Now Press Play 2024

This is the incredible story of Don Lewis – one of electronic music’s forgotten pioneers, whose musical genius and technological vision spanned a dizzying range of styles.

With fearless creative freedom that defied the conforming forces of the music industry of the 1970s and 80s, Don Lewis took music to places that opened the doors for myriad others (Prince and Kraftwerk to name but two) to walk through.

Over a 54-year career in music, Lewis designed sounds and instrument voices for Hammond, Yamaha, and ARP, helped develop the Roland TR-808 drum machine and developed a unique live rig – The Live Electronic Orchestra – a precursor to MIDI— that was light years ahead of its time. He gave performances at the Sydney Opera House, Carnegie Hall, and the Apollo Theatre and collaborated with the likes of Quincy Jones, Michael Jackson, and the Beach Boys.

Don Lewis and The Live Electronic Orchestra delves into the life and times of a uniquely brilliant African American artist who was unwilling to sacrifice his own curiosity in his pursuit to change the world’s musical landscape.

Dir. Ned Augustenborg (2023)

Supported by Film Hub NI, part of the BFI Film Audience Network, awarding funds from National Lottery.