What’s Hot! HarlemAmerica with G. Keith Alexander S3E11 – Ronnie Wright

BIOGRAPHY

Ronnie Wright, otherwise known as “Photographer to the Stars” has proven himself as one of Hollywood’s best kept secrets. With over 40 years of documenting key moments and tastemakers in Hip Hop, Ronnie Wright’s portfolio exceeds many of his predecessors. BorN to a musical family, Ronnie grew up with a deep rooted love and appreciation for entertainment. Ronnie had his own music group called The Seduction band throughout the early 80’s, where they played club dates throughout New York City. It was during this time that Ronnie began photographing musical acts that his band opened for. His passion for documenting musicians that he liked then turned into Ronnie doing photography for tours and larger artists. After turning his hobby into a side gig, Ronnie made the leap into becoming a celebrity photographer full time in 1985. During the course of his career, Ronnie has documented big names like Usher, Beyonce, Nelly and Michael Jackson just to name a few. As a notable photographer Ronnie landed a gig that lasted 14 years, working with BET Networks as the head photographer on popular shows like Rap City, 106 & Park and BET Special events.

He has archives of some of the most pinnacle moments to the most minuscule times of these artists careers. His inspiration for photography comes from his role models James Van Der Zee and Gordon Parks. The two paved the way for black photographers to work and shoot for well established publications such as Vogue and Life Magazine. Wright had the pleasure to work alongside Parks for the 40th celebration of Art Kane’s “Great Day in Harlem” capturing 57 jazz music legends. He continued to assist Parks in shoots for large publications which eventually led to Wright being recognized for his celebrity work. Ronnie found his niche in event photography, capturing intimate moments of the celebrities in which he knew really well. Ronnie had the privilege of being around at the beginning of the careers of many of the iconic artists we know. He refers to Brandy and Ashanti as “his nieces in the business” Ronnie’s likeness to people has always been what set him apart from other photographers aspiring to be in his position. His dedication to documentation has allowed for authenticity in his work. Ronnie plans to further his career in photography through book releases, galleries and mentorship.

EPISODE DESCRIPTION

Join us as the acclaimed “Photographer to the Stars,” Ronnie Wright, takes center stage on WHAT’S HOT! with G. Keith Alexander. Discover the captivating stories behind Ronnie’s 40-year journey documenting Hip Hop’s finest and his iconic moments with A-list celebrities. Hear first-hand accounts of working alongside legends like Michael Jackson and Beyonce. Don’t miss this extraordinary episode as G. Keith Alexander delves into the world of celebrity photography with the master lensman himself, Ronnie Wright.