Martin Scorsese Co-Directing Documentary on New York Dolls Singer David Johansen
The life of David Johansen – flamboyant lead singer of the New York Dolls and Buster Poindexter – is now the subject of a new documentary. And it’s co-directed by Martin Scorsese.
The treatment will chronicle the singer’s nearly 50-year career, which began as a teenager in the downtown New York City scene of the 1960s before his rise to fame with the New York Dolls. And, of course, his 1980s alter-ego Buster Poindexter and transition to the Harry Smiths.
The as-yet-unnamed documentary is co-directed by Martin Scorsese and David Tedeschi for Showtime Documentary Films.
“I’ve known David Johansen for decades, and his music has been a touchstone ever since I listened to the Dolls when I was making Mean Streets,” Scorsese said in a statement. “Then and now, David’s music captures the energy and excitement of New York City. I often see him perform, and over the years I’ve gotten to know the depth of his musical inspirations. After seeing his show last year at the Café Carlyle, I knew I had to film it because it was so extraordinary to see the evolution of his life and his musical talent in such an intimate setting.”
[h/t Spin]
Recent Stories
Gigs to See on the Downtown Music Circuit the Month of August
The downtown music scene is approaching pre-pandemic levels, thanks in large part to increased bookings at many bars, restaurants and nightclubs. August looks more promising than any schedule in the past 16 months. Here are some highlights of upcoming shows this month, along with photographs from a few of the more active venues in July. […]
The Double-Decker Dining Shed on East 4th Street that Almost Happened
The dining shed as we know it is moving on up. Literally. Outside the Izakaya NYC on East 4th Street, workers were spotted assembling a double-decker dining shed on Friday morning. Complete with stairs, second floor, and astroturf. With the mezzanine at eye level with the first-floor apartments. By the evening, word was out and […]
Nolita Sommelier Charged with Setting Fire to Downtown Dining Structures
Photo: Forsythia Fire Department brass last week announced charges against a celebrated sommelier for setting fire to downtown dining structures. Caleb Ganzer, sommelier and partner at wine bar La Compagnie des Vins Surnaturels on Centre Street, was arrested and charged with two counts of felony for three instances of arson, including two at outdoor dining […]
Exit through the Ludlow Street Food Court
Exit through the food court. Indeed, the vacant Ludlow Street lot made famous by Banksy over a decade ago is now a mini food court. Under the radar, too. The first day of operations at 159 Ludlow was apparently Friday, including two food trucks, produce vendors, and picnic table seating. One of the vendors is […]
Stringer Punts on East Side Coastal Resilience Contract
For advocates of East River Park, a brief reprieve. City Comptroller, and former mayoral candidate Scott Stringer did not sign the $1.2 billion construction contract with IPC Resiliency Partners that would kickstart city funding for the East Side Coastal Resilience project. It apparently boils down to missing info and the review period having elapsed. “As […]
