Rating: B
Troubadours is a film, released on DVD, with a
bonus CD of music, that documents the rise of the
singer-songwriter of the 1970’s in California. The club,
The Troubadour, was the catalyst for many of the genres
most famous careers, including the stars of this film,
James Taylor and Carol King. The two even preform a
special gig at the club to celebrate the genre.
Taylor and King tell the tale from the earliest days
through the explosion of the style of music. Each of
their careers is documented beautifully in the movie.
They, however, are not alone as the film includes many
guests. David Crosby, Kris Kristofferson, Cheech &
Chong, Elton John, Leland Skyler, Steve Martin, Roger
McGuinn, Bonnie Raitt, JD Souther and Jackson Browne all
are interviewed for the documentary as well.
This is a very in-depth look into a time when young
people were looking for meaning beyond boy-meets-girl
music. The result were many heartfelt tunes as well as
political agendas. The movement also saw woman stand up
and prove they are just as skilled at writing songs as
their penis sporting counterparts.
This is an interesting, well done documentary that
allows the tale to be told by those who were there. It
is honest and has integrity – just like the music they
created.
By Jeb Wright