Bayou Maharajah: The Tragic Genius of James Booker
2013
Documentary
Music
Overview
Bayou Maharajah explores the life and music of New Orleans piano legend James Booker, the man Dr. John described as "the best black, gay, one-eyed junkie piano genius New Orleans has ever produced." A brilliant pianist, his eccentricities and showmanship belied a life of struggle, prejudice, and isolation. Illustrated with never-before-seen concert footage, rare personal photos and exclusive interviews, the film paints a portrait of this overlooked genius.
Cast
James Booker
Self (archive footage)
Dr. John
Self (archive footage)
Hugh Laurie
Self
Harry Connick Jr.
Self
Charles Neville
Self
Douglas Brinkley
Self
Ronald Markham
Self
Cosimo Matassa
Self
Directors
Lily Keber
