Zinc Media’s Supercollider label has teamed up with Idris Elba’s Green Door Pictures and Sabrina Elba’s Pink Towel to create a documentary series called “Paid in Full: The Battle for Payback.” The series, commissioned by CBC and the BBC, explores the exploitation of Black artists in the music industry and delves into the concept of reparations for these artists.
The documentary series, consisting of three episodes, sheds light on the historical injustices endured by Black artists in the music industry. Despite creating records that have shaped popular music and culture, Black artists have often received unequal profits. The series also examines the ongoing racial inequalities within the music industry.
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Notable contributors to the series include author and filmmaker MK Asante Jr. and Lawrence Lartey, director of innovation, industry, and enterprise at Ravensbourne University London, who has worked with President Obama’s foundation on the My Brother’s Keeper initiative.
The partnership between Abacus Media Rights (AMR) and Media Musketeers Studios has provided funding and co-production support for the series, with AMR handling international distribution.
Tanya Shaw, managing director of Zinc Television, emphasizes that the series goes beyond a conventional music documentary. It delves into the racial context of the music industry and exposes its history of exploitation. The series aims to foster conversations about structural racism and the individuals who have worked tirelessly to expose these issues.
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Idris Elba, CEO of Green Door Pictures, highlights the importance of the series, as it sheds light on the injustices suffered by musicians who have contributed to the soundtracks of people’s lives. It aims to hold the music industry accountable for the financial and reputational injustices inflicted upon generations of talented artists. Elba emphasizes the need for acknowledgment and restitution.
Jonathan Ford, managing director of Abacus Media Rights, expresses enthusiasm for being part of this important production. He believes the series will draw attention to a topic that requires industry and public engagement. Ford is confident that the collaboration between Supercollider, Green Door, and Catalyst will do justice to the subject matter.
Sebastien Janin, managing partner of Media Musketeers Studios, emphasizes the significance of the subject matter and the importance of bringing it into the spotlight. Working with a talented production and distribution team ensures that the series reaches a wide audience.
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The series has been commissioned by BBC Two and BBC iPlayer for the BBC, and by CBC and CBC Gem for CBC. The executive teams involved express their enthusiasm for sharing this important series with audiences, providing a comprehensive exploration of the structural racism ingrained in the music industry and its long-lasting impact.
“Paid in Full: The Battle for Payback” aims to bring attention to the struggles faced by Black artists in the music industry, sparking conversations and promoting accountability for past injustices. The series is set to have a powerful impact on viewers in Canada and beyond.
