Immediate Family

Immediate Family is a 2013 documentary film that revolves around the lives and careers of five talented session musicians who achieved significant success behind the scenes in the 1970s. At the heart of the documentary are Danny Kortchmar, Leland Sklar, Steve Lukather, Waddy Wachtel, and Russ Kunkel – an elite group of musicians known as the "Section." These talented individuals, affectionately referred to as the "cream of the crop," played key roles in shaping some of the most iconic music of the decade. Danny Kortchmar, a skilled guitarist, had already carved out a successful career by the time the 1970s dawned. His collaborations with notable artists such as James Taylor and Carole King would help establish him as a staple in the music industry. Leland Sklar, with his impressive bass-playing skills, became an indispensable addition to numerous bands and projects. Steve Lukather, on the other hand, would go on to achieve unparalleled success as a member of the iconic rock band Toto. Waddy Wachtel, a versatile guitarist and drummer, also made significant contributions to various musical projects. And Russ Kunkel, a skilled drummer, would work with a range of notable artists throughout his illustrious career. Throughout the documentary, renowned musicians such as James Taylor, Don Henley, Lyle Lovett, Jackson Browne, Phil Collins, Stevie Nicks, Keith Richards, and Steve Jordan discuss their collaborations with the five musicians and share stories about the pivotal songs and albums the "Section" were involved in. By drawing on their first-hand accounts and experiences, the documentary offers a comprehensive look at the significant impact the "Section" had on the music industry during this pivotal period. The 1970s were characterized by an explosion of creative genius, and the "Section" played a crucial role in this musical renaissance. As detailed by those who worked alongside them, the collective talents of Danny, Leland, Steve, Waddy, and Russ helped shape some of the most enduring and iconic songs of this era. Their influence extends far beyond the realm of session work to encompass broader aspects of music production, composition, and performance. One of the key themes explored in Immediate Family is the musicians' aversion to the limelight, preferring to remain largely anonymous despite their significant contributions to some of the decade's most defining albums. By opting to remain discreetly in the background, the "Section" allowed their art to speak for itself and enabled some of the most renowned artists of the era to reach even greater heights. The collaborations between the "Section" and these notable musicians often resulted in some truly groundbreaking music. Phil Collins, for instance, credits the "Section" with helping shape his work on the iconic album "Sudden Impact." Similarly, James Taylor notes how the group's collective talents and collaborative spirit allowed him to experiment with and explore new musical ideas on his work. Throughout the documentary, interviews reveal a deeper understanding of the relationships between these musicians, their working processes, and the significance of their contributions to the overall creative output. The shared passion and dedication displayed by the members of the "Section" fostered a collaborative environment that allowed them to continually push the boundaries of music excellence. Immediate Family also explores the personal characteristics and experiences of each musician. Interviews reveal the individual backgrounds, creative approaches, and personal philosophies of each member, illuminating the multifaceted nature of their individual and collective artistic endeavors. The documentary culminates with the five musicians, now older and wiser, reflecting on their remarkable careers and the lasting impact their music has had on successive generations. By offering a poignant reminder of the power and potential of shared creative endeavor, Immediate Family honors the achievements of the "Section" and celebrates the enduring legacy of 1970s music.