"Jesse Frazier is a man of few worldly possessions, but has a wealth of wisdom for living life.”

This short film was a collaboration between myself, documentary film maker, Randy Crow, and our subject, Jesse Frazier. I first met Jesse when he was living in a large canvas tent, just a few doors down from my apartment in the Southside neighborhood of Birmingham, Al.

Jesse was a man a few possessions. He was an artist who made some of the most beautiful jewelry and leather items you could imagine. He preferred to live alone. He was a great soul with a wealth of knowledge. He loved reading, writing, and his beloved dogs. He also loved drumming.

I can’t recall exactly why or how we formally met, but it was obvious that we had a bond. There was always something inside me that identified and was just a slight bit jealous of the nomadic life he led. I knew in my heart that I could never truly survive that kind of lifestyle, but I loved being able to peek inside his life and become a part of it, even if it were just for a couple of hours.

I kept in touch with Jesse for the next 10 or 12 years, on and off. Each time we reconnected, he’d be living in a different place—an abandoned barn with a great view, but no running water or bathroom. Several other locations followed. Then came Jesse’s last stop. He was friends with an amazing woman who also felt he had something special.

Her name is Lisa Finch. Lisa is a spiritual woman and healer who offered Jesse one of the sweetest deals any person could want: A bed, power, water, kitchen, and free space. All in exchange for taking care of daily farm duties, including taking care of some of the most beautiful horses I have ever seen. This was the last place I saw Jesse, but it was a glorious, spiritual space.

So beautiful, in fact, that I approached my long time friend and film maker, Randy Crow, to accompany me and document Jesse, his philosophy on life, and our musical improvisations.

Little did I know that Randy would capture such magical moments, that would soon take us to several major film festivals, including Birmingham’s own Sidewalk Film Festival.

What you will see in this short film, is the essence of Jesse Frazier’s spirit, captured beautifully by Randy Crow. I’m just glad to have played a small part.