Big Mama Thornton: I Can't Be Anyone But Me

Name: Big Mama Thornton: I Can't Be Anyone But Me
Genre: Music
Released: 2026-05-16
Duration: 1 h 28 min
Cast: Lynnee Denise, Charlie Musselwhite, Mike Stoller

Robert Clem’s latest film dives into the culture and history of Alabama and the Deep South, spotlighting Willie Mae 'Big Mama' Thornton as a true blues icon and one of the genre’s greatest voices. Willie Mae 'Big Mama' Thornton was a blues powerhouse who shook American music to its core. Towering in voice and presence, she made 'Hound Dog' a number one hit before Elvis ever sang it, and her ferocious 'Ball & Chain' launched Janis Joplin’s career. Defying gender norms in jeans, boots, and cowboy hat, Big Mama captivated audiences with raw energy, humour, and soul. From Alabama juke joints to European festivals, she lived hard, sang harder, and left an indelible mark on rock, R&B, and the blues. Screening as this part of Doc'n Roll Film Festival. <a href = "https://www.glasgowfilm.org/docnroll-festival-2026" style = "color:white">Click here to find out more</a></style>.MusicPT1H28M152026-05-16

Lynnee Denise

Charlie Musselwhite

Mike Stoller

Robert Clem

Big Mama Thornton: I Can't Be Anyone But Me"Big Mama Thornton: I Can't Be Anyone But Me"

Showtimes

May 16, 5:45 pm