It’s unfortunate that because 90s hip-hop predated the internet and technology in its current iteration, it is so under-documented. Much of the most amazing (verbally) recounted experiences in the timeline of hip-hop weren’t captured. That’s what was so exciting about Stretch And Bobbito’s documentary film, “Radio That Changed Life.” Universally hailed as the greatest hip-hop radio show ever, the duo’s show played host to many of the most memorable pre-stardom freestyles and moments of some of hip-hop’s biggest icons. Initially only able seen at private screenings across the nation—and in Toronto—it’s now available for your next Netflix and chill session.’
What initially begins as a quasi-linear story of how the duo met, and how the show came to be, morphs into a [feel-filled] journey through the highs and lows of a show whose climax and ultimate end paralleled (arguably) the era most of us older heads hold dear in our hearts. The best moments came from watching the faces of the various artists as Stretch and Bob played them their classic freestyles on a Walkman. There were many glossy eyes—it was an oddly emotional experience. The show’s end, from Stretch’s perspective, came from his dissolution with the state of music industry, and his inability to program entire episodes full of music he truly loved; the byproduct was a domino effect.
“Wouldn’t you like to just go back, just to see it,” asked a seemingly emotional Nas? That—to me—was the sentiment that most of us felt watching this incredible documentary. An excellent window into an era long gone, and a reminder of how many people were affected by not only this iconic show but hip-hop as a culture.
Lucky you, it’s on Netflix; a must watch for curious young heads and anyone who considers themselves keeping it real.
https://youtu.be/7e9NhvTfEXg
