‘Bolden’ Promises To Tell The Unsung Story About The Man Who Invented Jazz

Most music fans know jazz originated in New Orleans, but many don’t know about the early pioneers of the genre that would change the world. But all of that is about to change when Dan Pritzker’s forthcoming film, Bolden, hits theaters this spring.

Based on the life of Charles “Buddy” Bolden, who was born in 1877 and who many credit with inventing jazz, the film illuminates the compelling and tragic rise of the legendary musician. With little known biographical information and only one recorded song, the film attempts to reconstruct the details of the cornetist’s life.

According to Bolden’s website, “The film’s narrative composes fragmented memories of his past, against the political and social context in which his revolutionary music was conceived.”

Bolden stars Gary Carr in the titular role and features original music written, arranged and performed by Wynton Marsalis, who’s also an executive producer on the project.

Marsalis told USA Today the pioneering musician “created a coherent soul. He had a virtuosity of putting together the feeling of the church and the marches.”

In addition to Carr, the film also stars Erik LaRay Harvey, Yaya DaCosta, Reno Wilson, Karimah Westbrook, JoNell Kennedy, Robert Ri’chard, Serena Reeder, Michael Rooker, and Ian McShane.

Bolden hits theaters on May 3.