“Cadillac Records”
Adrien Brody and Jeffrey Wright in “Cadillac Records.”
To prepare for his role in "The Pianist," Adrien Brody withdrew for months, gave up his apartment and his car, learned how to play Chopin on the piano, and lost 29 pounds. His dedication earned him an Academy Award for Best Actor, making him the youngest actor ever to win the award.
In "Cadillac Records," which chronicles the rise of Chess Records and its recording artists, Brody stars as Leonard Chess alongside of Jeffrey Wright who plays Muddy Waters. Wright has received a Tony, and later an Emmy for his portrayal of a drag-queen nurse in "Angels in America." Recently, he played Colin Powell in "W."
The partnership between Muddy Waters and Leonard Chess was what put Chess Records on the map.
Brody and Wright talk to Bob Edwards about the movie; the remarkable cast, which also stars Beyonce Knowles as Etta James; and the musicians who are the stories behind "Cadillac Records."
Bob Edwards Weekend" is a two-hour interview showcase, in which celebrated host Bob Edwards highlights the life and work of interesting people, from newsmakers, historians, and authors to artists, actors, and regular folks too. The show is produced by XM Satellite Radio and distributed nationwide by PRI.
The World is an independent newsroom. We’re not funded by billionaires; instead, we rely on readers and listeners like you. As a listener, you’re a crucial part of our team and our global community. Your support is vital to running our nonprofit newsroom, and we can’t do this work without you. Will you support The World with a gift today? Donations made between now and Dec. 31 will be matched 1:1. Thanks for investing in our work!