THE DOCUMENTARY
Lead Between The Rhymes
Wisconsin is a state known for its Dairy Farming, Cheese curds, Breweries and Monotony Culture. However, there is a part of its culture that often goes unnoticed – the thriving hip-hop community that has been making waves in the music industry for decades. 'Lead Between the Rhymes' is a documentary that explores the untold story of Wisconsin hip-hop and the incredible accomplishments of the artists and influencers who have made their mark in the Wisconsin music scene. From pioneering rap groups to platinum producers, this film delves into the stories of those who have defied the odds and carved out a place for themselves in the competitive world of hip-hop. Join us as we uncover the rich history and unparalleled talent that has made Madison and Wisconsin a force to be reckoned with in the world of music.
Our film delves deep into the stories, struggles, and triumphs of these local and celebrity artists who have pushed boundaries, defied stereotypes, and made an indelible impact on the music industry. Other notable artists and celebrities to be featured or mentioned in the documentary series include Fresh Force, Kali Tribe, Soul Patrol, HBOs Breakdance crew, Roberto Rivera, Lacouir Yancey, Jarius King, Ader, Carmen Key, Anne B, Clyde Stubblefield, Skylar Grey, DJ Pain 1, Coo Coo Cal, DJ Fusion, G!Nx-Gbanga, Speech and Members of Arrested Development.
Historic & Pioneering Interviews
Hip hop first emerged in Madison, WI in the late 1970s, with the formation of local rap groups and breakdance crews. Over the years, the city's hip-hop scene grew and evolved, with a wide range of artists and styles emerging from the community.
FRESH FORCE
One of the earliest and most influential pioneers of Madison hip hop was the rap group Fresh Force, who began producing tracks in the early 1980s. As one of the first hip hop acts from Madison to land a major record deal, Fresh Force paved the way for future generations and has left a lasting impact on some of the most influential names in the industry.
KALI TRIBE
Kali Tribe, the first hip-hop group from Wisconsin to appear on BET. The rap group consisted of four members: King Kamonzi; Lando Land, Prince Ulami, "The Pharaoh" Twan Mack. The group was originally named Def Kali, a name coined by King Kamonzi's father, Dr. Ronald Edari, when it began in the late '80s under the banner of the Milwaukee musical collective "The Fresh Walk Family." That project was founded by Speech, the Milwaukee-native who launched the group Arrested Development.
JARIUS KING
Jarius King known to many as "ManOfGod" or "King Genius/GNS"is a performing artist, professional breakdancer, instructor, and international DJ. Jarius is former UW–Madison student and co-founder for the International Urban Movement breakdance conference.
DJ PAIN 1
A Wisconsin-native, DJ Pain 1 is known for his breakout production on Young Jeezy's platinum-selling album "The Recession. Since his debut, he has worked with artists ranging from G Herbo to Public Enemy, Mavis Staples to Ludacris.
SOUL PATROL
Soul Patrol was a pioneering breakdance crew that emerged from Madison, Wisconsin who quickly became legendary in the early 80’s and the go-to group for anyone looking for authentic hip-hop entertainment.
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ANNE B
The Queen of Madison Hip-hop is Anne B. Richardson. She was the first DJ at W.O.R.T. 89.9 FM radio to introduce Hip-hop to Madison the community in the early 70s
CLYDE STUBBLEFIELD
Wisconsin native Clyde Stubblefield was a drummer best known for his work with James Brown and his syncopated drum patterns were heavily used in hip hop music beginning in the 1980s, although Stubblefield frequently received no credit.
SPEECH & ARRESTED DEVELOPEMENT
Speech Thomas and the group Arrested Development; a progressive rap collective from the early '90s originated from Wisconsin has won a pair of Grammys, and platinum certifications for their debut album, 3 Years, 5 Months & 2 Days in the Life Of.
RICO LOVE
Rico Love, is a producer, songwriter, and artist from Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Rico has contributed to works which have received Grammy Awards, including writing and producing songs for Beyoncé, Usher, Trey Songz, Nelly, Kelly Rowland, Mario, Chris Brown, Keri Hilson, Fergie and Fantasia.
SKYLAR GREY
Skylar Grey born from Mazomanie, Wisconsin, is an American singer, songwriter, and record producer who co-wrote Eminem's hit single "Love the Way You Lie". Grey is also known for providing guest vocals on several hip-hop hit singles, such as Diddy's "Coming Home", Dr. Dre's "I Need a Doctor", Nicki Minaj's "Bed of Lies", and Macklemore's "Glorious".
