Waiting: The Van Duren Story

The documentary adopts a tone of earnest inquiry and passionate discovery. Driven by the enthusiasm of its Australian protagonists, the film approaches Van Duren's story with a blend of admiration for his lost music and a genuine desire to unearth the truth behind his obscurity. It’s a narrative that evokes a sense of nostalgia for a particular era of music and a melancholic curiosity about paths not taken. The overall feeling is one of a labour of love, seeking to give a deserving artist his due recognition.

While the film's plot revolves around the discovery of Van Duren's music, it strongly implies a sound that captivated its Australian discoverers to the point of obsession. The narrative suggests a quality of music that resonates deeply, prompting an international search for answers. The context of his association with Big Star alumni and the ambitious comparisons to Paul McCartney hint at a melodic, perhaps sophisticated, songwriting sensibility that was deemed worthy of significant attention and potential stardom in the 1970s music landscape.

Van Duren's initial foray into the music spotlight involved a notable collaboration with former Big Star members Chris Bell and Jody Stephens. This partnership established him on the vibrant 70s Memphis bar circuit. Crucially, his talent caught the eye of Andrew Loog Oldham, the influential manager of The Rolling Stones. Oldham took Van Duren under his wing, signalling significant industry belief in his potential and leading to comparisons with musical giants like Paul McCartney, highlighting the high expectations placed upon him.

Van Duren's musical journey began in the wake of Big Star, a band widely considered one of the most influential cult acts of all time. Following Big Star's dissolution, Van Duren joined forces with ex-members Chris Bell and Jody Stephens. This collaboration placed him directly within a significant lineage of Memphis music, working with musicians who already possessed a dedicated following and a reputation for groundbreaking work. Their shared experience on the 70s Memphis bar circuit laid the foundation for his early career.

The narrative is driven by two friends from Australia – a band manager and musician – who stumble upon Van Duren's 'lost album.' Their discovery sparks a passionate quest to understand his story and uncover the reasons behind his obscurity. This personal connection provides an outsider's perspective, adding a layer of genuine curiosity and emotional investment. Their journey from captivated listeners to determined investigators forms the backbone of the film, making Van Duren's tale accessible and engaging for a global audience, including viewers in Australia.

The film centres on the enigmatic figure of Van Duren, a musician who, despite emerging from the shadow of the legendary Big Star and gaining the attention of Rolling Stones manager Andrew Loog Oldham, ultimately faded from the music scene. The central question explored is why such a promising artist, tipped to be the next Paul McCartney, never achieved widespread recognition. It's a tale of potential unfulfilled and a lost musical legacy, prompting viewers to ponder the forces that shape careers in the notoriously fickle music industry.