12.06. Saturday

20:00 Principal Theater

Summer of Soul

Ahmir “Questlove” Thompson / United States (2021 - 117’ - VOSE)

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In 1969, during the same summer as Woodstock, a different music festival took place 100 miles away. More than 300,000 people attended the summer concert series known as the Harlem Cultural Festival. It was filmed, but after that summer, the footage sat in a basement for 50 years. It has never been seen. Until now. Summer Of Soul is a stunning unearthed treasure destined to become a pillar of American music and African American history. In his striking debut as a filmmaker, the legendary musician Ahmir “Questlove” Thompson presents this transporting documentary—part concert film, part historical record—about an epic event that radiated the wholesale reevaluation of Black history, culture, fashion, and music. This rich tapestry deftly incorporates an unforgettable musical revue that includes many rare gems, such as a Stevie Wonder drum solo and a duet between Mahalia Jackson and Mavis Staples. Summer Of Soul shines a light on the importance of history to our spiritual well-being and stands as a testament to the healing power of music.

Data sheet

  • Director: Ahmir “Questlove” Thompson
  • Year: 2021
  • Country: United States
  • Length: 117 min.
  • Original language: English
  • Leadings: Stevie Wonder, B.B.King, Nina Simone, Abbey Lincoln, Mahalia Jackson, Moms Mabley, Jesse Jackson
  • Camera: Shawn Peters
  • Editor: Joshua L. Pearson
  • Producers: David Dinerstein, Robert Fyvolent, Joseph Patel
  • Film company: Concordia Studio, LarryBilly Productions, Mass Distraction Media, Radical Media, Vulcan Productions

Ahmir “Questlove” Thompson

Ahmir “Questlove” Thompson

Ahmir “Questlove” Thompson is a drummer, DJ, filmmaker, producer, culinary entrepeneur, New York Times best-selling author, and member of the Roots. He is a musical director for “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon”. A four-time Grammy winner, Thompson has also released four books, including “Mixtape Potluck”. He co-produced the Grammy-winning original Broadway cast recording of “Hamilton”. Thompson also hosts his own podcast, “Questlove Supreme” on iHeartRadio.