The Best Music Documentaries to Watch
Music documentaries do more than entertain—they pull back the curtain on the lives, struggles, and genius behind the artists and movements that shape the soundtrack of our lives. Whether you’re a lifelong fan of a particular genre or just love a well-told story, these compelling films offer intimate glimpses into creativity, fame, identity, and the powerful impact of music on culture.
Here’s a curated list of some of the best music documentaries to watch—spanning genres, generations, and global stages.
1. “Homecoming” (2019) – Beyoncé
More than just a concert film, Homecoming is a rich, behind-the-scenes look at Beyoncé’s legendary 2018 Coachella performance. It celebrates Black culture, historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs), and artistic discipline at the highest level. With raw footage, thoughtful narration, and unmatched visuals, this documentary is a masterclass in empowerment, excellence, and creative control.
2. “20 Feet from Stardom” (2013)
This Oscar-winning documentary shifts the spotlight to the background singers behind some of the biggest hits in history. Featuring powerhouse voices like Darlene Love and Merry Clayton, 20 Feet from Stardom tells a moving story of talent, sacrifice, and the bittersweet reality of being almost—but not quite—a star. It’s emotional, inspiring, and a must-watch for anyone who’s ever chased a dream.
3. “Amy” (2015) – Amy Winehouse
This heartbreaking and intimate portrait of Amy Winehouse explores her rise to fame and tragic downfall through never-before-seen footage and candid interviews. Amy goes beyond tabloid headlines to reveal the complexity of a woman whose raw talent was both her gift and her undoing. It’s a sobering reflection on fame, vulnerability, and the price of brilliance.
4. “Miss Americana” (2020) – Taylor Swift
In this revealing Netflix doc, Taylor Swift opens up about her journey from country starlet to global pop powerhouse—and the personal battles that shaped her along the way. Miss Americana explores the pressures of fame, self-discovery, and the power of finding your voice in a world that constantly tries to define you. It’s vulnerable, stylish, and surprisingly political.
5. “The Defiant Ones” (2017) – Dr. Dre & Jimmy Iovine
Spanning four parts, this series dives deep into the intertwined careers of Dr. Dre and producer Jimmy Iovine, tracing the evolution of hip-hop, tech, and the music business itself. Featuring interviews with Eminem, Gwen Stefani, Bono, and more, The Defiant Ones is packed with music history and hard-earned wisdom about taking risks, reinventing yourself, and changing the game.
6. “Summer of Soul (…Or, When the Revolution Could Not Be Televised)” (2021)
Directed by Questlove, this electrifying film uncovers the long-overlooked 1969 Harlem Cultural Festival—a celebration of Black music, culture, and joy that took place the same summer as Woodstock. With stunning archival footage and a powerful soundtrack, Summer of Soul is both a time capsule and a timely reminder of music’s power to unite and uplift.
Final Thoughts
Music documentaries invite us to see what we hear—to understand the context, courage, and craft behind every note. Whether you’re in the mood for inspiration, nostalgia, or a closer look at your favorite artist, these films offer stories that resonate long after the credits roll.
So grab your headphones, queue up a playlist, and let these documentaries take you deeper into the music you love.
