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Atlantic Records: The House That Ahmet Built

Name: Atlantic Records: The House That Ahmet Built
Director: Susan Steinberg
Released: 2007
Duration: 90 min

Representation Score

3.1/10

Limited

2007

TV-14

Director

Susan Steinberg

Runtime

90 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

This documentary provides a crucial historical account of how Black musical expression shaped the mid-20th century. By highlighting the contributions of R&B and Soul pioneers, the film challenges the traditional Anglo-centric narratives. However, the film's perspective is limited by the social structures of its time. The narrative predominantly centers on male leadership within the music industry. Ultimately, while the film offers a strong examination of racial dynamics and cultural impact, it lacks engagement with LGBTQ+ identities and disability-focused narratives, resulting in a somewhat narrow diversity profile.

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Category Breakdown

Does Atlantic Records: The House That Ahmet Built have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The documentary does not include stories about people who are not straight or cisgender. It also does not discuss same-sex relationships or themes related to LGBTQ+ identities.

How does Atlantic Records: The House That Ahmet Built portray gender?

Fair

The film focuses on the male-dominated structure of the mid-century music industry. Although female artists like Aretha Franklin are important, the main storyline follows the careers of male leaders.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Atlantic Records: The House That Ahmet Built?

Excellent

The documentary does a great job showing how Black artists had significant influence despite facing restrictions. It highlights how Black musicians drove the success and cultural impact of the record label.

How does Atlantic Records: The House That Ahmet Built represent religion and culture?

Fair

The film offers a detailed look at how capitalism and cultural traditions interacted. It shows how the pursuit of profit helped bring Black musical styles into the mainstream.

Does Atlantic Records: The House That Ahmet Built include disability representation?

Minimal

The film does not focus on disabilities, visible or invisible. The story mainly revolves around the musical legacy and does not address neurodivergence or physical disabilities.

Present on Screen

Outstanding portrayal of Black ability to act and the impact of R&B and Soul pioneers.
Effective use of the label's history to highlight the rise of Black talent.
In-depth exploration of the relationship between capitalism and cultural movements.

Limited or Absent

The narrative heavily emphasizes male-centric leadership and industry hierarchies.
No explicit representation or discussion of LGBTQ+ identities.
Little focus on disability or neurodivergent perspectives within the musical history.

Official Synopsis

This American Masters episode showcases the wonderful influence of Ahmet Ertegun, the founder of Atlantic Records. Since the label's founding in 1947, some of the most popular Rhythm and Blues and Rock 'n' Roll artists have worked for Atlantic. Among them: first artist Ruth Brown, Big Joe Turner, Ray Charles, Bobby Darin, The Coasters, Aretha Franklin, The Rolling Stones, Phil Collins and many more. Also covered are many of the Atlantic crew like engineer Tom Dowd, producer Jerry Wexler, and songwriters Mike Lieber and Jerry Stoller.

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