Watch Burt Bacharach: On Composing

Burt Bacharach: On Composing is an insightful and engaging documentary that takes us into the musical mind of one of the greatest composers of the 20th century. The film features the legendary Burt Bacharach in conversation with his longtime friend and collaborator, Mark Horowitz. Throughout the documentary, Bacharach reflects on his life and career, discussing everything from his early influences to his creative process to his collaborations with some of the biggest names in music. He talks about how he first fell in love with music as a child in New York City, how he got his start writing songs for artists like Gene Pitney and Dionne Warwick, and how his sound evolved over time as he experimented with different genres.

One of the most fascinating aspects of the film is watching Bacharach work in his studio as he demonstrates his process for composing music. He talks about how he starts with a simple melody or chord progression and then builds on it, adding layers of instrumentation and arrangement until he finds the perfect sound. It's fascinating to see how he tweaks and adjusts his compositions until he's satisfied with the final product.

Bacharach's genius for melody and arrangement is on full display throughout the film, as we get to hear some of his most beloved songs performed live and in studio recordings. From the classic hits like "What the World Needs Now Is Love" and "Walk On By" to more obscure gems like "Alfie" and "Wives and Lovers," we get a sense of just how versatile and timeless Bacharach's music really is.

But the film isn't just a celebration of Bacharach's achievements; it's also an honest and sometimes raw look at the difficulties and setbacks he's faced throughout his career. He talks candidly about the challenges of writing music for films and TV shows, and the disappointment he felt when some of his more experimental work didn't connect with audiences.

Throughout it all, though, Bacharach comes across as an endlessly creative and optimistic force, always looking for new ways to challenge himself and evolve as an artist. He's an icon of American music, and this film is a must-see for anyone who loves great songwriting and wants to learn more about one of its greatest practitioners.

In addition to Bacharach and Horowitz, the film also features interviews with some of Bacharach's collaborators and admirers, including legendary producer Phil Ramone, singer/songwriter Elvis Costello, and hip-hop producer Dr. Dre. Their insights and commentary help to shed further light on Bacharach's influence and legacy, and add an extra layer of depth to the film.

Overall, Burt Bacharach: On Composing is a must-see for anyone who loves music and wants to learn more about one of its greatest living legends. With its mix of interviews, live performances, and behind-the-scenes glimpses into Bacharach's creative process, it's a fascinating and entertaining journey through the mind and music of a true master.