Original subtitles

Sing with me

I appointed you choir director. I assumed your talent would be used to

praises to the Lord.

I know, Dad. That's why I was a gospel rap and not, you know, something

inappropriate.

Any rap is inappropriate as far as I'm concerned.

Rap is the devil's music and does not belong in a house of worship.

I mean... We will not have this

discussion again.

Chris, you know I'm coming through with the hot beats.

Wait, wait, wait, wait, wait. Who's rapping tonight?

Bling?

Again?

Man, I can't stand him.

Yeah.

Yeah, that's it.

Yo, let me get on this. I'll see you at the club.

Man, no, I don't have to sneak out.

I'm my own man.

Hey, people don't know, my rap game is tight too. I just, you know, I keep it

the low.

We always enjoy you two.

We should get together sometime, you know, and keep this whole vibe going.

Anytime.

Nope, nice to meet you. I'm Cyrus.

Chris is a visible friend since kindergarten.

Oh, my bad, man. Did you want to eat those honey? No, I wasn't interested

anyway. They're not my type.

Wait, fine.

It's not your type. No, I just want a girl who's about something, a girl who

substance. A girl I can take to Atlanta Jazz Museum.

You feel me?

No, I don't.

Forget that. All right, there are plenty of honeys in here.

Oh, sorry.

What up with the new beat, bud? You hook me up? Yeah.

Got it right here.

My man.

That's it.

All right.

Cyrus, quit talking.

Oh, Levi, sorry I got caught up. Come on, hit these tables, bud. I'm on it.

Hey, bro, you think you can play this for me, please?

Yeah, all right. Yes, thank you.

Welcome to Club Off The Street, the coolest place to hang and be on the

I'm your boy Levi, and you know how we do it every week. So let's go from

to rhyme as we crown this month's Red King.

They call you the boss, but you have no wealth, no employees. You should find

yourself and your pants so tight that you can barely move. You're a bum.

I'm the street theme song. You're an insolute.

I should be up on the stage. But like I'm in a cage, I need to turn the page.

Because the other guys are fake. I could leave the crowd amazed.

Day job ain't getting my compliment.

has done lost his mind i'm getting rich off my words but now i'm getting

challenged by revenge at a nerd that's the best you can do revenge of the

nerds come on man that's way too easy you got some basic skill i'll give you

that but you know that with the rhymes

I don't know.

It's just, it's different when I'm writing songs by myself.

I can't do all that up on the stage and everyone's watching me.

All you need to do is get your flow tight, get some new fat gear.

Work on your stage presence, hit the gym a little bit, get a haircut, moisturize

that ashy skin, and if you put some zit cream on that forehead, you'll be

straight, dude. I'm telling you.

Oh, and then I'll be straight.

Yo, show's on. Come on.

Welcome to Ebony Flo, the best urban music showcase

on the planet.

I'm Ebony Wright, and I'm Florida Ortiz, and we are here tonight with...

That's our girl.

Dang, man, she is looking fine.

Didn't you just think we were all in third grade together? She was missing

front tooth, remember?

She's not missing anything now.

We're here to talk to Roxy about her new video.

What's up with this group?

Criticizing your music and how you look in the video.

What else should I wear? A parka? So I put on a little something. It's not a

crime. Oh, it's criminal.

Rumor has it that you and Atlanta Records are working on a hot new

That's right. You make it, we break it. It's a contest where one amateur artist

will get their song produced by my record label and made as a video for On

Beat. Just send in a track and a recent photo and the winner will be announced

live on Ebb and Flow.

That's so cool.

So listen, what do you say to those wannabe stars out there who want to

song? Just keep it real and right from your heart.

a song for the contest.

For real?

Yeah.

I'm gonna win it.

I don't know about all that.

Why you say that?

Because I'm doing a song for the contest, too. About to bust my rap

on you, son. Okay, we'll see who has skills.

And that would be me.

All right, bro, it's getting late. I'll catch you later? You know it. All

righty. Peace.

Her beauty's crazy.

I watch her from the crowd.

Her voice is so amazing.

She make her mama proud.

I tried to send her flowers, but she has no address.

Her home is in my heart. It's like she never left.

This is more than a crush, more than a like, like, more than a love.

Baby, I'ma make you mine, and I ain't giving up.

This is more than a crush, more than a like, like, more than a love.

Baby, I'ma make you mine. And I ain't giving up. Don't run away.

Don't run away from the truth.

Cause I'm not giving up on you. Don't run away.

Don't run away from the truth.

Cause I'm not giving up on you. Normally I couldn't turn your head. That's why I

had to write this instead.

Let's be friends. Gone out slow.

Didn't know you beyond your glow.

You're more than meet the eye. Girl, you said redacted fly way back when you

knew my name. The truth is what happens.

Today's youth.

Don't need some oil.

It's nice to see my son, our choir director, is almost on time for church.

But almost don't cut it in the kingdom of God, do it.

Today's youth.

They say they're not in church.

because it's too early on Sunday and they too tired.

But guess what?

I'm tired too.

Tired of being blasted by harsh language out of car stereos.

Tired of seeing our girls with their shorts and their skirts too high.

Tired of looking at our boys wearing their pants too low.

But most of all,

kids out so late on Saturday night that they can't get up early on Sunday

morning and go to church because they too tired.

Y 'all know what place I'm talking about too.

That place downtown.

And don't you all let them fool you into believing that it's a good thing and

keep our kids safe and off the street.

What I am sure about is I wouldn't let my son or daughter support something as

blasphemous as that club, and neither should you. People!

We gotta come together as a community and eliminate the harmful influences of

hip -hop and end the powerful grip it's got on our children.

Young women gotta stop being video vixens and start being

valedictorian.

start being gradual.

