hop head, everyone knew who Ol’ Dirty Bastard was and the reaction you got when you heard the one-two punch of “Brooklyn Zoo” and “Shimmy Shimmy Ya,” which set the stage for his appearance on Mariah Carey’s “Fantasy” remix. The late rapper’s eccentric persona comes through entirely in the documentary as we hear stories about his lyricism and humanity.
The documentary traces the familiar narrative of emerging from a modest background and attaining significant success. What brings particular allure is the depth of insight offered by his family and colleagues. There were two moments from the documentary that stood out prominently. The first was the Toure interview, wherein ODB visited a check-cashing establishment and acquired food stamps. The second moment of note was the iconic “Wu-Tang is for the children” declaration.
While I initially found it lighthearted in my youth, I now recognize the profound significance of his words within a broader framework. Furthermore, the inclusion of perspectives from record executive Damon Dash regarding his decision to sign ODB provided invaluable insights into the artist’s career.
I was surprised by the absence of any reference to ODB’s contribution to the classic BOP, “Ghetto Superstar,” and by not hearing from every member of the Wu. Nevertheless, “Ol’ Dirty Bastard: A Tale of Two Dirtys” remains a poignant and powerful documentary that illuminates the highs and lows of a rap legend who made an indelible mark on the hip-hop world.
Final Grade: B+
“Ol’ Dirty Bastard: A Tale of Two Dirtys” will stream this Sunday on A&E.
For their second single, the group presented a ballad entitled “Feels Like The First Time.” Once again, Greene handles the lyrics, while Neville Hodge is responsible for production duties. Greene begins the song with robust energy, proclaiming his love for the lady. Greene’s group members provide stellar work on the background vocals, and the songs eschew nineties R&B without going into crass vulgarity.
The ballad was composed by Michael Masser and lyricist Gerry Goffin, and it was first recorded by Dionne Warwick in 1981. Eight years later, Natalie Cole covered the song, shortening the title. It became the fourth single from her twelfth album, “Good to Be Back.”
Braxton’s vocal talent is perfect on the standards “Christmas Time Is Here,” “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas,” and “The Christmas Song.” However, like any good R&B Christmas album, it is the soulful yuletide bops where Braxton truly shines. The album’s first single, “Snowflakes of Love,” is instrumental of Earl Klugh’s “Now We’re One”. Braxton’s lush vocals encapsulate the warmth and joy of romantic love amidst a wintery backdrop.