The Howlin' Wolf Story - The Secret History of Rock & Roll

The Howlin' Wolf Story - The Secret History of Rock & Roll is a compelling documentary released in 2003 that stars legendary blues musician Howlin' Wolf, alongside notable figures such as Hubert Sumlin and Barbra Marks. Directed by Don McGlynn, the movie brilliantly chronicles the life, artistry, and profound influence of Howlin' Wolf, whose real name is Chester Arthur Burnett. The film also gives an insightful look into the emergence and evolution of Rock & Roll, exposing hidden dimensions of this globally embraced music genre.

The film dives deep into the life of Howlin' Wolf while simultaneously portraying a rich, textured picture of modern American music history. The film brings viewers close to the man behind the moniker, revealing distinct aspects of the gruff-voiced singer, who, through his powerful performances paved the way for the Rock & Roll sound we know today. A true embodiment of the blues, Howlin’ Wolf, the Mississippi-born and Chicago-honed musician, had a lasting impact on numerous generations of performers that followed him. His influence is evident in the works of numerous iconic artists, including legendary rock bands like The Rolling Stones and The Beatles.

This documentary not only highlights his personal journey but also presents a meticulous portrait of the overall musical landscape of the time. It presents the evolution of blues in the post-war era, eventually catalyzing the emergence of Rock & Roll. The film is richly sprinkled with exclusive interviews, vintage footage, and enrapturing performances, collectively providing a comprehensive overview of this transformative period in music history.

Adding extra heft to the film is the presence of Hubert Sumlin, a long-time guitarist and collab partner for Wolf. Sumlin's remarkable inputs and personal anecdotes about the influential musician enrich the narrative and further deepen its impact. Viewers also get to see the contribution of Barbra Marks, which adds layers to the interpretation of Howlin’ Wolf's rise to stardom.

The Howlin' Wolf Story - The Secret History of Rock & Roll is as much a biographical account of Wolf's life as it is a cultural document that exposes the nitty-gritty of the American blues scene. Viewers can expect insightful, often poignant, commentaries from Wolf's former band members, family, friends, and fellow musicians. It also features scholarly insights from musicologists and critics, all of which further broaden the film's perspective.

The documentary is an immersive exploration of the profound significance and wide-reaching effects of Wolf's music—specifically his notable fusion of electric guitar with raw Delta blues, creating an incredibly powerful new sound that captivated audiences and changed western music. The movie provides a deeper understanding of the symbiosis between Howlin' Wolf's distinctive musicality and the rise of Rock & Roll.

One of the film's salient features is its treasure trove of rarely seen archive footage, delivering an authentic depiction of the period and making it an invaluable asset for music historians and enthusiasts. Besides, an array of photo stills, radio interviews, rare recordings, and other memorabilia undoubtedly cater to the nostalgia for die-hard blues fans and admirers of Howlin' Wolf. It offers glimpses of the much-loved, larger-than-life persona of Wolf, along with shedding light on his dedication and tenacity that led him to conquer so many hearts and charts.

The documentary, The Howlin' Wolf Story - The Secret History of Rock & Roll, is not just for hardcore fans of blues or The Wolf but is equally enticing for anyone with a taste for good music, an understanding of cultural history, or an interest in the mysterious birth of Rock & Roll. This film stands as a thoroughly influential, powerful and moving tribute to a man whose legacy and influence continue to resonate through the world of music, making it a must-watch.