I need that magazine you're trying to hide from me.

It's nothing.

Lila, come on. Let me see.

Don't worry about the critics. They get paid to criticize.

But I'm sick of them saying I'm hiding my real voice just because I use a

vocoder. I mean, lots of other artists use it. Why do they have to pick on me?

Because you're a star.

And you're hot.

And that, my friend, is all by design. Thank you very much.

Lila, you've done a great job getting me where I am. But you know, a little

respect would be nice too.

Do not use the R word with me. That is for indie artists playing the

circuit who have a message and no per diem.

Sweetie, you know I love and respect you.

And not just because I told your dad that I would take care of you on the

You're right.

So, do we have a winner of your contest or what?

Yes.

This one is good.

So he calls himself Truth, and it's real music and it says something.

Plus, it's so cool that these are my boys from back in the day.

He's cute.

And he can rap.

Looks like we do have ourselves a winner.

Hello, Truth.

Excuse me, we're from On The Beat.

A rapper named Truth won our contest and gave Off the Street his address.

Know where I can find him? Never heard of him. He's right there.

On the beat, it's in the house!

What's up?

Evan Flo is here at Off the Street. We are in Atlanta to reveal our big contest

winner.

You submitted a song to On the Beat's contest, right?

Yeah, most definitely.

Well, since you decided to make it...

for me, right?

Yeah. Yeah. I mean, why wouldn't I be? I just didn't get a chance to hear your

song. Oh, that's because I made it last minute and just threw it in the mail.

So, how does it feel to be rap's next big superstar?

Hypothetically speaking.

Um, I can only speak English, so... He's too much. Well, however you spoke, it

was good enough to win. And now it's time for you to meet your new biggest

I mean, like, you didn't look good before. I'm just saying now, you're just

like, what all this?

I mean, not like all this. I mean, I don't mean it like that. I mean, some

people here might think that, but I knew you back when you were in kindergarten.

So, just here and grown up. But I'm just saying, you look awesome.

Thank you.

So, congratulations on your success winning the contest.

Your song was amazing.

It really touched my heart.

I may be crazy, but I felt like you made it about me.

Oh, for sure.

Yeah, yeah, you were most definitely what I'm after.

Y 'all need to...

It's about to get serious.

I mis -rocked the experience.

My energy can make you delirious. Take a chance if you're curious. Follow my

lead up out of your seat. We're about to B -A -R -C -Y.

Y 'all ain't seen nothing like this.

Alternate non -stop excitement.

But why are they saying that you won, not me?

Photo I sent. What photo? I sent in a photo of both of us. They probably

that you were true. They made a mistake.

So I really didn't win nothing?

No.

I mean, no, you didn't.

Man.

I guess we got to straighten this out then.

Yo, wannabe.

What you want with this wannabe?

Rocky, please!

isn't the king of rap. I mean, there must have been some kind of mix -up. The

song that won the contest is mine.

I just sent in this photo with both Chris and me in it, and I guess they

Chris was truth because he's tall.

That's my stuff.

What, you're going to tell Roxy the truth?

Yeah. Chris is about to tell her right now.

Hold on a second.

Yo, can I talk to you?

Yeah, what's up?

Look, we've been boys a long time, right? And you know that I don't usually

one woman tie me down.

Actually, man, I don't know. She loves my flow. I mean, your flow.

But when she looks at me, she sees something in me.

Like, I'm deep.

I ain't never been deep before.

Because you're not.

I know.

You don't know that?

Look, I just want to see where things go between me and her, so...

You got to think of something, man, please.

Okay, she likes you because she thinks you're true.

So why don't we just keep letting her think that?

How do we pull that off?

I'll teach you my flow.

I'll stay in the background. I'll be your DJ.

So if anything goes wrong, I can try to think of something on the fly. We just

got to keep this under wraps.

And that is it.

Cyrus, you're a genius, baby.

Stay cool.

Hey, so I got to take off, but Chris, Lila says you need to re -record the

for the video, so maybe I'll see you at the studio tomorrow.

I'll be there for sure.

Oh, I forgot to tell you, Cyrus here is my DJ.

He produced my track and everything, so he's going to be running with me, cool?

Yeah. Wow, you did some really nice work on the track, Cyrus.

Thanks.

Okay, so I guess I'll see both of you tomorrow.

What's that?

I cannot wait for the day to end so it wouldn't be tomorrow.

I'm just going to go to bed now.

Night, bro.

It's pretty huge.

Come on, we're going to be late.

What?

Go, go.

All right, I'm a little nervous, okay? I need to record your song, but I don't

sound like you. So you need to record it. But if Roxy and Lila are in the

with us, let's see it's here.

This conundrum is just now hitting you?

This is not a condominium, bro. It is a studio.

We need to think fast.

Okay, you can copy my style. You just gotta feel it.

Just feel it?

Yeah.

I just gotta rock with it.

I'm like, it's time to rap, it's time to roll. Time to rap like you never rapped

before. Here we go.

Yo, I'm about to rap.

I like that. You like that?

Get money.

Jump higher than a bunny.

I'm getting money.

This ain't gonna work, is it?

You're late.

I knew you'd be late from the minute I met you. You got that late, no -watch

-wearing kind of look.

It's all dangling.

Oh, my God.

Roxy's late. My engineer is late. I have to be downtown in 20 minutes.

Otherwise, my whole day is shot, which is not going to happen because

everybody's late.

That is perfect.

No, I mean, it's perfect that I can work alone with my DJ slash engineer.

That way I can get into the zone and flow.

You're an engineer?

Yes. He is highly qualified.

What studios have you worked in? He's worked all over. I'm going to need you

to... Okay?

Yes, ma 'am.

What studios have you worked in?

Only one in my room, really.

But I can show you what I can do.

He's great, I promise.

64 tracks on this board.

But if you know what you're doing, you can get a good sound out of 24.

But if you don't want an inexperienced kid like me who charges half what your

regular engineer makes, I understand.

Hold on, hold on, hold on.

I'll give you a chance.

But if you damage anything in here, anything, you'll never work in this town

again. Understand me?

She is just scary.

Let's get to work.

They say true love is blind.

That real romance is timeless.

You're like my favorite movie. Play it, then rewind it. Cause baby, you're the

finest. Your love, I'm gonna find it. And when I do, I'll run away with you

somewhere where they can't find us.

Yo, it's Roxy. Wait, look, she didn't see you.

I hope I didn't interrupt, but I heard you from outside.

You sounded great.

Oh, thanks.

I'm just getting warmed up. I bet when you play it back, you can't even believe

it's you.

You can say that again.

I remember my first time.

It was like I was hearing somebody else's voice.

I know exactly what you mean.

So, did you really write that song about me?

Come on, girl. What'd you think?

I think if it blows up like I expect, people will be looking for another song.

Another song?

Mm -hmm.

Yeah.

Maybe when I record my next CD, we can make some music together.

Yeah, yeah. Baby, I thought you never asked.

Great. Then let me hear your freestyle.

Freestyle?

Like right now?

Yeah. Here, I'll give you a beat. You drop something hot.

Make it intelligent and romantic.

You know how you do.

Intelligent. Romantic. Right.

Here it goes.

Girls love me because I am so pretty. I got babes.

In every city, L .A., D .C., and Cincinnati, the tall ones, the short

the uglies.

Gotcha.

I'm messing with you, girl.

Well, stop playing. Speak from your heart.

Hey, Chris, repeat after me.

If I speak from my heart, I'm afraid it'll be broken.

If I speak from my heart, I'm afraid it'll be broken.

I'm scared what you'd say about the words I have spoken.

I'm scared what you'd say about the words I've spoken.

I'd rather make you laugh and act like I'm joking than tell you the truth about

the feelings that you have awoken.

Then I'd rather make you laugh and act like I'm joking than tell you the truth

about my feelings you've awoken.

Oh, sorry, excuse me.

That was awesome. Cy, did you see the way she looked at me?

We were really vibing out there, man.

Oh, and she said I could rap on her next CD.

What? You said you'd rap on her next CD? Are you nuts?

Yeah. Look, I'm sorry about that, man. I just got caught up in the moment.

But now I got Roxy on the ropes.

Chris, what are you doing in there?

It's easier for me to talk to you like this.

I like hearing how you feel.

Don't be shy.

It's hard for me to say how I feel in person. Just let my words caress you.

What are you doing?

Can I tell you something now that I have your attention?

You want to know the truth? Check it out. How should I describe you? Sweeter

than Godiva. With your thoughts so deeper than a scuba diver.

Whether you're in sweatpants or dressed in Prada. You can make me dizzy like a

race car driver.

I want to take you to a party. Hold your hand and show off to everybody.

I could be in jeans and a hood.

Because you're so fine, you make me look good.

at the same time. I'm blinded by your shine. You're kind of like the sun

the world revolves around you to my day's end.

I tried to say something, but you had me speechless.

I had to hit the booth to tell my secret. See, I could spit a line, but

more than my words.

I cannot describe what an angel deserves.

Good job, son.

Chris, I'm coming in to see you. Switch rocks, quick.

There you are.

I'm all yours.

Ready to go again?

Oh, hey, Roxy.

Hey, Cyrus. I didn't know you were there.

It's the story of my life.

Let's go again.

Precious Lord.

Come on, take my hand.

Oh, lead, lead me on.

Hey, sorry I'm late. Sorry.

Thanks, Mom. Thanks, Mom. I got it.

Honey, I was just teaching them Precious Lord.

Got it.

Okay, well then, here you go.

Carry on.

Thank you.

Hey, Cyrus, um, a few of us were talking earlier, and, you know, we were

wondering, could we spice up the song a bit, like when we did the Joyful Noise?

It's not possible.

I'm just gonna stick to the basics.

Let's take it from the top.

What are you doing?

Oh, just doing some different things to this new track.

It's a duet for you and Chris.

Did Chris ask you to do that?

He asked me to do what?

Cyrus is working on a duet.

Is that what you wanted?

Yeah, uh, for sure.

Um, so, let's hear it.

So, it starts off with you, strong and soulful.

And then the staccato of Chris's rhyme will come in hard with a counterpoint.

Then I'll drop out the hi -hat, bring up the harmonies.

It'll be just like the Beatles, all you need is love.

Yeah, man, see, that's what I told you to do yesterday.

It is about time he got it right. That track is hot.

Nice work.

And I love the Beatles.

Oh, me too. Yeah, that's my favorite group.

Really?

What's your favorite album?

Uh, you know, um, The Greatest Hits.

You are too cute.

Well, the thing for this track, the two of you actually have a conversation.

Like, you talk back and forth throughout the song.

Once we get everything done with that track, it's going to be beautiful. Hey,

team, I like what I'm hearing. Conrad, great work on the board.

And my future star, Truth. I think we're going to update your wardrobe a little

bit. Okay, go with me.

Justin Timberlake meets Usher with just a dash of Will .i .am.

Cool. I'm down with that. Great, because I got... Big plans.

For real?

Talk to me. I just got off the phone with the Rap Grand Slam people, and

looking for a headline act.

What?

Yes,

I can't believe this. I mean, that's cool. I'm the headline at Grand Slam.

Hey, don't touch me. B, what are you, insane?

No, Roxy's going to be the headline act, not you.

