Watch Keep On Keepin' On

Keep On Keepin' On is a 2014 documentary film about the life of jazz musician Clark Terry and his relationship with young pianist Justin Kauflin. Directed by Alan Hicks, the film follows both men as they navigate their own personal struggles and their shared passion for music. Clark Terry is a legendary jazz trumpeter, known for his work with Duke Ellington, Count Basie, and Quincy Jones. He's also a mentor to countless young musicians, passing on his knowledge and techniques to the next generation. At the age of 93, he's still playing and teaching, despite the fact that he's been blind for decades and is suffering from diabetes.

Justin Kauflin is a young pianist who met Terry while studying at William Paterson University in New Jersey. He's been blind since the age of 11, but that hasn't stopped him from pursuing his dream of becoming a jazz musician. When Terry takes Kauflin under his wing, their relationship becomes the heart of the film.

The two men share a mutual love and respect for each other, and their bond is clear on screen. Terry becomes Kauflin's mentor, helping him refine his playing and giving him career advice. The film shows them rehearsing together, working on new material, and discussing their favorite jazz musicians.

But the film is also about the challenges the two men face in their personal lives. Kauflin is struggling with his own health issues, including recurring bouts of stage fright, while Terry is facing the realities of aging and declining health. Despite their difficulties, both men remain committed to their music and to each other, inspiring viewers with their resilience and determination.

The film also features appearances by many of Terry's contemporaries and colleagues, including Quincy Jones, Herbie Hancock, and Wynton Marsalis. These interviews provide insight into Terry's importance to the jazz world and his influence on multiple generations of musicians.

One of the standout moments of the film is a performance by Terry and Kauflin at President Obama's 2012 White House jazz concert. Terry's daughter, a filmmaker herself, captures the moment on camera, and it's clear that this is a highlight of both men's careers.

Overall, Keep On Keepin' On is a moving tribute to the power of music and the bonds that can be formed through it. It's an uplifting film that celebrates the talents and tenacity of two remarkable individuals, and offers a glimpse into the world of jazz that will delight both fans and newcomers alike.

Keep On Keepin' On is a 2014 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 26 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.7 and a MetaScore of 77.