Watch Set the Record Straight: The Jam Master Jay Case

"Set the Record Straight: The Jam Master Jay Case" is a documentary series that premiered on ABC in early 2021. The show delves into the unsolved murder of Jason "Jam Master Jay" Mizell, a member of the pioneering rap group Run-DMC, who was shot and killed in a Queens recording studio in 2002.

Throughout the series, viewers are taken on a deep dive into the events leading up to and following Mizell's death. Through interviews with family members, friends, and colleagues of Mizell, alongside law enforcement officials and music industry insiders, the show examines the potential motives and suspects in the murder investigation. It also explores the impact of Mizell's death on the world of hip-hop, and the continued legacy of Run-DMC.

One of the key themes of the series is the enduring mystery surrounding Mizell's murder. Despite an intensive investigation and numerous suspects, including associates of Mizell, the case remains unsolved almost two decades later. This leaves his family and friends still searching for answers, and makes for a compelling watch as viewers are taken through the twists and turns of the investigation.

The show is produced by ABC News, which brings a journalistic approach to the storytelling. The producers have conducted extensive interviews and research, and weave together a narrative that is informative and captivating. The series also utilizes archival footage and photographs, adding depth to the storytelling and grounding the events in their historical context.

One of the strengths of the series is its focus on the personal experiences and perspectives of those who knew Mizell best. This includes his family members, who speak candidly about their memories of him and the impact his death has had on their lives. His fellow Run-DMC members, Darryl McDaniels and Joseph Simmons, also appear in the series, sharing their thoughts on Mizell's life and legacy.

The show also features a range of experts and insiders from the music industry and law enforcement. These include former DEA agents who worked on the case, as well as journalists and academics who provide context and analysis of the wider societal and cultural forces that played a role in Mizell's life and death.

Another significant theme of the series is the broader historical and cultural context of Mizell's life and death. Viewers are given a glimpse into the dynamic world of hip-hop in the late 1990s and early 2000s, as well as the complex social and economic issues that underpinned the industry. There are also discussions of the intersection of race, politics, and policing, especially in the tense relationship between law enforcement and the black community in Queens.

"Set the Record Straight: The Jam Master Jay Case" is a well-crafted and informative series that sheds light on one of the most significant unsolved murders in recent music history. While it is a saddening and at times frustrating story, the series manages to honor the legacy of Jam Master Jay and the genre-defining music of Run-DMC. It is a must-watch for fans of hip-hop and true crime alike.