Filmmaker Paris Barclay Explores the Life and Legacy of Music Icon Billy Preston

New documentary "Billy Preston: That's The Way God Planned It" offers an intimate look at the talented but troubled musician's journey.

Published on Feb. 22, 2026

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Filmmaker Paris Barclay's new documentary "Billy Preston: That's The Way God Planned It" provides a comprehensive and empathetic portrait of the legendary singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist. The film chronicles Preston's remarkable career, from his early days as a child prodigy performing with the likes of Little Richard, Ray Charles, and The Beatles, to his struggles with addiction, trauma, and his private life as a closeted gay man in the Black community. Through interviews with Preston's closest friends, family, and collaborators, Barclay offers rare insights into the complex man behind the musical icon.

Why it matters

As a gay Black man himself, Barclay brings a unique perspective to exploring the challenges Preston faced in reconciling his identity, faith, and artistic ambitions. The documentary sheds light on the burdens of Black genius and the impact of trauma, offering a nuanced understanding of Preston's life and legacy beyond his musical achievements.

The details

Structurally, "That's The Way God Planned It" unfolds like a giant scrapbook, with Barclay assembling hundreds of archival photos and videos alongside talking-head interviews. These interviews with Preston's closest friends, family, and collaborators - including Ringo Starr, Olivia Harrison, Eric Clapton, and Billy Porter - help fill in the gaps around his personal history. Barclay also features rare clips of Preston's live performances, showcasing the musical prowess that his peers could only describe.

  • Preston was born in Houston, Texas in 1946.
  • He began touring with Little Richard at the age of 16 in the 1960s.
  • Preston spent much of the 1960s and 1970s collaborating with legendary artists like The Beatles, Ray Charles, and Jimi Hendrix.
  • He was sentenced to 18 months in prison in 1997 due to substance abuse issues.
  • Preston passed away in 2006.

The players

Paris Barclay

The director of the documentary "Billy Preston: That's The Way God Planned It", who brings a unique perspective as a gay Black man exploring the challenges Preston faced.

Billy Preston

The legendary singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist known for his collaborations with The Beatles, Ray Charles, Eric Clapton, and many more.

Ringo Starr

A close friend and collaborator of Billy Preston, who is featured in the documentary.

Olivia Harrison

The widow of George Harrison, who is also featured in the documentary discussing her friendship with Billy Preston.

Eric Clapton

A renowned musician who collaborated extensively with Billy Preston and is interviewed in the documentary.

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What they’re saying

“There are countless closeted queer people like Preston in the Black community, especially in the church. But discussing that has always been taboo, which leads to people being torn between their identity and faith.”

— Billy Porter, Actor (filmfestivaltoday.com)

“Billy Preston was a kind person at heart, but incredibly private.”

— Gloria Jones, Gospel singer (filmfestivaltoday.com)

What’s next

The documentary is expected to continue making the festival circuit and may receive a wider theatrical release, allowing more audiences to discover the remarkable story of Billy Preston.

The takeaway

"Billy Preston: That's The Way God Planned It" offers a nuanced and empathetic portrait of a musical icon whose personal struggles and identity challenges often overshadowed his immense talent and contributions to popular music. Barclay's film serves as an important reminder of the burdens faced by Black artists, especially those navigating their sexuality and faith.