The Black Fire Documentary (2023)

The Amsterdam-based music platform Steppin’ Into Tomorrow is back with a special curated night of three short Afro-jazz documentaries and an online Q&A with saxophonist James “Plunky” Branch.

Juju to Oneness of Juju (2026)
The story of the evolution of the legendary African spiritual jazz group Juju into Oneness of Juju, known from tracks like 'African Rhythms'.

The Black Fire Documentary (2023)
The Black Fire Documentary uncovers Washington, DC’s music and its cultural heritage by highlighting the documents, images, photographs, art, video footage, music and the people behind Black Fire Records. Through the use of primary and secondary research methods, in-person interviews, and archival and media footage and photography, the documentary shines light on a Black-owned independent jazz record label started in Chocolate City, aka the nation’s capital in the 1970’s. Established by DJ and record producer Jimmy Gray, and saxophonist James “Plunky” Branch who led the band Oneness Of Juju, Black Fire Records followed in the footsteps of other influential black-owned independent labels like Strata-East and Tribe.

Tony Williams in Africa (1973)
Tony Williams in Africa is a 37-minute short by bassist and educator Willie Ruff that follows American jazz drummer Tony Williams on a trip to Senegal and Gambia in 1972, featuring super 8mm footage of Williams jamming outdoors with West African drummers as well as a framing section with Ruff, Williams, and pianist Dwike Mitchell presenting the film on 16mm to local children. Restored by the Yale Film Archive and hasn’t been released on any commercial streaming services.

Online Q&A: Plunky Branch
After the films there is an online Q&A with James “Plunky” Branch to talk about Black Fire Records and his band Oneness of Juju!

Melkweg often hosts different types of programmes at the same time, such as concerts, club nights and films. Please note that there may occasionally be some noise pollution from other programmes during the screening.