Sir Mix-a-Lot: Shhhh…Don't Tell ‘Em That

With a style caught somewhere between the transition of old school and gangsta rap, Seattle-born Sir Mix-a-Lot (best-known for the notorious ‘90s anthem “Baby Got Back”) is spotlighted in this hour-long program. Between brief segments showing off his version of “Sea-town” (he visits an old home where he affectionately remembers his grandma hitting his gramps in the head with a five-pound jug of mayo), traveling to Baton Rouge for some crawfish, and enjoying “drunken chicken” (made with what appear to be Cornish game hens and beer) in Arkansas, there's plenty of music featured, including videos for “Posse on Broadway,” “One Time's Got No Case,” the Sugarhill Gang remake “Jump on It,” “Swap Meet Louie,” the Metal Church collaboration/Black Sabbath remake “Iron Man,” and “Baby Got Back,” among others, with concert footage featuring Mix and some half-dozen homeys (including artist Outtasite) running around intertwined throughout. Featuring scantily-clad women (an uncensored video for “Put ‘Em on the Glass” is available in special features--read: bouncy nudity), mediocre editing, and constant vulgarity, the best thing here is the legendary Mix himself; no matter how boorish, he's kept his style consistent, is honest about his career screw-ups, and provides astute insights into the current state of the rap/hip-hop genre. Presented in Dolby Digital stereo, the disc's extras include nine music videos, a 12-minute interview, and over 20 minutes of live concert footage. A strong optional purchase. Aud: P. (J. Williams)