Black Wax (1983)

With The Most Dangerous Musician Alive, Gil Scott-Heron

Black Wax (1983) poster

Gil Scott-Heron, one of rap's earliest (and unfortunately unknown) pioneers, gets his full due in Black Wax, the 1982 documentary recently reissued on video. Interspliced between performance footage of Scott-Heron and his Midnight Band are vignettes of him walking around Washington D.C., spouting his views on then-President Reagan (dubbed "Ray-Gun") and generally dropping knowledge. The live performance features many of Scott-Heron's best-known hits, including "Johannesburg," "Winter in America," and "Angel Dust," among others. Warm, intelligent, and insightful throughout, Scott-Heron is clearly enjoying himself and the opportunity to espouse his views. A must for any fan of Scott-Heron's, and definitely worth a look for fans of the funkier jazz music of the mid to late 1970's.

Director: Robert Mugge
Genre: Documentary, Music
Runtime: 79 min
Release Date:

Cast

Cinematography: Larry McConkey
Editing: Robert Mugge
Production: Mug-Shot, Film4 Productions
Country: United Kingdom
Language: English
Original Language: en

Keywords

biography

More Films by Director: Robert Mugge
More Films in Genre: Documentary, Music

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Black Wax about?
Gil Scott-Heron, one of rap's earliest (and unfortunately unknown) pioneers, gets his full due in Black Wax, the 1982 documentary recently reissued on video. Interspliced between performance footage of Scott-Heron and his Midnight Band are vignettes of him walking around Washington D.C., spouting his views on then-President Reagan (dubbed "Ray-Gun") and generally dropping knowledge. The live performance features many of Scott-Heron's best-known hits, including "Johannesburg," "Winter in America," and "Angel Dust," among others. Warm, intelligent, and insightful throughout, Scott-Heron is clearly enjoying himself and the opportunity to espouse his views. A must for any fan of Scott-Heron's, and definitely worth a look for fans of the funkier jazz music of the mid to late 1970's.
Who directed Black Wax?
Black Wax was directed by Robert Mugge.
Who stars in Black Wax?
Black Wax stars Gil Scott-Heron, Glen 'Astro' Turner, Gia Scott-Heron, Ed Brady.
How long is Black Wax?
Black Wax has a runtime of 1h 19m (79 minutes).
What genre is Black Wax?
Black Wax is a Documentary, Music film.
Where was Black Wax produced?
Black Wax was produced in United Kingdom.