The Blues (2003)
| Title | The Blues |
| Year | 2003 |
| Country | USA |
| Genre | Documentary (TV Shows) |
| Collection | Dance and Music |
| Run Time | 1h 45 min |
| Director |
The Blues (2003), a documentary series created by Martin Scorsese, delves into the rich history of blues music. Each of the seven episodes is directed by a different filmmaker, exploring various stages in the evolution of the genre. Originally broadcast on PBS (Public Broadcasting Service) in the United States, this project resonates deeply with all involved – including Wim Wenders, Richard Pierce, Charles Barnett, Mike Figgis, Clint Eastwood, and of course, Martin Scorsese himself. The directors share a passion for the blues that runs deep and reflects on its essence and transformative journey from West Africa to North America and beyond.
1. Feel Like Going Home. In his film, Director Martin Scorsese takes us on a journey to explore the origins of Delta blues. Alongside musician Corey Harris, he embarks on a trip through Mississippi and continues on to West Africa. Throughout the documentary, we are treated to performances by esteemed artists such as Willie King, Taj Mahal, Othar Turner, and Ali Farka Touré, as well as rare footage of Son House, Muddy Waters, and John Lee Hooker showcasing early Delta blues songs.
2. The Soul of a Man. In this film, Wim Wenders delves into the journeys of three blues musicians – Skip James, Blind Willie Johnson, and J.B. Lenoir – as they navigate their musical careers.
3. The Road to Memphis. Helmed by Richard Pearce, the episode centers on the vibrant Beale Street music scene. It offers an intimate look at three renowned Memphis blues artists – B. B. King, Rosco Gordon, and Bobby Rush – each with their own unique levels of recognition.
4. Warming by the Devil’s Fire. Penned and helmed by Charles Burnett, this movie tells the story of a boy journeying to Mississippi to see his family. He finds himself torn between the expectations of his devout mother and the allure of gospel music, as well as the enthusiasm of his blues-enthusiast uncle.
5. Godfathers and Sons. Filmmaker Marc Levin documents Marshall Chess as he reflects on his father’s impact on Chicago blues through the establishment of Chess Records and his own creation of the polarizing Electric Mud album. Levin also arranges a gathering of the original musicians from Electric Mud to re-record Muddy Waters’ classic blues track ‘Mannish Boy’, featuring appearances by renowned hip hop artists such as Chuck D, Common, and Kyle Jason.
6. Red, White and Blues. Mike Figgis directs this episode, which focuses on the impact of British Invasion on American blues culture and celebrates the blues scene in Britain. Viewers can see a jam session and hear from notable musicians such as Jeff Beck and Van Morrison. Other interviews with talented artists are also featured.
7. Piano Blues. Clint Eastwood directs this episode, which pays homage to blues music performed on the piano. As a skilled pianist and composer, Eastwood sits down with influential figures such as Dr. John, Ray Charles, Jay McShann (featured on the DVD cover), and Pinetop Perkins.
Date of download: 2015-11-11T17:22:34+00:00
The Blues (2003), a documentary series created by Martin Scorsese, delves into the rich history of blues music. Each of the seven episodes is directed by a different filmmaker, exploring various stages in the evolution of the genre. Originally broadcast on PBS (Public Broadcasting Service) in the United States, this project resonates deeply with all involved – including Wim Wenders, Richard Pierce, Charles Barnett, Mike Figgis, Clint Eastwood, and of course, Martin Scorsese himself. The directors share a passion for the blues that runs deep and reflects on its essence and transformative journey from West Africa to North America and beyond.
1. Feel Like Going Home. In his film, Director Martin Scorsese takes us on a journey to explore the origins of Delta blues. Alongside musician Corey Harris, he embarks on a trip through Mississippi and continues on to West Africa. Throughout the documentary, we are treated to performances by esteemed artists such as Willie King, Taj Mahal, Othar Turner, and Ali Farka Touré, as well as rare footage of Son House, Muddy Waters, and John Lee Hooker showcasing early Delta blues songs.
2. The Soul of a Man. In this film, Wim Wenders delves into the journeys of three blues musicians – Skip James, Blind Willie Johnson, and J.B. Lenoir – as they navigate their musical careers.
3. The Road to Memphis. Helmed by Richard Pearce, the episode centers on the vibrant Beale Street music scene. It offers an intimate look at three renowned Memphis blues artists – B. B. King, Rosco Gordon, and Bobby Rush – each with their own unique levels of recognition.
4. Warming by the Devil’s Fire. Penned and helmed by Charles Burnett, this movie tells the story of a boy journeying to Mississippi to see his family. He finds himself torn between the expectations of his devout mother and the allure of gospel music, as well as the enthusiasm of his blues-enthusiast uncle.
5. Godfathers and Sons. Filmmaker Marc Levin documents Marshall Chess as he reflects on his father’s impact on Chicago blues through the establishment of Chess Records and his own creation of the polarizing Electric Mud album. Levin also arranges a gathering of the original musicians from Electric Mud to re-record Muddy Waters’ classic blues track ‘Mannish Boy’, featuring appearances by renowned hip hop artists such as Chuck D, Common, and Kyle Jason.
6. Red, White and Blues. Mike Figgis directs this episode, which focuses on the impact of British Invasion on American blues culture and celebrates the blues scene in Britain. Viewers can see a jam session and hear from notable musicians such as Jeff Beck and Van Morrison. Other interviews with talented artists are also featured.
7. Piano Blues. Clint Eastwood directs this episode, which pays homage to blues music performed on the piano. As a skilled pianist and composer, Eastwood sits down with influential figures such as Dr. John, Ray Charles, Jay McShann (featured on the DVD cover), and Pinetop Perkins.
