Krush Groove (1985)
“Krush Groove” is the sort of ’80s oddity that can’t quite be categorized. Is it a musical? A comedy? A collection of music videos with dialogue sprinkled in between? This time capsule captured rap’s infancy and changed the way Big D speaks.
This week’s episode, commissioned by listener David B., gave us a newfound respect for Run-DMC, The Fat Boys and, oddly enough, “Purple Rain.” Dick Ebert learned why Kurtis Blow is called Kurtis Blow; Ash revealed the depth of her hip-hop knowledge; and Gene explained why he thinks rappers are naturally good actors.
Russell Walker (Blair Underwood) has started a new hip-hop and rap label called Krush Groove, which features a stellar list of acts that includes Kurtis Blow and Run-D.M.C. However, Walker doesn’t have sufficient money to keep up the label, especially after Run-D.M.C. scores a big single. As he struggles to fund the label, more and more rap groups, like the Beastie Boys and LL Cool J, emerge in the New York City hip-hop scene. The film is based on the beginning of Def Jam Records.
Plot Summary:
In the 1985 musical drama Krush Groove, directed by Michael Schultz, the film dives into the early days of hip-hop culture, chronicling the rise of the iconic record label Def Jam. Featuring a mix of real-life music legends and fictionalized characters, Krush Groove offers an energetic portrayal of the burgeoning rap scene in New York City. Blair Underwood stars as Russell Walker, a fictionalized version of Def Jam co-founder Russell Simmons, who is struggling to turn his small, independent label, Krush Groove Records, into a major player in the music industry.
Russell’s roster includes some of the hottest talents of the time, such as Run-D.M.C. (portrayed by themselves), Kurtis Blow (also playing himself), and Sheila E. (as herself), who brings her vibrant musical flair and romantic tension to the story. As Russell deals with financial troubles and competition from rival labels, he is forced to borrow money from a shady loan shark, Galen (Richard Gant), to keep his company afloat. Meanwhile, Sheila E. finds herself caught in a love triangle between Russell and his younger brother, Run (Joseph “Run” Simmons).
As tensions rise, the film captures the essence of the 1980s hip-hop culture with energetic performances, classic rap battles, and unforgettable dance scenes. The storyline is peppered with appearances by hip-hop pioneers like LL Cool J, The Fat Boys, and the Beastie Boys, providing a vibrant backdrop to the story of passion, ambition, and the struggles of breaking into the mainstream music scene.
Krush Groove is a nostalgic celebration of the golden age of hip-hop and a tribute to the artists who helped shape the genre. Join our podcast review as we explore the film’s unique blend of music, culture, and drama to see if this pioneering story still resonates with today’s audiences.
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