The Perlich Post: Jackson C. Frank doc "Blues Run The Game" premieres in Montreal on May 15

Thursday, April 24, 2025

Jackson C. Frank doc "Blues Run The Game" premieres in Montreal on May 15

Buffalo-born singer/songwriter Jackson C. Frank gets a way overdue documentary screening at Montreal's BBAM Gallery May 15.

Here's the scoop...

Amidst Soho’s flourishing folk scene of the mid-60s, Jackson C. Frank released a masterpiece album, produced by fellow American expat Paul Simon. Jackson was close to Paul Simon and Art Garfunkel and was a vital musical influence for so many, including Bert Jansch, Nick Drake, Counting Crows, Graham Coxon, and Laura Marling. However, after the release of his album, he disappeared without a trace. With physical disabilities and severe PTSD as a result of a childhood tragedy, his mental health deteriorated. While absent, his musical influence greatly increased over the years. That’s when a young music fan decided to seek him out. This film follows in Frank's footsteps to unknot the threads of a unique artist with a dire fate.

Montreal's BBAM! Gallery have just announced the Canadian premiere of Blues Run The Game: The Strange Tale of Jackson C. Frank is set for Thursday, May 15. Writes BBAM!'s Ralph Alfonso: "I have chased after this doc for the last year and finally got it on condition that I screen it asap to coincide with a rave review coming in early May from The Guardian UK. Jackson C. Frank was an American singer/songwriter who went to the UK in the 60s, hooked up with Paul Simon who produced his one and only lp, but what an lp. It included the influential song, Blues Run The Game (covered by many people, including Simon & Garfunkle). That album influenced people like Nick Drake and others in the British folk scene. And then, Jackson C. Frank disappeared. This movie tells his story. Get more info on the BBAM! Gallery screening in Montreal right here.

For Blues Run The Game bookings and sales enquiries, contact colm <at>docnrollfestival <dot> com, Watch the trailer followed by he screening dates below. Hopefully, someone will show it in Toronto.