The BEST Music Documentary of it's kind I've ever seen ..... "Summer of Soul"
It’s unbelievable to think that this footage has been hidden away for over 50 years and it’s only just now being released. I’m gobsmacked. I don’t think I have ever been glued to a documentary quite like this before.
I had always wished I could have seen my idols like Stevie Wonder, Sly and the Family Stone, Temptations, Ray Barretto, Nina Simone, and so so many more featured in this doco, up close and live at their peak, the footage is SO GOOD – watching this, it actually felt like you were there watching it live and gave you feeling of what it might be like to WITNESS, real music… at it’s best, by THE BEST, in the best era of music IMO (late 60’s to late 70s)!
The entire piece of work is incredible, performances and story-telling of the time and events of 1969. The political, racial, socio-economic climate all beautifully told within the footage, music and storyline. A must-see for all those who love all forms of black music and a timely watch for younger generations that have taken an avid interest in social, racial and equality issues over more recent years times and events.
Besides the obvious big artist names, and a polished production by Questlove, the highlight for me is a 2-minute sample from a live gospel performance, ‘call and response’ between Mahalia Jackson and Mavis Staples….took my breath away.
In Australia there are ‘creative ways’ you can see this now, and snippets floating around on youtube (so i would suggest you guys do a little diggin if you can’t wait for it to be officially released here). I believe it has only just come out in the US. One thing is for sure, I had this doco in my sights for quite a while now and it did not disappoint. Truly amazing piece of work and history caught on film. Definitely go see it when you get the chance!
Another highlight is Ray Baretto – “Together” (which i’ve made an edit of), a Latin Soul, boogaloo hit (Ray was also a Salsa legend) and threw up an amazing performance and message… I’ve done a re-edit of this track as i often play this out if i’m going down a latin-soul vibe:
Check it out Soundcloud or Bandcamp if you’re into that Latin soul vibe, I’ve made a playlist below. And 100% go see this documentary if you get a chance…. it’ll blow you’re mind!
Here is SUMMER OF SOUL preview link:
