Often referred to as “Black Hollywood” due to its celebrity draw, the Martha’s Vineyard African American Film Festival recently celebrated 21 years of cinematic excellence. Held annually during the first two weeks of August, the festival showcased an impactful itinerary and lineup this year. The films explored diverse topics such as mental health, Black women’s health, Black farmers, and the 50th anniversary of hip-hop. In addition to its artistic and cultural significance, the festival has a substantial economic impact on Martha’s Vineyard, a historic enclave for African Americans. The influx of attendees benefits local businesses, including hotels, restaurants, and transportation services. While the festival is renowned for presenting exceptional films, it is also a hub for networking and business opportunities.
Martha’s Vineyard, a longtime New England summer colony accessible only by boat or air, hosted another star-studded event this year. Last year, the festival’s 20th anniversary saw a surprise appearance by Barack and Michelle Obama on opening night. This year, the festival welcomed filmmakers, industry professionals, and film enthusiasts from across the globe, featuring a special guest to honor hip-hop’s 50th birthday: MC Lyte.
The 2023 Martha’s Vineyard African American Film Festival invited the iconic MC Lyte to celebrate her fellow pioneering women of hip hop with an opening night screening of Netflix’s “Ladies First: A Story of Women in Hip-Hop.” Executive produced by MC Lyte, the documentary series commemorates #HipHop50 and highlights the influence of women on hip-hop music and culture. Held at the Martha’s Vineyard Performing Arts Center, the opening night screening included a special set from the legendary rapper, featuring music from Queen Latifah, Foxy Brown, Lil’ Kim, Nicki Minaj, Lyte herself, and more. Festival founders Stephanie and Floyd Rance also attended the special event.
Following the screening, attendees enjoyed a panel featuring MC Lyte and “Ladies First” director Dream Hampton. Hampton expressed that her favorite era of hip hop is the present, praising the movement and diversity among women rappers today as an empowering and proud moment. MC Lyte shared her candid perspective on being a woman in hip hop, noting that she’s uncertain how to answer questions about her experience because she has only ever known the genre from a female viewpoint.
“Ladies First” – a Culture House Production – is a four-part series celebrating women in hip hop over the past 50 years. Featuring legendary emcees, emerging artists, and current chart-toppers like Latto and Tierra Whack, the series highlights the undeniable impact women have made in the genre, both in front of the mic and behind it. From rap pioneers like Sha-Rock and Roxanne Shante to today’s music makers, “Ladies First” explores how these artists have and continue to reshape the social, racial, and political landscape through a female lens.
