Commit to the Song: The Joe Thomas Jr. Guitar Pull

Commit to the Song: The Joe Thomas Jr. Guitar Pull is a touching 2017 documentary that faithfully recounts the powerful influence of one man on his local music scene, ultimately giving rise to an incredible monthly tradition. Engaging and tender, it tells a tale of human perseverance, the unyielding power of music, and how one person's passion can reverberate and inspire a whole community. The film stars Robert 'Bubba' Hall, Jonathan Tew, and Gini Thomas, capturing their nuanced performances and heartfelt contributions.

Joe Thomas Jr. was an aspiring songwriter and musician whose life was abruptly cut short by an unfortunate accident. But his indomitable spirit and passion for music have lived on beyond his mortality, shaping the music culture of Montgomery, Alabama in the most extraordinary way. Director Josh Carples explores the profound influence of Joe's short but impactful life in Commit to the Song.

The film showcases the "Joe Thomas Jr. Guitar Pull," a monthly event held at the Cloverdale Playhouse, a small community theater at Montgomery. A different kind of tribute, this guitar pull is a meeting spot for musicians and artists to gather and share their songs in an intimate setting, expressing their creativity openly and honestly. Showcasing the diverse musical styles that find a home in Montgomery, the Guitar Pull has become a lively hub for local music, cultivating inspiration, collaboration, and vibrant sense of community.

Robert 'Bubba' Hall, Jonathan Tew, and Gini Thomas play integral roles in this story. Through interviews, performances, and shared anecdotes, the film reveals these personalities behind the music - they are the artists who participate regularly in the guitar pulls, carrying forth Joe's spirit through their commitment to the song and their admiration for the supportive musical community they are part of.

Hall, known for his energetic performances and heartfelt songs, is depicted as a particularly inspiring figure. He demonstrates the healing and transformative power of music, personifying the resilience that music provides when life threatens to beat us down.

Jonathan Tew, who contributes both as a singer and a songwriter, helps to translate the soul emotion into music, his songs touching the hearts of all those who partake in the monthly guitar pulls. Often serving as a sounding board to other artists within the community, Tew’s dedication and passion carry the essence of what the guitar pull truly stands for.

Lastly, Gini Thomas adds another captivating layer to this musical narrative. As the widow of Joe Thomas Jr., she symbolizes the undying nature of love and remembrance. Continuously supporting local artists and the event, her spirit embodies the familiarity and comfort that the guitar pull offers to every individual who steps foot in the playhouse.

Commit to the Song is about the depth of influence one person can have on a community. Carples' direction introduces unique perspectives on the complex relationship between community and creativity, through the lens of an inspiring musical tradition. Gently exploring themes of loss, love, inspiration, and the profound connections music can cultivate, the film harmoniously intersects the personal narratives of these individuals, creating a bittersweet tribute to Joe Thomas Jr.'s legacy and passion.

The picturesque cinematography beautifully captures the essence and heart of the local music scene; the huddled artists sharing their music, the awe-struck audiences reciprocating their efforts with love and applause, and the sense of warmth and unity that envelops the Playhouse during each guitar pull. The documentary also features original music from the artists themselves, serving to underscore the vibrancy and diversity of the local music scene that Joe had loved so dearly.

Overall, Commit to the Song: The Joe Thomas Jr. Guitar Pull offers a moving exploration of the enduring impact that one person's passion can have on a community. An exceptional watch for music lovers and avid documentary consumers, it dips its toes into the riveting world of Montgomery's music scene, offering heartfelt performances and an intimate look into an inspiring tradition. It goes beyond serving as a tribute to one man, fostering instead a tangible and communal tribute to the unyielding and transformative power of music.