Over 200 hours of interviews recorded by journalist Linda Lipnack Kuehl reveal the life and struggles of jazz vocalist Billie Holiday.
“She sang the truth, she paid the price”
Synopsis
Over 200 hours of interviews recorded by journalist Linda Lipnack Kuehl reveal the life and struggles of jazz vocalist Billie Holiday.
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Synopsis
Billie Holiday's life unfolds through audio interviews recorded by journalist Linda Lipnack Kuehl in the 1970s. Kuehl aimed to write a biography of Holiday but died in 1978 before completing the project. The film features voices from Holiday's circle, including musicians like Count Basie and Charles Mingus. It captures her struggles with addiction and her fierce artistry, alongside performances of songs such as "Strange Fruit." The documentary premiered at the Telluride Film Festival in September 2019.
Deep Dive
Why Watch
- Meet Billie Holiday through personal stories.
- See interviews with jazz legends like Count Basie.
- Find out about Kuehl's unfinished biography.
Did You Know
- Linda Lipnack Kuehl died in 1978, and her body was found on a street.
- Billie Holiday's estate was involved as producers for the film.
- The film features interviews with prominent jazz figures from the 1930s.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Who directed the documentary Billie?
Billie was directed by British filmmaker James Erskine.
What year did Billie Holiday's biographer Linda Lipnack Kuehl die?
Linda Lipnack Kuehl died in 1978.
What award did Billie win in 2021?
In 2021, Billie won Documentary of the Year at the JJA Jazz Awards.
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