The late Ol’ Dirty Bastard, also known as ODB, blazed a legendary trail in the world of hip hop. The achievements of the pioneering rapper are revealed in the “Ol’ Dirty Bastard: A Tale of Two Dirtys,” which was recently screened at the Grammy Museum in downtown Los Angeles.
Produced by Messiah Jacobs and Nicole Beckett, the documentary covers the life of ODB – also known as Russell Tyrone Jones – from childhood to fatherhood. ODB died of an accidental overdose on November 13, 2004.
ODB’s wife, Icelene Jones, and son, Bar-Sun Unique Jones aka Young Dirty Bastard participated with the producers in creating the documentary, which was directed by Jason Pollard and his father, Sam Pollard.
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ODB was an original member of the legendary Wu-Tang Clan. The members, who were in attendance, included Raz, GAZ, Method Man, Raekwon, Ghostface Killa, Inspectah Deck, and U-God. Also present were ODB’s daughters Shaquita and Taniqua Jones.
The Wu-Tang Clan first single was “Protect Ya Neck” in 1992. Raz set a precedent as he negotiated a contract that would allow all members of Wu-Tang to create their own solo projects while still in the group. Steve Rifkind of Loud Records signed the group.
“This project is very special and extremely important to myself and my family. ODB’s life work has left a huge impact. ODB was, and still is, a very vital part of the music industry, my family and my partners at Four Screens and I are ensuring that ODB’s legacy lives on,” said a member of Wu-Tang.
“Wu-Tang forever,” said Icelene.
The movie chronicles the success of ODB and highlights his crossover hit with Mariah Carey entitled “Fantasy” where he rapped on the song.
“The song ‘Fantasy’ stayed on the #1 charts for eight consecutive weeks,” said Carey in the documentary. “I loved his music, and I was just so excited to work with him.”
The documentary also recounts ODB’s family life and how he was often in trouble with the law due to committing petty crimes and substance abuse problems. However, he insisted that loved his family and didn’t believe in divorce.
Icelene noted that “there were individuals that hung out with ODB, but they weren’t his real friends. They would get high with him, would smoke weed or sometimes crack cocaine and drink alcohol [with him, but] those so-called friends were just using him.”
Also in the documentary, Method Man talked about the last time ODB went away to jail for three years, and recalled, “ODB was never the same. It was a place where he would receive meds, and this made him a different person.” Unfortunately, ODB was not able to stay sober and he died at a music studio.
The documentary is a must see for those who are fans and even those who are not. ODB’s talent was incredible. He was one of the most original rappers of all time and his free style was amazing. Also the Wu-Tang Clan’s music was raw, refreshing and something that the industry had never heard before. ODB’s death greatly affected the group and those who knew him.
Now, ODB’s son, Young Dirty Bastard, performs with Wu-Tang Clan and performs his father’s part, according to Raekwon.
“ODB: A Tale of 2 Dirties” is currently airing on A&E. Check local listings for times.
