Atlanta, September 9, 2025
News Summary
Brandon ‘BNU’ Fulton transitions from DJing to horsemanship in Atlanta, facing legal battles while aiming to foster community through equestrian experiences for underserved youth. His story is captured in the documentary ‘BRANU the Urban Horseman,’ highlighting themes of cultural legacy and land ownership amidst urban development.
Atlanta is witnessing a compelling story of cultural legacy through the lens of Brandon “BNU” Fulton, a former DJ who has transitioned from a nightlife scene to the world of horsemanship. Fulton’s journey is at the heart of a new documentary titled “BRANU the Urban Horseman”, directed by Adelin Gasana. This film captures Fulton’s quest for authenticity and deeper connections within his community as he seeks to redefine what it means to be a cowboy amidst the evolving landscape of urban Atlanta.
Fulton operates a 27-acre plot of rugged land located near Butner Road and Camp Creek Parkway. The property was initially raw and untamed, lacking the comforts of electricity and heat. Fulton’s off-grid lifestyle required him to adapt, relying on candles and natural sunlight for day-to-day living. His deep-rooted passion for horsemanship is influenced significantly by his childhood experiences riding horses with his grandfather.
However, Fulton’s pursuit of his equestrian dreams has not been without challenges. He faced legal battles with Fulton County, which accused him of animal cruelty leading to the confiscation of his horses and cow. Although the charges were eventually dropped after two years, Fulton has yet to retrieve his animals, and his case is now under consideration by a federal appeals court. This legal situation raises questions about the Fifth Amendment’s “taking clause” and how it applies to Black landowners in the context of urban development.
Fulton’s story goes beyond personal strife; it aims to challenge stereotypes prevalent in the cowboy narrative. He focuses on the significance of genuine human connections and the likelihood that authenticity can often be overshadowed by wealth and superficial pursuits. Fulton’s aspirations include opening his ranch to underserved youth, providing them with equestrian experiences typically reserved for wealthier children, thereby fostering a sense of community and inclusion.
The documentary, “BRANU the Urban Horseman,” addresses critical themes related to land ownership, gentrification, and cultural preservation. It aims to spark essential dialogues about resilience, community involvement, and the definition of progress in a rapidly developing city. This film highlights the increasing struggle for land and the legacy of Black ownership, drawing attention to the communities facing the threat of displacement due to urban changes.
As Fulton strives for a future where cultural heritage is not just preserved but actively shared with future generations, his journey emphasizes breaking down barriers and ensuring equitable access to the culture of horsemanship. The documentary intertwines Fulton’s personal narrative with broader social themes, creating a platform for discussion on who truly defines progress in Atlanta.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Documentary Title | BRANU the Urban Horseman |
| Main Subject | Brandon “BNU” Fulton |
| Themes | Authenticity, cultural legacy, gentrification, land ownership |
| Location | Atlanta, Georgia |
| Acreage of Land | 27 acres |
| Issues Faced | Legal battles regarding animal cruelty and land ownership |
| Goal for Youth | Provide access to equestrian experiences |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Rolling Out
- Wikipedia: Brandon Fulton
- Atlanta Magazine
- Google Search: Urban Cowboy Atlanta
- Vulture
- Google Scholar: Urban Development Atlanta
Author: STAFF HERE ATLANTA WRITER
The ATLANTA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAtlanta.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Atlanta, Fulton County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as vibrant music festivals like Shaky Knees and Music Midtown, major cultural celebrations including Dragon Con and the Atlanta Film Festival, and iconic sporting events like the Peachtree Road Race. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce and the Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, beverages, and retail that power the local economy such as Delta Air Lines, The Coca-Cola Company, and The Home Depot. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAugusta.com and HERESavannah.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
