Cadillac Records

Props to Darnell Martin for putting out a movie that gives audiences a realistic look at the music business, especially that of the artists on Chess Records. One of the most important aspects of the film, in my opinion, is the temptations artists face when they gain almost instant superstar status. Etta James and Little Walter find themselves turning to substance abuse and crazy lifestyles after they get the means to sell records and the money that comes with it. Drugs and alcohol aren't the only problems they face though. They struggle to get the royalties they deserve from their hard earned success, and become distrustful of Chess as he becomes more vital in steering the direction of their careers. This is a very common problem in the music industry today, as artists come into clashes with their record labels over financial and creative control.

I also liked how there was a focus on white musicians stealing the music of black artists. Chuck Berry particularly had big problems with white artists covering his music and giving him no credit where it was due. This was a big problem for musicians in the middle of the 20th century, and it was important that it was highlighted in "Cadillac Records."