This vibrant documentary explores Long Island's indelible yet often overlooked impact on hip-hop's evolution, presented through the voices of the pioneering artists who shaped the genre's expansion beyond its urban roots. The film reveals how the suburban landscape of Long Island — characterized by single-family homes, expansive greenery and diverse schools — provides a striking contrast to city life, inspiring a unique sound that broadened hip-hop's boundaries and appeal. While Black families could relocate to what seemed like a suburban utopia, they were not immune to the persistent challenges of racism, drugs and violence, resulting in art that both celebrated and critiqued their surroundings.

Through rich archival performance footage, news clips and compelling interviews with scene originators, the film crafts an engaging and informative exploration of how this "sixth borough" created space for new voices within hip-hop culture. The documentary skillfully balances its celebration of Long Island's musical contributions with an unflinching examination of the false promises of suburban life for Black families, providing essential historical context for understanding both the scene's formation and its enduring influence. For music lovers, cultural historians and New York aficionados alike, The Sixth Borough offers an enlightening journey through a crucial chapter in hip-hop's evolution, demonstrating that the genre would not be what it is today without the voices emerging from these suburban communities. The film not only preserves an important musical legacy but also serves as a powerful reminder of how art can transcend geographical and societal limitations.—Jarod Neece

After the Premiere: A special performance by De La Soul and Rakim.

Jason Pollard