The documentary 'It Was All a Dream' by Dream Hampton, an established music journalist and filmmaker, offers an in-depth look into the growth and evolution of hip hop. Primarily using footage from her time working at The Source magazine and her own personal archives, Hampton brings the viewer on a journey through the early years of hip hop culture in New York between 1993 and 1995.
Premiered at the Tribeca Film Festival, the documentary not only covers Hampton's exploration of the city but also depicts her interactions with icons like Biggie Smalls while sharing her thoughts on the genre. Hampton's documentation offers an introspection into the convergence of capitalism, youth, and Black culture in the sphere of hip hop.
The film addresses challenging topics such as gender inequality, commercialization, and craft within the music genre, making it more than just a historical recount. It demonstrates the importance of preserving the past through meticulous documentation, particularly in music journalism. The film evolves the narrative by connecting the past and the present, showing the continuity of discussions around pertinent issues like music distribution and misogyny.
Furthermore, 'It Was All a Dream' illuminates the progression of female representation in hip hop. It showcases the pioneering efforts of figures like Nikki D and LeShaun, and how their efforts have paved the way for collaborations between new-gen artists like Megan Thee Stallion and Cardi B.
Propelled by her dedication to preserving the narrative of hip hop, Hampton's work has emerged as a valuable reference point for understanding the genre, whether from a socio-cultural perspective or from a more music-focused standpoint. With rare perspectives and intimate footage of early hip-hop legends, 'It Was All a Dream' affirms the critical role individual archives play in constructing community narratives.
