By Sandy Scheller
LA JOLLA, California — The audience at the Jewish Community Center who attended Breaking Silence: The Story of Janis Ian truly got a special treat, with the singer/ songwriter herself in attendance to answer questions from the crowd.
Janis Ian: Breaking Silence is an incredibly powerful documentary that takes an in-depth look at Janis’s journey from a groundbreaking young artist to the remarkable woman she is today. The film beautifully captures not only her musical success but also her unwavering authenticity and fearless commitment to standing up for what she believes in. Janis was truly ahead of her time—her music, her message, and her insights were revolutionary for her era.
From a young age, she discovered the world with a rare depth, and her voice—both literally and in her lyrics—was nothing short of captivating. Her songs resonate with empathy and understanding, giving a voice to many who felt unheard. Breaking Silence does an exceptional job of showing how Janis’s artistry and courage continue to inspire, making her an enduring figure in music and beyond.
One of her best-known songs was “At Seventeen” (shown in video above) and another was “Society’s Child” about interracial dating. The film also dealt with the failure of her heterosexual marriage and the success of her lesbian marriage.
During the Q&A, Janis shared insights into her current situation, explaining how she is no longer able to sing but continues to write music, which she has graciously shared with other performing artists. Her openness and generosity in continuing to contribute to the music world, despite these challenges, is a testament to her resilience and dedication.
On a personal note, I grew up listening to and relating to her music. Taking a selfie with her made my year, and it’s only just begun.
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Sandy Scheller is a freelance writer based in Chula Vista, California. She is also the curator of the exhibit RUTH: Remember Us The Holocaust at the La Jolla Library.