Miss Sharon Jones! – A Review
“For me, music is my joy. It’s my happiness. As long as this medicine, this chemo is in my body, I didn’t have my love, my joy.” Sharon Jones
Miss Sharon Jones! – A Review – Collage of Sharon Jones and the Dap Kings performing at the Beacon Theater NY & Band Group shot. Credits: (Jacob Blickenstaff/Abramorama/Starz Digital)
MISS SHARON JONES! Official Trailer (2016)
When Prince surprised Sharon Jones on stage in Paris. Two legends gone way too soon: https://t.co/zVvOyt7yyn pic.twitter.com/8ctD9gX02m
— Matt Wilstein (@TheMattWilstein) November 19, 2016
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“They said she was too black, too short, too old. But that didn’t stop her.” Miss Sharon Jones
I chose not to put a wig on. The reason why I chose to come out with the cancer thing is because there’s somebody out there who can see that all sickness isn’t unto death. That it’s something you can’t change at that point in time, so you just got to go with it. Don’t be ashamed. Don’t be ashamed of looking at yourself. Sharon Jones
On Monday evening, I headed out with one of my kids, to Nitehawk Cinema in Brooklyn, to see the seminal and powerful documentary, Miss Sharon Jones!, made by two-time Oscar winning filmmaker Barbara Kopple, on the indefatigable soul/funk singer Sharon Jones and her battle with bile-duct and pancreatic cancer. Sharon is the lead singer of the popular soul/funk group Sharon Jones and the Dap Kings and is often called the female James Brown of Soul because of her sonorous voice and dynamic stage presence. The documentary moved my spirit in many ways; it was at times sad, sometimes hopeful and, in a number of scenes, I marveled at her ability to make other cancer patients at the treatment center feel special. That is the nature of this soulful woman, and I would encourage you to not be turned off by the subject matter because Barbara did a fantastic job of handling a touching subject about a life-threatening illness with delicacy and hope. To wrap up the night, after the film, we got to sit for a Q & A to chat, meet, and take photos with Miss Sharon Jones herself in person. She is a spirited, diminutive powerhouse and, despite the current challenges she’s facing with the return of the cancer, her voice remains strong and her spirit high.
The documentary film starts off with clips of Sharon Jones and the Dap King’s fast paced, energetic shows; she’s singing in that rich voice, dancing around the stage and shaking her head and braids in so many directions, I wondered how they didn’t grow wings and fly right off her head. However, that is not the main gist of this must see documentary that would move you, inspire you, and have you reflecting on both your own mortality and the resilience of the human spirit; this documentary is about Sharon Jones very brave battle with Cancer. From that upbeat opening, it moves into a slow, quiet clip where we see Sharon reeling from the news of the diagnosis: she has stage 2 Bile duct cancer, and must take all the necessary steps to prepare for chemo treatment; including having her hair shaved.
The rest of the documentary focuses on her journey to treatment/healing spaces both in upstate NY and Georgia, the intimate exchanges with her band members, and with her caregivers and loved ones; all of whom have rallied to support her through it. In spite of the painful subject, there are moments of humor, joy and even laughter, as Sharon pulls us in, reminding us of what matters most when we are going through dark times. There are raw, painful moments that brought tears to my eyes, and inspiring moments that showed her fierce spirit fighting a formidable enemy. Yet, the film creates a balance that warms the heart and gives us hope that we can face something so devastating and still find moments of light and hope to spur us on. In one of my favorite scenes, she is enjoying a pulled pork sandwich with gravy and, her reaction and delight/gratitude over such a treat, reminded me of the simple joys that make us human. We reach for our comfort foods in tough times and savor every bite as if it is our last. It is this same spirit that Sharon brings to the battle and, because of it, she is able to turn a corner and find enough inner will to get back on the road. To avoid divulging any more spoilers, I recommend you include this on your list of must see movies.
MUST SEE: Please make time to see this powerful Sharon Jones documentary when it comes to your town. It’s on limited release but hopefully will be in more theaters as time goes by. It is directed by Barbara Koppel who won two Academy Awards for : Harlan County, USA, and for American Dream Sharon is truly an inspiration on the subject of living life with a positive spirit. Tickets here!
