Alex Boye’s New Hip-Hop Musical “American Prophet” Is a Must-See

This past Sunday, Alex Boye released a new video showcasing the project he has tirelessly worked on. In commemoration of the bicentennial anniversary of the events that started the Restoration, Alex’s new production, soon to begin filming, is a celebration of the life of the Prophet Joseph Smith, and a powerful representation of the voices that have often gone unsung in telling the story of the Prophet, all done within the genre of hip-hop.

Entitled as American Prophet, Alex describes the project as a combination of Lin Manuel Miranda’s smash-hit Hamilton and the recent film-musical The Greatest Showman. The movie is set in the early 1800s and recounts the story of Joseph Smith from the perspective of three slaves who have been set free. The three narrators are based on historical figures within Church history: Elijah Able, Walker Lewis, and Samuel D. Chambers. These three men were among the first members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints who were of African descent and paved the way to creating a more diverse Church, encountering a momentous amount of persecution throughout their lives while still holding fast to their faith in Restoration. The film will feature powerful musical numbers performed in the rich genre of hip-hop and R&B and will provide viewers with powerful new perspectives on the Restoration of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

Filming is set to begin in June, and then being released in October. On the film’s GoFundMe page here Alex wrote that “there will be a soundtrack produced by grammy award-winning producer who had produced for the likes of Bruno Mars, Justin Timberlake, Snoop Dog, and many more!” Additionally, he wrote concerning the film:

“This is a real opportunity to get the message of the restoration out to the whole world, and the fulfillment of a dream I’ve had for a longtime, and I would love your help. I couldn’t be more excited to see this bicentennial tribute come into fruition. The script is being co-written by an award winning hollywood writer who helped write the screen play for ‘Hidden figures’ and ‘Ali’ and many many popular netflix movies, so you know we are working with nothing less than the best! There are 17 million saints worldwide that can be inspired by this production, and many people across the world who will hear this story in their own language and tongue.”

With nearly 14,000 views in two days, the extended “trailer” of the film, which features a song, expertly choreographed dancing and inspirational lines of rap, the production is already receiving praise and anticipation for the full release. Many individuals have as well commented on how this production further showcases Alex Boye’s talent and deep understanding of the world of music. Additionally, with certain controversies surrounding the history being represented, Alex advocates for a beautifully diverse Church where all forms of music can be deemed inspirational and uplifting. In one line, Alex raps that “dark skin ain’t a curse, it’s a blessing see?” and that we should seek our own testimony through prayer and study.

The video ends with the quote from Joseph Smith:

“No unhallowed hand can stop the work from progressing; persecutions may rage, mobs may combine, armies may assemble. But the truth of God will go forth boldly, till the purposes of God shall be accomplished and the great Jehovah shall say the work is done.”