About 'Summer of Soul'

'Summer of Soul (...Or When The Revolution Could Not Be Televised)' is a 2021 documentary directed by Questlove, the drummer of famous band The Roots. The movie takes us back to the summer of 1969, taking place in the midst of the Harlem Cultural Festival, a series of concerts that celebrated African American music and culture, and promoted Black pride and unity. Sadly, this massive and significant event was largely overlooked by the mainstream media at the time.

Making / Production

The film was directed by Ahmir "Questlove" Thompson, marking his directorial debut. The production involved painstakingly researching and restoring long-lost footage from the festival. After the footage had sat in a basement for about 50 years, 'Summer of Soul' finally brings these moments to life, showcasing the happiness, unity, and strength of the Black community celebrating their culture.

Actors

• Stevie Wonder: Seen performing an incredible drum solo, his role highlights the immense talent present at the festival.
• Mahalia Jackson & Mavis Staples: These influential Gospel singers performed an emotional duet, demonstrating the powerful, spiritual influence music released at that time.
• Gladys Knight & the Pips: Their performance amplifies the film's joyful atmosphere, highlighting the diversity of the musical styles present.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The film was Questlove's directorial debut, a great achievement for the musician.
• The Harlem Cultural Festival was also known as 'Black Woodstock,' highlighting its significance in the music history of the African American community.
• The footage from the festival lay forgotten in a basement for 50 years before its rediscovery and the making of this film.

Awards

'Summer of Soul' was awarded both the Grand Jury Prize and the Audience Award in the US Documentary Competition at the 2021 Sundance Film Festival, a remarkable feat for any film, let alone a directorial debut.

Quotes

• "The revolution will not be televised, but this was filmed."
• "We are Black. You can't erase what we were."

Music & Soundtrack

• Given that the film is about a music festival, the soundtrack is a crucial part of the 'Summer of Soul'. It heavily features soul, gospel, pop, and jazz, providing a rich display of African American music in the 60s.
• Artists like Nina Simone, B.B. King, Sly and the Family Stone, and The 5th Dimension are all featured in the soundtrack, highlighting the diverse range of music at the festival.