Rostrum Records is celebrating its 20th anniversary and hip-hop’s 50th anniversary with the new documentary, Top Shelf 1988, named after its first project.
The short doc is narrated by journalist Rob Markman and features previously unseen interviews and recording footage that delve into the making of the Top Shelf 1988 compilation project. The video is also set to music from Biz Markie, Big Daddy Kane, Craig G, MC Lyte, Special Ed, Doug E. Fresh, Jungle Brothers, Grand Puba, Masta Ace, Dres (of Black Sheep), Smooth B (of Nice & Smooth), Grandmaster Caz & Melle Mel, and Chubb Rock.
The doc also touches on a riot that happened in August 1988 in Tompkins Square Park, which was close to Top Shelf’s Lower East Side studio. Later, it was discovered that the studio had been looted and everything was taken, including the masters. It took years to locate them and release Top Shelf 1988.
“Top Shelf 1988 is most importantly about showing love to iconic legends in Hip-Hop, and I’m so glad this documentary is out in the world to shed light on these artists once again,” said Benjy Grinberg, CEO of Rostrum Pacific and Founder of Rostrum Records. “The album was the genesis of what Rostrum Records is today, and seeing how far the label has come over the last 20 years is very rewarding. I hope this documentary reaches new and old fans alike with the magic of classic hip-hop.”
