Biographical Film About Joe Cocker In Development

The rights to a new book about Joe Cocker were recently purchased by film producer Lisa Saltzman, indicating that a new movie chronicling the life of the renowned British blues-rock vocalist is in the works.

The biography, titled Joe Cocker: With a LOT of Help from His Friends, authored by rock and roll biographer Mark Bego, provides an in-depth look into the journey of the iconic British musician.

The film aims to present a thorough narrative of Cocker’s rise during the late 1960s, exploring his internal struggles and eventual peace leading up to his passing in 2014.

Joe Cocker gained widespread recognition for his 1968 rendition of The Beatles’ “With a Little Help from My Friends,” which achieved chart-topping success on the UK Singles Chart. This rendition solidified its presence in the cultural landscape of the ’60s and later became the theme song for the television series The Wonder Years.

Joe Cocker’s 1968 Recording Dream Team

Recorded in 1968, Cocker enlisted a group of accomplished musicians, including B. J. Wilson from Procol Harum on drums, organist Tommy Eyre, and the emerging session guitarist Jimmy Page for his version of the song.

In a statement, Saltzman expressed the appeal of Cocker’s story:

“Joe Cocker’s story is one of ambition, talent, attainment, debilitating self-esteem, self-destruction, redemption, and finally joy, set in the most exciting and colourful era of popular music.”

She went on to say:

“Joe was a unique talent. As a singer Cocker’s gritty bluesy rock voice and distinctive performances rendered him a true original. He lived a bigger-than-life existence, and the film Joe Cocker: With A Little Help From My Friends will show the high points, the low points, the frustrations, crippling battles with his demons, and finally the exhilaration of a life successfully lived.”

Scheduled for release on November 16th, Joe Cocker: With a LOT of Help from His Friends is currently available for pre-orders.