Sonic Stories: Music Documentaries You Need to See

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When you hear a song from the past, you can't help but go straight to Google to learn the backstory of the lyrics, the artist, or the era. If you're a true music lover, you must have iconic albums, legendary concerts, and monumental music festivals stamped into your memory — whether you were physically there or not. Just as these soundscapes have made a lasting impact on you, many also made their way into the cultural landscape, inspiring future generations and documentary filmmakers.

From stage to screen, directors and storytellers have peeled back the curtain on the music that changed our lives. They've gone on to share performances, insights, interviews, and archival footage in film form, immortalizing poignant moments that defined these artists. Our favorite music documentaries offer a rare glimpse into the minds and creative process of icons, from triumphs to struggles.

Whether you're a die-hard music aficionado or simply curious about the magic behind the melodies, these documentaries offer a treasure trove of entertainment and inspiration. Embark on a journey of melody-in-movie with this roundup of the best music documentaries ever made. From the electrifying backstage scenes of Madonna's "Truth or Dare" to the deep dive into Amy Winehouse's tragic life in "Amy," these films offer an intimate look at the lives and legacies of the greats.

"Madonna: Truth Or Dare"

Released in 1991, this documentary chronicles Madonna's infamous "Blond Ambition" tour in 1990. Directed by Alek Keshishian, fans got a behind-the-scenes look at the pop icon’s life on the road with dancers, crew, and family amidst her performances on stage. Throughout, Madonna also shares her personal reflections and thoughts, which were met with some controversy.

In addition to seeing Madonna interact intimately with her dancers in the film, she also discussed sex, religion, and topics surrounding homosexuality, which were considered provocative topics at the time by some critics and audiences.

Today, this film and Madonna herself are highly regarded for pushing boundaries, supporting the LGBTQ+ community, and self-expression.

"Eight Days A Week – The Touring Years"

Directed by Ron Howard and released in 2016, this documentary film brings you back to the early years of The Beatles. In it, we are transported to the iconic band’s touring years from 1962 to 1966, which is also when they took America by storm.

The movie explores the band's rise to fame, their experiences on the road, their relationship with their fans, and the cultural impact of their music. Viewers will appreciate the archival footage, interviews, and behind-the-scenes glimpses into the journey of Paul McCartney, John Lennon, George Harrison, and Ringo Starr.

"Amy"

In 2015, years after Amy Winehouse’s death, the documentary film "Amy" gave the world a glimpse into the life and career of the troubled British singer-songwriter. In it, you can watch Winehouse’s incredible rise to fame, in addition to her struggles with addiction and her eventual tragic death at the age of 27.

Archival footage, personal videos, and interviews with friends, family, and collaborators serve as a backdrop to the heartbreaking end to the singer’s journey while also highlighting her extraordinary talent.

This movie, directed by Asif Kapadia, sheds light on the complexities of fame, mental health issues, and the devastating impact of addiction. Proceed with caution if you feel that you may be triggered by any of those sensitive topics.

"Don't Look Back"

No one can deny the cultural impact singer-songwriter Bob Dylan had on the world. This documentary, directed by D.A. Pennebaker and released in 1967, follows the iconic musician during his 1965 concert tour in the United Kingdom.

The movie provides an intimate and candid look at Dylan's life on the road, his interactions with fans and the media, and his legendary performances that remain unmatched today by any artist. The film captures Dylan's enigmatic personality, his creative process, and his influence on the music industry during this pivotal period in his career.

"Amazing Grace"

Directed by Sydney Pollack and Alan Elliott, "Amazing Grace" captures the recording of Aretha Franklin's live gospel album by the same title. Many would say it’s one of the greatest performances in music history, and you’d be robbing yourself not to witness it.

While the documentary was released in 2018, archival footage from the two-day recording session occurred in 1972 set at the New Temple Missionary Baptist Church in Los Angeles.

No one can deny Franklin's powerful voice, and this film will give you a first-class seat to her electrifying experience at the church. Throughout, you’ll also be immersed in Franklin's unparalleled talent and the impact her music has had on the world.

"Montage Of Heck"

Released in 2015, "Montage of Heck" unlocks the life and career of Kurt Cobain, the lead singer and guitarist of iconic alternative rock band Nirvana. The documentary, directed by Brett Morgen, gives an intimate and raw portrayal of Cobain's struggles, in addition to his creative process and rise to fame.

Get a glimpse into Cobain’s complex psyche through archival footage, home videos, interviews, and animated sequences.

Trigger warning: The film explores Cobain’s troubled childhood, struggles with addiction, and mental health challenges. While his profound impact on music and popular culture remains strong today, he lost his battle with depression in 1994 when he took his own life.

"Woodstock: 3 Days of Peace and Music, the Director's Cut"

You can't appreciate music today without having learned about the Woodstock music festival of 1969. The historic event that took place on a dairy farm in Bethel, New York has been highly regarded as a pivotal moment in music history. The musicians of that era who took the stage — Jimi Hendrix, Janis Joplin, The Who, Joan Baez, Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young, just to name a few — celebrated the counterculture movement of that decade.

Attracting roughly 400,000 attendees and becoming synonymous with peace, love, and the spirit of the hippie movement, the music documentary "Woodstock" captures the essence of the three-day music festival.

The film, directed by Michael Wadleigh, vividly portrays musical performances, atmosphere, and cultural significance through interviews with attendees, footage of the crowd, and glimpses into the social and political context of the time.

"The Day The Music Died: The Story of Don McLean's American Pie"

You're all too familiar with the song that goes, "A long, long time ago, I can still remember how that music used to make me smile... But something touched me deep inside the day the music died..." This documentary exploring the story behind the Don McLean song, "American Pie" is a must-see.

Directed by Chris Cowey, the significance of the iconic song released in 1971 is unpacked by music historians, journalists, other artists, and Don McLean himself in this film.

You'll gain insights into the song's composition, the lyrics, its connection to American history, and its enduring legacy in the world of music.

"Tina Turner: Simply The Best"

You’ll love how beautifully this documentary celebrates the life and career of iconic singer Tina Turner. Released in 1991 and directed by David Mallet, you’ll get a comprehensive overview of her remarkable journey from her humble beginnings in the rural town of Nutbush, Tennessee to becoming one of the greatest performers in music history.

Complete with archival footage of Turner's electrifying performances, insights from friends, collaborators, and industry insiders, and interviews with Turner herself, "Simply the Best" highlights Turner's resilience, talent, and undeniable charisma.

"Soul Power"

Be transported to 1974 with the documentary film "Soul Power," which chronicles the three-day Zaire 74 music festival in Kinshasa, Zaire (now the Democratic Republic of the Congo). Directed by Jeffrey Levy-Hinte and released in 2008, the movie features incredible performances by legendary soul, funk, and R&B artists — James Brown, B.B. King, Bill Withers, Celia Cruz, The Spinners, and more.

In addition, the highly anticipated boxing match, which would later be called "Rumble in the Jungle" between reigning heavyweight champion George Foreman and challenger Muhammad Ali, also happened in conjunction with the music festival.

Both events drew global attention to Zaire as planned, playing a pivotal role in shaping the cultural landscape and celebrating African-American sports and music.

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