Now here’s a story to be told. The history of Funk. An idea inspired by legendary record producer Arthur Baker lead historian/filmmaker/author Nelson George to travel through America interviewing musicians to document the history and influence of funk. Including interviews with founding fathers Sly Stone, Bootsy Collins, and those influenced by the genre such as Mtume, Nona Hendryx, Nile Rodgers, Steve Arrington, Mike D of the Beastie Boys, Marcus Miller, Vernon Reid, Maceo Parker, Bernie Worrell, Reggie Hudlin, Shock G, D’Angelo, Stuart Matthewman, Sheila E., and Diplo — Finding the Funk will be a blueprint in our times. In order for this seminal project to be completed, George has started a Kickstarter campaign to support the effort – there are only five days left to support!! The documentary will be aired on VH1 in 2013.

From “pimps up, ho’s down“, “drop it like it’s hot,” Murder Was The Case, Tha Doggfather, and a multitude of other projects that have steered Calvin Broadus, Jr. (aka Snoop Dogg) down the road of reckless crime with a lot of success, is no wonder the serenity associated with the Rastafarianism faith has finally caught up with him. “With no disrespect, I’m tired of rap,” says Snoop Lion in this new documentary titled, Reincarnated which follows Lion on his spiritual journey to enlightenment. Featuring studio sessions with American producer Diplo, (who seems to be the new reggae go-to guy) as he banishes his past to embracing the earth, with a big fat chalice to free his mind. Bless up Snoop Lion!

Reincarnated is a VICE Films production, in partnership with Snoopadelic Films and will be premiered September 7th at the Toronto International Film Festival.

It would have been far too easy if John Forté — a Grammy nominated artist at the age of 21 from his participation on The Fugees‘ “Staying Alive” to a convicted felon — made his documentary, The Russian Winter purely a self-referential piece.  Instead, he has created a documentary about his opportunity to soujorn the land of Russia in a quest to have his music heard. Organising shows across the country and performing for various charities with a host of other Russian musicians, viewers are given the opportunity experience a musicians world of learnings and challenges. The Russian Winter debuted at the recent Tribeca Film Festival  and the next step is for it to be picked up. Check out the trailer below.

Oftentimes when listening to a Roy Ayers record, you often wonder what the story is behind a track. When listening to “Poo Poo La La” and “Dontcha Say No” and “I Wanna Touch You Baby,” I can’t help but think, Uncle Roy is one smooth player! These were tunes that breathed sex, love, life, sensuality, with unparalleled musicianship. His fusion of jazz with an R&B sensibility created timeless music, that many have sought to emulate. A whole genre of music — neo soul — was born from his sheer influence. Simply put, there’s no other like Roy Ayers!

What is The Roy Ayers Project? A documentary about the life, music, and philosophy of the spirit of Roy Ayers, bringing artists together to express themselves through their art to capture the spirit of this outstanding musician. Combining live performances with Roy Ayers himself as they perform in venues across the US, The Roy Ayers Project is going to be the documentary to watch to gain understanding of an important artist. Check out the trailer below, directed by Haylow Overby and Ariel Nuñez?with music provided by Detroit-based producer, Tall Black Guy.