The Atlanta-made documentary “The Games in Black & White” has unveiled its original theme song, “City Too Busy To Hate,” created by Georgia-grown producer Dallas Austin and hip hop artist Champ. The song captures the essence of the 1996 Olympics in Atlanta through its vibrant lyrics and infectious rhythm, and it is now available on various streaming platforms in anticipation of the film’s release in April.
The song was released under Dallas Austin Distribution and Atlanta Story Partners, just ahead of the documentary’s premiere at the Rialto Center for the Arts on April 26. Alongside his work on the theme song, Dallas Austin also serves as the music director for the film, collaborating with Atlanta jazz pianist, composer, and writer Joe Alterman to craft the documentary’s score.
Co-Executive Producer Bob Judson emphasized the importance of diversity in both the film and the music, stating, “We knew from the beginning we wanted to have a very eclectic theme song and underscore that could reflect diversity much like we reflect diversity in the film.” Judson acknowledged Atlanta’s rich musical heritage and aimed to incorporate two indigenous music genres of the United States: hip hop and jazz.
He enlisted writer and producer George Hirthler to recruit Dallas Austin for the project in 2023. Austin, known for his collaborations with music legends such as Michael Jackson and Madonna, was excited to take on a fresh challenge with this documentary. His new role involved supporting the narrative of the partnership between Andrew Young and Billy Payne, pivotal figures who played a significant role in bringing the Olympics to Atlanta and transforming the city.
“When I heard about ‘The Games in Black & White’ with its focus on Andrew Young and Billy Payne’s friendship, I knew I wanted to be a part of it,” Austin expressed. He added that the Olympic Games had a profound effect on Atlanta’s hip hop and creative community, making him eager to contribute an authentic voice to the film, further solidifying Atlanta’s influential presence in the global music, film, and sports arenas.
The filmmakers had a clear vision for a theme song that would embody Atlanta’s rich history and the impact of the Olympics. The title “City Too Busy To Hate” is inspired by a mid-century quote from former Mayor William B. Hartsfield, highlighting the city’s race relations, while the lyrics are drawn from an original poem written by Hirthler. The song is performed by Atlanta musician Champ, who remarked, “Like the city that inspired it, this song has a bangin’ hook that will inspire everyone to jump up and dance.”
The collaborative nature of the project resonated throughout its development, as Hirthler co-wrote the theme song lyrics while Austin and Alterman joined forces on the score. According to the filmmakers, the creative synergy between the talented hip hop and jazz musicians was undeniable, with Judson noting, “They just get in there and start making it,” and commending their tremendous musical skills and willingness to collaborate.
Alterman shared that he was inspired by the spontaneous and deeply intuitive partnership between Andrew Young and Billy Payne, which fueled his collaborative work with Dallas Austin in establishing a musical framework for the Atlanta Olympics narrative. The final product results in a diverse range of sounds; “The Games in Black & White” kicks off with a dynamic montage set to the theme song, gradually transitioning into a composed score as an Atlanta sunrise unfolds, marking the beginning of the film.
Hirthler expressed confidence in the soundtrack’s ability to engage audiences, stating, “The composition of the soundtrack really never lets you go.” Judson pointed out that the soundtrack pays tribute to Atlanta’s long-standing music scene, highlighting artists who may have been under-recognized. The 1990s witnessed the emergence of Atlanta’s music scene, paved by iconic groups like OutKast and TLC, and the impact of the Olympics significantly amplified that creative culture.
Hirthler remarked, “The whole creative community was inspired by the games,” underscoring the profound influence the Olympics had on the Atlanta music landscape. Both the theme song “City Too Busy to Hate” and the accompanying score encapsulate this creative inspiration, celebrating the significance of the “largest peacetime gathering in history.” Furthermore, filmmakers are keen to convey an emotional narrative surrounding the influential figures who united their efforts under the Olympic cause.
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