Music has the remarkable ability to touch our souls, transport us to different eras, and inspire us in countless ways. Behind every iconic song and legendary artist lies a story waiting to be told. Music documentaries offer a unique window into this world, blending history, artistry, and inspiration. In this article, we’ll explore eight recommended music-related documentaries that not only entertain but also provide a deeper understanding of the evolution of music and the artists who shaped it.
“Searching for Sugar Man” (2012):
Director: Malik Bendjelloul “Searching for Sugar Man” is a captivating documentary that unravels the mysterious tale of folk musician Rodriguez. The film follows two South African fans’ quest to uncover the truth about the forgotten artist’s life and music. This documentary is a testament to the power of music to transcend borders and generations, and how one artist’s work can impact the world in unexpected ways.
“20 Feet from Stardom” (2013):
Director: Morgan Neville Behind every great lead singer, there are backup singers who contribute immensely to the magic of music. “20 Feet from Stardom” shines a spotlight on these unsung heroes, delving into their careers, struggles, and the artistry they bring to the stage. This documentary showcases the vital but often overlooked role of backup singers in the music industry. Everyone in the band is there for a reason and this offers interesting insight in to others that help build a musical picture.
“Amy” (2015):
Director: Asif Kapadia “Amy” offers an intimate look at the life of the immensely talented but tragically short-lived singer Amy Winehouse. Through archival footage and interviews, the documentary delves into her remarkable music career, as well as the personal challenges she faced. It’s a poignant exploration of the price of fame and the complexities of artistic genius. This genuinely brought me to tears when watching this at its premiere at Glastonbury Festival in 2015.
“The Beatles: Eight Days a Week – The Touring Years” (2016):
Director: Ron Howard This documentary takes viewers on a journey through The Beatles’ touring years, from their early days in Liverpool to conquering the world stage. Featuring rare footage and interviews, it provides an in-depth look at the band’s evolution and the impact they had on music and culture during the 1960s. You can’t not be inspired by seeing the development of this band in a condensed period of time.
“Muscle Shoals” (2013):
Director: Greg ‘Freddy’ Camalier “Muscle Shoals” celebrates the incredible music legacy of a small Alabama town that became a recording mecca. With iconic recording studios like FAME Studios and Muscle Shoals Sound Studio, this documentary highlights how this unlikely place played a pivotal role in shaping the sound of some of the greatest artists in rock, soul, and R&B. Another tale of infamous studios and those that frequented them.
“What Happened, Miss Simone?” (2015):
Director: Liz Garbus Nina Simone was not just a musician; she was a force of nature. This documentary explores her life, music, and activism, shedding light on her remarkable journey as an artist and civil rights activist. It’s a compelling portrait of an artist who used her music as a platform for social change. Did you know how important she was is musical history?
“It Might Get Loud” (2008):
Director: Davis Guggenheim “It Might Get Loud” brings together three legendary guitarists: Jimmy Page, The Edge, and Jack White. Through discussions and performances, the documentary explores their unique musical journeys, influences, and the enduring power of the electric guitar in shaping rock ‘n’ roll history. Nothing can be as inspirational as seeing the stories from these musicians.
“Sound City” (2013):
Director: Dave Grohl “Sound City” tells the story of the infamous studio that defined the sound of so many artists and paved the way for ground breaking musicians that we all know and love including Fleetwood Mac and Nirvana, as well as enlightening us about the changing industry and what happened to the studio in later years. This is a must watch with many interviews from favoured and loved musicians. An eye opening, inspiring and motivating music documentary directed by one of rock and rolls most loved musicians.
These eight music documentaries offer a diverse range of stories and insights into the world of music. Whether you’re a die-hard music fan or simply looking for inspiration, these films provide a deeper understanding of the artists, their music, and the impact they’ve had on the world. From forgotten legends to iconic bands, these documentaries remind us of the power of music to move, inspire, and change lives. So, grab some popcorn, turn up the volume, and embark on a musical journey through the lens of these compelling documentaries.
