Watch The Changin' Times of Ike White

The Changin' Times of Ike White is a documentary film that provides a captivating look at the life of musician, Ike White. This documentary directed by Dan Vernon, revolves around the life story of a man who went from prison to become a successful musician in the 1970s. At age 19, Ike White was sentenced to life imprisonment for a murder he said he did not commit, although he never protested against it. He was involved with a music program and upon finishing his term, he was offered to record an album by the famous Stevie Wonder. The potential was seen in Ike while he was still in prison, and after his early release, he took it by storm.

The film explores Ike White's background and troubled childhood, his years spent in prison, and his music career. The Changin' Times of Ike White is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and showcases that it is never too late to follow one's dreams, no matter how far away they may seem.

The documentary traces White's musical journey from his debut album, "Changin' Times" in 1976 to his life in seclusion in the 1990s. The film takes us through his meteoric rise to fame and his eventual disappearance from the limelight. It features interviews from colleagues, critics, and people who knew and worked with him at different stages of his life.

The Changin' Times of Ike White also provides insight into the music industry during that time, how it was fraught with deceit, manipulations, and corruption. It follows White's battles with addiction and his confrontations with the law, which led to his ultimate downfall.

The film doesn't offer a single viewpoint but rather presents a multifaceted approach to Ike White's life. It shows him as a father, a musician, a prisoner, and a victim of the system. We see the many people who have been touched by White's music and his life, and how his legacy continues to inspire people today.

The documentary includes interviews with many of the people who worked with White during his career. These include legendary musicians such as Stevie Wonder, Bonnie Raitt, and George Clinton. It also has commentary from music producers like Jerry Goldstein and members of Ike's circle like Alvin Taylor, who is devoted to keep his legacy alive.

The Changin' Times of Ike White uses archival footage, photographs, and interviews to present a powerful story of redemption, the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative power of music. It provides a thought-provoking commentary on the life of a man who managed to break free from the prison system to become a successful musician.

The film also explores some of the more problematic aspects of Ike White's life. The documentary addresses allegations of domestic violence against White, and his questionable behavior towards women. It does so without excusing his behavior or trying to diminish his musical legacy. It paints a complex and nuanced picture of a man who was talented, flawed but ultimately inspiring.

In conclusion, The Changin' Times of Ike White is a captivating and deeply moving film. It is an intimate look at the life of a musician who deserved to be acknowledged and celebrated for the talent he had. The film is an ode to second chances, showing that it's possible to turn one's life around and create something beautiful despite the odds. It is an exceptional documentary that is not to be missed.

The Changin' Times of Ike White is a 2020 documentary. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.7.