About this project

Rock N Roll Mamas is a work-in-progress feature-length documentary about three indie rockers/mamas who strive to follow their creative dreams while also providing for their families in an alternative lifestyle that is often judged harshly by our society. Over the course of four years, award-winning filmmaker Jackie Weissman followed Kristin Hersh of Throwing Muses, Zia McCabe of The Dandy Warhols, and hip hop artist, Ms. Su´ad. The film takes us into their daily lives as they struggle with economic instability, the rigors of touring with children, and "normalizing" home life, all interwoven with the blood, sweat, and personal fulfillment they find in performing. From the outside it seems like it should be easy, merging motherhood with making music; but there is always a sacrifice. The film is a reminder to us all that there is no one way to parent.

In starting this film, I thought the thesis would be that these strong women are a great example because they can do it all; but after filming the last several years, I realized that no one, not even strong women, can do everything well. Something has to give. Kristin loses her tour bus & her
savings; Zia wants a 2nd child but realizes she doesn´t have the childcare to support that choice; Su´ad is a single mom struggling to make ends meet during the day while performing at night. These women struggle and make mistakes but persevere as they strive to live their lives on their own terms - this is why they set a great example. I want to show who these women are as people, artists, and mothers. Watching them perform, work, parent their kids, go to school, and try to establish networks of support is very empowering. I have learned so much from them. I´m a better person and parent because I know them and have seen the way they are with their
families & the world.

Currently the film is in post-production with a final cut due in the Fall of 2011. There is over 90 hours of footage which consists of interviews with the three principle rock moms, scenes from the moms´ daily life, and multiple live performances by them and their bands.

The music is an essential part of this project. I am in the process of securing music clearance rights for all music used in the film as well as promotional trailers. All of which will require additional funding. All funds received from the Kickstarter campaign will be used towards securing these rights.

Please note that Rock N Roll Mamas is produced in partnership with Film Action Oregon and your donation to this project is TAX DEDUCTIBLE (minus the cost of the reward). Thank you for supporting Rock N Roll Mamas!

The Rock N Roll Mamas Kickstarter fundraiser ends on February 11, 2011. After that, if you’d like to make a contribution to the project, please go directly to Film Action Oregon’s website, https://robot.boxofficetickets.com/800-494-TIXS/WebObjects/BOTx2005.woa/wa/inspectSubprogram... to make a tax deductible donation to the film.

Rock N Roll Mamas is Produced and Directed by Jackie Weissman, Produced by Tara Johnson-Medinger and Executive Produced by Allison Anders.