As cryptocurrency continues to make its mark on the world, it’s becoming increasingly evident in popular culture. From documentaries and music to reality TV and live events, crypto is leaving a lasting impact that’s both entertaining and thought-provoking.
In this article, we’ll explore five notable instances where crypto made its presence felt in mainstream culture this year.
HBO’s "Money Electric" Takes Bitcoin to the Mainstream
October 2024 saw the release of HBO’s highly anticipated documentary "Money Electric: The Bitcoin Mystery." Directed by Cullen Hoback, who previously explored QAnon in 2021, the film delved into the origins of Bitcoin and the enigmatic identity of its pseudonymous creator, Satoshi Nakamoto.
The massive hype campaign surrounding the film caught the attention of mainstream media, sparking questions about whether this documentary would finally settle the mystery of Bitcoin’s creation. "Money Electric" combined investigative journalism with a cinematic flair, featuring interviews with crypto veterans like Blockstream’s Adam Back and Roger ‘Bitcoin Jesus’ Ver.
The film explored the broader crypto ecosystem, particularly its clashes with regulators and integration into existing financial systems. In the end, Hoback posited a theory linking Bitcoin developer Peter Todd to Nakamoto, although Todd vehemently denied the claim.
Following its release, "Money Electric" received praise from some but sparked debates about Bitcoin’s future and the ethics of Hoback’s investigative methods. The film highlighted the growing political clout of crypto investors and their influence on the 2024 US presidential election.
Kendrick Lamar Drops Bitcoin Bars on GNX
Hip-hop star Kendrick Lamar made a notable foray into crypto with his track "Wacced Out Murals" from his 2024 album GNX. In the song, Kendrick wove Bitcoin into his lyrical storytelling, saying:
‘Promisin’ bank transactions and even Bitcoin.’
The lyric seemed to call out rivals offering financial incentives, including Bitcoin, to gain influence. This subtle mention was a notable foray for Bitcoin into hip-hop vernacular, serving as a metaphor for power and wealth.
Kendrick’s commentary didn’t just resonate with his fans but reignited discussions about Bitcoin’s growing role in today’s cultural paradigm. The fact that artists like Kendrick and Drake (who famously used Bitcoin for gambling in the past) are incorporating crypto into their narratives has highlighted the currency’s impact on the cultural mainstream.
The "America Loves Crypto" Concert Series Takes Over Swing States
In the lead-up to the 2024 US presidential election, Stand With Crypto — a political initiative launched by Coinbase — held the "America Loves Crypto" concert series to drum up support for candidates proposing crypto-friendly policies. The free concerts featured artists like Big Sean and The Chainsmokers, blending entertainment with political advocacy.
One of the standout events was The Black Keys’ electrifying performance, which lasted 45 minutes and covered 11 of the band’s most iconic hits. The concert offered food, drinks, and VIP perks to attendees who downloaded a digital wallet and claimed an NFT. By bringing together two seemingly disparate realms — crypto advocacy and pop culture — America Loves Crypto symbolized how mainstream events can help shape public perception and policy.
Crypto Gets Its Own Shark Tank with Killer Whales
The year 2024 also introduced "Killer Whales," a reality TV show combining the drama of startup pitching with Web3 innovation. Produced by Hello Labs and streaming on platforms like Apple TV and Amazon Prime, the series showcases crypto entrepreneurs pitching their projects to a panel of industry experts, including Anthony Scaramucci and social media influencer Mario Nawfal.
Unlike traditional pitch shows, "Killer Whales" didn’t focus solely on investment but explored the technical aspects of each project. The show examined how these innovative startups could shape the future of crypto and beyond.
National Security and Crypto: A Look into the Bitfinex Hack
National security and crypto took center stage in HBO’s documentary "Biggest Heist Ever," chronicling the infamous 2016 Bitfinex hack. The film examined the lives of Heather ‘Razzlekhan’ Morgan and Ilya ‘Dutch’ Lichtenstein, the eccentric couple accused of laundering billions in stolen Bitcoin.
The documentary raised new questions about national security, particularly regarding Lichtenstein’s alleged ties to Russia. Interviews with cybersecurity experts, former associates, and law enforcement officials painted a vivid picture of how the theft unfolded and its ramifications for the crypto ecosystem.
"Biggest Heist Ever" solidified crypto’s place in pop culture’s fascination with crime and intrigue. The blend of suspense, humor, and a real-world digital heist made the film a standout entry in the genre.
Conclusion
As we continue to explore the intersection of cryptocurrency and mainstream culture, it’s clear that crypto is leaving its mark on the world. From documentaries and music to reality TV and live events, these five notable instances demonstrate the growing influence of crypto in our society.
Whether it’s through artistic expression or educational content, crypto is becoming an increasingly prominent topic in popular culture. As we move forward, it will be fascinating to see how crypto continues to shape our world and leave its lasting impact on mainstream culture.