Oh. What?

The Grand Slam wants me?

That's right.

You seem surprised.

Well, you know, they usually go for more traditional soul vocalists.

She means real singers.

What?

No, I mean real old school singers, not new hot flashy singers such as yourself.

Well, I made a few phone calls, stroked a few egos, and I convinced them that

Roxy here is going to help boost their ticket sales.

I don't know, Lila. I mean, the Grand Slam audience isn't very forgiving.

They don't care how many CDs you sold, you just better be good.

Yeah, and you will be.

Yo, yo, yo!

Yo! We getting busy or what, yo?

You know it.

Okay. Okay, who are you guys?

Oh, these are the dancers for my video.

Dancers.

Oh,

you came to work?

Levi, I should have called.

Yeah, you should have.

Had a full house last night. Sorry, I'd forgotten.

Fell asleep.

Just in a really weird zone.

Weird zone, huh?

Yeah.

What's about that girl, Roxy?

No, no. I mean, why would you say that?

Look at you.

Your shoulders are all slumped. You're looking all lost and pitiful.

That girl's got your nose wide open. Is it that obvious? Yes, it is.

Yes, sir.

Did you tell her the truth?

Your truth?

Not exactly.

What does that mean?

Well, Chris is into her, and he asked me if I would help him hook up with her.

So, for now, Roxy's going to think that Chris is true.

What? Ma 'am, that is just dumb. Now, listen. You tell Chris that you were

feeling her first, and he needs to back on up. I can't do that. I mean, me and

Chris have been homies since we were, like, five years old.

I don't want to be a hater.

All right, Saris.

There's nothing wrong with you trying to be a good friend to Chris.

But if you use that as an excuse not to man up because you're afraid you might

get rejected, okay, I can understand that, too.

But you can't live like that forever.

Ah, yeah, I thought so.

You won't tell your daddy you work here because he won't approve.

You freeze up when bling gets in your face, and it's time for you to get up on

that stage, and then you get tongue -tied when it comes to telling Roxy how

feel. A girl like Roxy would never go for a guy like me. I mean...

Look at me and look at Chris.

He's cool, good -looking, got that swagger, and I'm like wallpaper

and a hoodie.

Chris is a perfect match for Roxy.

That's not true.

You just got to speak up for yourself and be who you really are.

Who am I really?

You're Truth.

Oh. Yeah, and Truth is a bad cat.

He is?

Yeah, Truth.

Won the Atlanta Records Rap Contest. He got skills.

He's smooth. He got that sound. And you know what?

That's you.

I guess that is me.

Yeah, but Roxy wouldn't know it.

I mean, how can you or Chris even call yourself truth when y 'all both just

in one big lie?

I guess that's a valid question.

But look, I gotta go.

You need to figure out what it is you want and then do something about it.

Lock up when they leave.

See, I'm young, but my purpose is the inspiration of a nation's innovation.

Till I change the talk into a conversation.

I'm like a doctor and my patients are anxiously waiting. Healing all the

and faking in the perception.

It's hard to live up to these expectations that I'm facing.

And gain the admiration of an older generation.

That's why I'm pacing back and forth.

Contemplating, meditating.

How to use what I've been taught as a...

This is who I am I wish you'd understand

It's time to set me free My God

What's up, Atlanta?

It's Koi True.

Of course he's late.

They're open?

I feel so misunderstood because my intentions were good. If you could only

that poetry can hide in the hood. The passion and philosophy of possibilities.

Every dream is in my reach. I find my freedom in this place. Follow me now to

brand new ground. Follow your pride, I'll make you proud.

All of my life I've kept out loud. We just preach to different crowds.

Cyrus?

What? What are you doing here?

I came to meet Chris. You were just rapping.

You sound just like Chris.

Oh, that?

No, that wasn't me.

This mic's not even on. See, I was just lip syncing.

Lip syncing?

Yeah, that's one of Chris's old tracks.

I guess I'm not just his DJ, but I'm also his biggest fan.

Wow.

You might just be the best lip syncer I've ever seen.

Well, I do a lot of karaoke, so I'm pretty good at it.

What are you doing here?

Well, I came to meet Chris so we could grab an early dinner, but he hasn't

up.

Great.

He's not going to make it.

The car dropped me off here, and I'm starving.

Oh, that's too bad.

But I haven't eaten.

I don't know. Maybe we can go grab something together.

Or not. I don't know what you were thinking, where your head was at.

Which, I don't know, but I'm just saying, we could... It's up to you.

Okay.

I like the way you handle yourself.

What do you mean?

You know, people like Bling and those journalists say stuff about you. Oh,

flattering article in Ether.

Yeah, I mean, people think they know about music, but they don't know a

Like that vocal cord you use.

It's just because of the in thing. It's a choice.

I can tell you can sing a little bit.

A little bit?

I mean, you ain't giving me nothing more than what I've heard on the radio, but

I got a good ear.

Oh, really, Mr. DJ Engineering Lip Sync?

So you got any other music besides your pop hits in your vault?

Yeah, I mean, I've got a few special ones for those who can make outside the

voice box.

But Lila says the vocode is the in thing right now, and she really knows the

business. Not everyone who sells uses one.

Well, I mean, I know my voice is good, but I don't know if it's special.

You know, just be Belden, not James.

I remember when you sang in church and you were like eight years old.

You remember that? Yes, of course. The little girl with the big voice. You were

awesome. I don't know about all that.

Okay. Yeah, you were raw, but the voice was there.

You got really great sound if you ever care to bring it out. That sounds like a

challenge.

More of a nudge.

Maybe someday I can hear some of your other music.

Maybe.

Badge and go inside?

No, no.

You're perfect.

