Music Documentaries
by jojowiththeflow | created - 26 Aug 2016 | updated - 9 months ago | PublicInspired by a group discussion on Facebook: http://joflo.ws/2bmMkJq (further suggestions taken from http://joflo.ws/2bpumfg) (these URLs link to private group discussions on Facebook so will not be visible to non group members)
Music documentaries that don't appear to be listed on IMDb:
- Ten Years In An Open Neck Shirt (1982) about John Cooper Clarke (https://vimeo.com/36271767)
- Inside Bjork (2002) (https://youtu.be/qbJCqnITC7s)
- Carl Cox 24/7 (2009) (see http://carlcox247.com)
- Dead Kennedys: Fresh Fruit for Rotting Eyeballs (2005)(https://youtu.be/V6OberRtI6Q)
- Red Hot Chili Peppers, A Dutch Connection (2010) (http://joflo.ws/2bptcAf / http://joflo.ws/2bpt0ku) (online searches may reveal more of the old footage from the 1980s and 1990s TV documentaries Bram van Splunteren made about the band)
- Triggerfinger: Altijd Alles Geven (2012) (see https://vimeo.com/30985953 for 10min preview)
- Buying The Band (2017?) (3voor12.vpro.nl/buyingtheband / https://letterboxd.com/film/buying-the-band / https://youtu.be/odp7Do-_qsc)
- The Show’s The Thing: The Legendary Promoters of Rock (2018) (http://www.docnyc.net/film/the-shows-the-thing-the-legendary-promoters-of-rock/)
- Marvin Gaye: What's Going On (http://joflo.ws/2cgodlq)
- Instant Watch Options
- Genres
- Movies or TV
- IMDb Rating
- In Theaters
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- Keywords
1. Sound City (2013)
Not Rated | 107 min | Documentary, Music
A documentary on the fabled recording studio that was located in Van Nuys, California.
Director: Dave Grohl | Stars: Trent Reznor, Tom Petty, Mick Fleetwood, Vinny Appice
Votes: 13,510 | Gross: $0.42M
2. Twenty Feet from Stardom (2013)
PG-13 | 91 min | Documentary, Biography, History
Backup singers live in a world that lies just beyond the spotlight. Their voices bring harmony to the biggest bands in popular music, but we've had no idea who these singers are or what lives they lead, until now.
Director: Morgan Neville | Stars: Darlene Love, Merry Clayton, Lisa Fischer, Judith Hill
Votes: 14,051 | Gross: $4.95M
3. Rush: Beyond the Lighted Stage (2010)
Not Rated | 107 min | Documentary, Biography, Music
An in-depth look at the Canadian rock band Rush, chronicling the band's musical evolution from their progressive rock sound of the '70s to their current heavy rock style.
Directors: Sam Dunn, Scot McFadyen | Stars: Geddy Lee, Alex Lifeson, Neil Peart, Trent Reznor
Votes: 4,934
4. George Harrison: Living in the Material World (2011)
Not Rated | 208 min | Documentary, Biography, Music
Filmmaker Martin Scorsese examines the life of musician George Harrison, weaving together interviews, concert footage, home movies and photographs.
Director: Martin Scorsese | Stars: George Harrison, Harry Harrison, Peter Harrison, Paul McCartney
Votes: 12,696
5. Metallica: Some Kind of Monster (2004)
Not Rated | 84 min | Documentary, Music
The iconic metal band struggles for two years to create their album St. Anger, dealing with alcoholism, the loss of their bass player, and the challenge of working with a psychotherapist.
Directors: Joe Berlinger, Bruce Sinofsky | Stars: James Hetfield, Kirk Hammett, Lars Ulrich, Robert Trujillo
Votes: 20,459 | Gross: $1.22M
6. Janis: Little Girl Blue (2015)
TV-MA | 103 min | Documentary, Biography, Music
Musician Cat Power narrates this documentary on Janis Joplin's evolution into a star from letters that Joplin wrote over the years to her friends, family, and collaborators.
Director: Amy Berg | Stars: Cat Power, Janis Joplin, Karleen Bennett, Laura Joplin
Votes: 5,675 | Gross: $0.41M
7. The Clash: Westway to the World (2000 Video)
60 min | Documentary, Music
A career retrospective of British punk band The Clash, featuring exclusive interviews with the entire band.
