Episode list

"Who'd Veto That?" -- Those three words in a shocked editor-in-chief's mind lit the fuse to the most memorable photo shoot in hip-hop history. What began as an inspired idea born in tribute to the legendary Art Kane Jazz Portrait of 1958, became a determined quest for a passionate magazine staff, who through spirit, skill and certitude would bring XXL's "Great Day in Hip-Hop" to life. In this episode, we meet Sheena Lester, XXL's editor-in-chief as she guides us through the ideas' early stages: from inspiration to second thoughts and finally a bold decision. As the mission to make the historic photo happen unfolds, we hear from many involved, including members of the XXL staff, and some of the rap artists in the photo, like Black Thought, MC Serch, Rah Digga and others.

We begin the episode with a revelation that flips the entire script- Gordon Parks is suggested as photographer. The groundbreaking photojournalist, and symbol of African-American creative genius, is perfect, but will he do it? Convincing a masterful legend like Mr. Parks to shoot a hip-hop photo turns out to be quite the challenge, but Sheena and the team won't take no for an answer. This wasn't the only hurdle facing the team, it turns a competitor is interfering with the shoot, attempting to sabotage.

With Mr. Parks on-board, Sheena and her talented team move into overdrive to secure the dozens of cultural pioneers worthy of his famous camera's aim. As the roster of slated participants grows bigger, some unexpected drama intensifies the stakes. A rival magazine editor makes threats in an attempt to derail the shoot, and another photo surfaces hoping to beat XXL to the page-punch. Episode 3 ends the night before the big day. Sheena, a mother of infant twins, checks into a hotel in Manhattan focused on the day ahead.

The big day is here. It's early morning, Sheena arrives on the block - 126th Street in Harlem. Already buzzing, the atmosphere is electric. An ocean of hip-hop genius, gathering at the same time, at the same place, for a photo taken by Gordon Parks. Concerns loom large for many of the attendees: will the day be peaceful? Will there be beef? Will the rappers settle down long enough for Mr. Parks to snap the shot?

Finale- With the photo shoot a success, the team at XXL turns their focus to assembling the issue. Articles are written, ads are sold, layouts confirmed. Finally, the issue is out. The stakes are high for the team. What will the response be?