So, what kind of music do you like? Besides the obvious ones, R &B and hip

What else do you like?

Oh, jazz, rock, country, salsa, gospel, reggae, opera.

Opera? Oh, yeah.

Bavarotti, he's the bomb.

Pacelli, too. I also like female opera singers like Maria Callas. And Marian

Anderson?

Yeah. She's awesome. You like opera?

I like great singers.

Me too.

I don't know. I just like to be influenced by all kinds of things when I

What? I mean, when I write for Chris. I just think it brings more foundation to

the sound. You know, every note says something.

And when it's all strung together, they should tell their own story.

Wow.

You do know your music.

That's funny.

It seems like we have more in common than Chris and I.

Hilarious.

I liked Atlanta and all, but I was just so lost when my mom died.

I think the whole neighborhood felt the loss when your mom passed.

Good people.

Thanks. That's good of you to say.

Hey, look.

Come on, let's check it out.

Hey, yo, yo, yo, here we go. Check it out.

Check it

out, y 'all.

Phantom come alive in the nighttime.

I spit three styles. I don't have to write rhymes. Flow unrehearsed. I spit a

killer verse.

When it comes to your rhymes, they're the worst. You flow sloppy. Punch lines,

brush them off me. Yeah, I'm so cocky. No way you could stop me.

Swag through the roof. Believe that's the truth.

How'd I know that? Yo, I'm living proof.

I just do what I do when I'm in the booth. I've got a finer chick, hotter

sicker crew.

Oh, you just got lyrically smacked. Better think twice before you try to

back.

What? Okay.

You like rap, huh?

Only when it's real. Yo, why you got...

I'll see you next time.

And it's like that one time for your mind revelation with the rhyme

Run away, little boy.

Leave him alone.

Right.

So I hear you're headlining the Rap Grand Slam final, which is great. So you

hand me my trophy since you know I'm the only real artist performing that night.

And the busboy here, bring along this rag.

Nothing. He's just a jerk.

So how's your mom and dad?

They're good. My dad made me choir director so I'm at the church a lot.

Look at you getting your praise on.

I should come up there. It'd be great to see your parents.

Yeah.

You made it. Yeah.

Can you help me out?

I don't think that's a good idea. Come on.

I'll play you a song. Sing what you sing. Oh, remember?

Go to church with it.

As I look amongst you all, I said, as I look out amongst you all,

I see many God -fearing righteous souls.

But a few of us have lost their way.

Many of us were raised the right way, but some of us just can't resist

temptation.

Now, I know you do a little prayer every now and then when things get a little

dicey. But one day of praying won't erase all the years of betraying the

goodness you was raised with.

So, you see, the church, we can be forgiving, but even our patience

can get thin.

You see, you can't walk with the devil on Monday and then with the Lord on

Sunday. You can't dance like a vixen and then ask God to

do the fixing.

Can't get all this made up and then don't want me to say, wake up!

God knows who does their living in hypocrisy.

Or should I say hip -hop -crisy?

Turn to your neighbor and say, oh, he's talking to you. He's talking to you.

Well, that sermon went well today.

I think I deserve a little extra sofa time.

I agree, dear.

That is exactly where you need to be, because that is where you are going to

sleeping tonight after what you did to poor Roxanne today.

She's what's wrong with music today.

I got to practice what I preach, otherwise I look like a fool in my own

Honey, you look like a fool anyway, picking on that innocent girl in front

everybody. She didn't look so innocent in her videos.

I don't want to talk about this right now, hon.

Fine.

Not another word.

Dad,

you slept on the sofa?

No, no, I just fell asleep doing some work. It's no big deal.

All right, well, I gotta go.

It's early.

You scheduled a choir practice?

Oh. No, I just have some errands to run. It's nothing.

Later. Honey?

It says here in the paper that Roxy's new rap artist is filming a music video

today. And you know, I am willing to bet that she's going to be there. Which

means you can apologize to her.

Today.

Yeah.

Matching outfits?

Styling, right? This, my friend, is hot.

This, my friend, is not.

I don't know there, Cypress. I think Chris has his finger on the pulse.

Cyrus.

Rock.

Hey, look, I'm sorry about my dad yesterday.

It's fine.

He's entitled to his opinion just like everybody else.

Yeah, but his opinion is wrong and unfair. I mean, he should never judge

like that.

Ah, baby.

You look far as I went. Thank you, and so do you.

Hey, before I forget, I've got these two passes to this Middle Eastern art

exhibit. They've got these great abstract and impressionist pieces, and

tonight only.

Uh, that sounds kind of deep and all, but America's Funniest Home Videos is

having a four -hour marathon tonight.

You know the one with the dancing baby? He falls on his butt and the dog, like,

rolls around with him?

Yeah, I can't miss that. But, you know, I would love to catch, you know, the

next art situation.

Chris!

Chris, you really are the truth.

I spoke to the folks at the Grand Slam, and I got them to agree to let you

perform with Roxy.

Yes, that's great!

But the Grand Slam has no lip -sync policy, so you're gonna have to perform

rap live.

That's no problem. Don't worry about it.

Great. Roxy, look what I got you for the show.

Aren't these hot? You're gonna rock it in these.

What? No, they're like a foot tall. I could break my neck in those.

Which is exactly why I got these knee pads.

Fall down, bounce right back up.

You'll be fine.

Hey, Truth, can I talk to you for a second?

What's up?

You have to rap live at the Grand Slam. What are you going to do now?

Well, you've got the good idea of thinking something.

I mean, after all, the ladies love me, the camera loves me, and Roxy loves me.

You sure about that?

What do you mean?

You're not turning into a hater or nothing like that, are you?

I'm just trying to see where your head's at, that's all.