Director: Don Letts | Stars: Terry Chimes, Terence Dackombe, Topper Headon, Mick Jones
Votes: 1,144
8. The Damned: Don't You Wish That We Were Dead (2015)
110 min | Documentary, Music
A history of the influential English punk band The Damned from their inception in 1976 through to 2015.
Director: Wes Orshoski | Stars: Gaye Advert, Fred Armisen, Roger Armstrong, Jimmy Ashhurst
Votes: 468
9. Searching for Sugar Man (2012)
PG-13 | 86 min | Documentary, Biography, Music
Two South Africans set out to discover what happened to their unlikely musical hero, the mysterious 1970s rock n roller, Rodriguez.
Director: Malik Bendjelloul | Stars: Rodriguez, Stephen 'Sugar' Segerman, Dennis Coffey, Mike Theodore
Votes: 73,291 | Gross: $3.97M
10. Joe Strummer: The Future Is Unwritten (2007)
Not Rated | 124 min | Documentary, Biography, Music
As the front man of the Clash from 1977, Joe Strummer changed people's lives forever. Four years after his death, his influence reaches out around the world, more strongly now than ever before.
Director: Julien Temple | Stars: Joe Strummer, Steve Jones, Mick Jones, The 101ers
Votes: 4,208 | Gross: $0.25M
11. Oil City Confidential (2009)
104 min | Documentary, Music
The story of Dr Feelgood, four men in cheap suits who crashed out of Canvey Island in the early '70s, sandpapered the face of rock'n'roll, leaving all that came before a burnt-out ruin - ... See full summary »
Director: Julien Temple | Stars: Lee Brilleaux, Wilko Johnson, John Martin, John B. Sparkes
Votes: 640
12. Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers: Runnin' Down a Dream (2007)
Not Rated | 259 min | Documentary, Music
"Runnin' Down A Dream," a film directed by cinema legend Peter Bogdanovich, is the story of one of America's great rock and roll bands told as never before.
Director: Peter Bogdanovich | Stars: Neil Armstrong, Mick Avory, Ron Blair, Peter Bogdanovich
Votes: 2,170
13. Foo Fighters: Back and Forth (2011)
Not Rated | 101 min | Documentary, Music
Rising from the ashes of Nirvana, the Foo Fighters became a Grammy-winning sensation on their own. Sixteen years of the band's history comes to life in this documentary, from their demo ... See full summary »
Director: James Moll | Stars: Shawn Cloninger, William Goldsmith, Jessy Greene, Dave Grohl
Votes: 6,562
14. Red Hot Chili Peppers: Funky Monks (1991 Video)
60 min | Documentary, Music
Shows the classic lineup of the Red Hot Chili Peppers recording their 1991 breakthrough album "Blood Sugar Sex Magik."
Director: Gavin Bowden | Stars: John Frusciante, Adam Horovitz, Anthony Kiedis, Nial LaPrell
Votes: 818
15. The Possibilities Are Endless (2014)
Not Rated | 83 min | Documentary, Biography, Music
Imagine your mind has been wiped: memories, knowledge, experiences, language - every word you ever spoke, has vanished. If eventually you found the words, what would you say? For Edwyn Collins, 'The Possibilities Are Endless'.
Directors: James Hall, Edward Lovelace | Stars: Edwyn Collins, Grace Maxwell, William Collins, Yasmin Paige
Votes: 382
16. Dig! (2004)
R | 107 min | Documentary, Music
A documentary on the once-promising American rock bands The Brian Jonestown Massacre and The Dandy Warhols, and the friendship/rivalry between their respective founders, Anton Newcombe and Courtney Taylor.
Director: Ondi Timoner | Stars: Anton Newcombe, Courtney Taylor-Taylor, Joel Gion, Matt Hollywood
Votes: 6,735 | Gross: $0.13M
17. 20,000 Days on Earth (2014)
Not Rated | 97 min | Documentary, Drama, Music
Writer and musician Nick Cave marks his 20,000th day on the planet Earth.
Directors: Iain Forsyth, Jane Pollard | Stars: Nick Cave, Susie Bick, Warren Ellis, Darian Leader
Votes: 12,052 | Gross: $0.28M
18. What Happened, Miss Simone? (2015)
Not Rated | 101 min | Documentary, Biography, Music
A documentary about the life and legend Nina Simone, an American singer, pianist, and civil rights activist labeled the "High Priestess of Soul."
