At 84, old time music pioneer Alice Gerrard performs, teaches, and inspires the next generation while safeguarding memories from her groundbreaking past.
This is one woman's story of being traditional,
never conventional.
This is a film about getting older, but never giving up.
– Soul of Southern Film & Audience Awards, Indie Memphis Film Festival 2019
We owe her a debt of gratitude for her tireless deep listening, and giving back in words and melody. Many of us in bluegrass and roots music have ridden on Alice’s shoulders. – “Bluegrass Today”
Queen of the universe! – Rayna Gellert
Goes far beyond the chords and lyricism of the music to a deep and personal reflection on family, art, and the abiding power of Alice’s voice. This is a film that had to be made, a story and history all need to see and hear. – Tom Rankin
Beautifully portrays a virtuoso of American vernacular culture. – Full Frame Film Festival
With a growing demand for representation of female pioneers in the roots music genre, this film is amongst the best! – Dom Flemmons
A touching tribute to an extremely talented lady. It’s as insightful as it is a toe-tapper, but more importantly it’s must see. – Film Babble
You Gave Me A Song offers an intimate portrait of old-time music pioneer Alice Gerrard and her remarkable, unpredictable journey creating and preserving traditional music. The film follows eighty-four year old Gerrard over several years, weaving together verité footage of living room rehearsals, recording sessions, songwriting, archival work, and performances with photos and rare field recordings. Much of the film is told in Alice’s voice and via interviews with musical collaborators and family members who share the story of Alice and others chasing that high lonesome sound.
