The recent screening of the documentary, Any Other Way: The Jackie Shane Story, alongside the short film Measha Brueggergosman-Lee: A New Song, marked a poignant moment to celebrate the legacy of Jackie Shane, the groundbreaking Canadian trans soul singer. Presented by the National Film Board of Canada, the event not only showcased Shane's musical prowess but also reignited discussions around her significant contributions to the R&B genre.
Jackie Shane, who first captured the spotlight with her 1963 hit “Sticks and Stones,” famously sang, “Sticks and stones may break my bones, but the talk don’t bother me.” This assertion reflected her resilience as she forged her path as one of the first openly transgender artists, making waves when such visibility was rare. Shane’s career skyrocketed after she moved to Canada, where she emerged as part of the “Toronto Sound” and reached the number two spot on Canada’s pop charts with her single, “Any Other Way.”
Despite her remarkable achievements, Shane mysteriously vanished from the public eye by 1971, prompting speculation and worry about her well-being. Her absence was felt deeply within the music community until 2017 when Shane reemerged with the release of Any Other Way, an anthology of her work. This collection was nominated for a Grammy for Best Historical Album, breathing new life and recognition back to her career.
The documentary, co-produced by actor Elliot Page, captures the essence of Shane's life and work, providing audiences with insights not just about her music but the struggles she faced as a transgender woman during challenging societal times. With directors Michael Mabbott and Lucah Rosenberg-Lee at the helm, the film stands out as not just another musical biography, but as a significant piece chronicling LGBTQ+ history. The documentary features Shane’s story—a tale about courage, artistry, and the quest for authenticity.
Accompanying the documentary was the short film Measha Brueggergosman-Lee: A New Song, directed by Will Prosper, which offers audiences an intimate look at the life of acclaimed soprano Measha Brueggergosman-Lee. This 4-minute feature enriches the film's lineup, underlining the importance of highlighting Black artists and their contributions to music.
The event was structured to not only present these significant works but also encourage dialogue about the impact of artists like Shane. The atmosphere was charged with enthusiasm as audiences gathered for the subsequent Q&A session with filmmakers, reflecting on how Shane’s legacy continues to resonate today. Timothy Monger from AllMusic commented, "Her enigmatic presentation, her undeniable talent, and the support of the music community allowed her to flourish... no one in 1960s Canada had seen or heard anything like Shane."
Shane’s persona was as vibrant as her music—moving through life draped in sequins and high heels, she left audiences spellbound with her performances and daring authenticity. The barrier-breaking artist did not conform to societal expectations, famously rejecting Ed Sullivan's request for her to dress as male to appear on his show, quipping, "I said: ‘Please stuff it.’” Such statements underline the boldness with which she carried herself.
Jackie Shane passed away in 2019, yet her legacy remains influential, inspiring new generations of musicians and artists who seek to live authentically. Today, there are even historical markers honoring her contributions; Nashville has designated her musical beginnings with recognition, following similar tributes set up previously in Toronto at the site of her live album recording.
Events like the recent screening not only celebrate Shane’s life but also provide space for narratives around LGBTQ+ individuals to be recognized and honored. It fosters awareness about the necessary visibility of marginalized communities within the arts. “It’s because of people like her we have an understand of the longstanding role of transgender Americans throughout the country’s history,” stated the Associated Press.
With the continuing accolades showered upon Shane through documentaries and public recognitions, her influence extends beyond music—she has become emblematic of the struggles and triumphs of transgender individuals throughout history. The love and admiration for her story inspires many and highlights the importance of visibility, truth, and acceptance within our communities.
The screening and discussions following might be small steps, but they are fundamental to keeping Shane’s memory and impact alive. Her story and the acknowledgment of her artistry remind the world of the power of authenticity and the undeniable impact it can have on society.