Bayou Maharajah: The Life and Music of James Booker

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Bayou Maharajah is a feature-length video documentary on the life and music of New Orleans piano legend James Booker. Through interviews with friends and contemporaries, the film traces Booker's life from child prodigy to his acclaimed work as session pianist, his solo career and infamous personal life to his early death and continuing legacy. Illustrated with archival concert footage, still photos and promotional material, the film paints a portrait of this overlooked genius. The soundtrack brings to life Booker's distinct style and includes his early R&B hits, his genre-defying medleys, and the 'spiders on the keys' complexity of his music.

Category:

Music

Tags:

• James Booker
• New Orleans
• piano
• documentary

[bakerjonez]

What is the title of the song that starts at 0:38?

[lkeber]

@bakerjonez It's called "Papa Was a Rascal" and is off the album Spiders On The Keys, recorded live at the Maple Leaf.

[monkeytown1000]

I'm 57 and from England and I'd never heard of James Booker till a couple of years ago, even though I knew Professor Longhair, Allen Toussaint, Dr. John etc. To me he is an astonishing pianist, the best of the lot. I hope you can release the documentary over here in Britian.

[lkeber]

@monkeytown1000 Most definitely! When the film is done, we'll definitely show it in Britain. There's a ton of Booker fans over there, it seems. Thanks for the support!

[lkeber]

Yes! We're finishing production now and hope to start editing in May. The target release date is early 2012.

[MrTriolian]

To me he is one of the greatest piano players ever in music history! He was also a great singer! A true genius! Hope, this anounced documentry will be released as soon as possible!

[sargea1]

awesome! best news all year!

[sirop1960]

I will be waiting for this!!

[scodav]

Oh man!  I'll be on the lookout for this.

[outsidernl]

Best news ive heard all year!!