Holly Near: Singing for Our Lives (2019)

Holly Near: Singing for Our Lives Poster

A documentary revisiting the career of a feisty activist musician, who never quite achieved the same recognition as her similar contemporaries Joan Baez and Joni Mitchell. Experience the power of song in the struggle for equality through the story of feminist singer and activist Holly Near, who for the last 40 years has worked on global social justice coalition-building in the women’s and lesbian movements.

Background Details
"Holly Near: Singing for Our Lives" is a 2019 documentary that traces the life and career of singer-songwriter and activist Holly Near. Helmed by veteran filmmaker Jim Brown, this film lights up the rich, courageous journey of Holly Near, a prominent voice in American demonstration music and human rights.

The Synopsis
The film explores Near's journey from a small-town upbringing in Northern California to her rise as a revered folk artist and activist. Born in Ukiah, California, Near started her expert career in 1969, making fame for her powerful songwriting and performances that flawlessly mix impactful lyrics with melodies.

"Holly Near: Singing for Our Lives" pays tribute to Near's distinct contribution to the evolution of contemporary folk music, narrating her life through uncommon archival video footage, intimate performances, and insightful interviews. The documentary catches how Near utilized music as a tool to deal with socio-political issues, highlighting her undeviating dedication to feminist concerns, anti-war motions, and civil and gay rights triggers.

Story Approach
The film values in-depth storytelling, painting an inspiring photo of Near's journey. It digs into her early years of exploring throughout the Vietnam War, her drive to push the envelope of folk music, her founding of Redwood Records, and her essential function in the ladies's and peace motions. Video footage of Near's effective tunes and speeches at public rallies, integrated with anecdotes from coworkers and pals, brings clarity to her role in progressive advocacy.

The movie also looks into the obstacles Near has actually dealt with. It revisits the hardships she went through as a female artist in a male-dominated industry and provides her battles and survival through hardship, consisting of death hazards and singing cable injuries.

Impact and Activism
The movie underscores Near's impact in music and advocacy. Fiercely independent, she has actually used her platform to speak out versus oppressions, serving as a beacon for peace, ladies's rights, and LGBTQ+ rights.

From carrying out at anti-war rallies to teaming up with other artists and activists, consisting of Jane Fonda and Joan Baez, the movie showcases Near's commitment to developing a more equitable world. The documentary identifies her rallying cry, "Singing for Our Lives," written after Harvey Milk's assassination, as a pivotal moment in the gay rights motion.

Conclusion
"Holly Near: Singing for Our Lives" hails Near not simply as a musician, however likewise as an influential political activist who has actually touched many lives with her spirit and strength. By harnessing the power of music, she has narrated tales of endurance and resistance, underscoring social injustices and the power of cumulative voices.

Jim Brown's movie gives an intimate, informing take a look at Holly Near's life and continues to commemorate her considerable contributions to music and advocacy. It is a crucial expect anybody thinking about progressive activism, the evolution of contemporary folk music, or the role of art in social change.

Top Cast

  • Holly Near (small)
    Holly Near
    Self
  • Jane Fonda (small)
    Jane Fonda
    Self
  • Gloria Steinem (small)
    Gloria Steinem
    Self
  • Margie Adam
    Self
  • Karen Anderson
    Self
  • Kevin Bacon (small)
    Kevin Bacon
    Self
  • Melanie DeMore
    Self
  • Christelle Durandy
    Self
  • Tom Hayden
    Self
  • Pat Hunt
    Self
  • Fredrika Keefer
    Self