The world of music is a tapestry woven with threads of influence and inspiration, and sometimes, a band emerges that leaves an indelible mark on the industry. Such is the case with D.O.A., the Canadian punk pioneers who, as Guns N' Roses' Duff McKagan puts it, were "bigger than life." In a recent documentary clip, McKagan and fellow musician Keith Morris pay homage to the impact D.O.A. had on the punk scene in the 1980s, an impact that extended far beyond their home country.
"D.O.A. was as big as Led Zeppelin," McKagan declares, emphasizing the profound influence the band had on his own musical journey. "That first D.O.A. show I saw when I was 13 blew my mind. It encapsulated all the possibilities of what music could be." This sentiment is a testament to the raw, unfiltered energy that D.O.A. brought to the stage, an energy that left a lasting impression on those who witnessed it.
The documentary, titled "Something Better Change," delves into the life and career of D.O.A.'s frontman, Joey "Shithead" Keithley, who, in addition to his musical prowess, has also made his mark in politics. The film follows Keithley's reelection campaign as a city councillor for Burnaby, British Columbia, where he is a member of the Green Party. But it's not just politics that makes this documentary intriguing; it's the intersection of Keithley's musical legacy and his political activism.
Director Scott Crawford explains, "It was important to showcase the impact Joe Keithley and D.O.A. had on notable musicians. This helps paint a picture of Joe as the activist and elected official he is today." Indeed, the documentary features praise from a who's who of the punk and alternative music scene, including Ian MacKaye of Fugazi, Henry Rollins, Jello Biafra and East Bay Ray of the Dead Kennedys, and Dave Grohl. Their accolades highlight the enduring influence of D.O.A. and the unique path that Keithley has carved out for himself.
As the film and the new D.O.A. compilation, "Take on the Tyrants," arrive concurrently with Keithley's reelection campaign, it's a reminder of the power of art and music to inspire and effect change. D.O.A.'s impact extends beyond the realm of music, and their story serves as a testament to the ability of artists to leave a lasting legacy that transcends genres and generations.
In my opinion, the story of D.O.A. and Joey Keithley is a fascinating study of how art and activism can intertwine and influence each other. It's a narrative that showcases the power of music to inspire political action and the potential for artists to become agents of change. This documentary is a must-watch for anyone interested in the intersection of music, culture, and politics, and it serves as a reminder that sometimes, the biggest impact can come from the most unexpected places.
