Ready to “Rumble?”
“Rumble: The Indians who Rocked the World” is a recently released movie documentary Frank and Sam highly encourage all to go see! The documentary does a commendable job of chronicling those Native Americans who left their formidable “footprint” in many genres of modern music, not just rock and roll. From Mississippi blues guitarist Charlie Patton to the great jazz singer Mildred Bailey, these influential Native American musical artists are also portrayed.
The documentary is yet another testimony spotlighting the rich and creative culture of the American Indian. Their musical talents were often times unrecognized and disassociated with their heritage. The movie’s title, “Rumble,” refers to the 1958 rock song by Shawnee musical artist Link Wray. The song’s iconic sound with Wray’s ground-breaking use of “power chords” paved the way in influencing many other rock musicians. Jimi Hendrix (yes, Jimi!), Robbie Robertson, Randy Castillo, Buffy Sainte-Marie, Jesse Ed Davis and Stevie Salas (also an executive producer of the documentary) are some of the influential Native American musicians, singers and song writers noted in the movie. Steven Tyler, Iggy Pop, Steve Van Zandt, Tony Bennett, Slash, Wayne Kramer, Taj Mahal and George Clinton are a few among many who pay homage to the many Native American musical artists who profoundly influenced their music. Oh yes, almost forgotten, highly acclaimed film director Martin Scorsese also chimes in!
Remembering Jesse
Noting the remembrance of the Kiowa/Comanche studio musician and lead guitarist Jesse Ed Davis was of particular interest. Frank notes of being introduced to Davis’ distinctive guitar style during his tenure with singer/musician Taj Mahal. “Jesse’s soulful guitar play on “Six Days on the Road” instantly got me hooked” claims Frank. Jesse also played lead guitar on Jackson Browne’s hit song “Doctor My Eyes” and was credited for playing lead guitar on the Monkees classic tune “Last Train To Clarksville.” “Now that’s a song with a guitar riff no one can forget” Sam says laughingly! Jesse’s gifted musical talent was enormously respected and sought after by so many other noteworthy musicians including John Lennon, George Harrison, Eric Clapton, Rod Stewart and Leon Russell.
Enticed to see? We hope so!!
Sam Shoultz and Frank Petrouskie