Keep On Keepin' On

Keep On Keepin' On is an inspiring and warmhearted documentary film from 2014 that beautifully captures and celebrates the human spirit. Narrating the remarkable story of legendary jazz musician Clark Terry and his devoted student Justin Kauflin, it sheds light on themes of mentorship, resilience, and the power of music while delivering an intimate insight into the bond between these two incredible individuals.

Clark Terry, a trumpet virtuoso with a career spanning over seven decades, is one of the shining stars of the golden age of jazz. Having played with Count Basie and Duke Ellington, and later as a member of the Tonight Show band, Terry left an indelible mark on the jazz landscape throughout the 20th century. Known not only for his extraordinary playing but also his passionate dedication to education, Terry mentored some of the greatest talents in jazz history, including Miles Davis and the world-renowned Quincy Jones, who also serves as the film's executive producer.

At the heart of Keep On Keepin' On is Terry's relationship with Justin Kauflin, a promising but struggling young jazz pianist who is blind. Under Terry's mentorship, Kauflin navigates both the complexities of mastering jazz and the challenges of his visual impairment. The film authentically captures their dynamic friendship and professional bond, presenting heartwarming moments of mutual support, wisdom, and admiration.

Directed by Australian drummer Alan Hicks, Keep On Keepin' On follows Terry and Kauflin over the course of four years. During this period, Terry, himself in his nineties and dealing with complications of diabetes, continues to guide Kauflin toward his dream of becoming a successful jazz pianist. Notably, the filming process was an intimate one, largely carried out by Hicks and his friend, cinematographer Adam Hart, who were effectively adopted into Terry's home.

The documentary beautifully portrays both Terry's remarkable life experiences and his tremendous impact on the world of music. But it is the genuine, deeply personal connection between the seasoned veteran and the greenhorn youngster which stands as the captivating highlight of the film. As Kauflin battles his insecurities and gambles towards a high-stakes jazz competition, Terry stands by his side, imparting his wealth of knowledge and bolstering the young man's confidence with his trademark positivity, aptly encapsulated by his favourite phrase, 'keep on keepin' on'.

The film also takes viewers on an emotional journey touching on some profound themes, including perseverance in the face of adversity, the power of mentorship and friendship, and the enduring effect of mentoring the next generation. It is a testament to Terry's unwavering belief in Kauflin, and in doing so, it sheds light on Terry's lasting legacy as not just a maestro, but a deeply committed teacher.

Furthermore, the cinematography of Keep On Keepin' On is intrinsically tied to the music it celebrates. The film is punctuated with performances and archival footage that demonstrate the incredible talents of both Terry and Kauflin. Music lovers will certainly appreciate the jazz soundtrack, featuring a captivating mix of live performances and classic recordings.

Throughout the film, we also see glimpses of famous figures from the music industry who testify to Terry's influence. These include Quincy Jones, who credits Terry with guiding him during his early career, and the renowned jazz trumpeter and bandleader, Wynton Marsalis. Together, they paint a rich portrait of the legend whose contribution to the world of jazz extends beyond a mere catalogue of songs.

In summary, Keep On Keepin' On is a heartening film that offers viewers a rare and intimate look into the life and work of an influential musician and his devoted protégé. The film cleverly weaves together the personal and professional journeys of these two musicians from different generations, offering profound lessons on life, passion, resilience, and the power of positivity. It is a tribute to the transformative power of music and the undying spirit of mentorship. No matter where you stand on jazz, you're likely to find this intriguing documentary as engrossing as it is inspiring.