A Fireside Chat with Boots Riley

Boots Riley with YR Media Fall ‘23 cohort students and instructors.

On October 19 YR Media welcomed American film director, producer, screenwriter, rapper and social activist, Boots Riley to our Oakland headquarters where he spoke with students enrolled in the Media Education Bridge program. During his visit, Boots - famously known for his film, Sorry to Bother You - took the teens on a journey through time, starting with a short history of the Bay Area music scene, drawing parallels of what it took to be noticed for your craft in the early 90s and how they can do the same today. He told stories of how his belief in self and unapologetic ambition took him from selling rap tapes in-front of East Oakland’s notorious Eastmont Mall to working with famed, guitarist, Tom Morello of Rage Against the Machine.

YR’s Senior Communications Specialist, and moderator for the event, Shavonne Graham, asked several questions to translate these antidotes to practical use. One question that seemed to spark several follow-up questions from the audience of YR Stars was, “How have you [Boots] navigated imposter syndrome in spaces where people may seem to be well known or more famous?”

To this, Mr. Riley answered, “I always remember who I am. My talent is unique to me, just as you’re talents [addressing the YR Stars] is unique to you.” He continued, “only you can do what you do. So even if someone is more accomplished, they need your talent in that moment. Never diminish your talent in the shadow of others.”

Once the chat concluded, YR Stars began to ask insightful questions about his career and how to navigate the music and film industries. 

YR Media wants to thank Boots for taking time from his schedule to give our students a real behind-the-scenes look into the entertainment industry and offer them inspiration.