Watch Ticket To Write: The Golden Age of Rock Music Journalism

Ticket To Write: The Golden Age of Rock Music Journalism is a 2016 documentary film that takes a deep dive into the world of music journalism during the 1960s and 1970s, regarded by many as the "golden age" of the craft. The film features interviews with some of the most prominent writers of the time, including Billy Altman, Ken Barnes, and Cindy Lee Berryhill, among others. The film provides a comprehensive overview of the era, from the emergence of iconic music publications like Rolling Stone to the rise of counterculture and the role of music journalism in shaping public opinion.

The documentary is divided into segments, each exploring a different aspect of the golden age of music journalism. The film begins by introducing the main players of the era, including writers, editors, musicians, and photographers. The interviews with the journalists are particularly insightful, as they provide behind-the-scenes details about what it was like to cover some of the most radical events in rock history, from Jimi Hendrix's Woodstock performance to the infamous Altamont concert.

The film then delves into the cultural context of the era, showing how music journalism was part of a larger movement that aimed to challenge mainstream values. It explores the rise of counterculture and how the music press covered issues such as race, politics, and social justice. Some of the highlights of this segment include discussions about the impact of Bob Dylan's early work on the political consciousness of the era and the influence of the Black Panthers in shaping the dialogue around race.

One of the most fascinating aspects of Ticket To Write is how it shows the impact of the internet on music journalism. The film does an excellent job of juxtaposing the era of print journalism with the digital age, highlighting the challenges faced by traditional publications in the face of new media platforms. The documentary also provides insights into how music journalism has evolved in response to these changes, including the rise of music blogs and the role of social media in shaping discourse around music.

Throughout the film, we are treated to rare footage of seminal concerts and events, as well as iconic images from some of the most celebrated photographers of the era, such as Linda McCartney and Annie Leibovitz. These visual elements add a layer of richness and texture to the discussion, and help to transport the viewer back to this unique time in history.

Despite the focus on the "golden age" of music journalism, Ticket To Write is not merely a nostalgic look back at the past. Instead, the film draws attention to the ongoing importance of music journalism in shaping public opinion and promoting cultural dialogue. By highlighting the radical voices of the past, the documentary serves as a reminder that journalism can be a powerful tool for social change.

Overall, Ticket To Write: The Golden Age of Rock Music Journalism is a compelling and engaging documentary that will delight music lovers and journalism buffs alike. It provides a thoughtful and nuanced exploration of a pivotal moment in both music and media history, while also making a case for the enduring relevance of good journalism in the digital age.

Ticket To Write: The Golden Age of Rock Music Journalism is a documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 24 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.1.