Music lovers will be enthrall with Ahmir “Questlove” Thompson presents a powerful documentary, Summer of Soul available to stream on Disney+. This is the perfect addition to Black History Month celebrations and a way to joyfully recognize the keystone of American music during a time of political unrest.
Part music film, part historical record created around an epic event that celebrated Black history, culture and fashion. Over the course of six weeks in the summer of 1969, just one hundred miles south of Woodstock, The Harlem Cultural Festival was filmed in Mount Morris Park (now Marcus Garvey Park). The footage was largely forgotten–until now. This is the first time the footage has been viewed publicly and it is absolutely stellar! Having these amazing performances finally be brought to light is such a treat the senses.
Summer of Soul shines a light on the importance of history to our spiritual well-being and stands as a testament to the healing power of music during times of unrest, both past and present. The film includes concert performances by Stevie Wonder, Nina Simone, Sly & the Family Stone, Gladys Knight & the Pips, Mahalia Jackson, B.B. King, The 5th Dimension and more.
To hear more about the discovery of the footage and it came to director Ahmir “Questlove” Thompson, be sure to watch the behind-the-scenes featurette, “Soul Searching”. Also take a look at “Harlem: Then & Now” as the filmmakers revisit Mount Morris Park and explore the crossroads of culture and politics.
Summer of Soul is now available on Digital and DVD.
Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | #SummerOfSoulMovie
