The Best Music Documentaries to Watch This Year
Music documentaries aren’t just about entertainment—they’re windows into the soul of the music world. These films offer an intimate look at artists, their creative processes, their personal struggles, and their greatest triumphs. Whether you're a musician or a music lover, these documentaries will deepen your understanding and appreciation for music.
1. “The Greatest Night in Pop” – Netflix
- This documentary offers a behind-the-scenes look at the “We Are the World” recording session, where musical legends like Michael Jackson, Lionel Richie, and Bruce Springsteen came together to create a powerful anthem for humanitarian aid. The film highlights how collaboration under pressure can lead to some of the most memorable and impactful music in history.
- If you're interested in learning more about collaboration in music, check out ear-training exercises to hear chords and melodies to enhance your musical ear like the pros who worked on this project.
2. “American Symphony” – Netflix
- Follow the journey of Jon Batiste, a Grammy-winning musician, as he prepares for the debut of his ambitious symphony while navigating personal challenges. This documentary is a beautiful exploration of how music can serve as both emotional expression and cathartic healing.
- If you’re fascinated by how music can impact mental health, you’ll want to dive deeper into the psychological benefits of playing a musical instrument, which aligns with Batiste's journey in the film.
3. “In Restless Dreams: The Music of Paul Simon” – MGM+
- This documentary offers an intimate look into the genius of Paul Simon, with a focus on his songwriting process. You’ll get to see how Simon, a master of musical theory, creates some of the most iconic melodies and lyrics of our time.
- For aspiring songwriters looking to deepen their understanding of chord progressions, check out our guide on understanding chord progressions to better appreciate Simon’s songwriting techniques.
4. “Beckham: Soundtrack to a Life” – BBC iPlayer
- While this documentary centers around soccer legend David Beckham, the film’s soundtrack plays a pivotal role in bringing his story to life. For those interested in how music can enhance storytelling, this documentary is a must-watch.
- For an understanding of how such soundtracks are crafted, you might want to explore the basics of Digital Audio Workstations, as these tools are essential for modern music production, including soundtracks like the one featured in this film.
5. “Have You Got It Yet? The Story of Syd Barrett and Pink Floyd” – VOD Platforms
- This documentary delves into the life of Syd Barrett, the enigmatic founder of Pink Floyd, exploring his creative brilliance as well as his struggles with mental health. It’s an insightful journey into the psychedelic rock movement and the impact of Barrett’s work on the genre.
- If you’re interested in understanding the larger cultural significance of music, check out the cultural impact of hip-hop, which explores how individual musicians, like Barrett, can shape entire genres and influence music cultures.
6. Additional Must-Watch Documentaries
There are a number of classic music documentaries that every music lover should watch:
- “20 Feet from Stardom”: A heartfelt look at the unsung heroes of the music industry—backing vocalists. This film showcases the immense talent and often-overlooked contributions of singers who provide the harmonies and emotional depth behind famous songs.
- “Sound City”: Directed by Dave Grohl, this documentary highlights the legendary Sound City Studios and the recording equipment that shaped the sound of rock music in the 70s and 80s.
For a more hands-on approach, check out guides on audio interfaces and building a home studio to better understand the tools used in professional studios like Sound City.
Additionally, PBS and BBC Music offer free streaming of high-quality documentaries, making it easier than ever to access these insights and learn about the artists and producers who shape our favorite genres.
Transform Passive Viewing Into Active Learning
- Watching music documentaries is more than just a passive activity. By pairing these films with educational resources, you can gain a deeper understanding of music theory, production, and performance. Whether you're learning to play an instrument or producing music on a DAW, these documentaries provide both inspiration and practical knowledge.
- By diving into these films and pairing them with guides and exercises on musical techniques or production tools, you’ll be able to expand your knowledge of both musical history and modern music-making.
Final Thoughts
From intimate documentaries about iconic musicians to films that shed light on the hidden aspects of music production, there’s something for everyone in the world of music documentaries. Whether you're a professional musician or just a passionate listener, these films provide a deeper understanding of the art, the people behind it, and the forces that shape the music we love. Happy watching!
If you're looking for more curated music learning resources, feel free to check out:
