Kicking off a weekend to be remembered in NOLA, HBO MAX’s Scene In Black celebrated black creatives in the artistic hub of New Orleans last week. Scene in Black (an HBO initiative to bring black voices and stories to the forefront, uplift artists in music and storytelling) hosted the main event for Issa Rae’s newest series, “Rap Sh!t”. 

Rap Sh!t

“Rap Sh!t” is a comedic series that follows a female rap duo from Miami as they try to make it in the music industry. It airs July 21st on HBO MAX but, attendee’s of HBO’s event highlighting the behind-the-screen talent got an exclusive screening. The event took place July 1st with brunch at the Ace Hotel where guests mixed and mingled with the diverse members of the HBO team.  Felicia Leatherwood, head of the hair department on “Rap Sh!t”, and Hannah Diop, Founder of Sienna Naturals, the natural haircare line co-owned by Issa Rae were also a part of the festivities. They continued this exploration of cultures with a live hair demonstration using their products. To complete the night and further emphasize the celebration of black women in music, Kali and LightSkinKeisha performed as surprise musical guests. Very fitting for “Rap Sh!t”.

RNB House Party

HBO Max’s chain of uplifting events took place in New Orleans between the Ace Hotel and The Chicory. ‘Katrina Babies’ a HBO documentary examining the impact of the tragedy on New Orleans’ youth, directed by Edward Buckles Jr., was screened over the weekend. In New Orleans, thousands of people and their families were impacted by the notorious Hurricane Katrina. A city changed forever by this infamous natural disaster never lost their vibrance. That vibrance is preserved through the storytellers and creators throughout the city. To end on a high note, Scene in Black partnered with RNBHouseParty for the last event of the weekend. They brought influencers, creators, and tastemakers together to celebrate themselves and their art. All while tying in music and culture once again.

As we see more authentic black stories on screen, it is important to celebrate the diverse communities behind the lens to make them available to us. HBO Max and Scene in Black continue to acknowledge the underrepresented voices with so much to say.

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