READ: NYTimes Review: ‘Miss Sharon Jones!’: The Shimmies and Shouts of a Survivor
Washington Post: ‘Miss Sharon Jones!’ paints an inspiring portrait of a musical powerhouse
UPDATE! – I am so sad to share that Sharon lost her battle with cancer. May she Rest In Peace! <3
We are deeply saddened to announce Sharon Jones passed away today. More details at https://t.co/MAag8tYrE3
— Sharon Jones (@sharonjones) November 19, 2016
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RIP Sharon Jones! You were a bright light dimmed too soon… sorely missed. @sharonjones https://t.co/epQD0qEyz6 #SharonJones #DapKings
— elizabeth obih-frank (@ElizObihFrank) November 19, 2016
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More Below!
“I miss my hair, but I feel like going out there with some fake braids wouldn’t be right. I want to be the most genuine performer I can be.” Sharon Jones
Miss Sharon Jones! – A Review – Collage of Sharon Jones and the Dap Kings performing at the Beacon Theater NY & Band Group shot. Credits: (Jacob Blickenstaff/Abramorama/Starz Digital) & my personal collection
The Show Never Stops For Sharon Jones | HuffPost
At first, they told me it was just bile-duct cancer, but once they went in, they removed the gallbladder, the head of my pancreas, and a foot-and-a-half of my small intestine, and built me another bile duct and connected it to my stomach. It turned out to be pancreatic cancer, stage two, so, very aggressive. Sharon Jones
If I can’t pronounce it, I don’t want to put it in my body. Everything to me now is organic, natural, right from the farm. Sharon Jones
Until the ’90s, major labels were looking for a certain look. This Sony guy told me I was ‘too black, too fat, too short, and too old.’ Told me to go and bleach my skin. Told me to step in the background and just stay back. I had the voice, but I didn’t have the looks. Sharon Jones
Who is Sharon Jones? Sharon was born in North Augusta, South Carolina, the youngest of six children, and was an outgoing child who loved singing and dancing with her siblings, and imitating James Brown. At a young age, her mom moved the family to Bedford Stuyvesant in Brooklyn, New York, where she completed high school and attended college. Sharon was always drawn to music as a little girl; she sang in the choir at church and entered talent shows before settling in as a corrections officer at Rikers and working as a backup singer for local bands. She never gave up her dream, and I’m glad because we must never allow others to define us. It is so easy to cover up ourselves with outer layers while hiding the pain and daily dismissals we get from thoughtless people. Sharon is not a member of that club and she showed her true grit when she had her hair shaved without much debate. Hair means a lot to black women; it is an outer layer fraught with much angst for so many of us. By releasing hers, Sharon was cutting herself free from any traps to her healing… that scene was another poignant moment for me.
Sharon’s lucky break came when she met Gabriel Roth, co-founder of Daptone Records and the bandleader of the Dap Kings. The connection led to her joining the band as lead singer, finally, deciding to pursue that dream full-time. She soon became a well regarded, energetic entertainer; her shows with the funk and soul band, The Dap-Kings, were packed and she gave it her all. While some might have assumed that the Cancer, Chemo treatments, and the battle to live would derail her from her dream, she has fought it bravely and presses on. Once she completed the initial Chemo treatments, she started back on tour with the band and was thrilled when they were nominated for a Grammy in 2014. However, the Cancer has since returned and she remains in a fierce battle for her life. As she faces a second round of treatments, she is determined to not allow it to deter her from a lifetime of preparation and performance as a singer. My heart and prayers go out to her as we all need to wish her healing love and a remission of this disease.
During the Q & A, Sharon shared some of her memories of childhood including an experience of prejudicial treatment by a store owner back in South Carolina. She spoke honestly about her health and why she is reaching out to encourage others to be brave. She spoke about her creative work and how it inspires her to press on… it was a heartwarming Q&A, and we all felt connected to her in that cinema. Do come back later for some clips I recorded of the conversation. She is funny, direct and had us laughing, weeping, and celebrating her courage … Who was healing whom? Sharon continues to battle that insidious disease and remains positive and determined to give her best at all times. Afterwards, we gathered downstairs for a photo opportunity and she posed for a few with me and my daughter (see far left bottom shot above). Meeting her was very special; I feel reinvigorated and determined to get back on my feet and get on with living which is what she is doing so gracefully.