Look, bro, all I'm saying is Roxy's a great girl and all.

I pretty much got the situation in the bag.

I mean, after the video comes out and this fox thing happens, I'm gonna be on

tour with all kinds of honeys.

You know, so I'm not really trying to be tied down.

Wait, I thought you were serious about Roxy, though.

I am.

For now.

Because she's not like other girls. Dude, I know, but that's what I mean.

All these girls, they are different flavors, and the variety is what I like.

You know, you can try a little burger, son. They got the ribs, the chicken

fingers, the shake.

I want all that, don't you?

All right, everyone.

Here we go.

Rolling.

And playback.

This is more than a crush, more than a like, like, more than a love.

Baby, I'ma make you mine, and I ain't giving up.

This is more than a crush, more than a like, like, more than a love.

Baby, I'ma make you mine, and I ain't giving up.

I had to write this instead.

Let's be friends. Start out slow. Get to know you beyond your glow.

You're more than meet the eye. Girl, you're Sarah Dacko fly.

Way back when you knew my name. The truth is what I find.

Zoom in tighter?

No. No.

In fact, keep it wide when I'm rapping. Only go tighter when I'm not.

Okay. If you say so.

All right. Cool.

Hey.

Hey.

Man, the camera loves him.

Is it just me, or does he sound better than he looks?

No argument there.

So, uh, things going pretty good with you and Chris?

Yeah. Yeah.

I mean, it couldn't be better.

Was that even believable?

Not really, but I'll play it off if you do.

Well, I mean, I just don't know why I feel like I can talk to you so easily,

not Chris.

Okay, this is kind of hard for me to admit, but I'm not sure about myself.

I mean, am I ready to be there for Chris and be the girl he deserves?

Wait, what are you saying?

I'm saying Chris deserves somebody who's real.

Am I even worthy enough to be his girl?

Please tell me you're just kidding. I'm gonna, like, throw up in my mouth.

Excuse me.

I'm looking for Miss Roxy.

Ah.

Dad.

Cyrus? What are you doing here?

I'm here to apologize to Roxy.

Roxanne, I'd like to apologize for my behavior in church on Sunday.

My righteousness was sinful.

I'm sorry.

It's okay.

Cyrus, may I ask what business you have here?

Cyrus, I need you to get to work.

The place is a mess, and I'll never have it ready in time for opening.

You work here?

Yeah, but just part -time, the part where I'm not at the church, because

my priority.

How could you disrespect me like this, Cyrus? Do you know how this makes me

look? This isn't about you, Dad, okay? It's about the music. It's what I'm good

at. If I wasn't doing this, I'd be disrespecting myself.

We will continue this conversation in private.

We're going home.

And don't make me repeat myself.

No.

Excuse me?

I'm not going. Levi needs me here. I have a job to do, and that would not be

fair to him.

Ah.

We'll deal with this later.

Well?

I apologize to Roxanne.

Oh, good.

Now, that was the right thing to do, Jacob.

When I was at the club, I saw Cyrus.

Honey, he works there.

Oh, he found out. What?

You knew?

We need to talk.

Honey.

You okay?

Yeah. I think Dad's upset.

I'm more than just upset.

I'm disappointed.

But you understand, I'm a songwriter.

I don't care what you are.

I don't care if Jesus himself told you to go up in that club and get a job. He

was testing you, and you failed that test. Will you at least just look at it?

Iris, not another word.

From this point on, you're on punishment.

You will not set foot in that club again.

You're going to work long, hard hours with the church choir the rest of the

summer. But, Dad.

That's all, Siren.

Jacob.

He's just trying to show you his songs.

What kind of songs?

Honey, does it matter?

Your son wants to share a part of himself with you. Is it so important

genre of music it's in?

Honestly.

Old Testament.

It's dope.

What's up?

Please don't use dope and Old Testament in the same sentence.

Right. Sorry.

Someone's here to see you.

Hey, what are you doing here?

Well, you disappeared on us. I had to come check up on you. I'm just laying

you know, letting the storm pass.

Yeah.

Cyrus, I just need someone to talk to. Do you mind if we walk?

I think better when I'm moving, you know? Yeah.

Did you hear that idiot Bling made it into the finals?

Yeah, I kind of figured he would be.

Last thing I want to do is share the stage with that jerk.

So, uh, things going well with you and Chris?

That's what I wanted to talk to you about.

It's not going so good. Really?

I mean, really, that's unfortunate.

Well, I just don't get him. I mean, Chris writes me amazing love songs, but

we're alone, it's like he's somebody else.

You don't say.

It's like we don't really connect on a deep level.

Like, we see the world in totally different ways, and I just don't know

do.

I guess I just wish he and I connected more like you and I do.

Well, can't really force a connection, I guess.

No you can't.

You should do something with it.

What?

You know what I mean. Go to church with it. Record it.

The label would never let me. Have you even asked?

You have to put yourself out there, Roxy.

Roxanne Andrews, the girl with the big voice from church. That's the voice that

the whole world needs to hear.

You're just being nice.

No, I'm not.

You have a gift, Roxy.

You just got to step out there and show people what you can do.

Show them that you're the real deal.

Well, what about you, Mr. Lip Syncer?

Maybe it's time you turned on the mic.

Uh, I gotta go. Chris is taking me to a jazz museum, which is by far the coolest

place he's ever taken me.

And Cyrus, thanks for being there for me.

Hope you girls got tickets to the Grand Slam tomorrow.

Yeah. I heard you're going to rap live. That is so cool.

Oh, yeah.

Yeah, that's the plan.

Excuse me, I've got to make a phone call.

Chris.

Yo, just a minute. I need to see. What's up, baby?

How was your date at the Jazz Museum?

