By Whatever Means Necessary: The Times of Godfather of Harlem (2020)
Inspired by the music and subjects featured in the series “Godfather of Harlem,” this documentary series brings alive the dramatic true story of Harlem and its music during the 1960s, and connects that history to our present moment.
By Whatever Means Necessary: The Times of Godfather of Harlem: Season 1 - 4 Episode s
1x1 - Mecca
November 8, 2020
The 'cultural capital of Black America,' 1960s Harlem faces problems and rising tensions as all over the country, civil rights protests proliferate. As the decade unfolds, music gives voice to a community fighting for justice.
1x2 - Freedom Songs
November 15, 2020
A musical, political and spiritual revolution gains momentum across Black America, inspiring Jazz greats John Coltrane, Charlie Mingus and Max Roach to express their activism through their instruments, and Abbey Lincoln to vocalize her pain in song.
1x3 - Crossroads
November 22, 2020
The rich diversity of the Harlem population shapes new forms of music that draw on different sounds and styles heard around the neighborhood, like R&B, jazz, soul, mambo, blues, and 'boogaloo,' all of which reflect the common goal of racial justice.
1x4 - Power
November 29, 2020
New voices like the Black Panthers offer a message to Black America: reform is not enough; it's time for revolution. The call for Black Power sparks a cultural shift not just in Harlem, but around the world, as Black music infiltrates the mainstream.
By Whatever Means Necessary: The Times of Godfather of Harlem: 1 Season
Actors in By Whatever Means Necessary: The Times of Godfather of Harlem
Forest Whitaker
Himself
Giancarlo Esposito
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Ilfenesh Hadera
Herself
Gladys Knight
Herself
Martha Reeves
Herself
Jamal Joseph
Himself
Herbie Hancock
Himself
Markuann Smith
Himself
Denise Oliver-Velez
Herself
Gary Bartz
Himself
Joe Baatan
Himself
Al Sharpton
Himself
Nile Rodgers
Himself
Adger W. Cowans
Himself
Robin Clark
Herself
Charles Rangel
Himself
A Ferg
Himself
Chika
Herself
Carlos Alomar
Himself
Herb Boyd
Himself