Bayou Maharajah: The Tragic Genius of James Booker

Overview

Bayou Maharajah explores the life and music of New Orleans piano legend James Booker, the man Dr. John described as "the best black, gay, one-eyed junkie piano genius New Orleans has ever produced." A brilliant pianist, his eccentricities and showmanship belied a life of struggle, prejudice, and isolation. Illustrated with never-before-seen concert footage, rare personal photos and exclusive interviews, the film paints a portrait of this overlooked genius.

Directed by Lily Keber

Top cast

James Booker

Self (archive footage)

Dr. John

Self (archive footage)

Hugh Laurie

Self

Harry Connick Jr.

Self

Charles Neville

Self

Douglas Brinkley

Self

R

Ronald Markham

Self

Cosimo Matassa

Self

Details