You could just excuse me for one second. Yo, easy, son.

There are other females here. You don't have an original idea in your whole

body, do you?

What's your problem? My problem is you playing with Roxy's emotions and getting

her all messed up in the head with your nonsense.

Well, hold up.

Preachers, boy.

You as much a part of this as me, so don't act all innocent.

Yeah, I had my part in this, and now I'm starting to regret it. Listen, you need

to chill out and deal with me about this Grand Slam show tomorrow.

We in this together, Cyrus, like it or not.

And I got a little plan to make sure that my talent goes fully recognized.

feel me?

Chris, you don't get it.

Okay, you get up on that stage, you pop, you lock, you jump around like an extra

from You Got Served. But you don't hear the music at all, and you don't feel it

at all. And forget about your rapping skills, son. You couldn't rap a present

I spotted you a bow. It's disgusting.

And you ain't nothing but a hater.

You know what else?

You're a punk.

Because you're one of the best rappers I've ever heard in my life, Cyrus.

In my life.

But every time Blaine comes around, you let him punk you, what, because you're

scared?

You ain't got no guts, son.

You ain't got no heart.

You're just a wimp.

That's enough.

That's enough.

Y 'all know I don't tolerate no fighting up in here.

Now go home, get your mind right, but don't come back at all.

When everyone laughs at you, you'll see how it feels.

I don't need you.

I don't need nobody.

Cyrus, honey, are you okay?

Chris isn't truth.

I am.

What?

I've been covering for him this whole time.

I can't let him get up on the Grand Slam stage by himself. He'll be humiliated.

He won't be able to show his face anywhere at the club or anything.

His life would be much worse than mine ever was.

Okay, so... What are you gonna do?

Oh! Going somewhere?

Dad, I know I'm on punishment and all that, but today is a very important day,

not just for myself, but for my friend also.

So I gotta do what I gotta do.

So I'm going to head out.

Right now.

Maybe not right now. Maybe in like an hour or so. Cyrus, I know about your

And before you say another word, I've been reading your song lyrics.

And I've actually enjoyed them.

Once I got past the fact they were rap songs.

See, son, I've realized I've been...

focused on the type of music as opposed to its message.

And your songs have messages of caring, of sacrifice, devotion, good

Christian values.

So maybe I've been too harsh to put all rap into one box.

So, I guess what I'm saying, son,

Okay, you two.

We better get going or you are going to be late.

What, you're going to come watch?

That's okay with you.

Come on, honey.

Sure.

Fantastic, sweetie.

I'm bringing you to the next level. I've got this whole lunar landing theme for

your next tour. I'll explain the details later, but tonight we test the look.

No.

Can't hide behind these gimmicks anymore.

What good is it to get famous if nobody knows who I really am?

I have my own voice. I have my own style.

And if that's not good enough, I guess I don't want to be a star.

We all love you for who you are, but this is show business.

You gotta play the game.

And I, my friend, am the best coach in the game.

Look, I know you think you're helping, and I love you for that.

But I don't love me like this.

So I'm starting fresh tonight.

Sweetie, you have to trust me. I'm sorry.

Maybe you picked the wrong girl.

Maybe you need to find somebody else to wear this wig.

Because I'm done with it.

Yeah, I'm great.

You guys, you're only five. Let's go.

Let me see.

You look too good.

Hi. Hi.

I couldn't leave you just hanging out in the wind like that.

But after what I said to you, you'd still come through for me?

We've been friends since back in the day.

Besides, I've said some hurtful things to you, too.

Yo, listen, all right? You didn't say anything that wasn't true, all right? I

was the one being rude, selfish, and disrespectful, and I'm sorry.

And to be honest, I was jealous.

I was jealous that I'm really not truth.

I mean, there have been nights where I couldn't even sleep thinking about the

fact that I'm not you and that I could never be you, man.

You wanted to be me?

Yeah. I wanted to be you.

Really? Yeah.

Look, the truth is, you deserve to be with Roxy.

Besides, I'm not the guy she fell for anyway.

It's you.

So, what do we do now?

We gotta make this right.

Tonight.

It's the only way.

My man.

Oh, not you two busters.

You know, you got a lot of nerve calling anyone a buster.

Whoa, whoa, whoa.

Okay.

Well, listen up, Poindexter.

Okay? Why don't you and Pretty Boy here get out your pads and take notes on what

it really takes to rock a mic?

Yeah.

Yo, Si, chill.

You swinging on folks now?

What's the drink in there? Thug Life Energy Drink or something. All right,

do what you came here to do.

All right. Yeah.

You got it.

Good evening, Atlanta.

I'm your host, and I welcome you to the Rap Grand Slam Final.

Today, we have a very exciting show for you. For the last two months, rappers

across the country... have competed in single elimination rounds until we have

just two rapper stints.

For our first finalist, he's from the Dirty Dirty.

Hey. You look different.

I hope that's not a bad thing.

No. No, you look better.

Thanks. We gotta go on.

Okay. Wish me luck.

You'll need it. Just do you.

In a short while, these two will battle here live for the Grand Slam crowd.

But first, we have a musical performance by...

Ready.

Yo, are we going on or what?

Nope.

Not today.

I know you're going to be mad.

Feelings that you thought you had.

What's for another guy? Well, I'm that other guy. I'm just a shy kid

before your eyes. And I knew my lyrics were the key to see the other side. I

should have told you, but I never had the courage. And I thought you really

wouldn't understand.

And now I'm up here just to let my feelings surface, apologizing for

who I am. Tell me, are you who I thought you were?

Are who I want?

But I couldn't see it through.

