Cuba: Island of Music MVD Entertainment Release date 7/26/11 Description: The film is a behind-the-scenes look at Afro-Cuban music’s role in the daily life of Cubans. Filmmaker Gary Keys (Memories of Duke and Dizzy’s Dream Band) brings the audience into the heart and soul of Havana, through a vibrant mosaic of street musicians, big […]
Movies
Dizzy Gillespie DVD
Dizzy Gillespie in Redondo A Film by Gary Keys Release date 6/21/11 Description: Gary Keys’ 1986 film capturing Dizzy Gillespie and band live in Redondo Beach, CA. The trumpeter/bandleader is in great form, leading his crack band through classics from various parts of his career. Filmed in Gary Keys signature style, with lots of […]
Count Basie DVD
Count Basie Then as Now, Counts the King Description: Jazz great William “Count” Basie comes back to life in this rich documentary, which traces the history of the pianist, composer, and bandleader over several decades. Filmmaker Gary Keys juxtaposes a roundtable discussion among old cats from the Count Basie Orchestra with recorded performances, including […]
Duke Ellington DVD
This documentary has such a warm feeling. Duke Ellington was loved personally and admired professionally by the people who knew him best. It was nice to be able to sit in on the personal conversations as people remembered his career and personal life. Music and the social structure of our country have come a […]