By: SoundSlam
Published: Jan. 8, 2006 - New York, NY

Multiple sources, including SoundSlam, reported recently that Kareem Abdul-Jabbar was readying a documentary on Jazz, Hip Hop, and the impact of music on professional basketball players. In light of this news, a source close to the NBA’s all-time leading scorer has reported that the documentary is simply an ideological endeavor yet to be actualized. Additionally, after SoundSlam was referenced in the New York Times this past week, this site feels the journalistic obligation to clear up any confusion regarding this topic.

A representative from Iconomy, a southern California-based firm focused on promoting sports icons, recently contacted SoundSlam on behalf of Abdul-Jabbar to prevent misleading fans and the general public. This representative has proclaimed that the aforementioned documentary is a potential project that Kareem might take the helm of, but is not currently in any production stage.

Still, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar has an intense interest in jazz music and plays a role in the development of young jazz musicians through the Thelonious Monk Institute. Through this foundation, the 18-time NBA All-Star is actively involved with the Institute’s “Jazz Sports” program to help fuel the passion and development of young students and future musicians. As Chairman of this program, Abdul-Jabbar is helping to pass on the tradition of both jazz and basketball. The institute also harbors a “BeBop to Hip-Hop” program to hone in on the innovative and experimental similarities between the musical movements.

Check back to SoundSlam for additional information on Abdul-Jabbar’s potential film.