Watch Joe Cocker - Cry Me a River: Live in Berlin, 1980

Joe Cocker - Cry Me a River: Live in Berlin, 1980 is a captivating and energetic concert film featuring the legendary English rock and blues singer Joe Cocker. The film was shot during his 1980 European tour, in front of a rapturous crowd in the Berlin Sports Palace, and captures one of the most iconic performances of his career. From the very beginning of the film, it is clear that we are in for a treat. Joe Cocker and his band take the stage to thunderous applause, and launch into an electrifying rendition of "Cry Me a River". From the first note, Cocker's powerful voice bursts forth with raw emotion, and it is impossible not to be swept up in the energy of the performance.

The song leads seamlessly into "Feelin' Alright", another classic track that showcases Cocker's soulful vocals and the tight, punchy sound of his band. The audience is on their feet, clapping and singing along, and Cocker responds with an infectious energy that never lets up throughout the entire show.

Cocker is backed by an incredibly talented group of musicians, including Chris Stainton on keyboards, Cliff Goodwin on guitar, and Alan Spenner on bass. The chemistry between the band members is palpable, and their tight arrangements provide the perfect canvas for Cocker's distinctive voice to paint its soulful, bluesy hues.

Throughout the course of the film, Cocker and his band play a range of songs from his extensive catalog, including familiar hits like "You Are So Beautiful" and "With a Little Help from My Friends", as well as lesser-known gems like "I'm So Glad I'm Standing Here Today". Each song is performed with a passion and intensity that is simply breathtaking, and there are countless moments that are sure to give you goosebumps.

One of the highlights of the concert is undoubtedly Cocker's performance of "The Letter". This soulful classic starts off slow and brooding, with Cocker crooning the opening lines over a simple piano riff. But as the song builds, so does the energy of the performance, with the band gradually coming in and Cocker's voice climbing higher and higher until he is practically screaming the chorus. It is a truly electrifying moment, and one that is sure to stick with you long after the film is over.

Another standout performance comes during "Put Out the Light", a melancholy ballad that showcases Cocker's remarkable vocal range and his ability to convey genuine emotion through his singing. As he pours his heart out on stage, it is clear that the audience is completely entranced, hanging on every word and feeling every note.

One of the most remarkable things about this film is the way that it captures Cocker's unique stage presence. He is a force of nature, flailing around the stage with wild abandon, shouting, whispering, and growling his way through each song. At times, it almost seems like he is possessed by the music, lost in the moment and completely absorbed in the performance. It is a truly awe-inspiring sight to behold, and one that is sure to leave an indelible impression on anyone who sees it.

Throughout the film, there are also interviews with Cocker and his band, providing some fascinating insights into their creative process and the history of the band. These interviews are interspersed with footage of the concert itself, giving viewers a behind-the-scenes look at what it was like to be a part of this unforgettable performance.

In conclusion, Joe Cocker - Cry Me a River: Live in Berlin, 1980 is an absolute must-see for anyone who loves rock, blues, or soul music. With its electrifying performances, powerful vocals, and infectious energy, it is a film that will leave you feeling inspired, energized, and completely captivated by the magic of live music. So put on your dancing shoes, turn up the volume, and get ready to be blown away by one of the greatest rock and blues singers of all time.