Features: DVD
The illuminating, and ground-breaking PBS series (airing Fall '03) on the blues, a seven-part documentary series produced by Martin Scorsese.A definitive overview of Blues, from its earliest recordings over 80 years ago, to contemporary artists and new recordings made specifically for this package. Each of the seven DVDs contains a myriad of special features including: making-of material, artist and director interviews, director commentaries, plus live performances not seen in the PBS broadcasts, including footage of Van Morrison, Jeff Beck, Otis Rush, Ike Turner, Ray Charles, Little Richard, Bonnie Raitt, Lou Reed, Cassandra Wilson, Los Lobos, B.B. King and Taj Mahal. The series begins with the journey from Africa to the Mississippi Delta — where the music grew from slaves' field hollers, work songs and spirituals — then travels up the Mississippi River to the juke joints, house parties and recording studios of Memphis and Chicago, and culminates with the emotional embrace of this African-American creation by musicians and people throughout the world.
"We're on the brink of something that is going to be very big... the series is going to bring in a lot of people who don't know or only vaguely know about blues." The New York Times
Editor's Note
Produced by Martin Scorsese and helmed by seven major film directors (including Clint Eastwood, Wim Wenders, and Charles Burnett), this lavish seven-part collection traces the history of the blues, and was originally aired on PBS. Beginning by discovering the earliest recorded works of the blues from the 1920s, and ending with the influence and sound of the blues on contemporary music, this comprehensive guide is the definitive word on the genre. Some incredible footage has been unearthed, including interviews, behind the scenes material, and electrifying performances from artists including Otis Rush, Ray Charles, B.B. King, and many others. A classic collection for the connoisseur of the blues, or the perfect place to start for those who want to learn more about this uniquely American genre of music.
|
