Paid in Full: Battle for Black Music Documentary

This Saturday, September 21st, the new CBC documentary series 'Paid in Full' explores the racial injustices black artists have faced in the music industry for over a century. Narrated by Julie Black, the series chronicles their struggles, highlighting systemic racism that has pervaded the industry since the 1920s. With engaging stories of iconic figures such as Nina Simone, Bessie Smith, and Little Richard, it portrays how these artists fought against exploitation while contributing significantly to music history. The second episode examines the emergence of black-owned record labels, revealing that even these entities often failed to fairly compensate their artists. It emphasizes the importance of dismantling systemic issues within this largely white-dominated industry. In the final episode, the series discusses the modern challenges within the streaming age, including the controversial 360 contracts that can bind artists to labels indefinitely. Through personal anecdotes and hindsight that Julie Black shares, the series fosters a greater understanding of the financial and emotional investments involved in the music business. Ultimately, it calls for increased awareness and appreciation within broader society for the efforts and contributions of black musicians, aiming to inspire future generations of artists.