Music documentaries offer a powerful window into the lives of our favorite musicians, the creative process behind iconic albums, and the cultural impact of different genres. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or simply curious about the world of music, Netflix has a treasure trove of documentaries waiting to be explored. Here are 10 exceptional music documentaries to add to your queue
Homecoming: A Film By Beyoncé (2019): Go behind the scenes of Beyoncé’s history-making Coachella performance in 2018. This visually stunning and deeply personal documentary explores themes of empowerment, Black culture, and the complexities of being a working mother in the entertainment industry.
Miss Americana (2020): This revealing documentary follows Taylor Swift’s journey as she navigates the pressures of fame, wrestles with control over her music, and speaks out about her experiences with sexism in the industry. It offers a nuanced look at the life of a pop icon and the challenges faced by female artists.
Rolling Thunder Revue: A Bob Dylan Story by Martin Scorsese (2019): Step back in time with this documentary that explores Bob Dylan’s legendary 1975 Rolling Thunder Revue tour. Filled with archival footage, electrifying performances, and insightful interviews, it’s a must-watch for any Dylan fan.
What Happened, Miss Simone? (2015): This unflinching documentary examines the life and career of Nina Simone, a legendary singer, songwriter, and activist. It delves into her struggles with mental illness, her fight for civil rights, and her enduring musical legacy.
24 Ladies First: A Story of Women in Hip-Hop (2023): This timely documentary celebrates the often-overlooked contributions of women in hip-hop. It features interviews with pioneering female rappers, DJs, and producers, highlighting their impact on the genre and the challenges they faced breaking into a male-dominated industry.
The Two Killings of Sam Cooke (2019): This thought-provoking documentary explores the life and tragic death of soul music icon Sam Cooke. It delves into the complexities of race relations in America during the Civil Rights Movement and Cooke’s emergence as a powerful voice for change.
Quincy (2018): This three-part documentary series chronicles the remarkable career of music producer Quincy Jones. It features interviews with legendary artists like Michael Jackson, Aretha Franklin, and Stevie Wonder, offering a glimpse into Jones’s creative genius and his influence on the music industry.
Keith Richards: Under the Influence (2015): Go on a wild ride with the Rolling Stones’ legendary guitarist Keith Richards in this documentary. It explores his musical influences, his songwriting partnership with Mick Jagger, and his enduring love for rock and roll.
Shania Twain: Not Just a Girl (2022): This documentary dives into the life and career of country music superstar Shania Twain. It explores her rise to fame, her personal struggles, and her enduring impact on the music industry.
Sample This (2013): This entertaining and informative documentary explores the history and impact of sampling in hip-hop music. It features interviews with iconic producers and artists, showcasing how sampling transformed music and created new genres.