Boys will be boys—but as Sister Nancy proudly shows us, girls will also be girls.
From Millie Smalls to Althea and Donna, female voices have always been present in reggae music, but not quite like Sister Nancy. Her hard, unapologetic lyrics, along with an untouchable attitude, firmly place her as a true trailblazer for not only women in reggae, but all women in music.
This documentary will be screened in collaboration with Caribbean Creativity on Wednesday 9th October as the European premiere at Melkweg, Amsterdam. Tickets here!
"I'm a lady, I'm not a man."
She certainly is, and she has nothing to apologize for. Bam Bam: The Sister Nancy Story by Alisson Duke, displays a comprehensive portrait of Sister Nancy's enduring prominence in reggae and hip-hop. Showcasing her juxtaposing hard but soft personality, in a light that makes her instantly familiar, perhaps reminiscent of an auntie or in-law.
In this intimate portrayal, the film shows moments between Sister Nancy and her family, her performances on stage, as well as her interactions with Jay-Z; blurring the lines between the mundane and the extraordinary.
Alongside personal glimpses there are interviews with people like Janelle Monáe, Pete Rock, and Mad Professor which shed light on her profound influence across the musical sphere, making this a must-watch not only for reggae enthusiasts but anyone interested in music.
The heartfelt essence of the film displays Nancy as someone completely unaffected by her success (part of which we later realize was not intended). She does exactly what she wants when she wants to, and for no other reason than because she wants to. Whether it be performing on stage or working in a bank for 13 years after her breakthrough, she carves and follows her own path.
The film plays a dualistic role: on one hand, you're happy she has this attitude, but on the other, you're confused and frustrated—shouldn't she not have to be working?
I didn't even know 'Bam Bam' existed - Sister Nancy
The documentary reveals the unjust and hard-hitting life Nancy has faced. Alongside her nonchalant attitude, it also showcases what she has been missing out on. There is great admiration for doing things simply for the love of it, but this passion can also be used and abused, as we see in the film. Although to this day she is the voice behind the number one sampled reggae track of all time, Nancy only received a fraction of what was owed to her.
No one is painted as a villain except the system itself. We see the shrugging of shoulders and the "it's just the way it goes" attitude sadly accepted by all. It illuminates the same old story of artists not getting what they deserve, in a very melancholic way.
Despite this, the film's main takeaway is the pure joy that comes from doing what you love. Both her personality and her lyrics share a matter-of-fact attitude: This is how it is, and she's going to enjoy it.
Steppin' Into Tomorrow stands with artists & labels and encourages listeners to support them by buying their music directly from Bandcamp. If you've enjoyed this article, please consider subscribing to our monthly newsletter to stay in the loop.
Comments