Woody Guthrie: All-Star Tribute Concert 1970

Woody Guthrie: All-Star Tribute Concert 1970 takes you on an unforgettable journey into the depths of a legendary folk music era. This compelling documentary offers an engrossing chronicle of the tribute concert that was held in 1970 to honor American folk music trailblazer Woody Guthrie, whose profound influence on the genre remains significant to this day. In an all-star concert held at the Hollywood Bowl, a calvacade of musicians came together to pay homage to the extraordinary legacy and contribution of Woody Guthrie.

This distinctive cinematic masterpiece encapsulates the energy, emotion, and collective appreciation that was felt during the live event. The concert, which initially took place two years after Guthrie's death, unified a multitude of renowned artists that drew inspiration from Guthrie's music and beliefs. The film weaves through the highpoints of this concerts, showcasing both individual performances and grand collaborations within some of the most revered folk and country artists of the time.

In this high-quality film restoration, fans and new audiences alike are given a front row seat to performances by the likes of Arlo Guthrie, Joan Baez, Pete Seeger, Country Joe McDonald, Odetta, Richie Havens, Ramblin' Jack Elliott and others. With each strum of a guitar or stroke of a violin, the legendary figures pay tribute to the enduring influence that Guthrie’s music had on their careers.

The music is undeniably the heart of the film, but it serves a larger purpose as well: a reflection of the lasting influence Woody Guthrie had on the 1960s folk revival and the music industry as a whole. Guthrie's tales of America's harsh realities, and the dignity and resilience of its people, are echoed in performances by artists standing on that Hollywood Bowl stage, demonstrating the timeless quality of his work.

Each performance is interwoven with snippets of rare Guthrie footage, along with illuminating interviews with the performers. This interspersion of musical performances with interviews helps reveal the profound impact that Guthrie made on each of these artists personally. They delve into Guthrie's influence on their careers, his philosophy towards music and society, and how his messages continue to resonate in the modern era. It’s more than just a recollection of memories; this aspect of the film becomes a profound testament to Guthrie’s influence.

One of the fascinating elements about Woody Guthrie: All-Star Tribute Concert 1970 is its unveiling of the journey towards the concert. The film serves up backstories, accounts of the planning stages, and rehearsals while segueing to the main event. It shifts from preparations to performances swiftly but smoothly, creating an atmosphere that's as much about the anticipation and build-up as it is about the performances themselves.

A highlight of this film is its quality. Despite being filmed over five decades ago, the restoration efforts have resulted in a sharply detailed and brightly colored footage. This quality, coupled with enhanced audio, ensures the film truly does justice to the landmark concert.

Besides being an unforgettable musical journey, the film captures the spirit of the time, tapping into the socio-political currents that Guthrie's music often highlighted. It presents a moving image of the melding of music, protest, and activism - themes that were central to Guthrie's work and life.

Woody Guthrie: All-Star Tribute Concert 1970 is more than a film or a concert; it's a time capsule that transports viewers back to an era and an event of great musical and cultural significance. The film is a heart-stirring tribute to a man who could eloquently articulate the collective consciousness of the people through music, and pass on his wisdom and vision to future generations symbolized by the star-studded cast of the concert.

The homage paid to Woody Guthrie in this film reaffirms the enduring relevance and significance of his contribution to American music and culture. Both a visual and musical feast, the Woody Guthrie: All-Star Tribute Concert 1970 will be relished by music lovers, history aficionados, and anyone who appreciates a deep-dive into a bygone era of potent cultural change.

In summary, Woody Guthrie: All-Star Tribute Concert 1970 is a must-watch, immersive experience that relives an iconic tribute and exalted folk-music legend Woody Guthrie. Its brilliance lies not only in its musical renditions but also in capturing the essence of a man beloved and revered by his peers and future generations. This concert film is a profound testament to Guthrie’s lasting legacy and the power of music to unite and inspire.