Thelonious Monk: American Composer

Here is an interesting documentary on the life and music of Thelonious Monk. It features his son, sister, Randy Weston, Billy Taylor and others who knew Monk and jazz best discussing his legacy, stride influences on his piano style, and his personality. Although Kelley's biography includes some real sleuthing to uncover previously unknown aspects of Monk's background and life, this documentary is more immediate and heart-felt than the book through direct testimonies. Kelley's book should still be read, however, for the greater context it gives of San Juan Hill, North Carolina, and the jazz scene at large.