Documentary,Music
United States of America
Chuck Berry: Hail! Hail! Rock 'n' Roll is a 1987 documentary film directed by Taylor Hackford. It is a celebration of Chuck Berry's career as a musician and songwriter, and it features a concert held in his honor on his 60th birthday. The concert was held at The Fox Theatre in St. Louis on October 16, 1986, and it featured a lineup of prominent musicians who came together to pay tribute to Berry's influence on rock and roll.
The film is also a retrospective on Berry's career, with interviews from other musicians who have been influenced by his work. These interviews provide insight into Berry's creative process and his impact on music, as well as his somewhat complicated personal life. The film includes archival footage of Berry's early career, as well as behind-the-scenes footage of the concert preparations.
One of the highlights of the concert was the performance of "Johnny B. Goode," which featured Chuck Berry on guitar and vocals, Keith Richards on guitar, Eric Clapton on guitar, Robert Cray on guitar, Joey Spampinato on bass, Steve Jordan on drums, and Johnnie Johnson on piano. The performance was electric, with each musician showcasing their talent and paying homage to Berry's influence on their own careers.
The film also features performances from Etta James, Linda Ronstadt, and Julian Lennon, who each performed their own versions of Berry's classic songs. The concert was a fitting tribute to Chuck Berry's legacy, and the film captures the excitement and energy of that night. Overall, Chuck Berry: Hail! Hail! Rock 'n' Roll is a must-watch for anyone interested in the history of rock and roll and the influence of Chuck Berry on popular music.
