As part of the 26th Annual Sidewalk Fest and its Black Lens Spotlight, the documentary “The South Got Something To Say” will screen at the non-profit theater Thursday night at 7 p.m.
The film, created and directed by the Horne Brothers (Ryon and Tyson), highlights the rise of hip-hop in the South through the lens of Atlanta.
“Once you conquer the South, you become a legend,” Ryon told AL.com. “Think about OutKast, T.I., Jeezy…even Drake.”
The name of the film pays homage to rapper Andre 3000′s iconic speech at the 1995 Source Awards after the hip-hop duo OutKast won for Best New Rap Group. At the time, Southern rappers were new to hip-hop and didn’t yet have the national recognition like some other rappers from California or New York. As the group went on stage to accept their award, they heard boos from the audience. To close the speech, Andre 3000 said, “The South got something to say…and that’s all I’m gonna say!”
“The hip-hop in the South goes deeper,” Ryon explained. “So many of the artists from the South start off in the church, like hit producer Zaytoven. So when you’re listening to Future or Gucci Mane, and you’re wondering why does this music seem to connect more? The music is derived from gospel.”
Ryon elaborated on the influence of Alabama artists and how they made their marks in the music industry.
The Horne Brothers are the filmmakers behind the new documentary “The South Got Something to Say,” screening at the Sidewalk Film Festival in Birmingham in 2024. (Courtesy photo by Steve West)Tyson Alan Horne
“When you think of Alabama, its always been a state where people go to incubate the strength to go elsewhere,” he said. “Whether its from John Lewis and Dr. Martin Luther King. Whether it’s hip-hop, Pastor Troy talks about how working the Chitlin’ Circuit, during the early parts of his career, had to focus on HBCUs, and the small clubs along the I-20 interstate. You were not going to be successful in a rap career unless you conquer that I-20 highway.”
The documentary features interviews from Jermaine Dupri, Ludacris, Goodie Mob, Big Boi, Killer Mike, and several other artists from Atlanta who made a name for themselves.
“The documentary The South Got Something to Say serves as a nostalgic journey through the evolution of Southern hip-hop, resonating deeply with those who grew up in the ‘80s and ‘90s,” wrote T. Marie King, the lead shorts and Black Lens programmer at Sidewalk Film Festival. “As highlighted in the Vox ATL review, the film encapsulates the essence of an era, blending good times and challenges while celebrating the transformative power of music.
“It offers a compelling narrative that reflects on both the hardships and triumphs of Southern artists, showcasing their contributions to a genre that profoundly shaped a generation. Through its curated selection of music and poignant storytelling, the documentary not only educates but also evokes a sense of cultural pride and musical appreciation among its viewers.”
“The South Got Something to Say” will screen on Thursday at 7 p.m. at the Sidewalk Film Center + Cinema.
The annual Sidewalk Festival started Monday and will continue until Sunday. Tickets are available for purchase on their website starting at $10 and up to $320 for a pass.
Shanti Das is interviewed in the new documentary “The South Got Something to Say,” screening at the Sidewalk Film Festival in Birmingham in 2024. (Courtesy photo by Tyson Alan Horne)Tyson Alan Horne
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