H.E.R. Announces Directorial Debut at SXSW 2025: A Tribute to Curtis Mayfield
In an impressive continuation of her artistic journey, musician H.E.R. is set to unveil her directorial debut at the upcoming SXSW Film Festival in 2025. Following her Academy Award win in 2021 for the best original song “Fight for You”from the film Judas and the Black Messiah, she now turns her talents to filmmaking with a documentary that celebrates the musical legacy of the legendary Curtis Mayfield.
The Makings of Curtis Mayfield: A Deep Dive into Musical Genius
Titled The Makings of Curtis Mayfield, this documentary intends to spotlight the influential career of the iconic artist known for hits like “Come on Up”and “Superfly.”H.E.R., reflecting on her inspirations during her Oscar acceptance speech, was approached by producer Peter Afterman—who previously worked on music documentaries featuring Tom Petty and Joan Jett—about taking on this significant project. Her vision involves a concentrated focus on Mayfield’s music while integrating insights from notable figures in the industry.
Crafting the Narrative: The Documentary’s Unique Approach
In a departure from conventional biographical documentaries, H.E.R. aims to emphasize the artistic rather than biographical aspects of Mayfield’s life. “From the onset, what fascinated me the most was his impact,”she explains. Describing Mayfield as “a gentle genius,”she reveals that his influence transcends mere nostalgia, resonating deeply with diverse artists across generations.
Curating Voices: Insights from Industry Giants
The documentary features interviews with prominent figures such as Dr. Dre, Mary J. Blige, and John Legend—musicians who share a profound connection with Mayfield’s body of work. H.E.R. highlights the intentionality behind their choices, stating, “We wanted to focus on the genuine reactions of those who truly admired him.”This perspective aims to offer viewers more than just accolades; it seeks to capture authentic reactions to Mayfield’s artistry.
Creating Intimacy Through Production Breakdown
One innovative aspect of the documentary involves interviewing musicians while breaking down production elements from Mayfield’s songs. By utilizing isolated audio tracks or “stems,”H.E.R. creates intimate moments where viewers can appreciate Mayfield’s creative genius in detail. “It’s not just about seeing performances; we’re dissecting the music,”she notes. This method serves to deepen the audience’s understanding and appreciation of his work.
Connecting with Family: Honoring Mayfield’s Legacy
Prior to beginning the filming process, H.E.R. made it a priority to engage with Mayfield’s family. She spoke with Cheaa, one of Mayfield’s sons, seeking insights about his experiences growing up with such a significant figure. In doing so, she hopes to portray Mayfield’s story with the respect and authenticity it deserves, steering clear of sensationalism or scandal. “I wanted to tell his story focusing on the music. Curtis was a man of integrity,”she emphasizes.
As anticipation builds for The Makings of Curtis Mayfield, H.E.R. stands ready to share a rich narrative that both celebrates and critically examines the contributions of a true musical icon.