The 1984 film showcased the hip-hop culture of the South Bronx to the world Nas is set to adapt the classic hip-hop film Beat Street into a new musical for Broadway, alongside the producer of the original film Arthur Baker. Beat Street was released in 1984 and depicted the hip-hop culture of the time in the South Bronx in New York, showcasing the breakdancing, DJing and graffiti synonymous with the scene. And now, as noted by The Hollywood Reporter , legendary NYC rapper Nas will be working on a new stage musical adaptation of the film which is aiming for Broadway.
Nas will be creating new material for the show based on the film’s soundtrack and will serve as producer. Baker, who was a co-producer, composer and music producer on the original film, will also produce the musical. Nas announced his involvement this week at a screening on the film at the Tribeca Film Festival.
“ Beat Street wasn’t just a film – it spread the revolution of hip-hop culture throughout the country and the world. It left an indelible mark, inspiring generations of young artists and creating new hip-hop fans alike,” he said. “It’s a thrill for me to join the creative team of Beat Street , bringing the raw energy of hip-hop into the fabric of Broadway.
It’s an honor to breathe new life into this iconic work and celebrate its enduring legacy.” Nas is set to go on tour later this year to celebrate the 30th anniversary of his iconic 1994 album ‘Illmatic’ . Set to run throughout Octobe.