The Howlin' Wolf Story: The Secret History of Rock & Roll

What better way to cap off 2003, the “Year of the Blues,” than with this eminently watchable documentary about Chester A. Burnett, better known as Howlin' Wolf? Arguably second only to Muddy Waters among the Mississippi Delta singers who traveled north and pioneered urban electric blues (their supposed rivalry is the subject of one of the DVD's bonus features), Wolf was a big, imposing man with an inimitable, booming voice and a lasting influence on generations of rock 'n' rollers--all of which comes across in Don McGlynn's superb tribute. Not only do we get a history of his life (told by family members, musical associates such as longtime guitarist Hubert Sumlin, and Wolf himself) that's far more entertaining than usual for the musical biography genre, the film also serves up some pretty good general blues history as well. Best of all, in addition to the standard snippets of Wolf's music, we hear several complete songs--presented in variable quality mono--including some priceless filmed performances. Quite simply, this one should become a touchstone for documentaries of its kind. Highly recommended. Editor's Choice. Aud: C, P. (S. Graham)