THE 9 LIVES OF BARBARA DANE
USA - 2023 - 108 MINUTES
A FILM BY MAUREEN GOSLING
Barbara Dane: Pete Seeger mentored her, Bob Dylan peddled his songs to her, Louis Armstrong discovered her, Bonnie Raitt was inspired by her. She launched the career of the Chambers Brothers, jammed with Muddy Waters, shaped Jane Fonda’s politics, became the first American performer to break the post-revolution embargo with Cuba – why isn’t Barbara Dane a household name?
THE 9 LIVES OF BARBARA DANE uncovers the surprisingly overlooked story of a trailblazing woman who chose conscience over fame, turning setbacks into opportunities, paving her own way with her art. Standing strong with her singular confidence, Dane emanated the people-powered connectivity of folk, the defiance of blues and the elemental cool of jazz while participating in and influencing international peace and social justice movements.
More than a music doc. It is a long-overdue tribute and a radical act of historical recovery. Through the lens of her recent concert tour, we see an outspoken and tireless artist whose dedication to music and social justice embodies the energy and spirit of American dissent.
The story of this singer, activist, feminist, mother of three, record producer, and committed troublemaker features Bonnie Raitt, Jane Fonda, Gary Giddens, James Early and many more along with Dane’s performances with the Chambers Brothers, Tammy Hall, Pablo Menéndez and Louis Armstrong.
“Must see!” —Pam Grady, SF Chronicle
“THE 9 LIVES OF BARBARA DANE is superb – a striking film about a truly remarkable individual, one that captures Dane singing, performing, giving interviews and engaging with friends and family…Anything but another formulaic music doc. 9 LIVES is the real deal!” — Garth Cartwright (The Guardian) “Yakety Yak: Homage to an American Hero”
“The number of incredible moments Dane experienced and created throughout her life is staggering, and Gosling presents them in a ravishing cascade of imagery and music, Dane’s soulful, velvety voice floating above it all.” — Bernard Boo, MARIN MAGAZINE
“(A) lovable renegade, captured with great authenticity and breathtaking performances.”
—Randy Myers, Piedmont Exedra