ABOUT THE FILM

I’ve never been more influenced by a person that I’ve never met nor seen perform, than I have Steven Fromholz.

When Lyle Lovett asked what inspired me to make this film, he assumed I was some distant relative of Fromholz’, and was surprised to learn my only connection to Steven was his first record, “Frummox: Here to There”, which was also Lyle’s introduction to Fromholz, that I found shortly after I moved to Texas.

Lyle shared with me that the most important thing that Fromholz taught him was that “writing about a specific place in specific detail, can have a universal emotional appeal." 

That universality is captured in touching, personal experiences like those of Lyle and others in this impressionistic portrait of Steven Fromholz, that’s bolstered by an unprecedented archive chock-full of never-before-heard recordings and decades worth of photos and letters, unveiling a multifaceted figure who continues to inspire those that were lucky enough to experience him.

Told through an experiential lens that shies away from the traditional music documentary formula, The Man with the Big Hat is an intimate and unabashedly raw film that wears its heart on its sleeve, telling the story of an extraordinary singer-songwriter from Texas, who despite his undeniable talent, never reached the heights of commercial success.

Steven Fromholz' music was a unique blend of country, folk, jazz, and rock, infused with his wit, humor, and masterful storytelling. He was a prolific songwriter, penning classics like "I'd Have to be Crazy," famously covered by Willie Nelson. Despite his songwriting success and collaborations with legendary musicians like Stephen Stills, Lyle Lovett and Jerry Jeff Walker, Fromholz remained fiercely independent, never compromising his artistic vision. For Fromholz, success was about the freedom to create pursuant to a life lived on his own terms, a tenet that continues to resonate with audiences today.

This film depicts Fromholz as a larger-than-life figure, with a contagious zest for life’s limitless possibilities. From his adventurous spirit to his quick wit to his unwavering dedication to his craft, Fromholz left an indelible mark on the people who knew him. Steven Fromholz was more than just a musician; he was a force of nature.  

The Man with the Big Hat is a celebration of Fromholz' personality and character, painting a portrait of a man who was as colorful and singular as his music. By the end of the film, viewers will feel like they've come to know Fromholz intimately, and they'll be left with a deep appreciation for his spirit and his legacy.