Director: Liz Garbus | Stars: Nina Simone, Lisa Simone Kelly, Roger Nupie, Al Schackman
Votes: 14,921
19. Artifact (2012)
Not Rated | 103 min | Documentary, Music
Telling harsh truths about the modern music business, this riveting and award-winning documentary gives intimate access to singer/actor Jared Leto ("Requiem for a Dream," "Dallas Buyers ... See full summary »
Director: Jared Leto | Stars: Jared Leto, Shannon Leto, Tomo Milicevic, Irving Azoff
Votes: 4,733
20. David Bowie: Five Years (2013)
TV-14 | 60 min | Documentary
A documentary covering five of the most important years of the influential rock star David Bowie's career.
Director: Francis Whately | Stars: David Bowie, Rick Wakeman, John Harris, Ken Scott
Votes: 1,796
21. The Devil and Daniel Johnston (2005)
PG-13 | 110 min | Documentary, Biography, Music
Daniel Johnston, manic-depressive genius singer/songwriter/artist is revealed in this portrait of madness, creativity and love.
Director: Jeff Feuerzeig | Stars: Daniel Johnston, Mabel Johnston, Bill Johnston, Laurie Allen
Votes: 10,582 | Gross: $0.33M
22. The Decline of Western Civilization (1981)
Not Rated | 100 min | Documentary, History, Music
A look into the Los Angeles punk rock scene, that was largely ignored by the rock music press of the time.
Director: Penelope Spheeris | Stars: Eugene Tatu, Alice Bag Band, Black Flag, Catholic Discipline
Votes: 4,893
23. The Stone Roses: Made of Stone (2013)
97 min | Documentary, Music
Shane Meadows documents the reunion of iconic British band, The Stone Roses.
Director: Shane Meadows | Stars: Shane Meadows, Ian Brown, John Squire, The Stone Roses
Votes: 2,751
24. Pulp: A Film About Life, Death & Supermarkets (2014)
90 min | Documentary, Music
Britpop band Pulp found fame on the world stage in the mid-1990s with anthems including "Common People" and "Disco 2000". Twenty five years and 10 million album sales later, they return to their hometown for their last UK concert.
Director: Florian Habicht | Stars: Pulp, Jarvis Cocker, Nick Banks, Candida Doyle
Votes: 1,776
25. Beware of Mr. Baker (2012)
Not Rated | 100 min | Documentary, Biography, Music
Ginger Baker looks back on his musical career with Cream and Blind Faith; his introduction to Fela Kuti; his self-destructive patterns and losses of fortune; and his current life inside a fortified South African compound.
Director: Jay Bulger | Stars: Ginger Baker, Femi Kuti, Eric Clapton, Stewart Copeland
Votes: 3,636 | Gross: $0.11M
26. Gary Numan: Android in La La Land (2016)
Not Rated | 85 min | Documentary, Biography, Music
The Godfather of electronic pop music has moved home in search of a new life in the sun and new challenges in Hollywood.
Directors: Steve Read, Rob Alexander | Star: Gary Numan
Votes: 240
27. Eat That Question: Frank Zappa in His Own Words (2016)
R | 93 min | Documentary, Biography, Music
An in-depth look at the life and work of avant-garde musician, Frank Zappa.
Director: Thorsten Schütte | Stars: Frank Zappa, Steve Allen, Angel, Chuck Ash
Votes: 1,387 | Gross: $0.35M
28. The Most Dangerous Band in the World (2016)
Documentary
It was 1985. Guns N' Roses were soon to be known as the last mammoth rock entity to come out of LA after selling over 100 million albums. Jon Brewer brings alive never-before-seen video ... See full summary »
Director: Jon Brewer | Stars: Adam Dorsey, Aaron Groben, Alex H. Roth, Alena Savostikova
Votes: 102
29. The Punk Singer (2013)
Not Rated | 81 min | Documentary, Biography, Music
A look at the life of activist, musician, and cultural icon Kathleen Hanna, who formed the punk band Bikini Kill and pioneered the "riot grrrl" movement of the 1990s.
Director: Sini Anderson | Stars: Kathleen Hanna, Carrie Brownstein, Kim Gordon, Joan Jett
Votes: 3,119 | Gross: $0.12M
30. Anvil (2008)
Not Rated | 80 min | Documentary, Biography, Drama
Since 1978, Anvil has become one of heavy metal's most influential yet commercially unsuccessful acts. In 2006, after a fledging European tour Anvil sets out to record their thirteenth album and continue to follow their dreams.
