#whitetrashtyler

As both a Texan and a longtime fan of hip-hop music, it’d be impossible for me to not be a fan of Travis Scott.  He is far from the first artist from Houston to make it to the big time, but few have had as much influence on popular music and culture on the whole than Scott, and in such a short amount of time.  Recently, director WhiteTrashTyler followed Scott around in the weeks leading up to the release of Astroworld, and thanks to Netflix, everyone is allowed to join in on the madness in the form of the documentary Look Mom I Can Fly. 

In the fall of 2018, rapper and rising superstar Travis Scott released his third studio album, Astroworld, to massive success and critical acclaim.  As his star rises, Scott quickly learns about the ups and downs of fame.  With Astroworld topping the charts, and hit single SICKO MODE becoming a radio and club staple, Scott embarks on the Birds Eye View tour.  Scott’s shows, already known for their rowdy nature, become larger and larger, creating a deeper concern for security and the safety of those in attendance.  Fame brings Scott a broader awareness of many crucial aspects to his life, including fans, friends and family, which he is forced to process rapidly due to the fast-paced nature of being in the spotlight.  With the opportunities that his rising fame affords, Scott is able to form Cactus Jack records, thus allowing him the opportunity to put on artists like Sheck Wes and giving him creative freedom on a larger scale.

While Travis Scott is known normally for his high energy shows and music, Look Mom I Can Fly takes the time to show his laid-back, reflective side, providing us with a balance.  His humanity also shines through, as even in the midst of celebrating success, he consistently takes the time to make sure he is careful and considerate with those around him, be it making sure those in his crowds are taken care of and safe, interacting on a personal level with mobbing fans, or keeping those in his circle taken care of and happy.  One of his most admirable qualities is encouraging safety among the madness of his shows, often taking the time to stop performances and help orchestrate efforts to get those hurt to paramedics.

Seeing Scott stay true to his roots and his journey is inspiring and encouraging.  For all the glitz and glamour that is shown, we are given equal amounts of time in his hometown of Houston, studio sessions and more.  Seeing a humble Texan ascend to the level of headlining festivals and traveling the world is certainly worthy of feel-good story status, and it’s evident that Travis Scott is appreciative of his opportunities.  Seeing him take the time to return to Missouri City drives home this fact as well, as many in his situation would more than likely fall into the trappings of success and never look back, let alone return, to where they came from.  Watching Travis Scott enjoy the highlights of his career that we’ve all seen, from behind the scenes, is a refreshing perspective, especially moments like his Saturday Night Live performance, or his concert that served as a tribute to Astroworld, the former amusement park that served as inspiration for the project.

It’s crystal clear to anyone that watches this documentary that family is a key part of Travis Scott’s existence.  Be it family video footage of him as a young man, candid moments with his parents, or the birth of Storm Webster (his daughter), we are shown just how much value he puts into those he loves.  Watching his camp circle the wagons as they prepare for the release of Astroworld reminds us that even when it seems you’re living on top of the world, the possibilities are still endless in terms of levels that can be reached.  Hindsight is always 20/20, but watching the crew celebrate in anticipation of what Astroworld had the potential to be is refreshing, especially the little things, such as watching everyone listen to the Drake feature for the first time.