Philadelphia musician's original music featured on 'Abbott Elementary'
PHILADELPHIA -- "Abbott Elementary" creator and star Quinta Brunson is a West Philadelphia native, and her city's heart and soul runs through the show.
It should come as no surprise that the distinct sounds of Philly are also strategically part of the show's soundtrack.
In fact, West Philadelphia-based hip hop artist Amir Richardson says he's still in awe when he hears his original music on "Abbott Elementary."
"I'm appreciative that they want an authentic voice and authenticity in their show," says Richardson.
He knows that commitment comes from Brunson herself.
"She makes sure that the world understands Philly and knows it the way we know it, and loves it the way we love it," he says.
Richardson says he started pitching his work the second he saw the first episode.
"I was like, I have to figure out how to become a part of this this conversation," he says.
He got the call for Season 2, Episode 19.
"There is a scene at the back end of this episode where two characters are resolving a conflict," Richardson explains. "It's Barbara and a former student of hers, played by the illustrious Leslie Odom, Jr."
The song, Richardson says, is truly homegrown.
"It's called 'Where I'm From,'" he explains. "It's an anthemic song that I made about Philadelphia and all those different Philadelphia experiences."
Richardson got the call again for Season 5, Episode 4: Game Night.
"There's a playlist playing, and it's really, really subtle," he says. "I had these two moments where my music was a part of this ethos. The fact that I'm a part of it is really just humbling."
As for the new season, Richardson says: "I'm working on it. I'm communicating, and I just take my shots. I'm continuously taking my shots. I'm never not taking my shots."
"Abbott Elementary" Season 6 premieres at 8:30 p.m. on Wednesday, October 7, on ABC.
The Walt Disney Company is the parent company of this ABC station.
