Classic Interview with legendary filmmaker Rudy Ray Moore aka Dolemite

Comedian, actor, and filmmaker Rudy Ray Moore is a legend. In the 1970s, the trailblazing entertainer paved a one-of-a-kind path to reach the masses and create history by self-releasing his own comedy albums. Years ahead of his time, the iconic performer broke down decades-long barriers at this time in Hollywood, by producing and starring in his own films that took the urban scene by storm. On the big screen, his larger-than-life character, Dolemite, tackled injustice and racism with unbelievable feats of action and humor.

As a creative force, Moore’s persistence in delivering his edgy brand of comedy to fans on stage, vinyl, and motion pictures is nothing short of inspirational. Before Spike Lee, Master P, and Tyler Perry, Moore’s foray into both the record business and film industry as an independent entrepreneurial auteur and artisan was groundbreaking. Initially, marketing and distributing his film throughout the country in a grassroots manner by making guest appearances on urban radio during the day to promote showings in theaters at night, a ubiquitous practice now used by comedians for their stage shows, and he continued that success by releasing a slew of movies that went on to infiltrate pop culture through the decades. In the ’90s, after being sampled on countless records, he became a Hip Hop icon in his own right. During the 90s, his films were referenced and used in other major motion pictures, including the Reginald Hudlin-directed “Great White Hype” starring Samuel L. Jackson, Jamie Foxx, and Jeff Goldblum, further bolstering his legacy.  Although the legendary performer passed away in 2008, his impact continues to be celebrated. In 2019, the Netflix biopic “Dolemite is My Name” starring Eddie Murphy as Moore again introduced his audacious approach to his craft and fascinating story to a new generation of fans. The movie enjoyed a short theatrical run as a promotional launch for its release on the streaming platform, going on to receive rave reviews.

In this 1996 interview that I had the pleasure of conducting with the legend himself, Moore’s vibrant spirit shone through. Despite his film persona, he was immensely conscientious and gracious. I’ve always cherished the opportunity to chat with him on and off the air that day and during a later meeting while he promoted reissues of all his classic films for the home video market. Beyond his immense charm, I continue to be inspired by his remarkable entrepreneurial resolve that led him to beat all the odds and leave an indelible mark on film, music, comedy, and culture. -Israel Vasquetelle