Watch Hired Gun

Hired Gun, a documentary from 2016, is an eye-opening glimpse into the world of session musicians, also known as “hired guns”. The film, directed by Fran Strine, features interviews with some of the most renowned sidemen and women in the music industry, including guitar virtuoso John 5, drumming legend Kenny Aronoff, and bassist Corey Britz.

The film explores the often-overlooked but crucial role played by these musicians, who are hired by recording artists and bands to play on their albums or join them on tour. With a clear focus on the music, Hired Gun takes us on a journey through the lives and careers of some of these unsung heroes of the music industry.

The film begins with an energetic performance by John 5, who also serves as the narrator of the film. He takes us back to his early days and shares how he got his start in the business. He talks about his time with Marilyn Manson and Rob Zombie and how being a hired gun has defined his career.

We also meet Kenny Aronoff, who has played drums for everyone from John Mellencamp to Bob Dylan. Aronoff’s work can be heard on countless hits, and his contributions to the music industry are immeasurable. He takes us through his early days as a musician, his struggles to make it in the business, and how he became a sought-after session player.

Corey Britz, who has worked with such artists as Bush and Filter, provides yet another perspective on the life of a hired gun. He talks about the highs and lows of touring and how it can be a challenging but rewarding experience.

The film is filled with interviews with some of the biggest names in the music industry, including Alice Cooper, Rob Zombie, and Billy Joel. These icons share their thoughts on the vital role played by hired guns and how they have contributed to their own success.

One of the most moving moments in the film comes when we hear from the family members of musicians who have passed away. They speak about the joys and challenges of having a loved one who was a hired gun and what it meant to them. It’s a poignant reminder of just how important these unsung heroes are to the music industry.

The film also delves into the wider implications of the hired gun phenomenon. It addresses the fact that many of these musicians are not given the recognition they deserve and are often not compensated fairly for their work. It also explores the impact of technology on the music industry, and how the rise of home recording studios has affected the demand for session players.

Overall, Hired Gun is a fascinating and insightful look into the often-overlooked world of session musicians. It’s a must-see for any music fan, and a reminder of just how much these unsung heroes contribute to the music we love. The film is a celebration of their talent, dedication, and hard work, and a reminder that behind every great artist, there is often a hired gun providing the backbone of the music.

Hired Gun is a 2017 music movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 38 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.2.