Standing in the Shadows of Motown

When I awoke this morning, I saw that the weather was not going to give me a birthday present — grey, overcast, rainy. I had been hoping to take my camera out, but it was too blustery for me. So instead, we went into town and bought CDs! Johnny Cash, some bluegrass/folk, Lucinda Williams, Gillian Welch, some Motown.

I bought the Motown because last night we went to see a film that I highly recommend: Standing in the Shadows of Motown, a documentary about the Funk Brothers, who were the musicians behind much of the wonderful Motown sound — bassist Jamie Jamerson, drummer Benny Benjamin, pianist Joe Turner, guitarist Joe Messina, and others. They were the sound that Motown became famous for, but got none of the recognition or fame, nor the financial rewards, that the vocalists got. This film is an attempt to rectify that while some of them are still alive.

I loved the way the film showed the older musicians talking and playing with younger artists like Ben Harper, Joan Osborne, Me'shell Ndegeocello. It was really well done, and god, the music! I was bopping in my seat. It was so uplifting.

So definitely go see this film if you have the opportunity. It's worth it.

I love Motown music! Haven't seen the movie, but it sounds great. Listening to Motown always puts me in a good mood :)

Can I second the recommendation? or third it? I really enjoyed it and am even toying with buying the CD.