‘Kold x Windy’ Recap: ‘It’s Called a Stain’

Written by John Edward Betancourt

Caution: This article contains spoilers for the series premiere of ‘Kold x Windy’. 
​
There are few things in this world that we cherish more than people chasing their dreams and it makes sense as to why. Because making the commitment to do what is necessary to do what one loves, is a bold and brave decision. One that separates folks from the pack and makes them a living embodiment of the American Dream. Since working hard and enjoying the endless fruits of our labor, is the point of that dream and of course, we see the wonder of it time and time again when we watch celebrities discuss how they went from nothing to something through hard work and dedication. So, it makes sense that when someone chases that dream, they are admired and encouraged and viewed in a vastly different light. 
​
But what is fascinating about the pursuit of a big dream, is how many never achieve it. For reasons that quite frankly… we don’t discuss. As though not grabbing hold of it or pivoting along the way, denotes failure. One so great that discussing it would somehow sully the concept in general. But we should in fact, talk about such matters. Because the cold hard truth about chasing a dream is that it isn’t easy in the slightest and all too often, we romanticize the pursuit and only applaud those who reach it, when in fact… there are folks who need help finding their way for reasons that can bring about failure. If anything, that more complex and ‘darker’ side to the pursuit of our dreams is top of mind today, simply because that is what the new WEtv series, Kold x Windy, focuses upon.  

A feat that the series premiere accomplishes by introducing us to a pair of Chicagoans named Malika Wise and Renee Johnson. Who are supremely talented singers and rappers that take part in Drill music and make up the musical duo, Kold x Windy. And they of course… have big dreams ahead of them. The kind that would see them take Drill music to the mainstream and that in turn would allow for them to enjoy all the spoils of being big time singers that rule the world with their talents, and in ‘It’s Called a Stain’, they appear to be on their way. For they are loved by fans everywhere in the city and everyone is talking about their latest track and its meaning and its power. Making this appear to be a story that is going to follow the standard formula and see these characters grow before our eyes in a magnificent and inspiring manner.

But instead, we come to learn a lot about Kold and Windy, and why they haven’t jumped to the top of the game faster or signed a major deal, thus completing the quest for the dream. For this duo operate often in the gray area of life, since they hustle on the streets in a sometimes shady and/or illegal manner to make ends meet and appear to what to keep those actions as secretive as can be. Not to mention, they are deeply tied to their community and some of the drama that comes with that… is impossible to let go of. At least, in their eyes. Which means that as season one of this fascinating and raw series continues along, Kold and Windy are going to have to make a powerful choice. Specifically, how badly do they want their dream and are they willing to truly sacrifice the life they currently lead to have it?  

Which is… the perfect way to explore the pratfalls and speed bumps that exist in chasing one’s dream. Because it isn’t just enough to want it, one has to work for it and make changes to their lives and stick to that to reach the top and watching these two dynamic women hopefully learn that and hopefully embrace that, will make for a powerful season of storytelling. The kind that will help others who feel stuck in chasing their dreams, realize what they need to do to grab hold of what matters most to them. Courtesy of a story that feels real and engages us beyond its core concept. Because Kold and Windy are dynamic characters that we are immediately invested in and want to see succeed. Which is a testament to the writing and Sh’Kia Augustin (Kold) and Nijah Brenea’s (Windy) incredible performances, and truly, this premiere sets the stage for a powerful journey. One that will teach us so much about life in Chicago and what it really looks like to chase our dreams with emotional baggage in hand. Until next time. 

To learn more about the characters, Kold and Windy, check out our interview with the actors that play them; Sh’Kia Augustin and Nijah Brenea.

---

Powered by JustWatch