MUST SEE: Please make time to see this poignant Sharon Jones documentary, directed by Barbara Koppel , when it comes to your town. Sharon is truly an inspiration on the subject of living life fully with dignity and grace; even while battling health challenges. Tickets here!
READ: Miss Sharon Jones! Movie Review (2016) | Roger Ebert
AVClub: Miss Sharon Jones! pays tribute to the mighty soul of a soul singer
Miss Sharon Jones!
Directed by: Barbara Kopple
Produced by: David Cassidy
Music by: Sharon Jones & The Dap-Kings
Cinematography: Gary Griffin
Tony Hardmon
Kyle Kibbe
Edited by: Anne Fratto and Jean Tsien
Production company: Cabin Creek Films
Distributed by: Starz Digital Media
Release dates: 11 September 2015 – Toronto International Film Festival
Running time: 93 minutes
Language: English
IMPORTANT NOTE: This post is first and foremost about Sharon Jones brave battle with cancer and the powerful documentary about her battle. It is not about a show/concert or a music event and your sensitivity would be appreciated when you leave a comment. Next, this post is ONLY PARTLY inspired by this week’s Discover Challenge: For this week’s challenge, 0n Outer Layers, tell us (in the medium or format of your choice, whether visual, textual, or other) about how your personal style reflects or modifies who you are… a memory you hold dear … I added how Sharon bravely shaved her hair which was important to her because she recognized it is only an outer layer. That’s the only connection I make. The post is primarily about her brave battle. Thank you!
Have an inspired week ahead!
Positive Motivation Tip: Grab life with both hands and live it fully. Our ups/downs can be the light that ignites inspiration in ourselves and others.
PHOTO CREDITS/ATTRIBUTIONS: All Photos – Photos of Sharon Jones w/ the Dap-Kings at the Beacon Theater in New York, CREDITS: via (Jacob Blickenstaff/Abramorama/Starz Digital) AND Other photos of Sharon Jones, Sharon Jones and the Dap Kings, Dap Kings, CREDITS: via Wikipedia, and my Personal Collection
Until Next Time…
Ask. Believe. Receive. ©
Elizabeth Obih-Frank
Mirth and Motivation
Positive Kismet
Sharon Jones is an amazing singer and women. She is an idol!
She’s truly inspiring, this post remind me to continue and chase my dreams as well. I admire her heart, her strong personality, her courage, how she handle all her struggles in life and how she became the person she is now. Thank you for sharing about this post!
She is an inspiration to others battling cancer and to those of us who stop to consider how tough it must be… TY!
The first quote by Sharon Jones is absolutely true. I also believe that your happiness is your chemo, the treatment of your pain. Just remain jovial in crucial situation and be strong, and let the time heal your troubles. We need to remain happy and accept that whatever happens, happens due to GOD’s will. We should do what is in our hand; we can control our mind. It is up to us whether we need to be happy or sad. Those who experienced crucial and bad situations know the real value of happiness.
Indeed… I think, at times, people act in a thoughtless way because they have no memory of ever having to face their own mortality. It is humbling and empowering and we all need to remember that one day we will face it…
Sounds like a very moving documentary. Wish I lived closer so I could go.
Sharon sounds fantastic! I hope she continues to battle and wins the fight over that disease! She’s definitely inspiring!
Wow what a inspirational lady and so much bravery! It’s so lovely to hear she is encouraging others during hard times despite all her own battles. This would be great to see.
It was a moving documentary and I would encourage all to see it.
I am not familiar with Ms. Sharon Jones but she sounds lovely. How I wish I can watch her live!
Wow, she is a wonderful and very strong woman! I will never hesitate watching her!
what a big inspiration she is, truly a legend
Oh, what a moving and interesting read. I am not familiar with this woman but she is so blessed!
What an incredible review, Eliz. She is a tough one and I hope to watch her soon.
