The makers of a music documentary on Chicago’s music scene, including contributions from Jack White and Bob Dylan, are seeking financial support in order to secure rights to the music they are celebrating.
Born In Chicago, directed by John Anderson (2005 Brian Wilson documentary SMiLE), documents the progression of the genre as it evolved in the city during the ’50s and ’60s.
The team behind the film have launched a PledgeMusic campaign in order to raise money to secure the rights for the music and archived footage used in the documentary. The campaign runs until September 16 and offers merchandise such as copies of the film, clothing and a box set collection (in multiple formats, including LP) for anyone who donates to the cause.
Larger donators will also be able to purchase rarer items such as Chicago blues posters, a chance to Skype keyboardist Barry Goldberg ($300), tickets to the movie’s premiere and after-party ($150) and guitars signed by blues legends Elvin Bishop and Rick Reed ($2,500).
The film features an array of interviews and performances from artists including BB King, Howlin’ Wolf, Muddy Waters, Buddy Guy, Steve Miller, Eric Burdon, Charlie Musselwhite, Sam Lay and Hubert Sumlin.
When talking to NY Times, documentary narrator, Marshall Chess explains: “It’s important to know the real story; I didn’t like the Hollywood fictional treatment. In fact, I was embarrassed by it. This was an amazing part of American history and a big part of Chicago’s creative history, though we didn’t know it at the time because we were too busy trying to make hit records.”
Aside from the pledge, the film is otherwise complete and has been screened at both South by Southwest and Chicago Blues Festival.
