Portrait of Billy Joe

Willie Nelson calls Billy Joe Shaver the greatest songwriter alive, and Shaver's catalog of biographical tales backs up Nelson's claim. Shaver began his life on a low note and in his seventh decade is riding a high note. The in-between is part tragedy, part comedy, and all pathos. Pedraza nailed this portrait, providing a glimpse of Shaver's life and whetting the viewer's appetite for the entire photo album. The Billy Joe she caught on film is the 24/7 Billy Joe that his fans and friends admire for his faith, honesty, and immense talent. While the musical portions testify to Billy's songwriting/singing abilities, the best moments come when Billy talks to the camera about the events in his life that spurred the songs.