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Still from Jimmy Carter: Rock and Roll President

Willie Nelson, Nile Rodgers & more playing 2020 Tribeca Film Fest opening night

a still from Jimmy Carter Rock & Roll President
Jimmy and Willie in a still from Jimmy Carter Rock & Roll President

The 19th Annual Tribeca Film Festival happens April 15-26 in NYC. While they haven’t announced this year’s slate of films, the opening night event will be the world premiere of new documentary Jimmy Carter Rock & Roll President at Beacon Theatre on April 15. In addition to the screening, there will be live performances from Willie Nelson, Nile Rodgers, Paul Shaffer, and more to be announced. No word on tickets to this event but festival passes and bulk ticket packages for the 2020 Tribeca Film Festival are on sale now.

As for Jimmy Carter Rock & Roll President, here’s the synopsis:

This rockumentary-style presidential portrait shows how Jimmy Carter’s lifelong passion for music gave him an unexpected edge as a presidential candidate. Through folk, soul, gospel, jazz, and rock ‘n’ roll, Carter tapped into a force that transcended racial and generational divides, and often party lines. Carter’s appreciation for all genres of music and friendships with the likes of Bob Dylan, the Allman Brothers, and Willie Nelson helped to define his campaign. Jimmy Carter Rock & Roll President combines intimate interviews with Carter along with rare archival era-defining live performances from: Willie Nelson, Aretha Franklin, Jimmy Buffett, and Paul Simon among others. Director Mary Wharton traces how Carter’s genuine approachability and the unifying power of music became key to his political appeal, and allowed him to connect with voters who may only have known him as a small town peanut farmer.

Jimmy Carter says, “The film accurately captures my love for all music and the importance music has played in my personal and professional life. I remain hopeful and believe that music can serve to bring us together as a nation. Rosalynn and I are pleased with the fine film Mary and Chris have made and thank all those involved for telling this story.” You can watch a clip from the film, featuring Carter, Garth Brooks and Trisha Yearwood, below.