Growing up in the time period when funk artists Betty Davis
was at her peak I can’t say I recall ever listening to her. But I do recall
seeing the ads and posters for her albums. It was a time when more straight
forward commercial friendly disco music was being played on the radio. But that
doesn’t mean she didn’t have an effect of influence those who followed.
BETTY: THEY SAY I’M DIFFERENT is a documentary about the
life and music of performer Davis. Born Betty Mabry she moved into modeling and
from their met jazz trumpeter Miles Davis. They married in 1968 and during that
brief marriage she influenced him heavily. But the marriage only lasted a year.
She had recorded an album earlier in her career and also
penned the song "Uptown (to Harlem)" for the Chambers Brothers in
1967. But it wasn’t until 1973 when she began recording and creating her own
albums worth notice with the release of her self-titled LP. A screeching style
of singing, a guttural explosion of vocals, Betty was known for her the
frankness of her sexuality which she put into her lyrics as well as her live
performances. Due to her openness about her sexuality her records were rarely
played on the radio as they received pressure from religious groups not to do
so.
Not much is known about her life but film maker Philip Cox
finds those who knew and worked with Betty to discover what can be found about
the woman behind the controversial performances, lyrics and album covers. They
each provide a different perspective of the woman herself, from longtime
friends to those who worked with her in recording her albums. One of the most
touching moments in the film is when her old backing band are together talking
and they call her up to talk to her and tell her they’re ready to get going
again whenever she wants.
Betty herself remains enigmatic, never appearing on screen
but heard in interviews and phone calls. Having retired from the limelight in
1979 she’s live alone in Philadelphia in peace and quiet. Watching the film and
listening to her makes you wonder what would have happened had she carried on.
Even though she hasn’t her influence can be found in the performances and
sounds that have followed in her footsteps.
The movie is an interesting documentary and one that fans of
funk and music will enjoy as they learn more about the woman named Betty Davis.
If you’re like me you’ll pop up Spotify, Amazon Music or whatever listening
system you choose to hear what her music was all about. Hopefully you’ll
discover something you never knew you were missing. In the meantime this film
is a nice introduction to be enjoyed by all.
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