Mixtape Documentary series on Paramount+ takes you on a nostalgic journey into the roots of hip hop culture. This captivating series explores the pivotal role of mixtapes in launching hip hop into mainstream culture, shedding light on the untold stories of DJs, artists, and tastemakers who shaped the genre.
About the Series
From its humble beginnings to its global domination, Mixtape unravels the influence and power of these underground creations.
The Power of Mixtapes
Before the era of radio play, internet streaming, and social media, there were mixtapes. DJs became the tastemakers, trendsetters, and architects of a revolutionary sound that would eventually become the biggest musical genre on the planet. Mixtapes were more than just collections of songs; they became a currency of hip hop culture. Holding a mixtape was a symbol of being “in the know,” a signifier that one had their ear to the streets and understood the pulse of the community. The series explores how this DIY approach disrupted the music industry and became a driving force behind the rise of hip hop.
From Sub-Culture to Mainstream
The significance of mixtapes goes far beyond the tapes themselves. The documentary highlights how the culture and artistry of hip hop were too strong to be ignored. Talented artists refused to be silenced, and DJs played a pivotal role in propelling the sub-culture into the mainstream. Through their relentless determination and creativity, they paved the way for hip hop to become the global phenomenon it is today. This documentary series showcases the transformative power of mixtapes in shaping the genre’s trajectory.
Mixtape Cast
The series boasts an impressive lineup of influential figures from the hip hop industry. The documentary features 2 Chainz, A$AP Rocky, Dante Ross, DJ Bobbito, DJ Clue, DJ Drama, DJ Enuff, DJ Green Lantern, DJ Jazzy Joyce, DJ Kay Slay, DJ Khaled, DJ S&S, DJ Scratch, DJ Stretch Armstrong, DJ Whoo Kid, Doo Wop, Fabolous, Fat Joe, Funkmaster Flex, The Game, Grandmaster Caz, Jadakiss, James Cruz, Jeezy, Kid Capri, Kool DJ Red Alert, KRS-One, Lil Wayne, Mark Ronson, Mike Tyson, N.O.R.E., Ron G, Shaq, Tommy Hilfiger, Tony Touch, Trouble, Tuma Basa, and more. Their firsthand accounts and personal experiences offer unique insights into the impact of mixtapes on the evolution of hip hop.
Release Date
Mixtape will exclusively premiere on Paramount Plus on Tuesday, August 1, 2023 in the U.S. and Canada, and Wednesday, August 2, 2023 in the U.K., Australia, Latin America, and Brazil.