Claudia Lennear will attend the Scottish Premiere of 20 Feet From Stardom

The Glasgow Film Festival is usually good for uncovering parts of cinematic history that have been unfortunately ignored, as well as getting a first look at new films. 20 Feet from Stardom does both, kind of: it looks at the life of  the backing singers to the stars, including Claudia Lennear rumoured to be the muse for both The Rolling Stones’ Brown Sugar (1971) and David Bowie’s Lady Grinning Soul (1973). 

While the lyrics of Brown Sugar probably represent one of rock'n'roll's many low points in its attitudes towards both sex and race (Bowie's number is heavy on the objectification, too), Lennear is one of the many people who have made a mark on popular music without ever being recognised. And the GFF has got her to come along for a Q&A after the film. 

Press Release

Nominated for Best Documentary at the 2014 Academy Awards, 20 Feet From Stardom shines a spotlight on the untold true story of the backup singers behind some of the greatest musical legends of the 21st century. From award-winning director Morgan Neville, the film includes rare archival footage, a peerless soundtrack and intimate interviews with such musical legends as Bruce Springsteen, Stevie Wonder, Sheryl Crow, Mick Jagger and Sting.

Glasgow Gospel Choir will be singing songs from the documentary, as well as a selection of other hit musical numbers, before the film commences on Saturday 22 February at 15.20, in Glasgow Film Theatre’s Cinema 1. 20 Feet From Stardom will be released in the UK & Ireland on 28 March.