Mingus

This interview with jazz musician Charlie Mingus was made at the time of his eviction from his New York City apartment. With his five-year-old daughter and amidst the clutter of his belongings, the famed double bass player, pianist, composer and bandleader, addresses the camera and discusses his work, the discrimination he experienced in the U.S. and abroad, and the often complicated relationships of men and women. Mingus' monologue is intercut with footage of him and various groups performing in clubs with numbers including: All the things you are, Secret love, and Take the A train. At the conclusion, Mingus is evicted from his home and arrested for suspected drug use. His double bass is abandoned on the city street.