A Kickstarter for Chicago House Legend Ron Hardy
A Kickstarter campaign has been launched to bring a documentary to life that chronicles the life and legacy of Chicago house legend Ron Hardy. “I Was There: The Rise of House Music in Chicago” features interviews with artists like Jamie 3:26 and Robert Owens, delving into the early evolution of house music.
Ron Hardy: A Pioneer of House Music
An influential figure in the early house music scene, Ron Hardy played a pivotal role in pioneering the genre through the queer underground clubs of Chicago in the late ‘70s. He was known for his legendary sets at iconic venues like The Warehouse, where he often played alongside Frankie Knuckles, and the Music Box in downtown Chicago.
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Tragically, Ron Hardy passed away in 1991 at the young age of 32 after battling AIDS. The documentary aims to tell his “definitive story” through the perspective of other pioneering DJs and musicians who knew him well.
The Making of “I Was There”
“I Was There” is being curated with the blessing of Bill Hardy, Ron’s nephew, and is directed by filmmaker Vito Nicholas, with production handled by Elena Winterer and KC Wray. Given that Ron Hardy did not give any interviews during his lifetime and no video footage of him exists, artists like Jamie 3:26, Robert Owens, and K Alexi will offer insights into his life in lieu of original interviews and footage.
The documentary, which was initially self-funded for its trailer, is now seeking donations and support to continue its production. Donations will be used for lighting, sound recording, location fees, and securing music rights and licensing for the final film, with a fundraising goal of £50,000.
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Themes of “I Was There”
The synopsis of the film emphasizes that “I Was There” delves into Black music’s struggle against inequality and how music serves as a beacon of hope. In addition to highlighting DJ innovators, the film explores social issues of the era that contributed to the rise of House music, such as racism, Reaganomics, the AIDS crisis, and civil unrest.
“Making this film presents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to capture Ron’s story,” the creators state. “Ron’s narrative, mainly existing in folklore and niche communities, has yet to reach a wider audience. Together, we aim to change that and share his story for the meaningful impact he had, empowering people through the power of music.”
Click here to watch the trailer and donate to the Kickstarter.
Watch a clip from the documentary below.
Becky Buckle is Mixmag’s Multimedia Editor, follow her on Twitter
FAQs
Q: What is the goal of the Kickstarter campaign?
A: The goal of the Kickstarter campaign is to raise £50,000 to support the production of the documentary about Ron Hardy’s life and legacy.
Q: Who will be featured in the documentary?
A: The documentary will feature interviews with artists like Jamie 3:26, Robert Owens, and K Alexi, providing insights into Ron Hardy’s life and his impact on the early House music scene.
Q: How will the donations be used?
A: Donations will go towards funding lighting, sound recording, location fees, music rights, and licensing for the final film.
Credit: mixmag.net