Director: Sacha Gervasi | Stars: Robb Reiner, Steve 'Lips' Kudlow, Tiziana Arrigoni, Scott Ian
Votes: 16,955 | Gross: $0.67M
31. One Direction: This Is Us (2013)
PG | 92 min | Documentary, Music
A look at Niall, Zayn, Liam, Louis, and Harry's meteoric rise to fame, from their humble hometown beginnings and competing on the X-Factor, to conquering the world and performing at London's famed O2 Arena.
Director: Morgan Spurlock | Stars: Liam Payne, Harry Styles, Zayn Malik, Niall Horan
Votes: 25,085 | Gross: $28.87M
32. This Is It (2009)
PG | 111 min | Documentary, Music
A compilation of interviews, rehearsals, and backstage footage of Michael Jackson as he prepared for his series of sold-out shows in London.
Director: Kenny Ortega | Stars: Michael Jackson, Alex Al, Alexandra Apjarova, Nick Bass
Votes: 42,136 | Gross: $72.09M
33. This Is Elvis (1981)
PG | 110 min | Documentary, Biography, Music
The life and career of Elvis Presley are chronicled in home movies, concert footage, and dramatizations. Subjects include early performances, army service, Ed Sullivan Show appearance, marriage, 1968 comeback, health decline and death.
Directors: Malcolm Leo, Andrew Solt | Stars: Elvis Presley, David Scott, Paul Boensch III, Johnny Harra
Votes: 1,651 | Gross: $2.03M
34. Shine a Light (2008)
PG-13 | 122 min | Documentary, Biography, Music
A career-spanning documentary on The Rolling Stones, with concert footage from their "A Bigger Bang" tour.
Director: Martin Scorsese | Stars: Mick Jagger, Keith Richards, Charlie Watts, Ronnie Wood
Votes: 12,390 | Gross: $5.36M
35. Keith Richards: Under the Influence (2015)
TV-PG | 81 min | Documentary, Music
A portrait of Keith Richards that takes us on a journey to discover the genesis of his sound as a songwriter, guitarist and performer.
Director: Morgan Neville | Stars: Keith Richards, Anthony DeCurtis, Steve Jordan, Tom Waits
Votes: 3,697
36. Keith Richards: The Origin of the Species (2016 TV Movie)
80 min | Documentary
Excellent and beautifully edited first-person account of Keith's early life, family, and influences, interspersed with family photographs and illustrative and relevant film footage of the ... See full summary »
Director: Julien Temple | Star: Keith Richards
Votes: 56
37. History of the Eagles (2013)
Not Rated | 94 min | Documentary, Music
The life and times of the super successful American soft-rock band, Eagles.
Stars: Don Henley, Glenn Frey, Don Felder, Joe Walsh
Votes: 2,834
38. Muscle Shoals (2013)
PG | 111 min | Documentary, Biography, History
A documentary that celebrates Rick Hall, the founder of FAME Studios in Muscle Shoals, Alabama, and the signature sound he developed in songs such as "I'll Take You There", "Brown Sugar", and "When a Man Loves a Woman".
Director: Greg 'Freddy' Camalier | Stars: Rick Hall, Aretha Franklin, Keith Richards, Candi Staton
Votes: 4,302 | Gross: $0.70M
39. The Filth and the Fury (2000)
R | 108 min | Documentary, Biography, Music
A film about the career of the notorious punk rock band, the Sex Pistols.
Director: Julien Temple | Stars: Paul Cook, Steve Jones, John Lydon, Glen Matlock
Votes: 6,254 | Gross: $0.61M
40.
Omnibus (1967–2003)
Episode:
Cracked Actor
(1975)
Not Rated | 53 min | Documentary, Biography, Music
BBC documentary showing David Bowie looking back on his Ziggy Stardust character during his Diamond Dogs tour.
Director: Alan Yentob | Star: David Bowie
Votes: 327
41. Cobain: Montage of Heck (2015)
TV-MA | 132 min | Documentary, Animation, Biography
An authorized documentary on the late musician Kurt Cobain, from his early days in Aberdeen, Washington to his success and downfall with the grunge band Nirvana.
Director: Brett Morgen | Stars: Kurt Cobain, Wendy O'Connor, Don Cobain, Jenny Cobain
Votes: 32,347
42. Soaked in Bleach (2015)
Not Rated | 90 min | Documentary, Crime
Tom Grant, a private investigator once hired by Courtney Love, reveals his take on the death of Kurt Cobain.