Big C is very disappointing but this woman sounds nice. How I wish I am brave enough like her.
I haven’t heard of her before this. She sounds very inspirational. Its good to see people living their lives despite illness or adversity. It sounds like a nice movie.
What a beautiful voice that she has. I am glad she made a come back.
What a vibrant, powerful lady, it must have been a wonderful evening!
She looks like a dynamic person. Thanks for sharing her story and talent.
I never heard of Sharon before… I’ll make sure to look her up now!
Wow! Her voice is amazing. I’m glad she never gave up her dreams of becoming a singer. It’s so important to keep doing what you love, even if it doesn’t always pay the bills at first.
What an inspiring story. She is a great performer.
I know I have heard about Sharon Jones before however I did not know much about her except that she is a very talented singer. That is up until now. I really enjoy reading about people and their life’s story. It is really wonderful to read how even though Sharon had been fighting a battle with cancer she didn’t give up her singing and continued to be high spirited. She is such a great inspiration for all of us!
Thank you. I feel the same way and the Q & A afterwards gave us a chance to hear her story and challenges up close. I just wish we lived in a world where folks take a moment to really read, listen, and empathize… where are we rushing to?
Did you know Sharon Jones before you watched the documentary? Sometimes it may be difficult to sit through a biographical documentary if you do not know the subject. But I guess in this one there is music to love.
I had actually never heard of Sharon Jones so I just did some research. That show sounds awesome!
Super thorough review. As a singer I loooooove documentaries like this! Especially with her fight against cancer, definitely want to check this out.
I’ve never heard of Sharon Jones so thank you for changing that. She sounds extremely strong.
I recently heard an interview with Sharon Jones, and found her to be so inspiring. To have cancer and deal with chemo treatments is challenging. I love how she is pushing throw and still singing her heart out.
She sounds like an inspiration! I was not aware of who she i until I read this post.
i’ve actually never heard of this singer until i read this post, and i googled her up. her fight with cancer is certainly inspiring and touching. I believe she has once said, “I have cancer; cancer don’t have me.”
She’s really brave and amazing. I admire her
The documentary sounds like a must see for inspiration and a heartfelt story.
I admire her spirit and her soul. We should never let sickness come in the way of reaching our dreams. I love that she never gave up her passion despite having to battle cancer. She continues to give strength to those who are fighting the same battle as she is and that’s what makes her amazing. I would have to admit, I am not familiar with this woman but I can’t help but be touched by her.
It would be interesting to follow Sharon Jones story. It can really inspire as to be strong amidst crisis and sickness.
I like her quote about missing her hair. Sadly roo many people try to hide behind things that don’t matter.
IMPORTANT NOTE: This post is first and foremost about Sharon Jones brave battle with cancer and the powerful documentary about her battle. It is not about a show/concert or a music event and your sensitivity would be appreciated when you leave a comment. Next, this post is ONLY PARTLY inspired by this week’s Discover Challenge: For this week’s challenge, on Outer Layers, tell us (in the medium or format of your choice, whether visual, textual, or other) about how your personal style reflects or modifies who you are… a memory you hold dear … I added how Sharon bravely shaved her hair which was important to her but she recognized it is only an outer layer. That’s the only connection I make. The post is primarily about her brave battle. Thank you!
I had heard about this documentary but your post gave me more insightful knowledge of the situation at hand. every year cancer engulfs hundreds of people, some give up and some fight against all odds. I think here is a lesson to take from Sharon that no matter what happens one should stay true to oneself and love life and fight for it till the end. this is an inspiring tale of a strong woman and word of it should be spread far and wide.
I had heard about this documentary but your post gave me more insightful knowledge of the situation at hand. every year cancer engulfs hundreds of people, some give up and some fight against all odds. I think here is a lesson to take from Sharon that no matter what happens one should stay true to oneself and love life and fight for it till the end. this is an inspiring tale of a strong woman and word of it should be spread far and wide.
I’ve never heard of Sharon Jones, but I’m now very interested in downloading some of her tunes on iTunes. She sounds phenomenal! It is amazing what we can overcome when trying times come to pass.
