Double Feature!

JOHNNY O'KEEFE: THE WILD ONE 1983
Australian documentary. JO'K was the first Australian rock n roll star—achieved more due to his talent as a promoter, marketer and his outrageous self-confidence than on his natural singing abilities. Nevertheless, J'OK released 50 singles, had 30 chart hits, compered 3 TV shows and is fondly remembered by first-generation Australian rock n rollers! This documentary tells his story through interviews with those who were with him in the 50s and 60s and incredible vintage performances—including Sydney Stadium 1959, Festival Brisbane 1962 and a huge fan reception in Adelaide 1960. Cool vintage newsreel footage of Bogies & Wigies, jive competitions, and rock n roll—notably Bill Haley and Fabian. J'OK had a terrible car wreck that badly scarred his face. He is interviewed in the hospital (mangled face and all) and talks about how he’ll be back on TV in 3 weeks—as soon as he has his plastic surgery! He then suffered 5 nervous breakdowns and is interviewed and tells of how he thought he was a “walking dead” person. Tons of songs including “Shout,” “She’s My Baby,” “I’m Still Alive” and many others. Interviews include: J'OK’s mother, brother and daughter, Ian “Pee Wee” Wilson, John “Catfish” Purser, Glenn A Baker, Alan Dale, Col Joye, Peter Page, Ron Way and others.

Plus this bonus selection...

SHORT HISTORY OF AUSTRALIAN ROCK N ROLL 1983
Australian documentary. This documentary examines the development of the Australian record industry from the early 1950s to 1983. Slim Dusty was Australia’s first country star (who modeled himself after the “The Singing Brakeman” Jimmie Rodgers). Vintage 1950s footage of jiving contests. Cool footage of Johnny O'Keefe and the Dee Jays performing live, the Easy Beats on Aussie TV and early AC/DC. There is also performance footage and an interview with the Aboriginal rock n roll band, “No Fixed Address.” A look at the “Count Down” TV show which promoted Australian rock n roll. Cool vintage footage of record pressing plants and radio stations.

JOHNNY O'KEEFE: THE WILD ONE + HISTORY OF AUSTRALIAN ROCK N ROLL on DVD and VHS!