DJ AM Documentary Looks For Funding

By Michael Cerio

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- Before Adam Michael Goldstein became DJ AM, he was a kid from Philadelphia.

His DJ work blazed a trail for many of today's biggest artist, but it was his battle with addiction and depression that led to his death in 2009.

His journey from a childhood in Rittenhouse to global stardom, the success and the demons he collected along the way, are all shown in the documentary "As I AM: The Life And Times Of DJ AM."

In Philadelphia, Goldstein would develop his tastes in a vibrant city of music, but also suffer cruelty from his father. He would attend Friends' Central school in Wynnwood, until his parents' divorce led him to Los Angeles and the abuse of drugs. What came next was soaring talent, and a deep struggle.

The film first premiered at the Tribeca Film Festival, but now needs help to reach the masses. An Indiegogo campaign has been launched to help pay for the music licensing, distribution, and finishing cost of the film.

According to the campaign, "A recovering addict, DJ AM outlasted an abusive father, lived through a suicide attempt and managed to survive a fiery plane crash that killed four others. Yet within a year of miraculously emerging from those flames, DJ AM was dead, the last weeks of his life spent behind closed doors, hiding from the flashbulbs and turning his back on the applause."

Director Kevin Kerslake was given full access by the family of Goldstein to piece together his story, as well as interviews with friends and peers like DJ Jazzy Jeff, Mark Ronson, Diplo, and more.

As with many crowdfunding sites, there are incentives to being a part of bringing the project to life. They range from a signed Banksy print, to sneakers from DJ AM's personal collection. The campaign has already raised over $47,000 in its first day.

To help tell the story of Goldstein, and to contribute to As I AM: The Life And Times Of DJ AM, you can go here for more details.