https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nick_Donnelly
Growing in the middle of race riots at the turn of the new millennium, I witnessed the media list my hometown as the second most deprived in the UK. I never saw anyone where I am from doing anything excited but through the internet I envisioned this new exciting world of different cultures.
I left my hometown at 18 to study film and after graduating bottom of my class I was frustrated living in a city which had cut arts funding by 100% so I started shooting uncensored no budget content that challenged the prejudices of the past media elite.
Although I was sleeping on buses and in hostels using my camera as a pillow, I grew my content from 200 viewers a video to 2 million independently, then producing feature films with musicians who have sold over 150 million records. I started the platform Urban Kingdom which has created opportunities for 100s of artists to stay independent and authentic with their content.
Projects
- Street SmartA feature documentary film by myself on the role of Hip-Hop rising from fan to personal expression in the UK and how the 90s paved the way for a new generation to grow. Features exclusive interviews with Method Man and Ghostface Killah (Wu-Tang Clan), photographer Eddie Otchere (Notorious BIG, Jay-Z, Nas, Aaliyah), UK Hip-Hop artists Leaf Dog (The Four Owls), Rodney P and more.
- God Save The QueenMy first feature film: a documentary featuring Motown legend and one of only 38 women at the time in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee Martha Reeves reflecting on 50 years touring in the music industry, while the film tells the story of young women across the UK looking to make a long term career in the music industry, while grappling with the concept of fame and the sexism women face in the industry. Also features Beyonce 'Freedom' songwriter Carla-Marie Williams, music video model La Bel
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