Founded in 1985, Atlanta-based Ichiban Records played a pivotal role in shaping Southern hip-hop, nurturing iconic artists, and fostering a distinctive sound. The label, led by visionary John Abbey, was a crucible for talent like MC Shy-D and Kilo. Despite challenges, including a risky partnership with EMI and internal issues, Ichiban’s impact on the music industry, especially in nurturing local talent and promoting diversity, is undeniable. The story is a compelling narrative of ambition, innovation and the complexities of the music business.

Explore Georgia’s actual World War II story alongside its big-screen versions through The 6888, My German Summer, and The Great Escape. See where film aligns with history, where it compresses or glamorizes, and why those gaps matter.

Earlier this year, our Director of Oral History and Genealogy received an email from a veteran seeking to be reconnected with the company commander who saved his life. He had been looking for the man for over 50 years, but it wasn’t until he uncovered an interview on the Atlanta History Center’s YouTube channel – part of our Veterans History project – that lead to them finally meeting again in Atlanta.