The untold story of Al Tuck — Canada’s most enigmatic songwriter. AL TUCK MY BLUES AWAY is an intimate portrait of a cult songwriter hailed by Leslie Feist as a living legend and by Joel Plaskett who has called him his greatest musical influence. Despite the many accolades Tuck has spent decades on the margins, shrouded in mystery, crafting deeply human songs from his small home on Prince Edward Island, where he now cares for his ailing mother.
Featuring interviews from some of Canada’s most respected songwriters, including Amelia Curran, Catherine MacLellan, Matt Mays, Jason Collett, and Joel Plaskett — the film reveals a a uniquely Canadian voice and the breadth of his influence.
Lyrical and emotionally resonant, AL TUCK MY BLUES AWAY is a raw journey through failure, resilience, and grace. It explores the beauty and cost of artistic devotion, and asks what it truly means to create, and whether art can save the artist who makes it.
“Rivetting…I loved it” - Steve Poltz, Singer-songwriter
“Very moving and captures Al's magic and complexity” - Joel Plaskett, Singer-songwriter
“It's timely and important, a celebration of artistry and individuality” - Colin McAdam, Novelist
"Smart, dignified, amazing…” - Doug Paisley, Singer-songwriter
“I admire everything about this film. Its ambition, its perseverance. Its honest treatment of an unknowable subject. We’ve all gone for too long in the dark. This doc shows us the light switch.” - Geoff D’eon, Filmmaker
“A compelling, fascinating of Maritime musical culture.” - Carsten Knox, Journalist
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