In 1972, Aretha Franklin recorded the double-album Amazing Grace, which went on to become the bestselling live gospel album of all time, with more than 2 million copies sold. It was Franklin’s triumphant return to her gospel roots after a string of successful recordings in the late 60s which included “I Never Loved A Man”, “Respect”, “Baby I Love You”, “Chain of Fools”, and “Think.” Acclaimed director Sydney Pollack captured the history-making concert on film, but, because of audio synchronization nightmares, the movie was never completed. On April 5, Neon Films finally presents the never-before-seen performance as the documentary Amazing Grace.
The concert, recorded over two days at James Cleveland’s church in Watts, California, includes songs such as “On Our Way,” “Wholy Holy,” “What a Friend We Have In Jesus,” “How I Got Over,” “Precious Memories,” “You’ve Got A Friend,” “Precious Lord Take My Hand,” “Mary Don’t You Weep,” “Climbing Higher Mountains,” “Old Landmark,” “Never Grow Old,” and “Old Landmark” as well as the title track.
If the trailer is any indication, the documentary will be mesmerizing. If you ever wondered what it would be like to go to church with the Queen of Soul as the song leader, this is as close as you get. Watch it below:
Ad-Free & Subscriber Log-In