The Industry (2005)

Synopsis: In large part responsible for singlehandedly bringing rap music to the mainstream and giving it staying power, hip-hop mogul Russell Simmons provides a look into the goings-on behind the scenes... In large part responsible for singlehandedly bringing rap music to the mainstream and giving it staying power, hip-hop mogul Russell Simmons provides a look into the goings-on behind the scenes with THE INDUSTRY. The rollercoaster ride of rap is narrated in interviews with such luminaries of the business as Kanye West, Chingy, Ludacris, and Andre 3000 among others. We also hear from the astute businessmen who support, promote, and manage this talent, including Lyor Cohen, Kevin Liles, LA Reid, Blue Williams, Chaka Zulu, and Simmons himself. No one knows the industry better than these folks who make it happen, and this documentary becomes a fascinating foray into the workings of a world of which the public normally only sees one side. Replete with concert, backstage, and rehearsal footage, THE INDUSTRY also features the making of three Grammy-winning albums: Outkast's SPEAKERBOXX/ LOVE BELOW, Kanye West's COLLEGE DROPOUT, and Ludacris's CHICKEN-N-BEER. [More]

Producer: Russell Simmons