Woody Guthrie All-Star Tribute Concert 1970

Woody Guthrie All-Star Tribute Concert 1970 is a documentary film that captures the uniqueness and innovation of the music and art of Woody Guthrie, one of the most influential folk musicians and songwriters of the 20th century. The concert was held in January 1968 at the Carnegie Hall in New York, organized to mark Guthrie's 55th birthday, who was terminally ill (he died later that year).

The concert is remarkable for its line-up, which featured some of the most iconic musicians of the time, who came together to pay homage to a fellow artist who had inspired and influenced their work. The line-up included Bob Dylan, Joan Baez, Pete Seeger, Odetta, Ramblin' Jack Elliot, Arlo Guthrie (Woody's son), Country Joe McDonald, Tom Paxton, and Richie Havens, among others. The variety of styles and visions presented in the show make it one of the most eclectic and representative concerts in the history of American folk music.

The film opens with a brief introduction to Woody Guthrie and his legacy. There are several interviews with fans and fellow musicians who describe his unique approach to songwriting and his social and political activism. The concert is presented as a celebration of Guthrie's life and contributions to American music and culture.

The first act of the concert features some of the most traditional folk songs from the Guthrie repertoire, played with the intensity and authenticity that had made Guthrie such an icon of American protest music. Pete Seeger takes the stage with his banjo and invites the audience to sing along. Together, they perform several songs, including 'This Land is Your Land', one of Guthrie's most famous compositions. Ramblin' Jack Elliot contributes with his unique, storytelling style and performs 'Pretty Boy Floyd,' a song about an Oklahoma bank robber. Odetta captivates the audience with her powerful voice and soulful interpretations of the folk classics.

The second act showcases some of the most innovative and daring artists of the time, who were expanding the boundaries of folk music and incorporating rock, blues, and psychedelic elements into their works. Bob Dylan takes the stage with his acoustic guitar and delivers a beautiful rendition of 'A Hard Rain's A-Gonna Fall,' a song that resonated strongly with the political and social climate of the time. Joan Baez follows with a stunning version of 'Joe Hill,' a song that speaks of the struggles of workers and their sense of community. Country Joe McDonald brings his anti-war message to the concert with 'I-Feel-Like-I'm-Fixin'-to-Die Rag,' a satirical song that went on to become a classic of the Vietnam War era.

The third act features some of Woody Guthrie's best-known songs, including 'Deportee' and 'Do-Re-Mi.' Arlo Guthrie, Woody's son, takes the stage and performs 'Coming Into Los Angeles,' a song that he had written for the Woodstock festival the previous year. Tom Paxton sings 'The Last Thing on My Mind,' a poignant love song that had become one of Guthrie's most beloved tunes.

The film ends with a group performance of 'This Train is Bound for Glory,' a song that captures the spirit and resilience of the human spirit. The concert is a testimony to the enduring power of Guthrie's music, which had transcended generations and styles and had become an essential part of the American cultural heritage.

Overall, Woody Guthrie All-Star Tribute Concert 1970 is a must-see for anyone interested in American folk music and its evolution throughout the 20th century. It captures the essence and vitality of Guthrie's music and presents it in a dynamic and exciting way. The film also highlights the diversity and richness of American culture and the role that music played in shaping it. It is a fitting tribute to an artist who had a profound impact on the world and whose legacy continues to inspire and empower people around the globe.