Everyday Sunshine: The Story of Fishbone

Everyday Sunshine: The Story of Fishbone is a 2010 American music documentary that chronicles the enigmatic journey of Fishbone, the iconic American musical group known for fusing a unique blend of punk, funk, soul, and reggae. Formed in the 1980s, Fishbone emerged as a band that embodied the spirit of a rebellious era in American music history. This film delves into the story of the Los Angeles-based band, whose members have come to exemplify innovative musicianship and artistic expression that went beyond the conventional boundaries of rock and roll. The documentary begins with the tumultuous Los Angeles of the 1980s, where economic and social tensions ran high. Set against the backdrop of a city plagued by poverty and racial inequality, Fishbone emerged as a powerful voice that defied the conventions of the music industry. Founded by vocalist Eric 'Black' Moore, guitarist Kendall Jones, bassist John Norwood Fisher, drummer Phillip "Fish" Fisher, keyboardist Chris Dowd, and trombonist Angelo Moore, Fishbone burst onto the music scene with their genre-defying sound, combining the raw energy of punk with the infectious groove of funk. Their early performances at the iconic Hollywood club, Rodney Bingenheimer's English Disco, marked the beginning of their journey as a band. What sets Fishbone apart from their contemporaries is their bold fusion of musical styles, blending punk's rebellious attitude with funk's energetic beats and reggae's melodic harmonies. This distinctive sound captured the imagination of music fans from diverse backgrounds, transcending the racial and economic boundaries of Reagan's America. With hits like "Rikky's Hands" and "Skankin' to the Beat," Fishbone's albums "In Your Face" and "The Reality of My Surroundings" catapulted the band to international recognition. Their live performances, marked by Angelo and Kendall's energetic stage antics and John's powerful bass playing, quickly gained them a devoted following. However, beneath the surface of Fishbone's commercial success and artistic innovation lies a complex web of personal struggles and creative differences that shaped the band's trajectory. The documentary delves into the tensions and conflicts that arose within the group, revealing the intense creative energy and personal demons that fueled Fishbone's music. The film showcases the band's relentless tour schedule, which took them to clubs, theaters, and festivals across the United States and Europe. Despite the chaos and chaos that often accompanied them, Fishbone continued to hone their craft, pushing the boundaries of their music and their performances. In addition to the band members' own stories, Everyday Sunshine features interviews with various collaborators, industry experts, and fans who attest to Fishbone's lasting impact on the music scene. Hip-hop legends like George Clinton and Ice-T sing the band's praises, while fellow musicians like Flea (Red Hot Chili Peppers) and Flea describe the band's groundbreaking sound. The film also explores the band's relationships with figures like Bill Graham, the legendary concert promoter who helped popularize Fishbone in the Bay Area, and members of the iconic music group, Jane's Addiction. Fishbone's association with alternative rock and funk-rock movements also receives attention, highlighting their role as influential trailblazers. As the documentary progresses, the story of Fishbone becomes a metaphor for the turbulent times of the 1980s and the music industry's struggles with the politics and societal shifts of the era. Against the backdrop of a decade marked by recession, AIDS awareness, and social unrest, Fishbone's music and performances challenged the status quo and questioned the power structures within the industry. Throughout the film, archival footage, live performances, and behind-the-scenes moments provide a rich tapestry of the band's journey. While the documentary acknowledges Fishbone's commercial successes and critical acclaim, it also touches on their struggles with internal conflicts, the pressures of touring, and the band members' personal demons. Ultimately, Everyday Sunshine: The Story of Fishbone serves as a testament to the band's resilience and determination to continue pushing boundaries, despite the challenges they faced. The film offers a glimpse into the creative forces that have shaped Fishbone's music and legacy, cementing their status as a pioneering force in the world of alternative rock and funk.