Max Roach: The Drum Also Waltzes Poster

Max Roach: The Drum Also Waltzes 2023

82 min📅 2023-03-12

Dive into the electrifying journey of jazz icon Max Roach in *Max Roach: The Drum Also Waltzes* (2023), a vibrant documentary directed by Sam Pollard that celebrates the life, artistry, and lasting impact of one of music's most revolutionary figures.

Director: Sam Pollard

Cast

Max Roach
Max Roach
Self (archival footage)
Abdullah Ibrahim
Abdullah Ibrahim
Self
Questlove
Questlove
Self
Harry Belafonte
Harry Belafonte
Self
Jimmy Heath
Jimmy Heath
Self
Quincy Jones
Quincy Jones
Self
Abbey Lincoln
Abbey Lincoln
Self
Sonny Rollins
Sonny Rollins
Self
Randy Weston
Self
Dee Dee Bridgewater
Dee Dee Bridgewater
Self

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Max Roach: The Drum Also Waltzes (2023) about?

This documentary follows the extraordinary life of Max Roach, a jazz drummer and activist whose music became a soundtrack for social change. From his early days battling segregation to his groundbreaking collaborations with jazz legends, the film explores how Roach's artistry and activism shaped generations.

Who directed Max Roach: The Drum Also Waltzes?

Sam Pollard, an acclaimed filmmaker known for his work on music and civil rights documentaries, directed *Max Roach: The Drum Also Waltzes*.

Who stars in Max Roach: The Drum Also Waltzes?

The film features interviews and insights from Max Roach himself, alongside contributions from Abdullah Ibrahim, Questlove, Harry Belafonte, and Quincy Jones.

Is Max Roach: The Drum Also Waltzes (2023) worth watching?

Absolutely—if you love jazz, history, or stories of artists who changed the world, this documentary is a treasure. Its blend of personal drama, cultural impact, and stunning performances makes it a compelling watch for music lovers and activists alike.

How long is Max Roach: The Drum Also Waltzes?

The runtime is 82 minutes.

🎥 Trailer

About Max Roach: The Drum Also Waltzes (2023) — A Jazz Legend's Life in Film

Dive into the electrifying journey of jazz icon Max Roach in *Max Roach: The Drum Also Waltzes* (2023), a vibrant documentary directed by Sam Pollard that celebrates the life, artistry, and lasting impact of one of music's most revolutionary figures. From the segregated streets of Jim Crow America to the frontlines of the Civil Rights Movement, this film traces Roach's evolution as a drummer, composer, and fearless activist who reshaped jazz with every beat. Through rare archival footage and interviews with legends like Quincy Jones and Questlove, the documentary captures the passion, struggle, and reinvention behind Roach's groundbreaking work—spanning bebop's golden age to his bold forays into avant-garde and hip-hop. Expect a rhythmic blend of history, rebellion, and soul-stirring music.

This intimate portrait isn't just about the beats—it's about the man behind them. *Max Roach: The Drum Also Waltzes* reveals the personal and creative battles that defined Roach's seven-decade career, from his collaborations with icons like Abdullah Ibrahim and Harry Belafonte to his uncompromising stance against injustice. With Pollard at the helm, the film pulses with the energy of a live performance, making it a must-watch for jazz enthusiasts and anyone who believes music can change the world.