They Died Before 40 (a film about jazz musicians)

They Died

Before 40

More than two dozen gifted jazz artists died before reaching the age of 40. Most of them are relatively unknown, some even to jazz fans. Many of them made significant contributions to this art form. All of them had much more to give and, individually and collectively, would have made a great impact on this music had they lived full lives. It is important that their contributions be made known, their music heard and that we show how and why they died.

Many people may have heard of Charlie Parker, who died at 34. There is a myth that envelops his true story with many inaccuracies. This film will rectify that by presenting those who played with him, experts who saw and listened to his music, and family and friends who lived with him. Others, such as Herschel Evans, who died before reaching 30, are very little known and his story is untold. For example, Jo Jones, the drummer and an integral part of the Count Basie band for many years, has called Evans the greatest musician he ever played with. He said that Evans made everyone he played with better.

Who was this giant, what made him an important creative artist and why did he die so young. These are questions that this film will answer concerning Evans and many more.

Others to be included will be Bix Beiderbecke, Bunny Berigan, Chick Webb, Fats Waller, Charlie Christian, Jimmy Blanton, Clifford Brown, Chu Berry et al.

Through archival film footage, photographs, reminiscences and expert discourse we will show more about these artists, develop an appreciation of their artistry and reveal how and why their careers were cut short.

This film will expand our cultural heritage for this internationally renowned art form.

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