In Search of Blind Joe Death: The Saga of John Fahey

Watch In Search of Blind Joe Death: The Saga of John Fahey

  • NR
  • 2013
  • 58 min
  • 6.9  (111)

In Search of Blind Joe Death: The Saga of John Fahey is a documentary film that explores the life and music of John Fahey, one of the most revered figures in American folk, blues and experimental music. The film traces Fahey's career and legacy from his early days as a young music enthusiast in the suburbs of Washington D.C. to his later years as a pioneering musician and composer.

Through interviews with family members, friends, fellow musicians, and music industry insiders, the film paints a vivid portrait of Fahey's complicated persona and his groundbreaking music. Fahey's music was uncompromisingly avant-garde and experimental, yet deeply rooted in traditional American music, particularly blues and folk.

The film chronicles the development of Fahey's distinctive musical style, which combined traditional fingerstyle guitar technique with elements of Indian classical music, minimalism, and even psychedelic rock. Along the way, the film examines the impact of Fahey's music on other artists, both within and beyond the folk and blues scene.

One of the most fascinating aspects of In Search of Blind Joe Death is the way it grapples with Fahey's troubled personal life. Fahey was a deeply conflicted artist, struggling with mental illness, addiction, and feelings of isolation and alienation. The film explores Fahey's complex relationships with his family, his colleagues and fans, and with the music industry itself.

Despite these challenges, Fahey remained a hugely influential figure throughout his life, inspiring countless musicians across a wide range of genres. In Search of Blind Joe Death sheds light not only on Fahey's achievements but also on the broader cultural and musical landscape that gave rise to his groundbreaking work.

The documentary also features rare archival footage of Fahey himself, both onstage and off, as well as interviews with some of his closest collaborators and admirers, including Pete Townshend, Sonic Youth's Thurston Moore, and composer and contemporary classical luminary Terry Riley. These interviews provide valuable insights into the way that Fahey's music has influenced musicians and audiences alike over the years.

Overall, In Search of Blind Joe Death is a deeply illuminating account of the life and career of one of America's most singular musical talents. The film is a must-see for anyone interested in the history and evolution of American music, or for fans of Fahey's inventive and boundary-pushing music. Through its intimate and revealing portrait of Fahey's life and work, this film stands as a fitting tribute to a truly original and visionary artist.

In Search of Blind Joe Death: The Saga of John Fahey
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Description
  • Release Date
    2013
  • MPAA Rating
    NR
  • Runtime
    58 min
  • Language
    English
  • IMDB Rating
    6.9  (111)