Director: Benjamin Statler | Stars: Daniel Roebuck, Sarah Scott, August Emerson, Tyler Bryan
Votes: 11,614
43. It Might Get Loud (2008)
PG | 98 min | Documentary, Music
A documentary on the electric guitar from the point of view of three significant rock musicians: The Edge, Jimmy Page, and Jack White.
Director: Davis Guggenheim | Stars: Jimmy Page, The Edge, Jack White, Dallas Schoo
Votes: 13,593 | Gross: $1.61M
44. Thunder Soul (2010)
PG | 83 min | Documentary, Music
Alumni from Houston's storied Kashmere High School Stage Band return home after 35 years to play a tribute concert for their beloved band leader who turned the struggling jazz band into a world-class funk powerhouse in the early 1970s.
Director: Mark Landsman | Stars: Craig Baldwin, Craig Green, Conrad O. Johnson Sr., Bruce Middleton
Votes: 531 | Gross: $0.14M
45. Secret Voices of Hollywood (2013 TV Movie)
90 min | Documentary
Director: Guy Evans | Stars: Lindsay Duncan, India Adams, Julie Andrews, Jimmy Bryant
Votes: 33
...about the ghost singers for movie stars who didn't or couldn't sing their own parts...
46. California Dreaming (2010)
49 min | Documentary
California Dreaming follows several Southern Californians in their journey through tough times following the financial crisis of 2007-2008. An Anglo couple with young children struggle to ... See full summary »
Director: Bregtje van der Haak
Votes: 8
...about the Mamas and the Papas...
47. Troubadours (2011)
91 min | Documentary, Music
The lives and careers of James Taylor and Carole King.
Director: Morgan Neville | Stars: Lou Adler, Peter Asher, Lester Bangs, Paul Body
Votes: 99
...about Los Angeles club "The Troubadour"...
48. Amy (III) (2015)
R | 128 min | Documentary, Biography, Music
Archival footage and personal testimonials present an intimate portrait of the life and career of British singer/songwriter Amy Winehouse.
Director: Asif Kapadia | Stars: Amy Winehouse, Mitch Winehouse, Mark Ronson, Russell Brand
Votes: 55,385 | Gross: $8.41M
49. Punk Britannia (2012– )
90 min | Documentary, Music
A series which explores the why's and how's of Punk music's emergence in the mid 1970's, and the legacy it left for British music. It features interview and classic performances.
Stars: Peter Capaldi, John Lydon, Tony Parsons, Billy Idol
Votes: 114
50. Jason Becker: Not Dead Yet (2012)
Not Rated | 87 min | Documentary, Biography, Music
When doctors diagnosed 19-year-old rock star Jason Becker with Lou Gehrig's Disease, they said he would never make music again. 22 years later, without the ability to move or to speak, Jason is alive and making music with his eyes.
Director: Jesse Vile | Stars: Jason Becker, Dan Alvarez, Ehren Becker, Gary Becker
Votes: 1,219
51. Meeting People Is Easy (1998)
Not Rated | 99 min | Documentary, Music
An entertaining "rockumentary" about Radiohead that shows some of the tedium of being a rock star, as well as some of the fun stuff.
Director: Grant Gee | Stars: Radiohead, Thom Yorke, Jonny Greenwood, Ed O'Brien
Votes: 3,314 | Gross: $0.05M
52. Broadway Idiot (2013)
Not Rated | 80 min | Documentary, Music, Musical
A behind-the-scenes look at Green Day's "American Idiot" album becoming a punk rock Broadway musical.
Director: Doug Hamilton | Stars: Michael Mayer, Steven Hoggett, Tom Kitt, Christine Jones
Votes: 777 | Gross: $0.03M
53. Woodstock (1970)
R | 184 min | Documentary, History, Music
Oscar-winning musical chronicle that brilliantly captures the three-day rock concert and celebration of peace and love that became a capstone for the Sixties.
Director: Michael Wadleigh | Stars: Joan Baez, Richie Havens, Roger Daltrey, Joe Cocker
Votes: 18,560 | Gross: $50.00M
54. Lonely Boy (1963)
27 min | Documentary, Short, Biography
A documentary chronicling the career of teen singing star Paul Anka (the title is taken from one of his hit songs).
Directors: Wolf Koenig, Roman Kroitor | Stars: Paul Anka, Jules Podell
Votes: 369
55. Festival Express (2003)
R | 90 min | Documentary, History, Music
The filmed account of a large Canadian rock festival train tour boasting major acts like Janis Joplin, The Grateful Dead and The Band.
