THE STORY Veteran entrepreneur and hip-hop mogul Dame Dash is back on television with a mission that bypasses celebrity gossip for something far more profound: preserving the raw history of culture-shapers. His new venture, the five-episode docuseries 'OG Stories,' premiered on BET on June 17 and serves as the initial chapter of his expansive 'My Paid in Full' franchise. Hosted and directed by Dash himself, the series delves into long-form conversations with individuals whose impactful contributions have often operated outside the mainstream spotlight.
The inaugural episode of 'OG Stories' features Harlem businesswoman and community leader Michelle Smalls, a figure Dash has known and collaborated with for years. During an interview with AllHipHop’s Quierra Luck, Dash emphasized that the series' strength lies in its authenticity. "These are actually my friends. These are people that sleep in my house, people that argue with me. These aren’t people that I don’t know," he stated, highlighting the deep personal connections that fuel the project. Dash revealed that the series grew directly from his encouragement for Smalls to document her life, leading her to write a book and inspiring the television format.
Dash further clarified his business relationship with BET, stating that the network is acting as a distribution partner rather than an owner. "We’re using BET as a platform… We own it. This is licensing," he explained from BET's New York City offices. This aligns with Dash’s long-standing philosophy of ownership, a principle he has applied throughout his career, pushing for creators to retain control over their work. His business acumen has since evolved beyond music and film, expanding into real estate, with entertainment now viewed as a 'tenant' in his broader portfolio.
CONTEXT Dame Dash, co-founder of Roc-A-Fella Records, has a storied career in the music industry, marked by entrepreneurial ambition and a distinctive business approach. From launching the careers of artists like Jay-Z to navigating the complexities of music, film, and fashion, Dash has consistently championed ownership and authenticity. His latest endeavor, 'OG Stories,' signifies a return to television with a focus on elevating individuals who have profoundly influenced culture but whose stories often go untold in the traditional media landscape.
BET, a leading network for Black audiences, has been increasingly focusing on unscripted programming and creator-driven content that authentically reflects Black culture. The network's commitment to showcasing diverse narratives and spotlighting influential figures aligns with Dash's vision for 'OG Stories.' By partnering with Dash, BET is tapping into a wellspring of untold stories that resonate with themes of survival, resilience, entrepreneurship, and legacy within the Black community.
WHY IT MATTERS 'OG Stories' arrives at a crucial moment when the value of lived experience and the contributions of often-overlooked figures are gaining greater recognition. Dame Dash's series provides a vital platform for individuals like Michelle Smalls, offering a counter-narrative to sensationalized headlines and celebrating the 'great, godly part' of their lives and influence. It serves as an essential archive, preserving the wisdom and impact of those who laid the groundwork for today's cultural landscape.
This initiative by Dame Dash is more than just a television show; it’s a testament to the power of storytelling and legacy-building. By centering these 'OGs,' the series not only educates viewers about the unsung architects of hip-hop and community leadership but also inspires future generations to value and document their own foundational heroes. The project underscores Dash's continued relevance and his commitment to ensuring that the true pioneers receive their due recognition, demonstrating that authenticity remains a powerful currency in entertainment. Reporting via AllHipHop. Read the original story here: https://allhiphop.com/news/dame-dashs-og-stories-brings-harlems-untold-legends-to-bet/
