New documentary celebrates a legendary Macon musician, his life and love of community

A new documentary is celebrating one of Macon’s most beloved and talented hometown musicians.

“NEWT - A Short Documentary” will follow the journey of Newton Collier from his start in music to his remaining impact on the Macon community.

The documentary came about when producer and director Win Scott was working on another independent film in Macon. Scott said while on set, the crew wanted to film at the Douglass Theatre and happened to run into Collier on the street.

“He walked us over to the theater, got us permission to film there, and even starred in a small scene,” Scott said. “During this time, he would share all these incredible stories about his life as a trumpet player, playing with Sam and Dave, and traveling the world for music. I was captivated by all he had to say.”

Scott said when the day of filming came to a close he asked Collier if he had ever had a documentary made about him. When he said no, Scott jumped at the chance to return to Macon later in the summer to work with Collier.

The short documentary details Collier’s life as a musician, before and after being shot in the streets of Boston in 1976, according to Scott.

The film is based on interviews at the Douglass Theatre where Collier tells his story. The interviews are spliced with various scenes from around Macon with Collier explaining different music legends and who he played with. He shares different historical landmarks and their importance to Macon music history. There are also scenes of Collier interacting with the community that makes him feel so loved, said Scott.

The documentary highlighting Collier’s life captures not just his individual achievements but also the spirit of Macon itself. It showcases the rich connections between Collier and various local venues - like the historic Douglass Theatre, Capricorn Studios and Grant’s Lounge - each of which has played a role in shaping Macon’s music scene.

Scott, who co-produced and directed the documentary with Moira Glennon, emphasizes the importance of the locations.

“These venues are not just backdrops in the documentary; they are integral to the story of Macon’s music history,” he said.

Scott said Collier’s story is exceptional, from his humble beginnings in Macon to his world tour with Sam and Dave. He said Collier has performed on some of the best stages in the world with some of the best artists in the world.

However, despite Collier’s talent and world travels, Scott said he was struck by Collier’s humility.

“Collier is a very humble person who dedicates his time to helping kids pursue their music aspirations. After his accident, he truly devoted his time and efforts to strengthening the Macon community,” he said. “It seems that everyone knows Newt, not only for the music legend he is, but also for the person everyone knows him to be.”

Collier said it was an honor to be asked to do the documentary and he enjoyed working with the crew. He also said the history of music in Macon is a story that deserves to be told.

“Macon music runs deep, Macon and Central Georgia have given so much love to music,” he said. “Macon music has covered the world. And, music is everyday life - music and the love of music will touch someone and make them a better person.”

The documentary was still in post-production Monday. Scott said he hopes to have the film completed by the end of the year and send it to festivals and possibly a local news station.

There will also be a premiere at the Douglass Theatre with the cast and crew for the community to attend and watch for the first time. Scott said that date is still undetermined.

“Macon’s rich music culture has been a source of my wanting to be the best,” Collier said. “I will continue learning the history of the music in Macon and do my part to teach others that history - it is my ancestral obligation to tell my story.”