John Lee Hooker Rare Footage
John Lee Hooker's legacy as one of the greatest male blues vocalists of all time is well-documented, but even his most devoted fans may be surprised by the wealth of rare footage that exists. This collection of clips, gathered from various sources and private recordings, offers a glimpse into the life and artistry of this American blues icon.
One of the earliest and most fascinating clips on this page is an interview with John Lee Hooker conducted at the Capitol Theatre in Detroit on July 6, 1976. Shot by someone who was clearly in awe of the artist, this footage captures Hooker's charismatic stage presence and offers a rare glimpse into his thoughts on music and life. The fact that this clip has been officially released suggests that it may have been intended for broadcast at some point, but its rarity is still a testament to the often-overlooked nature of archival recordings.
Hooker's conversations with other artists are also well-represented here. A 1991 interview with him at the Newport [Jazz Festival](/artist/newport-jazz-festival) offers insight into his thoughts on music and his place within the blues tradition. Hooker talks about Elvis Presley in one clip, sharing a story that highlights their connection to the same musical roots. This exchange is particularly interesting given the vastly different styles of the two artists.
The presence of John Lee Hooker in popular culture beyond his own music is also evident here. A 1980 appearance on "The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson" with Carlos Santana, while not explicitly listed as rare footage, is a notable example of how Hooker's influence extended beyond the blues community. The fact that he was invited to share the stage with one of rock's most prominent guitarists speaks to his enduring impact.
It's also worth noting that John Lee Hooker's connection to film and television extends far beyond his own appearances. A 2013 documentary, "How a John Lee Hooker Record in Sweden Led to an Oscar," tells the remarkable story of how Hooker's music was used in the Swedish film "Tupelo" (2003). The use of Hooker's song "Tupelo" in this film led to a nomination for Best Original Song at the 76th Academy Awards, cementing his place as one of the most versatile and influential musicians of all time.
The documentary itself is not included on this page, but it serves as an important reminder of Hooker's lasting impact. His music has been used in countless films, television shows, and commercials over the years, introducing his unique sound to new generations of fans.
One clip that stands out for its sheer rarity is "It Serves Me Right To Suffer: The John Lee Hooker Story," a 1988 documentary that offers an intimate look at Hooker's life and career. While not necessarily rare in the classical sense – it has been widely released on DVD and streaming platforms – this film provides a comprehensive overview of Hooker's life, from his childhood as a sharecropper's son to his rise to fame as one of the most influential blues musicians of all time.
The page also includes several behind-the-scenes clips that offer a glimpse into the making of various projects featuring John Lee Hooker. "Boom Boom (from 'The Blues Brothers')" is a notable example, showcasing Hooker's performance in this 1980 film. The Boneshakers' BTS (behind-the-scenes) footage with John Lee Hooker offers additional insight into his work on specific projects.
Each of these clips provides a unique perspective on the life and artistry of John Lee Hooker, reminding us that even the most well-known artists have stories waiting to be uncovered.
Curated from public records and music databases.
