As I watch Al Sharpton’s loudmouth documentary, it becomes evidently clear as to just how vital Robert Johnson’s establishment of B.E.T. (Black Entertainment Television) was! It gave space to Black voices, culture and opinions. It definitely was key in the dominance of hip-hop. These music heavy networks reached the masses of generations and increased their exposure to hip-hop.
Technology and timing brought it all together much like the tale I tell in my book “Federal City Hustlerz” which took me to catch up with technology to even be able to get my book typed and published finally after all of these years of struggle!
But B.E.T. is the anchor for such catalysts like TV One and OWN TV and many other new networks and outlets. It all played out like a well-executed game plan the way everyone sort of played their parts and roles in establishing hip-hop from the heavy artist rotation to the numerous video shows! The population got its fi x of hip-hop mixes as Cathy Hughes, founder of TV One, worked her hand with Radio One, which all started out with her W.O.L. “Information is Power” station! Although Oprah is known to have taken a stance against hip-hop, she has still followed suit of Black community leadership in also acquiring ownership of a network station of her own.
Lastly, I wanted to commend Russell Simmons for seeing the opportunity for his stable of acts and network of industry players right on down to the cashiers of the record stores. It has all truly been a major game changer for Black America. So now, where shall we shine our light?
