The Sopranos: A Hit Is A Hit 1999 - Season One: Episode 10 Home Box Office || Background: This is a superbly written episode that deals with stereotypes, racism, and ethics. More importantly related to this course, a subplot of "A Hit Is A Hit" examines mob involvement in the music industry. In the 1950s-60s it was a common practice for record promoters to bankroll an act in exchange for a writing credit. A harsh reality dramatized here is that early R&B performers surrendered their royalties in exchange for promotion and airplay. Important questions posed in this episode include: What makes a hit record? Is it musical talent? An executive's wise ear? Or can any song become a hit with proper financial backing? How involved is/was the mob in the music business? Executive Producer: David Chase - TV writer and producer of "Rockford Files" where he won an Emmy. (1970s) - Chase originally wrote "The Sopranos" pilot for Fox Network but it was turned down. - He was raised in New Jersey (where The Sopranos takes place) and his unrealized dream is to be a drummer in a rock band. Screenplay: Joe Bosso, Frank Renzulli - Renzulli is an actor/writer who has penned several "Sopranos" episodes. He has also written for "The Wonder Years," and "The Practice." - Bosso also wrote episodes of "The Chris Issak Show." Characters - Actors: Herman "Hesh" Rabkin - Jerry Adler - Hesh is the lone Jewish member of the Soprano crew. - As owner of F-note Records, Hesh holds a co-writing credit for the song, "Such A Fool." Little Jimmy Willis actually wrote the song but Hesh claimed a co-credit for bankrolling the act. Massive Genius - Bokeem Woodbine - Massive "G" is a hiphop mogul who wants Hesh to relinquish and repay "Such A Fool" royalties to Little Jimmy Willis' estate. Tony Soprano - James Gandolfini - Head of the Soprano gang. His father was a silent partner in F-note Records. Christopher Moltisanti - Michael Imperioli - A junior member of the Soprano crew. - He bankrolls his girlfriend's foray in the music business. Adriana La Cerva - Drea De Matteo - Christopher's girlfriend. - She wants to become a music agent/promoter. Contact info: Steve Scherer