Watch The Greatest Ears in Town: The Arif Mardin Story

The Greatest Ears in Town: The Arif Mardin Story is a fascinating documentary film that explores the life and career of one of the most influential music producers in history, Arif Mardin. Directed by Doug Biro and Joe Mardin and released in 2010, the film features interviews with some of the biggest names in the music industry, including Quincy Jones, Phil Collins, and the late Robin Gibb of the Bee Gees.

The film begins with Mardin's childhood in Istanbul, Turkey, and follows him as he emigrates to the United States and settles in New York City. There, he begins working in the music industry as an arranger and producer, eventually landing a job at Atlantic Records.

Over the course of his career, Mardin worked with some of the biggest names in music, including Aretha Franklin, Dusty Springfield, Bette Midler, Chaka Khan, and many more. He was particularly known for his work with the Bee Gees, with whom he collaborated on some of their biggest hits, including "Jive Talkin'" and "Stayin' Alive."

The film pays tribute to Mardin's immense talent and creativity, showcasing his innovative techniques and unique approach to music production. Through interviews with his colleagues and friends, viewers gain insight into his work processes, his philosophy on music, and his lasting impact on the industry.

One of the film's main strengths is its use of archival footage and audio recordings. Viewers are treated to rare recordings of Mardin at work in the studio, as well as performances from some of the biggest names in music. These moments perfectly capture the energy and excitement of Mardin's era and bring to life the incredible creative output of his career.

Throughout the film, viewers also gain insight into Mardin's personal life, including his relationship with his wife and family. This helps to humanize the larger-than-life figure and highlights his passion for music and his unwavering commitment to his craft.

Overall, The Greatest Ears in Town: The Arif Mardin Story is a must-see for music fans and anyone interested in the history of the music industry. The film is a fitting tribute to one of the greatest music producers of all time and showcases the immense impact that Mardin had on the industry and the artists with whom he worked.

The Greatest Ears in Town: The Arif Mardin Story is a 2016 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 43 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.1.