Before passing away on May 7, 2020, the late, great Andre Harrell lived a very full life by any measure. After founding his own rap group, he landed a job at legendary rap label Def Jam Records. Not satisfied with these accomplishments, Harrell quit, only to start his own company, Uptown Records. He then used his considerable business acumen and eye for talent to make superstars out of Heavy D (& the Boyz), Guy (Teddy Riley, Aaron Hall and Dameon Hall), Al B. Sure!, Mary J. Blige and Jodeci. Along the way, he even found the time to mentor a young Sean "Puff Daddy" Combs.
But like many entrepreneurs, Harrell decided that conquering one world wasn't enough and also took his talents to Hollywood. Since we mostly discuss movies and television here at MID, we've decided to focus on those accomplishments. Enjoy:
Strictly Business
For his first foray in Hollywood, Harrell started at the very top: a feature film. Not only did Harrell act as producer on this 1991 comedy featuring Halle Berry in her second movie role (and Sam Rockwell in his third), he also made sure that recording artists signed to Uptown Records (including a then-up-and-coming Jodeci and a young Mary J. Blige) provided songs for the soundtrack.
New York Undercover
Harrell turned to the small screen for his next Tinseltown venture, executive producing this network drama about two undercover cops operating in Harlem that ran from 1994-1999.
Honey
Returning to features, Harrell produced this 2003 movie loosely based on the true story of an inner-city dancer (played by Jessica Alba) chasing her dreams in the Big Apple.
Good Hair
Stepping in front of the camera for Chris Rock's 2009 documentary exploring the African-American community's relationship with hair, Harrell sat for an interview and gave his own thoughts on the matter.
Can't Stop, Won't Stop: A Bad Boy Story
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