Still Bill

Still Bill is a 2009 documentary film that presents an intimate portrait of Bill Withers, an influential American soul singer, and songwriter noted for timeless hits such as "Lean on Me," "Ain't No Sunshine," "Use Me," and "Lovely Day." Directed by Damani Baker and Alex Vlack, the film takes its name from Withers's 1972 album and offers a rare glimpse into the life of a man who, at the peak of his career, withdrew from the spotlight to live a more private life.

Beyond showcasing Withers's musical genius, Still Bill delves deeply into the man behind the music. It does so by examining his personal history, his philosophy on life, the intricacies of his character, and the reasons behind his intentional move away from the public eye. The film also highlights the significant cultural impact of Withers's work and his legacy as a pioneer in the music industry, whose influence continues to resonate with artists and audiences alike.

Born in 1938 in the small coal-mining town of Slab Fork, West Virginia, Withers overcame stuttering and an impoverished background to become a soulful voice that resonated with authenticity and emotion. His story is one of perseverance, determination, and the transformative power of music. The film takes viewers on a chronological journey through his life, from his early days in the Navy to his late entry into the music business at the age of 32—a relatively advanced age for a new artist.

Still Bill features a rich collection of interviews with Withers himself, as he shares his thoughts on his life and career with surprising candor and a no-nonsense wisdom that is both endearing and enlightening. Even after decades away from the limelight, Withers remains sharply insightful and charismatic, offering audiences a reflective look at the motivations and musings of an artist who stands apart from the industry norm.

Alongside Withers's personal narrative, the documentary includes commentary and praise from music industry professionals, friends, and fellow artists who speak to Withers's impact on music and society. Among them are Clarence Avant, a music executive known for mentoring numerous black music artists, and Benorce Blackmon, a guitarist who worked with Withers. Their testimonies, along with those of others, add layers of perspective and context to the discussion of Withers's artistry.

The film also comprises performance footage, a rare treat that showcases Withers's vocal and emotional power, as well as behind-the-scenes interactions with his family and community that illuminate his character off-stage. These moments help paint a fuller picture of the man who, despite his considerable success, remained grounded and true to his values throughout his career and beyond.

As Still Bill unfolds, it captures Withers contemplating a return to the music scene, further lending viewers access to the artist's internal struggles and creative processes. The documentary doesn't shy away from the complex nature of Withers's relationship with the music industry. It confronts themes such as artistic integrity, the pressures of fame, and the personal costs of commercial success—all set against the landscape of an industry and society that has undergone significant changes since Withers first rose to fame in the 1970s.

Touching on his role as a black man in America and the societal pressures this entails, Still Bill speaks to broader cultural narratives as Withers shares his thoughts on race, socio-political activism, and the role of the artist as a voice for change. His songs, marked by a deep sense of humanity and concern for others, resonate within these discussions, further accentuating the relevance and timeless quality of his work.

In essence, Still Bill is not just a film about a musician; it is an exploration of life, art, and identity. It addresses universal questions of how we as individuals navigate our passions, our talents, and our responsibilities to ourselves and others. For fans of Bill Withers and those new to his music, Still Bill is a testament to the enduring spirit of a man who touched countless lives with his voice and his heart. It's a celebration of an artist who, by being unapologetically himself, left an indelible mark on the world, and it invites viewers to reflect on the legacy that each person is capable of leaving behind.