HIP HOP TO ACTING

BY: Jean Louis

The music industry has had many artists take their talents to acting.

Some have played supporting roles, others have been producers, and even the movie leads; with every artist’s bid more newsworthy than the next.

And while we have gotten used to singers altering between music and film, rappers have fared more than well behind the big screen. 

With the release of Boogie featuring Eddie Huang and Pop Smoke, as well as the anticipation of Fast 9 with Ludacris and John Cena, it is only apropos we dive into the many hip hop stars in theatre.

The Leads (Will, Cube, Mark, & Latifah)

Very few artists have become more synonymous with their acting career than their hip hop beginnings.

Will Smith

The Fresh Prince has dominated over the years in acting. Starting his rise with 1996’ Independence Day, the legend would go on to do buddy cop classics, take on roles of legendary figures, as well as a host of other dramatic masterpieces.

Mark Wahlberg

Marky Mark’s rise to fame has spread ‘Good Vibrations’ all across the globe with his films over the years. From his comedic timing in the Ted series, Daddy’s Home, and Pain n Gain to captivating dramas like Four Brothers, Wahlberg has more than cemented himself as a bonafide movie star. 

Ice Cube

The authentic, passionate energy Ice Cube displayed in his actions and facial displays created a lane for the artist that would eventually become him. From the days of Boyz in the Hood to Are We There Yet, Cube has been able to utilize his raw attitude from NWA and channel it on screen. As if his role never separated from the star itself. 

Queen Latifah

Ditto for the Queen, whose rap career spoke for itself. And yet, her acting run hit levels that still are cosplayed today. Whether she’s in Set it Off using her rugged side or in Just Wright showing her loving side with fellow rapper/actor Common, Queen Latifah had too, done it all. 

Producers (Gambino, 50 Cent)

From two different backgrounds, each artist has seen themselves tap into their dramatic aesthetic. Donald Glover notably appeared in 2018’s Solo, while 50 had channeled his inner Eminem with self-inspired film Get Rich or Die Tryin. Each star has more hands within the production side of film, as Glover has started a multi-million dollar venture with Amazon. As for 50 Cent? The legend is the brain trust of Power, as well as Black Mafia Family; a new Starz drama with Snoop Dogg and Lala Anthony. 

The Duel Threats (T.I. & Bow Wow)

Few were on fire as much as these two were in their respective runs, as both were still in the prime of their careers when they hit the big screen. ATL and Roll Bounce was seen as classics amongst many. 

T.I. would also drop another gem in Takers, an action film many big names, including fellow artist Chris Brown.

The Supporting Cast (3000 & LL)

Many stars offer dynamics in a film that would otherwise be a lot different had it not been for their inclusion.

Andre 3000

Alongside Mark Wahlberg and Tyrese, 3 stacks were able to deliver a very chilling dynamic in the 2005 film, Four Brothers. 

But SNL enthusiasts will never forget his role as Clarence in the 2008 film Semi-Pro with Will Farrell. 

LL Cool J 

Now a mainstay on television, the NCIS star had his fair share of big roles. Deep Blue Sea and Any Given Sunday are standouts in his career, as the latter, cast with Al Pacino, saw them get on the gridiron, a precedent we will end up seeing with Nelly’s in Adam Sandler’s remake of The Longest Yard.