Ryan Porter / Resilience
Produced by The Variety Group and directed by Marquell Byrd, Resilience: The Story of Ryan Porter is a music documentary celebrating Porter’s rise—and resiliency—as a musician who has persevered and developed an incredible career, against all odds. Developing his skillset through support and encouragement from the free music programs in the Los Angeles area during his formative years (an experience he shared with many who remain his musician friends today), Porter shares that it is, “a look at how my life was affected by people who gave wholeheartedly to their community,” adding that “It is dedicated to Reggie Andrews, a great teacher and friend."
With interviews including the late Los Angeles educator Reggie Andrews (Porter’s beloved teacher-mentor who taught the West Coast Get Down Collective, Thundercat, Tyrese Gibson, Patrice Rushen, and others), Kamasi Washington, and many others, the film navigates the trials and triumphs experienced by dedicated musicians. In a story that inspires commitment and emphasizes the importance of music education and the ongoing mentorship of young people from all backgrounds, Porter’s unique challenges added a health crisis and homelessness into the mix, in addition to the intensity of navigating the world in lockdown. Byrd’s ongoing mission is to pay it forward through the Color Compton youth artist programs (colorcompton.org), and to help inspire and impact the next generation of young creatives. Shares Byrd, “I am beyond thankful that Ryan trusted me enough to help tell his story on film.”
The intimate screening at the Regent included a brief Q&A, followed by a fabulous post-screening jam session including Ryan Porter on trombone, Kamasi Washington on tenor saxophone, Brandon Coleman and Cameron Graves on keys, Isaac Green on the bass guitar, and Lyndon Rochelle on drums. The set included Porter’s piece “Kings and Queens,” Oscar Pettiford’s “Oscalypso,” and John Coltrane’s “Equinox.” Student mentees, Nick Ortiz (tenor saxophone) and Jaay Dover (alto Saxophone) also sat in.
“This film about Ryan Porter’s life is the definition of resilience,” shares Byrd. “…amplifying Ryan’s story, capturing the essence of resilience and what it means to be a musician.”’ Accompanying album is out now at: allmusic.com/album/resilience-mw0004033549