Roxy, I'm sorry.

in the shadow in the background but i'm back now and chris was all this and that

and my look didn't really fit the rap but she didn't match she had the style

i had the swag so i locked up my feelings in the words he said give me a

and i'll take off my mask if you give me a chance that's all i ask what you're

expecting me to do first you were him and now you're yeah that was just me and

you got me on my knees roxy i'm sorry

You were electric out there. Couldn't you feel it?

No, did you feel that?

I can't believe it was you this whole time.

You two are just one big lie.

No, you see what had happened was I... I don't want to hear it.

Please just get away from me.

You're such an idiot.

No, Rox, you're not. I am.

I should have been up front with you from the jump.

It's just hard to understand that you didn't want to hear my words from me.

You wanted the hot guy and the hot music all at the same time.

Wrong, Cyrus.

It wasn't about his look.

I fell in love with his... I mean, your words.

I just wanted someone who was real.

But now it's clear that that's neither one of you.

So both of you just stay out of my life.

Hey, where are you going?

We want you to present the trophy to the new champ.

Thanks, but I'm not in the mood.

Why don't you ask Truth to do it?

This is his night.

Follow me.

All right, so we've learned from our finals.

But there can only be one champion.

Atlanta, show your love for Lord of the Flames.

We have a new rep, Grand Slam King.

Congratulations, Lord of the Flames.

Me now, baby, let's go. I told y 'all nothing would. Our culture will not be

presented by newcomer troops.

Look at this.

The bus boy just brought me my trophy.

Congratulations.

Oh, whoa, whoa, whoa. Hold on, hold on there.

You gotta polish it up for me there, bus boy.

Oh, oh, oh, wait. Is it truth or is it baby Ruth?

You know, you don't deserve this trophy because you're not the best.

I mean, you're not the best in Atlanta.

You're not even the best in the building.

You're a rapper now. All right.

Okay.

Oh, here we go again.

Prepare to meet your end. Just looked you up on Facebook. You have zero

This kid's a loser. Yo, he ain't even kissed a girl. You wrote a love letter.

I'll buy her ice and pearls. So how you like me now?

Even Roxanne's in the background saying, wow, Blaine's got style.

I'm off the go, Shane.

If you're a rapper, why is Christian... Backup dancer like an extra on pole

train. I see your mommy and your daddy in the front row. They must be

embarrassed for you, bro. You're not a real MC.

You should quit hip -hop. Now be a good busboy and go get your mom. Blame, you

don't want to battle. You're the snake without the rattle. You're the boat

without the paddle. You're the duck without the waddle. You're the horse

the saddle. The ranch without the cattle.

The day without the shadow. Then I think you should canaddle. Kick gravel.

Sayonara, punk.

I have to say it and for you to hear me, Claire Lane. Adios, amigo.

You're over with Benito. This clown couldn't rap anything but my arena. You

to hold your mommy's hand before you cross the street. You have to sneak out

house just to clean and sweep. And now you look queasy. I made him go mute. Put

your camera phones up so you can post this on YouTube.

Truce got to screw loose. He's terrified to bust. So lightweight that I can blow

him over with a gust.

You're weak like seven days. You deserve booze. You should walk around and...

And one more on vacation, I let him out.

Then you can take a couple bucks back, but that's a tip. You're playing

like solitaire.

Telling everyone to see that you're a millionaire.

You're not a baller, you're a phony. I bet your whole crew is a bunch of rent

-homies. And now you lie in bed lonely.

Your persona's a facade.

The only girls you get are in the pages of a catalog.

Here stands Lord of the Bluffs. His lies were legendary, so the truth made him

hush. And what's funny is your truth is enough.

Why'd you have to make up all the money and the stuff? I guess it's easier to

play the role and act hard. Cause you don't have the guts to tell us who you

really are.

So you can keep a trophy that you don't deserve.

I might be a busboy, but you just got served.

See, I am sorry.

Cyrus and I, we never meant to hurt you.

He did it for me.

I saw you looking all fine and I thought that we'd be great together.

Just like when you saw that picture of me, Cyrus in it, you thought I was the

rapper and he was like my roadie or something.

He's not wrong.

It's your business.

I was the one who asked Cyrus to help me trick you.

He saw you feeling me and me feeling you and he just wanted to do what was

right, you know?

Of course, then I started feeling every girl in Atlanta.

Yeah.

But if it is the real that you were looking for, it is you and Cyrus, all

And you know that as much as I do.

We got to go.

I got to go, Chris.

Wait, please.

Cyrus.

Chris. Chris.

How you doing, Mrs. LaBarge?

Reverend. Do you mind if I join you all today?

I hear you're doing some powerful preaching, sir.

Cyrus.

Son, it's time to celebrate and be glad.

Because this brother of yours was lost and now he's found.

Yes.

I don't know if you remember me, but we went to school together.

Sure I do.

Roxanne Andrews. Nice to see you again.

from the top so beautifully clear. We could see for forever, not a cloud in

sky. It's the perfect weather every day of our lives. Just imagine if everything

you wanted came true. Well, it happened to me, so it can happen to you. We're on

a journey of truth, and belief is the key to open up your heart and let your

life reign.

Oh, and I feel like I'm glowing, and I like where I'm going.

Tonight, I'm sure.

I'm rapping to the track and asking everyone to put your hands up. I take my

hand and make the congregation rock.

Simon, right?

This, my friend, is hot.

This, my friend, is not.

I don't know, Simon. I think Chris here has his finger on the pulse.

Cyrus. I don't know there, Seamus. I think Chris has his finger on the pulse.

Cyrus. I don't know there, Sirius. I think Chris has his finger on the pulse.

Cyrus. All right, relax there, Seamus. I think Chris here has his finger on the

pulse. Cyrus.

I don't know there, Cyclone. I think Chris has his finger on the pulse.

Cyrus.