Barry Michael Cooper, the journalist credited with coining the term “New Jack Swing” to describe Teddy Riley’s music from the ’80s and known for writing screenplays for influential films like New Jack City, Above the Rim, and Sugar Hill, passed away on Tuesday, January 22nd.
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Nelson George, another prominent hip-hop journalist, shared the news of Barry Michael Cooper’s passing on his Substack. According to George, Cooper’s son Mathew confirmed the sad news. George expressed gratitude to Cooper for recommending him to Robert Christgau at the Village Voice, a pivotal moment in his career.
George also highlighted Cooper’s significant contributions to pop culture in the ’80s and ’90s through his reporting on crack cocaine, coining the term “new jack swing” for Teddy Riley’s music, and writing acclaimed films featuring stars like Wesley Snipes and Tupac. Despite living in Baltimore in his later years, Cooper’s essence remained rooted in Harlem.
Michael A. Gonzales, known for co-authoring “Bring The Noise: A Guide to Rap Music and Hip-Hop Culture,” honored Cooper as one of his main inspirations. Gonzales referenced the Village Voice article that introduced the term New Jack Swing and highlighted Cooper’s impact on his work.
A&R expert Dante Ross paid tribute to Cooper on Instagram, praising his writing and acknowledging the profound influence of his movie scripts on the hip-hop genre. Ross emphasized the transformative impact of Cooper’s films, such as New Jack City, Sugar Hill, and Above The Rim, in the realm of Hip Hop cinema.
The legacy of films like New Jack City, Above the Rim, and Sugar Hill endures, with references in rap lyrics and memes shared by fans even three decades after their release.
As of now, the cause of Cooper’s death has not been disclosed. He was 66 years old.
FAQs
Q: What was Barry Michael Cooper known for?
A: Barry Michael Cooper was known for coining the term “New Jack Swing” and writing screenplays for influential films in the ’80s and ’90s.
Q: What impact did Barry Michael Cooper have on hip-hop culture?
A: Barry Michael Cooper had a significant impact on hip-hop culture through his reporting, coined terms, and influential movie scripts that shaped the genre.
Q: What was Barry Michael Cooper’s legacy?
A: Barry Michael Cooper’s legacy includes iconic films like New Jack City, Above the Rim, and Sugar Hill, which continue to resonate with audiences decades later.
Q: How old was Barry Michael Cooper at the time of his passing?
A: Barry Michael Cooper was 66 years old at the time of his passing.
Credit: www.billboard.com
