Living on Soul

Living on Soul is a captivating documentary film from 2017 that beautifully unites the worlds of music and film, spotlighting the distinctive voices and personalities. The documentary takes its audience on a musical journey by featuring celebrated icons from the world of soul music, including Antibalas, Charles Bradley, and Thomas Brenneck.

Living on Soul chronicles the recording sessions of renowned music group the Dap-Kings at the legendary Apollo Theater, capturing the raw energy and pure soul of the performers. The film is directed by Cory Bailey and Jeff Broadway, who meticulously showcases the ebbs and flows of these sessions, painting an inspiring picture of comeback stories and the indomitable spirit of the human heart.

Antibalas, Charles Bradley, and Thomas Brenneck — all central figures in the contemporary soul music scene — are not just artists in this film, but narrators and storytellers who guide the audience through the history and evolution of the soul music genre. Their personal and professional experiences intermingle with the film’s central vein, creating a rich and textured narrative tapestry.

Charles Bradley, known as the ‘Screaming Eagle of Soul’, is a standout figure in this film. Bradley spent the majority of his life on the margins of the music industry, finally gaining recognition late in his career. His gut-wrenching performances and deeply personal anecdotes bring a grand sense of authenticity and pathos to the film.

Known for his energetic stage performances, Bradley shares his passion for the stage as he takes his audience on journey through the highs and lows of his life before he achieved musical success. His story goes beyond music — it's about struggle, perseverance, and an undying spirit in the face of adversity, aspects that form the core soul of Bradley's music.

Accordion organizer Thomas Brenneck, on the other hand, provides a refreshing counterpoint to Bradley's experience. Brenneck navigates the audience through the technical challenges of the music production process. His perspective on the role of a composer and producer adds another layer of complexity to the overall narrative by emphasizing the labor and love that goes into creating soul music.

The film features intense and unforgettable live performances by Antibalas, an Afrobeat band from Brooklyn, New York. The band specializes in jazz-inspired rhythms and harmonies, providing a distinct flavor to the film's musical palate. In the documentary, Antibalas’ captivating performances, with their unique blend of jazz, funk, and traditional African music, further embellishes the cultural diversity that soul music encapsulates.

Living on Soul is more than a music documentary. It is a heartfelt tribute to the resilience and passion of artists who refuse to be defined by their circumstances. Filmmakers Bailey and Broadway artfully blend interviews, background histories, behind-the-scenes footage, and live performances to create a full-bodied portrait of the artists, their struggles, and their triumphs. The film's narrative emphasizes human endeavor, determination, and the healing power of music.

One of the most profound features of the film is its ability to demonstrate the transformative power of music, not only for the musicians themselves but also for their audience. The film touches on themes of redemption, second chances, and the power of perseverance in pursuit of a dream.

Living on Soul is not restricted to music aficionados alone. The lessons contained within its stories of perseverance despite all odds, of late success, of both heartbreak and triumph, these are universal and compelling. Its greatest charm lies in its persistence, echoing through the music and personal stories it weaves, reflecting the undying spirit of its talented musicians who've spent their lives living on soul.

For fans of soul music, Living on Soul serves as a rich source of education and inspiration, but even those unfamiliar with the genre will find it hard to resist the allure of the film’s compelling storytelling, heartfelt performances, and the unyielding spirit it seeks to portray. It is a reminder that sometimes, music is more than just sounds — it's an embodiment of passion, pain, and ultimately, resilience. An evocative piece of modern musical history, Living on Soul is a celebration of human spirit and perseverance, an inspiring, thorough, and quite special documentary that's not to be missed.