Teen a Go Go

Teen A Go Go is a fascinating documentary film offering a deep exploration into the local rock and roll scene of the 1960s, specifically zeroing in on the lively atmosphere of Fort Worth, Texas. Released in 2012, the film is skillfully directed by Melissa Kirkendall and Mark Nobel and produced by Waterford Film Productions.

The film shines a spotlight on the amazing explosion of teen bands that emerged in the '60s, all with dreams of attaining stardom. It delves into the wave of the 'Teen Scene' which swept over the nation and the world, and even more so, the city of Fort Worth which became an unexpected hotbed for this budding trend. The film is an exhilarating cinematic visual tour that offers viewers an insider's look into this local scene that created a sensation during an era where pop culture was on a transformative journey.

Teen A Go Go takes its viewers through the unique journey of the teens who put their heart and soul into their bands, yearning for their music to hit the radio airwaves and looking forward to the day they would be able to secure a record deal, often a small, local label rather than a big name. This documentary is narrated through the lens of these teen musicians, their bands, and adoring fans, as well as the industry moguls who guided these bands enroute to their popularity.

While Teen A Go Go revolves around music, it’s not just about the tunes. The film does an excellent job at capturing the vibes, the aspirations, and the societal influences of the time. It shapes a compelling narrative on the relationship between music, adolescence, creativity, and the dreams of the countless teens from a time when rock and roll was young. For anyone interested in the birth of rock music, this film is a trip back in time to trace how independent music scenes shaped the future of the global music industry.

Teen A Go Go does not shy away from featuring lesser-known bands that were part of the intense local rock and roll scene. Bands that didn't make it big nationally, like The Barons, The Elite, and The Jades, had their unique stories told alongside those that did become popular, like The Rolling Stones and Jimmy Vaughan. The film portrays the rapid rise and equally swift decline of many of these bands, signifying the raw and fleeting nature of fame.

Interspersed with rare and classic footage, photographs of the bands, and interviews with band members and fans alike, this documentary is a treasure trove of nostalgia, capturing the heady days of the frenzied 'Go-Go' scene. Teen A Go Go brings together the voices of those who experienced that dynamic and influential time first-hand, including testimonies from Larry and Timmy of ‘The Elite’, Bruce Channel, famous for the hit ‘Hey! Baby,’ and famed disc jockey George Gimarc, among many others.

Teen A Go Go also does an outstanding job at identifying the spirit of youthful rebellion epitomized by the 'Teen Scene'. The film resonates deeply with its audience as it evokes the angst, thrill, and urgency of the teen years - underscoring that the desire for self-expression, rebellion, and the quest to fit in are timeless youth experiences that span across generations, geographies, and musical genres.

While the film does relive a particular period in the music history of Fort Worth, Texas, its resonance lies in its universal themes: the exhilaration of youthful creativity, the dreams and aspirations, the fall and redemption, making it relatable to audiences globally. With a running time of 87 minutes, Teen A Go Go creates a vivid tapestry of the unique intersection of teen angst, love for music, and the rapid societal changes of the time.

Overall, Teen A Go Go is a must-watch for anyone seeking an understanding of the essence of the '60s music scene or indeed anyone interested in music history. This documentary effectively transports you to a bygone era, letting you experience, through real stories, the rollercoaster journey of the 'Teen Scene.' It's a charmingly nostalgic and informative viewing experience that beautifully captures the timeless power of music and its profound impact on the teenage soul.