A&E to Air Documentary From Filmmaker Dawn Porter

RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, February 4, 2025 | 4:36pm CT

Soul Incarcerated

A&E Network has announced the release of a documentary and a podcast series that dive into the extraordinary tale of the Edge of Daybreak, an R&B band formed in the 1970s by inmates at a Virginia maximum-security prison. The band, which recorded a soul album during a five-hour session in the prison's visiting room, is the focus of the documentary "Edge of Daybreak," directed by acclaimed filmmaker Dawn Porter. The film is set to premiere later this year.

The documentary explores the resilience and creative spirit of the band members, who produced eight original songs despite their confinement. Though their album was initially overlooked, it gained recognition decades later when one of their tracks was featured in the Oscar-winning film "Moonlight." The film examines themes of justice, creativity, and redemption, highlighting how the band's music served as a vital outlet for expression and a pathway to freedom.

Simultaneously, A&E is launching "Soul Incarcerated," a seven-episode podcast series, in partnership with iHeartPodcasts. Hosted by music journalist Jamie Pietras, the series provides an in-depth look at the band's history, their music, and their impact. It also follows the surviving members, Jamal "Sly" Nubi, Cornelius "Neal" Cade, and Harry "Cupcake" Coleman, as they attempt a musical comeback over 40 years after their initial recordings.

The band's resurgence continues with the release of their second album, "New Horizon," recorded at the legendary Sunset Sound Studios in Hollywood with notable musicians including Ray Parker Jr. The album, which marks a significant milestone in the band's journey, is now available on all digital music platforms.

"Edge of Daybreak" and "Soul Incarcerated" not only recount the history of the band but also reflect on the broader narrative of artistic innovation under constraints and the enduring human spirit. The projects are produced by Dawn Porter, Asako Gladsjo, and a team of executive producers including Chet Fenster and Richard Foster for A&E.

Listeners can find "Soul Incarcerated" on the iHeartRadio app and other podcast platforms, co-produced and distributed by iHeartPodcasts.