THE SOUND OF BLACK SEATTLE is a short-form documentary series that traces the legacy of Black music in Seattle, revealing how a community shaped by redlining and exclusion created sounds that transformed American culture.
THE SOUND OF BLACK SEATTLE is a five-part documentary series exploring the history and evolution of Black music in the Pacific Northwest. Centered in Seattle’s Central District, a neighborhood shaped by migration, segregation, and redlining, the series uncovers how Black communities built a powerful cultural legacy in the face of systemic barriers.
Through intimate interviews, archival material, and music-driven storytelling, the series moves from early jazz and gospel traditions to the global influence of artists like Quincy Jones and Jimi Hendrix, and into hip hop and contemporary soundmakers. Across generations, Seattle’s Black artists helped shape genres that reached far beyond the region, even as their contributions were often overlooked.
Rather than following a single narrative, the series weaves together voices of artists, historians, and cultural leaders, revealing how place, policy, and community shaped sound. More than a music history, THE SOUND OF BLACK SEATTLE is a story of resilience, identity, and cultural inheritance, and what is at stake as the city continues to change.
Chezik Tsunoda is a passionate director and producer whose impactful work spans television, film, and advertising. She began her career at BET and MTV News and Docs, where she sharpened her production skills and developed a keen understanding of storytelling. As a Development Producer at VH1, Chezik further honed her craft before transitioning to Digital Kitchen, where she gained valuable insights into the commercial and advertising landscape. Ultimately, she returned to her true passion—documentary filmmaking.
Chezik’s work often confronts challenging social themes through a unique and powerful lens, offering audiences rare perspectives that resonate deeply. Her acclaimed documentary “Drowning in Silence” garnered both awards and international recognition, solidifying her reputation as a storyteller committed to shedding light on critical issues. As the founder of Visually Inspired Productions, Chezik is dedicated to creating award-winning content that not only highlights underrepresented voices but also sparks meaningful conversations. She believes in the transformative power of storytelling and remains impassioned about fostering a richer, more inclusive media landscape.
