James ‘Super Chikan’ Johnson — A Life in Blues
Filmed in 2023, James ‘Super Chikan’ Johnson—A Life in Blues celebrates one of Mississippi’s most treasured sons. With interviews featuring Bobby Rush, Cedric Burnside, Charlie Musselwhite and more, this documentary explores Chikan’s story, but also examines how the culture and setting of the Delta have influenced his musical journey and his quest to preserve the roots of the Blues.
Background
In 2018, A Life in Blues co-director Mark Rankin brought famed Mississippi blues legend, James ‘Super Chikan’ Johnson to Vancouver to do a series of shows. Those shows quickly sold out, and with Mark and his band, The Mojo Stars, backing Chikan up, he quickly got to know the man and his music. After a quick chat with his filmmaking partner and co-director, Brian Wilson, it was soon decided that Chikan’s life, music, and history warranted a documentary.
Wilson and Rankin embarked on numerous trips to Chikan’s hometown of Clarksdale, Mississippi where they conducted extensive interviews with Chikan and a host of his musical contemporaries. What emerged was footage that was steeped in beautiful music and fascinating history.
Running time: 1:20:17
Released: May 2024