Virus Called The Blues (Documentary)

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Virus Called The Blues (Documentary)
Billy Jenkins
Directed by	Craig Duncan
Produced by	Craig Duncan
Written by	Craig Duncan Billy Jenkins
Music by	Billy Jenkins and The Blues Collective
Cinematography	Craig Duncan Mat Wayne
Editing by	Noel Curry
Running time	25 min.
Country	United Kingdom
Language	English

Virus Called The Blues was a 30 minute documentary spoof based on a day in the life of blues & jazz guitarist/songwriter Billy Jenkins and his band The Blues Collective. The documentary was produced, directed by Craig Duncan who met Billy on the set of the BBC Two music series 'Jazz 606' in the mid nineties (filmed at the famous Jazz Venue 606 Club). It features serious interviews and spoof action, plus actual performance from the band at The Blue Elephant Theatre, Camberwell, East London. Also visible in the audience is stand up comedian Stewart Lee, a long time friend of Jenkins.

1 Overview
2 Cast members
3 See also
4 External links

[edit] Overview

The title of the documentary came from the title of Charles Brown song 'Virus Called The Blues', a verson of which is available on the 1990 album 'All My Life' and of which a covered in the documentary by Billy Jenkins.

The story in the programme follows this pattern: Jenkins convinces his band to do a one off benefit gig to raise money to purchase better lighting in the street surrounding the Theatre. During the run up to the gig the band lose the location of the venue while out in the groups Reliant Robin. As a result the audience are left waiting. Bandleader Billy Jenkins argues with the band and bass player Thad Kelly walks out.

In reality this was a genuine benefit gig and for the most part, a true story and as a result funds were raised and better lighting has since been installed since the documentary was made.

The film was edited by Noel Curry and the Promo was edited by Mike Latham.