Renowned graffiti artist and hip-hop innovator Fab 5 Freddy, whose memoir Everybody's Fly: A Life of Art, Music, and Changing the Culture was released on March 10, shares his latest obsessions that reflect his passion for culture and history.
One of his highlighted reads is The Black Count: Glory, Revolution, Betrayal, and the Real Count of Monte Cristo by Tom Reiss. This book uncovers the often-overlooked narrative of Black pirates during the 18th century, a time when the slave trade and sugar were at the forefront of economic power. The story revolves around Thomas-Alexandre Dumas, the father of the famed author Alexandre Dumas, who was a general in Napoleon's army. Fab 5 Freddy emphasizes the importance of recognizing Black representation in historical narratives, stating that many young African Americans would be inspired to learn about figures like Dumas.
Another intriguing title is The Black Prince of Florence: The Spectacular Life and Treacherous World of Alessandro de' Medici by Catherine Fletcher. This work reveals that Alessandro de' Medici, a ruler of Florence in the 1530s, was of African descent. Freddy notes the significance of this historical fact, highlighting how Alessandro's lineage positioned him as a powerful figure in a prominent Western state, reminiscent of Barack Obama's later achievements.
Freddy also revisits The Black Jacobins: Toussaint L'Ouverture and the San Domingo Revolution by C.L.R. James, which chronicles the Haitian Revolution. He praises Toussaint L'Ouverture for his exceptional leadership and strategic approach, which allowed for a more equitable coexistence with former plantation owners, showcasing a remarkable shift from the brutal realities of slavery.
In the realm of visual storytelling, Freddy admires the Netflix documentary series The Lost Pirate Kingdom, which explores the history of Caribbean pirates. He finds inspiration from its production style for his own artistic projects focused on Black pirates, indicating a deep commitment to expanding this narrative through his artwork.
Lastly, Freddy shares his enthusiasm for The Prof G Pod with Scott Galloway, a podcast that provides insightful commentary on contemporary issues. He appreciates Galloway's candid and articulate perspectives on the challenges faced in today's world, distinguishing his approach from mainstream media.
These selections not only reflect Fab 5 Freddy's diverse interests but also underscore the importance of reclaiming and celebrating underrepresented narratives in history and culture. As these stories gain visibility, they pave the way for a richer understanding of our collective past and inspire future generations.