Overview
During my time at The Grill Studios, I had the distinct honor of collaborating on a recording session with Academy Award-winning actor Ashton Sanders. This particular session was an intimate gathering, featuring Ashton, his manager, and myself, as we worked meticulously to re-record pivotal songs for the Netflix Original movie "All Day and A Night."
The movie, directed by Joe Robert Cole, follows the journey of the soft-spoken Jahkor Abraham Lincoln, portrayed by Ashton Sanders, as he navigates the challenging landscape of Oakland amidst a gang war. Jahkor's struggle to maintain his dream of a rap career takes center stage, leading him on a path where real-world responsibilities blur the line between right and wrong, ultimately resulting in tragic consequences. The narrative unfolds as Jahkor finds himself in prison alongside his father, J.D. (Jeffrey Wright), prompting an unexpected journey of self-discovery and a quest to break a seemingly inevitable cycle for his newborn son.
The recording session focused on re-recording songs written and composed by Mozzy, contributing to a pivotal scene where Ashton's character is in the recording studio within the movie, capturing the essence of the theme song for "All Day and A Night." This collaboration not only added depth to the movie's Netflix Original soundtrack but also brought authenticity to the portrayal of Ashton's character as he grapples with his dreams and the harsh realities of life.
Working closely with Ashton Sanders and contributing to the musical landscape of a Netflix Original film with such emotional depth was a testament to the power of storytelling through sound. The session was a harmonious blend of artistic expression and technical precision, reflecting the profound impact of the movie on its audience.