Watch Pride And Joy: The Story Of Alligator Records

Pride And Joy: The Story Of Alligator Records is a 1992 documentary film directed by Robert Mugge. The film tells the story of Bruce Iglauer, the founder of Alligator Records, and his journey to create one of the most important independent blues labels in the world. Bruce Iglauer, an intense music lover and white blues fanatic, started Alligator Records in his apartment in Chicago in 1971. Despite the fact that he had no prior experience in the music industry, Iglauer had a passion for blues music and wanted to introduce it to a wider audience. He began by releasing singles from his favorite artists, and as the label grew, he started recording full-length albums.

Pride And Joy takes viewers on a journey through Alligator's history, from its infancy in Iglauer's apartment, to its current status as one of the premier blues labels in the world. Throughout the film, interviews with artists such as Koko Taylor, Son Seals, and Lonnie Brooks provide a firsthand account of what it was like to work with Iglauer and Alligator Records.

The film also delves into the challenges Iglauer faced as an independent label owner in a music industry dominated by major labels. Record stores initially refused to carry Alligator's releases, and large venues were hesitant to book blues acts. But Iglauer persevered, and through his tireless efforts and dedication to the music, Alligator Records eventually became one of the most respected and successful blues labels in the world.

In addition to exploring Alligator's history, Pride And Joy also showcases a number of live performances from Alligator artists, including Koko Taylor, Lonnie Brooks, and Johnny Winter. These performances highlight the passion and energy that has made Alligator's music so beloved by fans around the world.

Overall, Pride And Joy: The Story Of Alligator Records is a fascinating documentary that offers a behind-the-scenes look at one of the most important independent music labels in the world. Through interviews with the artists and rare archival footage, viewers gain a deeper understanding of the passion and dedication that has driven Alligator Records, and its founder Bruce Iglauer, for over four decades. Whether you're a fan of blues music or simply an admirer of independent music labels, Pride And Joy is a must-see film that celebrates the enduring power of the blues.

Pride And Joy: The Story Of Alligator Records is a 2016 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 27 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.5.