The Dakar Foundation apprenticeship crew was back in action for another unforgettable chapter with the legendary 1500 or Nothin’ band, documenting their second appearance at the Blue Note Los Angeles on Sunset — an intimate venue that set the stage for two completely sold-out shows
Shout out to Rance and Alexandria Dopson and Ash Toves for making it possible for us to cook. You’ll see snipets here, but no performances. You’ll have to wait for the Rockumentary, coming soon!
The story actually began Thursday, March 5th, when Dakar apprentice Rilei Johnson stepped into a leadership role, coordinating a crew of cinematographers at WePlay Studios, the home base of 1500 or Nothin’. The rehearsal session gave the Dakar team a rare behind-the-scenes preview of what would unfold the following night.
Inside the studio, the band dialed in every transition, groove, and cue. For the apprentices, it was more than rehearsal footage — it was a masterclass in musicianship, live production, and storytelling through the lens.
By Friday, March 6th, the energy moved from rehearsal room to stage. The Blue Note LA crowd packed the venue for two sold-out shows as the band delivered a tight 45-minute performance, showcasing ten pieces of musical synchronicity that reminded everyone why 1500 or Nothin’ is one of the most respected live bands in modern music.
Behind the scenes, the Dakar crew was running a full cinematic operation.
Kevin Aguirre, Andrew Shresthandy, and Kevin Clark orchestrated a five-camera cinema setup, synchronized to capture every moment of the performance — from the raw energy of the rhythm section to the subtle exchanges between musicians on stage.
Each angle was carefully designed to contribute to an upcoming rockumentary, preserving not just the music, but the spirit of collaboration between industry professionals and the next generation of creative-tech storytellers.
Moments like these represent the heart of the Dakar apprenticeship model — where emerging filmmakers, cinematographers, and digital media apprentices step directly into real productions alongside world-class talent. Shout out to our partners, Brotherhood Crusade and the SOLA Foundation.
From rehearsal rooms at WePlay Studios to sold-out nights at Blue Note Los Angeles, Dakar apprentices aren’t just learning the craft — they’re documenting history as it happens.
And this chapter of the 1500 or Nothin’ story is only getting started.
Stay tuned for more behind-the-scenes footage and an upcoming Dakar Rockumentary.
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