Have you ever wondered about the musicians behind the iconic sounds of the 70s, 80s, and beyond? Following the acclaimed documentary The Wrecking Crew, director Denny Tedesco brings us The Immediate Family, a captivating film that shines a light on the next generation of studio legends. These are the players who not only shaped the sound of popular music in the studio but also graced stages worldwide with some of the biggest names in the industry.
Image alt text: Danny Kortchmar, Robert Wachtel, and Steve Postell, guitarists of The Immediate Family band, performing live, showcasing their decades of musical expertise.
The Immediate Family isn’t just a film; it’s also the name of a band born from these remarkable musicians. Danny “Kootch” Kortchmar, Robert “Waddy” Wachtel, and Steve Postell, all on guitars and vocals, along with the legendary Leland Sklar on bass and Russ Kunkel on drums, have united to celebrate their 50-year friendships and incredible musical journeys. The film delves into their collective history, exploring the countless albums and artists they’ve contributed to, revealing the stories behind the music we all know and love.
From intimate studio sessions to sold-out stadium tours, The Immediate Family unveils the crucial role these musicians played in shaping the landscape of modern music. The documentary features appearances from a galaxy of stars who have collaborated with these exceptional talents, including Carole King, James Taylor, Linda Ronstadt, Jackson Browne, Phil Collins, Don Henley, Stevie Nicks, and Lyle Lovett. We also hear from prominent figures from the production side, such as Val Garay, Niko Bolas, Peter Asher, Lou Adler, Russ Titelman, and Lenny Waronker, offering a comprehensive look at the collaborative magic behind the music.
Image alt text: Iconic bassist Leland Sklar performing with The Immediate Family, highlighting his signature playing style and contribution to decades of popular music.
Just like The Wrecking Crew, The Immediate Family film is packed with so much rich history and fascinating anecdotes that you could easily imagine it being expanded into a much longer format. As Denny Tedesco himself notes, “These are guys in their mid 70s recording and playing and loving it like they were in their 20s.” Their passion for music is infectious and their story is a testament to the enduring power of collaboration and friendship in the music industry.
The Immediate Family is more than just a music documentary; it’s a celebration of unsung heroes and the timeless music they helped create. Now streaming, this film is a must-watch for any music enthusiast wanting to understand the real backbone of some of the most beloved songs of our time. Discover immediate family film today and witness the legacy of these incredible musicians.
Image alt text: The Immediate Family band members – Danny Kortchmar, Robert Wachtel, Steve Postell, Leland Sklar, and Russ Kunkel – standing together, representing decades of musical partnership and camaraderie.
