Rumble: The Indians Who Rocked The World

Rumble: The Indians Who Rocked The World is a captivating 2017 documentary that explores the influential role that Native American musicians have played on the global stage, particularly within the realms of blues, jazz, and rock music. Directed by Catherine Bainbridge and Alfonso Maiorana, this groundbreaking feature-length film stands as a powerful testament to the resilience, talent, and enduring spirit of indigenous artists.

The title of the film, Rumble, refers to a pioneering rock instrumental by Link Wray, who was of Shawnee descent. Wray's innovative use of distortion and feedback in the early 1950s would go on to influence two generations of musicians, and the song itself was a testament to defiance in the face of mainstream America’s attempts to ignore or suppress indigenous culture.

Throughout its duration, the film features a host of notable interviews, with artists like George Clinton, Robbie Robertson (Mohawk), and music critic Gary Giddins. Robertson, a well-known Canadian musician, songwriter, and producer who gained fame as a member of The Band, shares his experiences and insights into the musical world, along with Indigenous musicians who have been often overlooked in traditional rock 'n' roll narratives.

The film also casts a spotlight on performers like Mildred Bailey, a big-band era singer who blazed a trail for future generations. Of Coeur d'Alene descent, Bailey’s bluesy vocal delivery left a lasting impression on no less a figure than Frank Sinatra. Similarly, the film delves into the musical contributions of Charley Patton, a Choctaw and African American musician who is widely regarded as the father of Delta blues.

One of the strengths of the film is its ability to blend personal narratives with broader historical and sociopolitical contexts. Through archival footage and intimate, in-depth interviews, 'Rumble’ maintains a delicate balance of narrative thread and historical critique that offers a new perspective on the birth and evolution of popular music genres. Importantly, it challenges and critiques the stereotypes that persist about Native American culture and its influence on popular music.

'Rumble: The Indians Who Rocked The World' not only tells little known stories about the indelible influence of Indigenous musicians but also ably ties in their struggles for recognition and rights to the larger context of American and Canadian history. This richly textured documentary deftly weaves a tapestry of personal stories, historical context, and unforgettable music, demonstrating that the soundtracks of our lives are immeasurably richer for the contributions of Native American artists.

While quite informative, 'Rumble' is much more than a mere historical or musicological document. It is a study of cultural evolution, revolutionary influence, and lasting impact. It reframes the narrative of popular music to place Native American musicians and influences where they rightfully belong: at the very heart of the story.

The film is a must-watch for anyone interested in an in-depth exploration of music history, offering insight into the indelible and influential contributions of Native musicians. The journey presented in 'Rumble: The Indians Who Rocked the World' is an emotional and arresting one. It isn't merely a journey through time, but a journey through struggle, resilience, and ultimate triumph.

'Rumble: The Indians Who Rocked the World' is also a profound social critique that doesn’t shy away from exploring the cultural erasure and prejudice that Indigenous musicians have faced. However, at its heart, it is a celebration of the immense talent and immeasurable contribution of Native American musicians who've predominantly remained in the shadows. Throughout its duration, this film does something powerful: it gives voice to the voiceless and rescues from obscurity trailblazing artists who have indelibly shaped the landscape of contemporary music.

Rumble: The Indians Who Rocked the World was met with critical acclaim upon its release. This acclaimed film won several prestigious awards, including a Sundance Special Jury Prize for World Cinema Documentary and a Canadian Screen Award for Best Feature-Length Documentary. Even more than the recognition it has won, 'Rumble' shines a much-deserved spotlight on a vital aspect of music history that has been overlooked for far too long. It stands as a must-watch for anyone interested in the roots of contemporary music.