BET’s peripatetic cameras are ready to roll as it continues its critically acclaimed American Gangster Series. In development is the life and times of hood icon Larry Davis who was brutally murder in a New York State prison on February 20, 2008. The episode will present a penetrating look into police corruption and drug dealing that targeted a black youth name Larry Davis, who along with musical partner Shams DaBaron was on the cusp of stardom. The episode is executive produced by famed producer and screenwriter Barry Michael Copper (New Jack City, Above the Rim, Sugar Hill).
Davis became a public figure at 19 years old, when over 30 corrupt police officers came to assassinate him. A bloody shootout ensured and in the aftermath six police officers were wounded. Davis eluded the NYPD for 17-days and became a street legend for defending himself and his family against the most notorious police department in the country.
According to an article published in the NY Times, “Mr. Davis seemed the embodiment of a trend towards lawlessness that had sweep New York, but to others, particularly some of the residents in heavily black neighborhoods of the Bronx and other boroughs, he became something of a folk hero.”
The story on Larry Davis is real and there will be no truth to the story if Shams were not involved. The saga of November 19, 1986 would be relegated to urban folklore,” states Journalist/Filmmaker Rahiem Shabazz. “We are extremely proud BET decided to get a first hand account from the person who was at Larry’s sister house hours before the raid, spoke with him during the infamous 17 day manhunt and present during the trail and verdict. Shams was also involved in Larry’s trials, even testifying for him in court. In the streets he worked hard to keep the name of Larry Davis alive,” he concludes.
“I’m not quick to jump up in the cameras and stuff like that. I decided to participate with this American Gangster episode on Larry to give others a glimpse into who this man really is.” stated Shams DaBaron. “I want people to see that aspect of him. Mayor Koch ain’t gonna tell you. So when I heard they interviewed Koch I said I must speak for my Fam, Larry. The fact that Barry Michael Cooper was involved made me agree to it and I hope that when people see it, they get something positive out of it,” concluded Shams.
With an unmatched determination, Shams overcame the twisted wreckage of his early childhood, growing up in a foster home and living in despair. Solace came in the form of music, along with his partner Larry Davis; he felt he was making his rounds on the proverbial victory lap. It was not long before a recording contract was offered and the bright skies opened up, revealing the silver lining in the cumulus clouds. The episode explores the musical career of the duo and how it came to a screeching halt after Davis imprisonment.
Besides, appearing in the series, Shams is also producing a tribute track titled “LD Rest In Peace”. He has also been instrumental in helping the Estate of Larry Davis, which is being spearheaded by Larrimma Davis, daughter of Mr. Davis and the Executor of his Estate and Founder of the Larry Davis Foundation. A full length movie is being written by Shams along with his brother journalist/filmmaker Rahiem Shabazz and with the assistance of the Davis family.
