All We Are Saying Rocks
This week, a documentary on Showtime has caught my eye. It is very well made, interesting, and thoughtful. It is entitled "All We Are Saying." The documentary was compiled by Rosanna Arquette -- an actress turned film maker. Most documentaries I have really loved include some musical performances. This piece is very different. Rosanna Arquette creates a conversational atmosphere. The discussion is more candid than I have ever witnessed. Many of the musicians open up and divulge their deepest thoughts. The only music heard is background noise. During some conversations, music is playing as background noise in the room being filmed. Extraordinary. There are so many artists, I can't describe my reaction to each. The highlights for me include Thom Yorke, Patti Smith, Andre 3000 Benjamin, David Crosby, Perry Farrell and Tom Petty. Tom Yorke is a strange and awkward character. As he stares into the camera you almost laugh, but his words cause you to think and wonder. If I recall correctly, Elton John calls Radiohead the most important band in the last decade. Patti Smith is about as raw an artist as the come. As she sits on the couch starring out into no where, you can tell she is really opening her heart to Rosanna. Andre 3000 is the most unlikely artist on my list. He is as flamboyant a dresser as any. He expresses is love for family and how the road can cause a strain on that love. David Crosby is almost comical in his description of a musician's life. He says something to affect of we don't make any money on the road -- we loose money. That does not matter. The road is the only way play these instruments together. Perry Farrell was adamant that people are always going to want to have fun. People will always want to go out on a Friday night. Musicians can always fill clubs, bars, theaters and stadiums to entertain. Tom Petty explained that music is a shared common experience. It can't be manufactured like Nike makes shoes. Musicians will always be able to connect on this level. Overall, the musicians expressed discontent for the music industry. They don't agree with common business practices. Many feel that music will triumph. Ultimately, those with talent will be seen and heard. Generally, they commented on the strains of life on tour. They explained the loneliness and isolation places a strain on a musician's personal relationships. All negativity aside, everyone seemed content with their life decision to be a musician. I didn't hear one interview were a musician expressed regret in their career choice. The documentary is impeccable. The insight is real. I was very impressed with number of musicians willing to open up their hearts to Rosanna. I have to give her praise for coordinating this project. I really like the raw feel of each conversation. You don't even miss the absence of musical performances. If you'd like to hear today's perspective of major musicians, check out "All We Are Saying." image courtesy of www.sho.com
