Ep 2. Alright: 2015

"Hip Hop: The Songs That Shook America" is a docuseries that explores the cultural and societal impact of some of the most iconic hip-hop songs in American history. In season 1 episode 2, entitled "Alright: 2015", the show examines the impact of Kendrick Lamar's song "Alright" on the Black Lives Matter movement and the overall political climate of the United States in 2015.

The episode begins by placing "Alright" in its historical context, highlighting the countless instances of police brutality and racial injustice that had occurred in the years leading up to its release. Viewers are transported to the streets of Ferguson, Missouri, where the shooting of Michael Brown and the subsequent protests had ignited a nationwide conversation about race and policing. Against this backdrop, the significance of "Alright" as a rallying cry for the Black Lives Matter movement becomes clear.

Through interviews with Kendrick Lamar's friends, producers, and collaborators, the episode delves into the creative process behind "Alright". Viewers learn that the song initially began as a freestyle that Lamar performed during a recording session in 2014. Its infectious hook and powerful lyrics immediately caught the attention of those in the room, and they knew they had something special on their hands.

As the episode progresses, viewers see the impact that "Alright" had on the wider world. Footage of protesters singing the song in the streets of Ferguson and Baltimore show just how much it had resonated with those who were fighting for racial justice. Interviews with activists and scholars help to place the song in a broader historical context, highlighting the ways in which music has always been a powerful tool for social change.

Ultimately, "Alright: 2015" is a moving tribute to the power of music to inspire and mobilize people in the face of adversity. Through its exploration of Kendrick Lamar's iconic song, the episode offers a nuanced and deeply affecting portrait of a pivotal moment in American history. It is a must-watch for anyone interested in the intersection of music, politics, and culture.