Hidden Door Documedia,
along with Rick James’ daughter Ty James, have come together to release a full-length
documentary, chronicling the life of singer, songwriter Rick James.
The movie, I’m
Rick James
, begins with the legend’s birth in Buffalo, New York, his exploitsas a pimp and drug runner in Asia and South America, his emergence in music,
relationships with Prince and Eddie Murphy and the R&B legends addiction
to drugs.
Rick James, born
James Ambrose Johnson, Jr. and dubbed the King of Funk Punk, passed away suddenly
in August 2004 from natural causes, most likely brought on from years of drug
use.
"We’re trying
to give people an accurate glimpse into the energy, charisma and magnetism that
Rick James possessed throughout his life and used to become a superstar,"
said Perry Santos, producer and co-director of the documentary. "Through
his own words and many interviews with everyone from club owners to Hollywood’s
biggest celebrities, you really get a good look at Rick in all his glory."
The documentary
features existing footage of James and interviews with James’ many friends and
business associates, while an accompanying soundtrack features both never-before-
heard tracks and signature hits, including "Superfreak," "Give
it to Me Baby,""Mary Jane," and "Party All the Time."
James is one of
the most sampled artists in history and his song "Superfreak" was
reworked into a hit for MC Hammer in the form of "U Can’t Touch This"
in 1990.
I’m Rick James
hits stores in October of 2006. Posthumous vocals from James can be heard on
"In The Ghetto," taken from Busta Rhymes’ latest chart topping release,
The Big Bang.
To read Rick James’
last interview before passing away in August of 2004, click
here.