Staff Blog
“Alright, let’s rock it to Russia”: Wesley Willis doc screens at National Mechanics
Wesley Willis, Chicago’s answer to Daniel Johnston, was a schizophrenic rock ‘n’ roll troubadour and outsider artist. His songs are simple, often just a drum machine or keyboard, all under Willis’ endearingly tone deaf voice. Incredibly prolific, Willis recorded over 50 albums. Filmed over the last four years of his life, the documentary Wesley Willis’ Joy Rides premiered at the 2008 Slamdance Film Festival (where Philly-set The New Year Parade took home top honors) and went on to the win the Gold Hugo for Chicago Award at the Chicago International Film Fest. The title refers to how Willis famously saw rock ‘n’ roll — as joy ride music.
In anticipation of Joy Rides‘ December 8 DVD release, National Mechanics will host a a free midnight screening of the doc on Monday, November 30. Trailer is above. What’s your fave Wesley Willis song? Nothing beats my frist experience with Willis, which was “Rock ‘n’ Roll McDonalds.” Enjoy.
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Wesley Willis Joyrides, Mon., Nov. 30, midnight, free, National Mechanics, 22 S. Third St., 215-701-4883.
