• Video Editing • Video Production • Adobe Premiere Pro
• Video storytelling • Creative video editing
• Video storytelling • Creative video editing
I kicked off the year with a remarkable endeavor, collaborating on a significant project for PBS's 'Sound Field' during its fourth season.
Sound Field, an engaging music education series, delves into the intricate realms of music theory, production, history, and culture across various genres—pop, classical, rap, jazz, electronic music, folk, country, and indigenous music.
In my role as the video editor, contributing to a documentary series demanded a continuous exchange of ideas to ensure a creatively compelling narrative. My focus encompassed refining video editing techniques, incorporating subtle motion graphics, and harmonizing the music to enhance the storytelling.
Often overlooked, the art of video editing is a skill that profoundly shapes how a story unfolds on screen. Leveraging Premiere Pro as my editing software of choice, I dedicated one to two weeks per project, meticulously fine-tuning each detail. The result is a collection of works that you can explore right here or catch on TV through PBS.
Episode 1 - How This Drum Beat Changed Hip Hop Forever
In this captivating music documentary, hosts Arthur "LA" Buckner and Linda Diaz embark on a profound exploration into the rich history of James Brown's 'Funky Drummer' beat. They skillfully trace its profound impact on Hip Hop music, unraveling the cultural significance embedded in this iconic rhythm. Through insightful interviews with prominent Hip Hop producers and individuals closely connected to Clyde, this series unveils the narrative of the drummer who crafted this defining sample yet never received proper credit for his contribution. Immerse yourself in the untold story of the man behind the drums and witness how his simple beat left an indelible mark, forever altering the landscape of Hip Hop.
Episode 2 - How Battle Rap Took Over the Internet
Join hosts Arthur 'L.A.' Buckner and Linda Diaz as they embark on a fascinating journey through the vibrant history of battle rap and the genesis of the Ultimate Rap League (URL). This episode features special guests Smack White, DNA, and Arsonal, providing an in-depth exploration of the roots of this expressive art form and its profound cultural significance.
Tracing back to the late 1970s and early 1980s, we uncover the evolution of rap battles – from intimate Harlem parties to the grand stage of worldwide competitions. The narrative reaches its zenith in 2009 with the establishment of the Ultimate Rap League. Smack White, the visionary founder of URL, shares his personal journey and the league's overarching vision. Meanwhile, DNA and Arsonal, two revered and highly skilled battle rappers, offer a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the dedication and skill required to thrive in this intensely competitive art form.
Episode 3 - What Makes The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill So Special?
Take a journey with us as we explore the remarkable legacy of one of Hip Hop's true icons: Ms. Lauryn Hill. Join hosts Arthur 'LA' Buckner and Linda Diaz as they dive into Hill's captivating story as a singer, songwriter, and rapper, unraveling the unique talent that propelled her to the status of one of the greatest artists in Hip Hop history.
Together, we delve into Lauryn Hill's history, tracing her path from the early days with the Fugees to the groundbreaking solo album, 'The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill.' This album not only left an indelible mark on the industry but continues to serve as a wellspring of inspiration for artists today. We're privileged to hear insights from Nadirah, the founder of The Gumbo, a magazine celebrating and featuring women in Hip Hop, as she sheds light on Hill's profound impact on the industry and the ongoing role she plays in empowering women in rap.
Episode 4 - Why Have So Many Countries Adopted Drill Rap?
Exploring the roots of drill music, which originated in Chicago over a decade ago, this genre has become a global phenomenon, making its mark from London to New York City. In this video, we delve into the far-reaching influence of drill music, examining how it has inspired and shaped the rap scenes in different corners of the world.
Taking a closer look at London's drill music scene, we explore how it was profoundly influenced by the raw energy and dark lyrics of Chicago drill artists such as Lil Durk and Chief Keef. Additionally, we investigate the reciprocal influence, with London producers playing a key role in shaping the drill sound in New York City.
To provide deeper insights, we'll be in conversation with D Munna 1Hunna, an emerging drill rapper from the Bronx. He will share with us what distinguishes New York drill, highlighting its unique qualities and shedding light on how it has been influenced by drill scenes from various cities around the world.
Episode 5 - What Do They Mean When They Call Hip Hop “Alternative”?
Join us as we immerse ourselves in the realm of alternative Hip Hop, exploring the nuances of what it truly means for Hip Hop to carry the label 'alternative.' Our hosts, Arthur and Linda, embark on an insightful journey into the historical context of the term 'alternative' in music and its connection to rap and R&B. The narrative unfolds, covering the evolutionary paths of trailblazing artists like The Pharcyde, Odd Future, and Missy Elliott.
To shed light on the concept of alternative Hip Hop, Arthur engages in a conversation with Robeson "Taj" Frazier, Ph.D., the host of Hip Hop and the Metaverse. Together, they dissect the pluralistic nature of Hip Hop and reflect on how the term 'alternative' has manifested within the genre over the years.
In a separate conversation, Linda engages with the rising R&B sensation Jean Deaux to explore the originality of her music and her place within the alternative Hip Hop landscape. Jean Deaux offers a unique perspective on the creative process, revealing how she carves out her distinctive space in the ever-evolving music world.
Episode 6 - How Beatboxing is Rooted in Hip-Hop History
Let's plunge into the captivating world of beatboxing and unravel how this vocal art form measures up against traditional drumming.
Teaming up with the extraordinary talents of The Beatbox House, a collective of world-champion beatboxers redefining music with their voices, Linda Diaz takes us on an exploration into the depths of beatboxing. Together, they trace its origins and deep roots in the culture of Hip Hop.
But that's not all! Enter Arthur Buckner, an exceptional drummer, bringing his skillful beats and rhythmic prowess to the studio, ready to engage in a friendly showdown with the incredible beatboxing talent of Carnage The Executioner. The stage is set for an epic clash, where drums collide with vocal drums, creating a fusion of styles.
Discover the intricate techniques, innovative creativity, and boundless energy that make beatboxing a truly unique art form. Linda, Arthur, Carnage The Executioner, and The Beatbox House unravel the captivating artistry behind beatboxing and illuminate how it continues to influence the landscape of music today.