What it’s about
Jazz legend Clark Terry’s illustrious career included playing trumpet in both the Count Basie and Duke Ellington bands. He became the first African-American staff musician on NBC’s Tonight Show and mentored musical giants Miles Davis, Wynton Marsalis and Quincy Jones. At the age of 92 his health is deteriorating, but he still has the energy to spend time with Justin Kauflin, a young piano prodigy who is preparing for a prestigious jazz competition. Their friendship forms the basis of this touching documentary.
Why we love it
Punctuated with incredible archival footage of Terry playing throughout the years, this study in passion and drive focuses in on the man and his humanity. With his loving wife by his side, Terry faces physical adversity with grace and courage, taking comfort in a host of musical memories. He and Kauflin make a tender pair, and their mutual love of jazz inspires them both to keep on keepin’ on, no matter the odds.