Ep 5. The Two Killings of Sam Cooke

The episode "The Two Killings of Sam Cooke" is the fifth installment of the Netflix documentary series, ReMastered. The episode focuses on the life and death of legendary soul singer Sam Cooke, known for classics like "A Change is Gonna Come" and "Chain Gang."

The episode begins with Cooke's rise to fame in the 1950s and 1960s, as he became one of the most successful black artists of his time. He was not only a talented singer, but also a businessman who launched his own record label and publishing company. Cooke was a trailblazer in the music industry, breaking down barriers and paving the way for other black artists.

However, the episode takes a darker turn as it delves into Cooke's untimely death at the young age of 33. On December 11, 1964, Cooke was fatally shot at the Hacienda Motel in Los Angeles. The official story was that Cooke was killed by the motel's manager, Bertha Franklin, in an act of self-defense.

The documentary questions this narrative and explores the possibility of a conspiracy behind Cooke's death. It highlights the fact that Cooke was a vocal advocate for civil rights, and had recently become involved in the struggle for black economic empowerment. Some speculate that his activism made him a target for the FBI and other government agencies, who were known to target black leaders during this time period.

The episode also examines the possibility that Cooke's death was the result of a dispute over money. Cooke had a history of being generous with his money, often lending or giving it away to friends and family. Some believe that he may have been taken advantage of by those close to him, leading to a confrontation at the Hacienda Motel that turned deadly.

Through interviews with Cooke's family and friends, as well as archival footage and recordings, the episode pieces together the events leading up to his death and the aftermath that followed. It explores the impact that Cooke's death had on the music world and on the black community at large.

Overall, "The Two Killings of Sam Cooke" is a powerful and thought-provoking episode that shines a light on a complex and controversial figure in American history. It challenges viewers to consider the many factors that may have played a role in Cooke's tragic demise, and raises important questions about the intersection of music, politics, and race in America.