Need
As this proposal is being written, word traveled that a Chicago blues musician was in the hospital. He has since been released, but this incident among recent others exemplifies the point that this time is the right time to document the Chicago blues players of this generation. Too many players who have graced the stages this decade are falling into obscurity following a sickness or death.
In 2008, Vernon Banks who went by the name ‘Chico’ passed away at a young age unexpectedly due to natural causes. When Chico played the guitar, it was an eclectic style, fast, defining, and distinct to his nature. Off-stage he had a smile that would light the darkest blues club in the city, a charm that warmed the hardest of hearts, and a laugh that made us all forget our worries. It would have been interesting if the little nuances were also known that made up his bigger personality such as his penchant for running next door in-between musical sets to chow down on steak tacos with extra hot sauce while chatting with the other customers. Chico didn’t put on airs, he was a Chicagoan, the band leader for the Candy Lickers, and he was in essence the Chicago Blues.
The need for this documentary extends to Chicago tourism. Tourism in Chicago brought 45.6 million visitors in 2008 according to the Official Visitor site for Chicago. Live music is a draw attracting all kinds of music lovers. This documentary will enable future visitors to become acquainted with the Blues talent prior to their visits. Visitors will feel right at home when they actually see the bands that are portrayed in this film.
This documentary will also provide a means of representing the Chicago blues clubs that aren’t listed in the tour guides. While blues clubs are listed in every tourism guide book, there are many gems speckled across the city that aren’t represented either due to location, ease to public transportation, or unwillingness by club owners to advertise, but not because they don’t want to have customers. These clubs are every bit as hot and rich with talent and offer both superb southern cuisine, in addition to soulful Chicago blues music. This film will showcase the clubs where Chicago blues happen in the city.
|
Need
