Veteran radio personality and hip-hop icon Angie Martinez is stepping into the director’s chair for the first time with a new feature-length documentary focused on the influential DJ Clark Kent. Titled God’s Favorite DJ: The Story of DJ Clark Kent, the film will be produced in collaboration with Green Leaf Productions and Mark Sparks Productions.
DJ Clark Kent, a pivotal figure in hip-hop, has had a hand in shaping the careers of some of the genre’s biggest names, including Jay-Z, the Notorious B.I.G., and Mariah Carey. His production credits are a testament to his impact, with tracks like Jay-Z’s “Brooklyn’s Finest” and Biggie’s “Sky’s the Limit” standing out among his extensive portfolio. The documentary promises to delve into his four-decade career, exploring how he has influenced hip-hop’s evolution and left an indelible mark on pop culture.
In a statement to The Hollywood Reporter, Martinez expressed her enthusiasm for the project, saying, “DJ Clark Kent is a rare gem whose influence is seen in nearly every era of Hip-Hop’s history books. With our 50-year-old culture susceptible to outside perspective and agenda, it’s important that we spotlight the heroes who push the art form with purity and authenticity. I am honored to help share Clark’s many truths with the world.”
The documentary is set to feature appearances by hip-hop heavyweights such as Jay-Z, Questlove, and DJ Khaled, who will offer their perspectives on DJ Clark Kent’s legacy. The film’s synopsis teases an exploration of the DJ’s pivotal role in moments that altered the course of hip-hop history, from convincing a young Shawn Carter (Jay-Z) to pursue his dreams, to coaching the Notorious B.I.G. on stage presence.
DJ Clark Kent himself expressed his excitement about Martinez’s involvement, stating, “I’m honored to have Angie Martinez directing. Her entire career has been rooted in telling stories in a beautiful and meaningful way. Angie is a true icon of Hip Hop and we are very lucky to have her guiding this project.”
Martinez, known as “The Voice of New York,” has had a storied career in hip-hop radio and beyond. In addition to her work as a Radio Hall of Famer and New York Times best-selling author, she recently hosted and executive produced the one-hour special *Hip-Hop @ 50: Rhythms, Rhymes & Reflections – A Soul of a Nation Presentation*, which aired as part of ABC News Studios’ Emmy-winning series. This latest project marks a significant milestone as she brings her storytelling prowess to the realm of documentary filmmaking.
God’s Favorite DJ: The Story of DJ Clark Kent is poised to be a compelling look at one of hip-hop’s most influential yet often underappreciated figures, offering a deep dive into the man behind the music and the sneakers that have become a part of his legacy. The film will also highlight his upcoming 2024 sneaker collaboration with Nike, a testament to his enduring influence in both music and fashion.
As Martinez takes on this new role, the hip-hop community eagerly awaits a film that not only honors DJ Clark Kent’s legacy but also adds another layer to the rich tapestry of hip-hop history.