description Wattstax Overview
Wattstax documents the historic 1973 Stax Records concert held at the Los Angeles Coliseum. This multi-artist documentary captures a remarkable display of soul music talent including Booker T & the MGs, Isaac Hayes, Sly and the Family Stone, and Rufus Thomas. The film’s significance lies in its preservation of a pivotal moment in American musical history and offers insight into the vibrant Stax Records scene. It is primarily for those interested in soul music, African-American culture, and concert film history.
help Wattstax FAQ
What concert is featured in the Wattstax documentary?
Wattstax documents the Wattstax music festival held at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum on August 20, 1972, organized by Stax Records to commemorate the seventh anniversary of the 1965 Watts riots. The concert featured artists including Isaac Hayes, the Staple Singers, and Rufus Thomas.
Who directed the Wattstax film?
The documentary was directed by Mel Stuart, who also directed the 1971 film *Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory*. The film was released theatrically in 1973.
Why were Wattstax concert tickets only one dollar?
Stax Records set the ticket price at one dollar to ensure the concert was accessible to local Watts residents, many of whom were affected by the economic aftermath of the 1965 riots. The event drew tens of thousands of attendees to the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum.
Was Wattstax added to the National Film Registry?
Yes, Wattstax was selected for inclusion in the Library of Congress National Film Registry in 2020. The registry honors films deemed culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant to American cinema.
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