Music documentaries are a powerful way to explore the lives, stories, and creative processes of iconic musicians, the history of various music genres, and the impact of music on society. Here’s a list of some of the top music documentaries you should watch, each offering unique insights into the world of music:
1. “Amy” (2015)
- About: This Academy Award-winning documentary directed by Asif Kapadia chronicles the life and tragic death of British singer-songwriter Amy Winehouse. It delves into her rise to fame, struggles with addiction, and the media’s role in her downfall.
- Why Watch: “Amy” offers an intimate, heartbreaking look at Winehouse’s life, showcasing her incredible talent while shedding light on the darker side of fame and addiction.
2. “20 Feet from Stardom” (2013)
- About: Directed by Morgan Neville, this documentary focuses on the untold story of the backup singers who have shaped the sound of popular music, featuring artists like Darlene Love and Merry Clayton.
- Why Watch: It highlights the often overlooked role of backup singers in music history and explores the challenges and rewards of supporting artists from behind the scenes.
3. “The Last Dance” (2020)
- About: While technically a sports documentary, this series directed by Jason Hehir centers around Michael Jordan and the Chicago Bulls during their 1997-1998 NBA season. However, the soundtrack, featuring legendary music from the era, and Jordan’s cultural impact make it a must-watch for music fans.
- Why Watch: The documentary is a cultural phenomenon, showing the intersection of sports, music, and popular culture in the 1990s, with appearances by artists like Kanye West, Nas, and Jay-Z in connection with Jordan’s influence.
4. “What Happened, Miss Simone?” (2015)
- About: Directed by Liz Garbus, this documentary explores the life and career of legendary jazz singer Nina Simone. It examines her activism, musical genius, and the personal struggles she faced.
- Why Watch: This documentary offers a powerful look at Nina Simone’s transformative role in music and civil rights, capturing both her extraordinary artistry and the pain she experienced in her personal life.
5. “Quincy” (2018)
- About: This documentary follows the life of music legend Quincy Jones, one of the most influential figures in the history of music. Directed by his daughter Rashida Jones, the film covers his incredible career, relationships, and impact on the music industry.
- Why Watch: Quincy Jones’ influence spans genres from jazz to pop, and the documentary provides insight into his personal and professional life, including his collaboration with artists like Michael Jackson and Frank Sinatra.
6. “Woodstock: 50th Anniversary” (2019)
- About: This film revisits the iconic Woodstock Music Festival of 1969, which became a cultural milestone. Featuring performances from Jimi Hendrix, Janis Joplin, and The Who, the documentary captures the historic event that embodied the spirit of the 1960s counterculture.
- Why Watch: The documentary brings to life the music, politics, and culture of Woodstock, showcasing the power of music as a form of expression and unity during turbulent times.
7. “The Defiant Ones” (2017)
- About: This four-part series follows the careers of music producer Dr. Dre and media mogul Jimmy Iovine. It chronicles their rise to success, their partnership, and their contributions to the music and tech industries.
- Why Watch: It offers an in-depth look at the behind-the-scenes workings of the music industry, the birth of iconic albums, and the business strategies that shaped the careers of both Dre and Iovine.
8. “Gimme Shelter” (1970)
- About: This documentary follows the Rolling Stones on their 1969 North American tour, culminating in the tragic Altamont Free Concert, where violence erupted, and Merritt Jagger was involved in the chaos.
- Why Watch: “Gimme Shelter” offers an unvarnished look at the darker side of the rock and roll lifestyle and the turbulent times of the late 1960s.
9. “Rattle and Hum” (1988)
- About: Directed by Phil Joanou, this documentary follows U2 during the making of their album The Joshua Tree and their 1987 North American tour. It captures the band’s journey and their quest for musical and spiritual identity.
- Why Watch: For U2 fans, this film offers rare behind-the-scenes footage, intimate performances, and insights into the creative process of one of the world’s most iconic bands.
10. “Searching for Sugar Man” (2012)
- About: This Oscar-winning documentary, directed by Malik Bendjelloul, tells the story of Rodriguez, a mysterious American musician whose records became immensely popular in South Africa, despite him being completely unaware of his fame.
- Why Watch: The film is an incredible story of rediscovery, showcasing how music can transcend borders and connect people in unexpected ways.
11. “This Is Spinal Tap” (1984)
- About: A mockumentary directed by Rob Reiner, this classic film satirizes the rock and roll lifestyle, following the fictional heavy metal band Spinal Tap on their disastrous tour.
- Why Watch: While not a traditional documentary, it offers hilarious insights into the absurdities of rock bands’ egos, self-doubt, and the chaos of life on the road, making it a cult favorite among music fans.
12. “The Beatles: Eight Days a Week – The Touring Years” (2016)
- About: Directed by Ron Howard, this documentary focuses on The Beatles’ touring years, from 1962 to 1966, exploring their rise to fame, the pressures of global superstardom, and the challenges of performing live.
- Why Watch: It offers rare footage and interviews, giving viewers a glimpse into the lives of one of the most influential bands in history during their most intense and transformative period.
13. “Miss Americana” (2020)
- About: Directed by Lana Wilson, this documentary offers an intimate look at Taylor Swift, her career, and personal evolution as she navigates fame, creativity, and her public persona.
- Why Watch: It provides insight into the complexities of being a modern pop star, offering a vulnerable portrayal of Taylor Swift’s personal and professional growth.
14. “Kurt Cobain: Montage of Heck” (2015)
- About: Directed by Brett Morgen, this documentary dives deep into the life and career of Kurt Cobain, the iconic frontman of Nirvana, featuring rare footage, home videos, and personal diaries.
- Why Watch: It explores Cobain’s creative process and inner struggles, providing a hauntingly intimate portrait of a man who became the voice of a generation.
15. “Muscle Shoals” (2013)
- About: This documentary tells the story of Muscle Shoals Sound Studio in Alabama, where legendary artists like Aretha Franklin, The Rolling Stones, and Wilson Pickett recorded their music.
- Why Watch: The film explores the unique sound that emerged from this small town and the influence of its recording studio on the history of American music.
Conclusion
These music documentaries offer a deep dive into the lives, struggles, and triumphs of musicians, the evolution of genres, and the cultural movements that shaped the music world. Whether you’re a fan of classic rock, jazz, pop, or indie, these films provide a unique perspective on the artistry, impact, and human stories behind the music we love.
