Thursday, June 22, 2006

'I'm Rick James' Documentary Chronicling Rick James' Life On The Way

Hidden Door Documedia, along with Rick James' daughter Ty James, have come together to release a full-length documentary, chronicling the life of singer, songwriter Rick James.
The movie, I'm Rick James, begins with the legend's birth in Buffalo, New York, his exploits as a pimp and drug runner in Asia and South America, his emergence in music, relationships with Prince and
Eddie Murphy and the R&B legends addiction to drugs.
Rick James, born James Ambrose Johnson, Jr. and dubbed the King of Funk Punk, passed away suddenly in August 2004 from natural causes, most likely brought on from years of drug use.
"We're trying to give people an accurate glimpse into the energy, charisma and magnetism that Rick James possessed throughout his life and used to become a superstar," said Perry Santos, producer and co-director of the
documentary. "Through his own words and many interviews with everyone from club owners to Hollywood's biggest celebrities, you really get a good look at Rick in all his glory."
The documentary features existing footage of James and interviews with James' many friends and business associates, while an accompanying
soundtrack features both never-before- heard tracks and signature hits, including "Superfreak," "Give it to Me Baby,""Mary Jane," and "Party All the Time."
James is one of the most sampled artists in history and his song "Superfreak" was reworked into a hit for MC Hammer in the form of "U Can't Touch This" in 1990.
I'm Rick James hits stores in October of 2006. Posthumous vocals from James can be heard on "In The Ghetto," taken from Busta Rhymes' latest chart topping release, The Big Bang.
To read Rick James' last interview before passing away in August of 2004,
click here.