Watch Johnny Winter: Down & Dirty

Johnny Winter: Down & Dirty is a 2014 documentary film that chronicles the life and career of the legendary blues musician Johnny Winter. The film features interviews with Winter himself, as well as his friends, family, and fellow musicians, including James Cotton and Tommy Curiale, who provide insight into his life both on and off the stage.

The film begins with a look at Winter's childhood in Texas, where he grew up alongside his brother Edgar, also a renowned musician. The two began playing music together as children, and Johnny quickly developed a talent for the blues. From there, the film follows Winter's rise to fame in the 1960s and 70s, as he became one of the most influential guitarists of his time, drawing praise from peers such as Jimi Hendrix and Eric Clapton.

Throughout the documentary, we see Winter perform some of his most iconic songs, from "Rock and Roll Hoochie Koo" to "Highway 61 Revisited," showcasing his virtuosic guitar playing and raw, soulful vocals. But we also get a glimpse into his personal life, including struggles with addiction and health issues that plagued much of his later years.

The film does not shy away from exploring the darker aspects of Winter's life, but it does so with compassion and honesty, painting a fuller picture of the man behind the music. We learn about his relationships with women, including his longtime girlfriend Susie Davis, and his role in shaping the careers of other musicians, from Muddy Waters to Janis Joplin.

One of the most striking aspects of the film is the way it captures the energy and excitement of Winter's live performances. Footage of him onstage, shredding on his guitar and belting out his signature high notes, is interspersed with interviews from fellow musicians who attest to the awe-inspiring experience of seeing him play live. Whether he was fronting his own band or collaborating with other artists, Winter was a force to be reckoned with onstage, and the film captures that electricity perfectly.

Overall, Johnny Winter: Down & Dirty is a touching tribute to one of the greatest blues musicians of all time. It charters the highs and lows of Winter's life and career with grace and respect, highlighting his incredible musical talent and the lasting impact he had on the world of music. For fans of Johnny Winter or anyone interested in the blues, this documentary is a must-see.

Johnny Winter: Down & Dirty is a 2016 documentary with a runtime of 87 hours. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 8.3.