It’s no secret that some of our favorite hip-hop artists are also some of our favorite actors. They’ve seamlessly transitioned across entertainment platforms, delivering a double—let’s be honest, sometimes triple— dose of their talents. Whether they burst onto the scene as actors before showcasing their musical prowess, or garnered a musical fan base before venturing into acting, these artists have captivated us with their versatility. This Black History Month, we’re shining a spotlight on the talent behind the rhymes and the scripts.
Whether he’s crafting stories behind the scenes or commanding the screen, Donald Glover’s latest project, a reimagined “Mr. & Mrs. Smith,” showcases his unwavering commitment to excellence. Then there’s Snoop Dogg, a true jack-of-all-trades whose range knows no bounds. Whether he is mixing gin and juice or tackling football in his latest film “The Underdoggs,” Snoop consistently proves that his talents extend far beyond the music industry.
If you’re a fan of these multifaceted creatives or simply curious about the hype, dive into these performances, all available on Prime Video.
Donald Glover: Mr. and Mrs. Smith
You can’t deny Donald Glover’s versatility. His latest spin on “Mr. and Mrs. Smith” is just another showcase of his killer instincts and creative reimagination. Whether he’s pulling strings behind the scenes or stealing the show in front of the camera, Glover always delivers.
Ice Cube & Busta Rhymes: Higher Learning
What better way to celebrate Black History Month than with John Singleton’s campus drama “Higher Learning.” This movie not only showcases Cube and Busta’s acting abilities but their character speaks truth to power and protects the Black woman.
Snoop Dogg: The Underdoggs
What can Snoop Dogg not do? The rapper, actor, and football coach combined all his talents into Prime Video’s latest release. You’ll laugh, maybe hit the censor button but your heart will smile at this feel-good, pee-wee football film.
Ludacris: Fast X
One of the highest grossing franchises and one that Ludacris has made his own. While we may love Luda for his lyrical prowess, we also love his character Tej for his fast maneuvers. Fun fact: Ja Rule was originally supposed to be in this franchise but decided to not continue his role as Edwin following his appearance in the first film. It’s safe to say there was always going to be a hip-hop element to the Fast universe.
Jharrel Jerome: I’m a Virgo
Fun fact: Jharrel Jerome is not just a phenomenal actor who plays a 13-ft Giant in the Amazon original series ‘I’m a Virgo,’ he’s also a skilled rapper, steadily gaining a dedicated fan base alongside his flourishing acting career. The series itself seamlessly combines comedy, absurdity, and social commentary—all cleverly packaged within the enigmatic persona of a 13-foot giant.
Nick Cannon, Snoop Dogg: Phat Tuesday
While not exactly a show, this documentary encapsulates everything you need to know about Guy Torry’s comedy show, where every Tuesday brought forth some of the hottest black comics to hit the stage. Oh, to be a fly on that wall… But since we can’t, this documentary is something you’ll love. However, a pure warning: it will give you FOMO.
Will Smith: Bad Boys
The kiddies today may never know about Getting Jiggy with Big Willie, but we do. However, considering he gave us many fan-favorite movies such as a shirtless running through the street ‘Bad Boys’, this is a must-watch anytime it’s available.
Idris Elba: No Good Deed
Idris Elba has been blurring the lines between acting and rapping/DJ his entire career. It’s safe to say his voice is something we all love even if in No Good Deed he’s the voice of revenge.
Childish Gambino: Guava Island
Childish Gambino and Rihanna on one screen. That’s all we have to say.
LL Cool J: Edison
In “Edison,” LL Cool J takes on the role of a corrupt cop with a conscience, showcasing his versatility as an actor. For fans of the Ladies Love Cool James, this film is a must-watch, no matter which side of the law he’s teetering on.
Busta Rhymes: Finding Forrester
“Finding Forrester” not only tells a compelling story but also reveals the brotherly side of Busta Rhymes. It’s a captivating film that adds another layer to Rhymes’ multifaceted career.
Donald Glover: Swarm
Though Glover didn’t take on a starring role in this series, his co-creation is the perfect embodiment of this list. The narrative revolves around a psychotic character embarking on a killing spree, driven by an intense obsession with a pop star. While the series depicts the star as Beyoncé-like, the concept easily extends to any singer or rapper with a fervent fanbase. I can certainly think of a few examples.
This list not only celebrates the multifaceted talents of these artists but also underscores the pivotal role they play in reshaping narratives and pushing boundaries within the film industry. These films, streamable on Prime Video, remind us that visibility is not just solely about entertainment but a testament to the importance of representation in film, media, and pop culture. By showcasing diverse stories and talents, it contributes to a more inclusive and enriched cultural landscape. Prime Video’s commitment to promoting content that embraces “Where Black Is” speaks volumes about the platform’s dedication to redefining genres, reimagining classics, and breaking records. For a deeper dive into what’s available visit amazon.com/cultureratedpv to explore the Culture Rated collection now.