A documentary feature film, “In a Good Place Now: The Life & Music of Bobby Charles,” premieres on June 2, 2024, at 7 p.m. in the Performing Arts Center (PAC) on the first floor of the Recital Hall auditorium at the University of New Orleans (UNO) Campus. The screening is free and open to the public.

The film, produced and directed by filmmaker and screenwriter David DuBos, profiles the extraordinary life, times and musical genius of Robert Charles Guidry, better known by his stage name Bobby Charles. Charles, a native of Abbeville, Louisiana, skyrocketed to fame with his debut hit single “Later, Alligator,” which gained even greater popularity when Bill Haley and the Comets recorded it as “See You Later, Alligator,” propelling it into the Top 10 charts.

Charles’ impact on music extended far beyond this initial success. He penned numerous hits, including “Walking to New Orleans” performed by Fats Domino and “But I Do” performed by Clarence “Frogman” Henry, both of which also charted in the Top 10. Initially signed by the legendary Leonard Chess of Chess Records, Charles toured with music icons such as Little Richard, Fats Domino, Muddy Waters and Chuck Berry.

After his tenure with Chess Records, Charles continued to build his legacy with the Jewel/Paula label out of Shreveport, Louisiana, where he wrote many more influential songs. A brief stint in Nashville led him to Woodstock, New York, where he collaborated with Bob Dylan and The Band, who recognized his remarkable musical talent. This period produced the critically acclaimed but commercially overlooked self-titled album “Bobby Charles,” featuring contributions from Dr. John and backing by The Band.

Despite his reclusive nature in his later years, Bobby Charles’ songwriting prowess left an indelible mark on the music industry, with his catalog of 180 songs performed by over 250 artists, including Willie Nelson, Neil Young, Ray Charles and The Band.

“In a Good Place Now” includes interviews with late musical legends Dr. John, Allen Toussaint and Clarence “Frogman” Henry, alongside contemporary artists and friends such as Delbert McClinton, Sonny Landreth, Geoff Muldaur, Amos Garrett and Jonathan Taplin, producer of “The Last Waltz.” The documentary provides an intimate look into Charles’ life through the voices of his friends, family and fans.