We are thrilled to announce the release of the soundtrack album for “Grow A Better Dallas,” the insightful documentary by Cullen Blanchfield. This film, which has captured the hearts and minds of audiences, takes us on a journey through the transformative power of urban farming in Dallas. Now, the evocative and compelling music that underscored this journey is available for everyone to enjoy.
The Documentary: “Grow A Better Dallas”
“Grow A Better Dallas” is not just a documentary; it’s a movement. Directed by Cullen Blanchfield, the film explores the innovative urban farming initiatives that are revitalizing communities across Dallas. From rooftops to vacant lots, urban farming is turning unused spaces into vibrant, productive lands, fostering community spirit and providing fresh, local produce to neighborhoods.
Blanchfield’s documentary sheds light on the challenges and triumphs faced by urban farmers and the impact of their work on the city’s food systems, environment, and social fabric. The film’s narrative is enriched by the voices of passionate advocates, dedicated farmers, and community leaders who are driving change.
The Soundtrack: A Symphony of Urban Life
Music plays a crucial role in storytelling, and the soundtrack for “Grow A Better Dallas” is no exception. Composed by Jack McKown, the album is a masterful blend of orchestral themes that reflect the documentary’s themes of growth, resilience, and community, as well as containing a primary motif that is irrevocably tied to the narrative (more on that later).
Key Tracks to Look Out For
- “Intro / Main Titles” – This track sets the tone for the film, dark and brooding with glimmers of hope. It reflects both Tyrone’s personal story and the food desert conditions in South Dallas.
- “Restorative Farms” – This track provides the hopeful foundation for the film, and several key motifs found throughout. The driving, rhythmic intensity reflects the hard work put in by the farm’s cohorts.
- “Ray’s Lifetime” – A moving and emotional piece reflecting the uplifting spirit of the community at the farm, helping everyone through all aspects of life.
- “Connections” – Featuring echoes of “Ray’s Lifetime”, “Restorative Farms”, and the opening theme/Tyrone’s theme, this ties all the pieces together and weaves them into a fabric as tightly knit as the community Tyrone has founded.
- “Growing Better” – The closing track, a quirky and fun orchestral interpretation of Tyrone’s theme.
Behind the Music: The Creative Process
The farm’s founder, Tyrone Day, can attest to the injustice that is plaguing areas of the country like South Dallas. After a white woman pointed him out to officers as he passed by on the street, essentially blaming him for a sexual assault, he was taken into custody. Facing 99 years to life in prison, Tyrone took a plea deal for 40 years, with a promise of parole in just 4 years.
For a crime he didn’t commit.
He remained incarcerated for 26 years.
It’s from these statistics that the primary motif for this score is derived. 40, 26. Or 4, 0, 2, and 6– when mapped to scale degrees and chromatically assigned from C, these pitches form the foundation for the score’s harmonic language and melodic motifs.
There will be a future post that describes this in more detail, and it will be linked here.
Where to Listen
The “Grow A Better Dallas” soundtrack is available on all major streaming platforms, including Spotify, Apple Music, and Amazon Music. You can also purchase the album on iTunes and Bandcamp, with a portion of the proceeds going to support urban farming initiatives in Dallas.
Final Thoughts
The release of the “Grow A Better Dallas” soundtrack album is a celebration of music, film, and community. Whether you’ve seen the documentary or are just discovering it, the soundtrack offers a beautiful auditory experience that stands on its own. It’s more than just a collection of songs; it’s a tribute to the transformative power of urban farming and the resilience of the South Dallas community.
Stay tuned for upcoming events screenings related to the film and soundtrack, and join us in supporting the incredible work being done to grow a better Dallas.
For more updates on “Grow A Better Dallas,” follow us on social media and subscribe to our newsletter. Let’s continue to cultivate change, one note at a time.
