Bruce Springsteen, born in 1949 in Long Branch, New Jersey, is primarily known as a rock musician but made an appearance as himself in Chuck Berry: Hail! Hail! Rock 'n' Roll (1987). His music, often reflecting the struggles of working-class Americans, resonates with the raw energy and rebellious spirit of rock and roll culture. In this documentary, Springsteen joins fellow legends to honor Chuck Berry, showcasing the profound influence Berry had on his own career and the genre as a whole.
Chuck Berry: Hail! Hail! Rock 'n' Roll
St. Louis, 1986. For Chuck Berry's 60th, Keith Richards assembles a pickup band of Robert Cray, Joey Spampinato, Eric Clapton, himself and long-time Berry pianist, Johnnie Johnson. Joined on stage by Etta James, Linda Ronstadt and Julian Lennon, Berry performs his classic rock songs. His abilities as a composer, lyricist, singer, musician and entertainer are on display and, in behind-the-scenes interviews, are discussed by Bo Diddley, Little Richard, Jerry Lee Lewis, Bruce Springstein, the Everly Brothers, Roy Orbison and others. There's even a rarity for Berry—a rehearsal. Archival footage from the early 1950s and a duet with John Lennon round out this portrait of a master.