Although it’s an awesome trailer, I like the thought behind this post. Very inspiring. Thanks for sharing
Her voice is so powerful and strong like her soul. I’m not surprised she received a Grammy nomination with her amazing performance. Although it so sad to hear her cancer has returned. Some people fighting a horrific illness like this would not be this positive. I love her confident attitude when it comes to not wearing a wig and continue to live her dream. My prayers and positive energy are sent to her and her family.
I always get so emotional hearing about people battling cancer.. I think it takes a brave soul not to give in and not getting depressed. We can’t even imagine how they must feel, it boggles my mind. 🙁
I honestly have not heard about her before but am so appreciative of your introduction. As someone who has shaved her hair off just because I like to wear it like that from time to time and have had people ask me if I have cancer, I totally relate to her decision to just be herself. Thanks for sharing.
This is such a powerful documentary. I would love to see all about her story.
She is a very brave and obviously a very strong woman. I love that she is not trying to hide behind a wig-but is in her own way showing others that life does goes on and you have to fight and live life to the fullest no matter what is going on!
Wow!! This is so powerful… Being brave is very inspiring. It’s also a message for women around the world, who deal with low self-esteem. Encouraging to overcome women’s issues, weakness… Being brave is not always easy as it looks like…
Thanks for sharing this story with us.
She sounds so brave <3 — Eating healthy and being positive surely does work.
I applaud her on her fight against cancer, and also the many stereotypes that are imposed even today. Best wishes to her!
I would really love to see the documentary. My dad went through a hard battle with cancer and I believe he would enjoy it as well.
I love watching human interest documentaries like this– it’s so inspiring and eye-opening when people share their stories, especially through difficult times. Will definitely be looking to see when this plays in my city.
I had a friend who died from bile duct and pancreatic cancer. I saw how she had suffered but like Miss Sharon Jones, she is very courageous.
I’ve known so many people who shaved their hair to support the fight against cancer. She is so brave and I think she inspired many cancer patients because of this. I will watch the documentation soon.
I have to admit, I never knew of her before I read your post. She sounds like such a courageous and inspirational person. I wish her good luck in everything she does and wants to do.
She is really brave, I can’t imagine the pains she is going through. My aunt died of bone marrow cancer and this reminds me of her battles.
Hopefully one day a cure for cancer will be found. Until then events that help raise awareness and work towards a cure are important.
We all hope that that documentary will be shown in our town. This is a must-see, she is such a strong and brave woman.
People in the public eye who share their journey with cancer are so brave. The documentary sounds very powerful.
Sounds like a great documentary! I love inspiring stories!
wow this is such a very inspiring story. It is worth the read.
Shes encouraging others and touching hearts. Nothing better we can do in life. And her voice!! I will see the documentary if it comes to our town. And I will be praying for her to get the new remission too. In fact I’m stopping to send one up right now, more prayer requests cannot hurt a bit. And phfffft to the totally off-base Sony exec. with a wrong opinion and a mean mouth.
I need to see her documentary. Cancer is not easy, and battling with it is completely like battling with the death God. So inspiring.
Wow this looks like such an inspirational piece! I love documentaries and find they motivate me a lot so I will have to check this out.
I was just discussing with my students how people often find comfort in music and art when they are going through difficult times in their lives. I applaud her strength throughout her journey and love that she still managed to take part in her passion.
She sounds like an amazing and brave women. My grandmother had cancer and she powered thru it.
every cancer battle is one to fill and save for one to look back after coming out of it well. she is such an inspiration to all who go through this.
Very inspiring story. There are many people who get discourage of their dreams becuase of criticism. But they should not be, they should be brave to prove them selve all time.
wow she’s an amazing woman! very brave and inspiring to many of us today by pushing herself and do what she loves to do
I don’t know Sharon Jones nor her music. But it is very brave of her to be opening up about her illness. Will go check out more of her songs soon!
This is so empowering and inspiring. Strong person and the phrase she used that she wouldn’t feel right to put on a wig, speaks volumes!!
Thank you for introducing Sharon Jones to us, it is nice to discover artist that can make a great impact to someone, someday.
Cancer has become a much common disease these days and the documentary about the brave battle that Miss Sharon Jones went through sounds interesting. A movie that explains the pain of a real life battle should really be inspiring to watch out.
