The MC: Why We Do It

Narrated by Image award-winner Mekhi Phifer, Oscar-nominated filmmaker Peter Spirer's 2005 documentary explores the world of the illustrious MC (master of ceremonies), a.k.a. the person actually doing most of the talking on any given hip-hop track. Starting out with a condensed history of hip-hop (and breakdown of the four elements: DJing, breaking, graffiti art, and MCs), the program explores the evolution of emceeing and looks at the distinction between an MC and a rap artist. From geographical influences and the symbolism of “bling,” to the preservation of hip-hop and the age-old query “Jay-Z or Nas?,” The MC: Why We Do It features interview/archival footage of artists including 50 Cent, Twista, Common, James Brown, Ice T, LL Cool J, KRS-One (who pops up a lot and has his own freestyle segment), Eminem, Rakim, Kanye West, MC-Lyte, and more. Featuring exclusive performance clips and captivating interview segments, DVD extras include an “Artists Essentials” segment (on recommended albums), extended footage, PDF-format artist bios, and a photo gallery. Recommended. Aud: P. (J. Williams-Wood)