Syl Johnson: Any Way the Wind Blows

Syl Johnson: Any Way the Wind Blows is a 2015 documentary film focusing on the life and prolific career of soul and blues musician, Syl Johnson. Johnson was a prominent yet underestimated musician who rose from obscurity to significantly impact the world of music.

The documentary film, directed by Rob Hatch-Miller and Puloma Basu, offers an intimate portrayal of Johnson. The co-directors take viewers on a soulful journey, chronologically outlining Johnson's career from his humble beginnings to his subsequent rise, navigating through the world of blues and soul music, then onto his hiatus, and finally, his triumphant return to the music scene.

Renowned for hits like "Is It Because I'm Black" and "Different Strokes," Johnson's influence swept through not just the genre he primarily worked in but also fed into the realms of Hip Hop, with over 300 songs to his credit sampled by artists from Wu-Tang Clan to Kanye West. Any Way the Wind Blows doesn't shy away from dwelling into this aspect. It explores how digital sampling boosted Johnson's career, providing him with a new found recognition and financial security in an era of music far removed from his prime.

Making excellent use of archival footage, contemporary interviews, and atmospheric location shooting, the film presents Johnson's story in an engaging and informative manner. It's an affectionate portrait of an underrated yet undeniably influential figure in modern music, giving him his rightful place in the spotlight.

Otis Clay, Charles Hodges, and Leroy 'Flick' Hodges, themselves notable figures in the soul and rhythm and blues scene, make appearances in the film, contributing significantly in bringing the musical era to life.

Otis Clay, a blues and soul singer known for his gospel-infused style, shares his insight and experiences about working in the industry during Johnson's era. Together with Charles 'Skip' Hodges and Leroy 'Flick' Hodges, famed brothers and renowned rhythm section, they provide a firsthand account of the music landscape of the time, and their narratives serve as an essential contextual element of the film.

The film doesn't limit itself to the sunshine and success in Johnson's career. It dives deep into the conflicts and setbacks, including Johnson's struggles with racial discrimination, personal adversity, and infringements on his financial rights as an artist. It also delves into Johnson's temporary retirement from the music industry, offering a comprehensive insight into the life of the man beyond the musician. The film portrays Johnson's resilience towards these challenges, his fight for his rights, and his dedication to his art in a nuanced manner.

"Humor" is a keyword that runs throughout the tale of Johnson's journey, and it's brilliantly captured in this documentary. Despite the hardships and struggles, Johnson's spirit and wit remain intact, beautifully reflecting his robust personality and adding a unique charm to the narrative.

Any Way the Wind Blows is as much about the evolution of American music history as it is about the life of Syl Johnson. The film uses Johnson's journey as a lens to explore the wider themes of struggle, success, and influence that proliferate music history. It's a tribute to and celebration of not just Johnson's unique musical legacy, but a reflection of the strength, creativity, and vibrancy of an era.

For music lovers and history enthusiasts, Syl Johnson: Any Way the Wind Blows serves as an exciting, in-depth entry into the life of a musician that many may not be familiar with, offering an intriguing perspective into the history of American music. However, you don't have to be a music aficionado to appreciate this documentary; it's a human story of resilience, creativity, and the enduring power of dreams.