Of all of the United States Presidents we have had in the Rock & Roll era, which one would you consider to be the "Rock & Roll President"? President Clinton? President Kennedy? If you ask the artists they would say President Jimmy Carter.

On April 3rd, the film Jimmy Carter: Rock & Roll President was officially released. Now CNN Films is set to premiere the film for television on CNN. You can watch it this Sunday January 3, 2021 starting at 9pm Capital Region time.

So, what makes Carter the "Rock & Roll President"?  The film is directed by Mary Wharton and, according to Ultimate Classic Rock, producers Greenwich Entertainment say the goal was to trace "how rock music helped propel Jimmy Carter to the White House, and the significant role that music has played in President Carter’s life and work.”

In the film you will see and hear from a wide range of musicians and songwriters such as Bob Dylan, Garth Brooks, Bono, Willie Nelson, Nile Rodgers. All singing the praises of the President. Carter himself says "Music is the best proof that people have one thing in common. No matter where they live. No matter what language they speak.".

Also in the film you will see President Carter introduce the Allman Brothers Band at a concert. Here is a 1982 clip of Gregg Allman talking with David Letterman about the Allman Brothers relationship with Carter. Forward to the 5:10 mark for the interview but I encourage you to continue watching for a stripped down performance of "Melissa". Watch the full clip HERE.

If you don't want to wait for the January 3rd television premiere you can watch "Jimmy Carter: Rock & Roll President" anytime you like via Amazon Prime.

 

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