Good footage

SO, first things first -- nothing but props and thanks to the Pacifics for taking time out to talk some Asian American issues. They threw out really good insight concerning why they think Asian Americans aren't stirring it up just yet in the mainstream. Being in the mix of the hip hop world since the mid-90's has made these guys "blue collard" rappers (-Rex). In other words, they've been working hard at their craft while still doing the day job thing. Something that I found to be a pure thought in general was that they're in it to just make good music. When it's all said and done, they just want people to acknowledge their art and by them being them, they're still representing Asian Americans (w/out all that karate, stir fry, or stereotypical ching chong crap).

This was a thought that was initially dropped for my documentary through my cousin, Jesch. If you're into the underground Asian American pop music scene (or were about 4 or 5 years ago), my cousin was an original member of an R&B group named S.O.T.O. [Sons Of The Orient].



The name is now owned by the record label, so he doesn't know the guys who are in it now if you do you're google action. However, he did sacrifice about 2 or 3 years of his life to try and pursue his music dream full time. When I say sacrifice, I mean he literally picked up and moved to Atlanta. He was already a teacher in Florida with a house and everything, but he was in it to grab what was his dream. After their little run, things didn't happen and time was becoming an essence. Let's just say that my cousin is now a highly accolated teacher at his school who recently won a nationally recognized award. Imagine if he used that energy if he and his boys got a shot into the big time...

I commend the Pacifics for still rollin with the punches. They said that there were times when they didn't know what to do in terms of moving forward, but they still stuck with it. And that's what you gotta do -- just keep on pushing forward.

They were really down to earth and easy to talk to. I feel like I got some good footage tonight and already have some thoughts in my head of where to edit their stuff in the whole picture. Again -- nothing but appreciation to Jona (their manager) and the Pacifics. Wayne and I will be hitting up their show on November 19th at Morseland. I urge y'all to do the same!!

BEHIND THE SCENES:

--Multiple, multiple, multiple surveys were sent out to Asian American organizations in Alabama, Alaska, and Arizona. If y'all are reading this -- please drop a complete survey at asianthing@gmail.com . You're werds will be heard and taken account for. Don't miss your opportunity to be part of a documentary!!