I'm developing a story about two genius level African American teens living in South Central but have no resources for realistic dialogue, what interests teens these days, etc, etc. I'm trying to avoid the cliche' traps so I need to start the basic research and interview people. If I can get one lead that should start the ball rolling. I may also contact some of the local high schools as well. Any suggestions on gathering good research for such a project? And any leads connecting me with an LA native that could help will be greatly appreciated.
Thanks,
John
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Look into my friend Ndugu Chancler... who passed away... yet, he grew up in Watts... became a professional drummer through hard work and practice. One of the nicest guys you could ever meet.
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Your friend sounds like a great guy and sorry to hear he passed away.
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Wouldn't that make it difficult to interview him? I think you need to look for folks who are a little less dead.
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Doug, thanks for the input. I was merely thanking Brian for his communication and I think he was suggesting I might want to research his friends background and perhaps develop another story? Have a great weekend,
John
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Hi John, not sure if you're talking about visual, literary, or performance art - but a good place to start for resources would be with the producer behind RIZE, David LaChapelle. Since he brilliantly documented the start of Krumping - a hard-hitting urban dance movement out of South Central LA. (One that echoed the early b-boying/breakdance phenomena that literally took the world by storm.) If you are looking for a current young African American breakout in the visual arts, here' s someone to consider: https://i-d.vice.com/en_us/article/3kbqjj/delfin-finley-paints-young-bla... I love what you're doing, btw. Good luck!
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Jean, Excellent! I needed a starting point and do appreciate your insights. Have a great weekend. John
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In regards to your South Central criteria and Ndugu, I just read 2 Kindle eBooks he published prior to his passing - "Pocket Change" and "The Musician's Best Friend" - so his wisdom is easily accessible.
Then factor in his YouTube presence and all of his "Enrich, Empower, and Educate" seminars... like he'd advise, it doesn't cost a nickel to be nicer.
Further, I have a CD/DVD set titled "Standards" by Patrice Rushen, Stanley Clarke, and Ndugu Chancler.... where the DVD has some of his excellent insights.
he got his big break with Santana and was also Michael Jackson's drummer.
John, I just wanted to offer someone who did grow up out of South Central and succeed. He was an incredible person, a valuable mentor, and a good friend... in other words, a good role model... based on the criteria of your question.
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Thanks Brian--in my initial research I always include as much about the subject and location I'm interested in as possible. I have often discovered the best scenes and characters can come at a moment you least expected--this avoids cliche'...something that causes me nightmares and I often suffer from its bad influence...sigh.
Thanks again and have great weekend,
John
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Ndugu would co-host the "Day of the Drum" festival beneath the Watts Towers. I recall him saying he grew up at 99th and Stanford. In 1993, he had me attend, and I still listen to my recording of his drumset quartet from that day.
You're most welcome, John. Please keep us posted on how things go.