I have never heard of her before this. Will check out her documentary now – blessings
I appreciate your take on the theme. Sharon sounds like a remarkable performer and person. Her willingness to share her experience with battling cancer is a proof that you don’t lose yourself when life takes an unplanned path.
Sounds like an inspiring and powerful story. I will have to watch her documentary for sure!
Sharon Jones is an inspiration. The way she confronts illness as well as racism (which is kinda like an illness in others!) is so brave! My dad suffered from the same cancer as her and unfortunately didn’t survive. I’m glad Sharon is still alive and fighting through it! It gives other cancer patients motivation and the hope your body can fight the disease. It’s important to take care of yourself, body and soul.
Omg what bravery dealing with cancer!!!! It’s crazy how many people have to battle that sucky disease. Fight on girl!!!
What an incredible story in a brave woman. It helps you to put your life in perspective when you see someone like this living life so full even though she’s sick.
I lost my father to cancer 24 years ago. I saw him battle the disease and tried to stay strong for us, his family. Seeing Miss Sharon Jones’ tough attitude and determination to win the battle against cancer is so inspiring. I will let my cousin read this post. She is a breast cancer survivor, and at one point during her treatments, she also had to shave her head. She continues to stay positive and happy.
I’m so sorry to read about your dad and also grateful for your cousin. It’s an incredible battle and those touched by it understand the strain it can have on loved ones. Thank you for speaking up about how it touched you too… Hugs. <3
What an inspiring post! What great information. I never knew this much about her!
I truly hate this disease. She is inspiring and fierce in her battle.
I’ve got a friend battling ovarian cancer for the second time so I am amazed at the courage of those that battle cancer. Sharing stories like this really help the people fighting the battle as well as their friends and loved ones.
What a wonderful tribute to a woman who has battled with cancer. It’s people like Sharon Jones that give other cancer patients that strength to continue on and not give up on life. Amazing woman!
Wow this sounds like a documentary my husband and I would both love to see. She sounds very inspirational.
What a survivor! This is amazing, so glad you shared this. Extremely inspirational!
Wow what a remarkable story and a remarkable woman. I just loved the quote you included of hers, “Don’t be ashamed. Don’t be ashamed of looking at yourself.” It’s so poignant.
I’ve never heard of Sharon Jones before, but this woman is so inspiring! I greatly admire her strength and I think I have to figure out how to watch this documentary on the internet… Thank you for sharing!
Miss Sharon Jones is truly inspiring to those who stand and put up a good fight! Life is a mystery. Enjoy it and have fun in God’s way!
That video can tell about how amazing her voice is, she does have a strong voice that would make you follow her music.
I am not familiar with this artist but truly she can be an inspiration to those afflicted with the Big C
What an inspirational woman is Sharon Jones! She is an inspiration for millions to fight with cancer and leave a beautiful life on your terms. I have bookmarked your post and will watch her documentary for sure!
Just amazing! Sharon Jones is such a courageous woman. Takes strength to continue doing what you love even while battling this disease.
She’s really a brave woman and so inspiring. I love to read about her
This looks like it was an amazing show! And at the Beacon – I’ve always wanted to see a show there.
I feel for all those who had to battle cancer, be it they did so with success or not. I watched the disease eating up my aunt yet she never forgot to smile when I walked in. Remembering the carers is something close to my heart as well.
Truly an inspiration! This is one of my reasons why I always do my best for other people, stay positive and keep the Faith because your impact is the most important of all.
ive never heard of her but her story is truly inspiring. and shows that nothing can stop you trying and achieving your dreams
I didn’t know of her, so thanks for introducing her to me. I do know of cancer though. My best friend lost her mom to cancer. I really hope Sharon survives.
Fighting cancer is something I hope I never have to experience. I lost my step mother to breast cancer in 2011.
It’s my first time to hear about Sharon Jones. Her story is touching and at the same time inspirational.
I first discovered Sharon Jones when she partnered with Mich buble for a duet. She is very talented but I did not know much about her. Thank you for sharing this, not only is she incredibly talented she is a a great inspiration.