Directors: Bob Smeaton, Frank Cvitanovich | Stars: Janis Joplin, Grateful Dead, The Band, Rick Danko
Votes: 2,441 | Gross: $1.17M
56. End of the Century: The Story of the Ramones (2003)
TV-14 | 110 min | Documentary, Biography, Music
The story of the punk rock band The Ramones.
Directors: Jim Fields, Michael Gramaglia | Stars: Rick Rubin, Tommy Ramone, Dee Dee Ramone, Johnny Ramone
Votes: 3,923 | Gross: $0.39M
57. X: The Unheard Music (1986)
R | 84 min | Documentary, Music
This film is a documentary about the personalities in, and the music of, the early 1980's Los Angeles punk band X. There are studio and live performances by the band and interviews with ... See full summary »
Director: W.T. Morgan | Stars: John Doe, Exene Cervenka, Billy Zoom, D.J. Bonebrake
Votes: 457
58. Something from Nothing: The Art of Rap (2012)
R | 106 min | Documentary, Music
A documentary on rap music and its rise to global prominence.
Directors: Ice-T, Andy Baybutt | Stars: Ice-T, Dr. Dre, Chuck D, Snoop Dogg
Votes: 3,650 | Gross: $0.29M
59. Listen with Pain (2000)
57 min | Documentary, Music
Directors: Christian Beetz, Birgit Herdlitschke | Stars: Blixa Bargeld, Alexander Hacke, N.U. Unruh, FM Einheit
Votes: 17
Einstürzende Neubauten - Listen with Pain / Hör mit Schmerzen
60. Silver Rockets/Kool Things: 20 Years of Sonic Youth (2000 TV Movie)
55 min | Documentary, Music
Director: Christoph Dreher | Stars: Blixa Bargeld, Glenn Branca, Kim Gordon, Thurston Moore
61. Such Hawks Such Hounds (2008)
Not Rated | 84 min | Documentary, Music
Such Hawks Such Hounds explores the music and musicians of the American hard rock underground circa 1970-2007, focusing on the psychedelic and '70s proto-metal-derived styles that have in ... See full summary »
Directors: John Srebalus, Jessica Hundley | Stars: Billy Anderson, Scott 'Wino' Weinrich, Scott Reeder, Matt Pike
Votes: 493
62. Favela Rising (2005)
TV-14 | 80 min | Documentary
A man emerges from the slums of Rio to lead the nonviolent cultural movement known as Afro-reggae.
Directors: Matt Mochary, Jeff Zimbalist | Stars: Andre Luis Azevedo, José Júnior, Michele Moraes, Anderson Sa
Votes: 666
63. The Kate Bush Story: Running Up That Hill (2014 TV Movie)
60 min | Documentary, Music
Famous fans and fellow musicians discuss the career of one of the most influential figures that British music has ever produced.
Director: Adrian Sibley | Stars: Kate Bush, Elton John, Brett Anderson, St. Vincent
Votes: 210
64. From the Sky Down (2011)
90 min | Documentary, Music
In the terrain of rock bands, implosion or explosion is seemingly inevitable. U2 has defied the gravitational pull towards destruction; this band has endured and thrived. This documentary asks the question why.
Director: Davis Guggenheim | Stars: Bono, The Edge, Adam Clayton, Larry Mullen Jr.
Votes: 1,009
65. U2: Rattle and Hum (1988)
PG-13 | 99 min | Documentary, Music
A documentary of the Irish rock group U2 on their Fall 1987 tour of North America.
Director: Phil Joanou | Stars: Bono, The Edge, Adam Clayton, Larry Mullen Jr.
Votes: 6,199 | Gross: $8.60M
66. The Story of Funk: One Nation Under a Groove (2014 TV Movie)
60 min | Documentary, Music
This documentary tells the story of funk, exploring the music and artists who created a positive soundtrack at a negative time for African-Americans.
Director: James Hale | Stars: Soweto Kinch, Larry Blackmon, George Clinton, Earth Wind & Fire
Votes: 50
67. Public Enemy: Prophets of Rage (2011 TV Movie)
60 min | Documentary
Fascinating documentary about the history and legacy of the rap group "Public Enemy".
Director: James Hale | Stars: Bill Adler, Chuck D, Flavor Flav, Scott Ian
Votes: 60
68. The Last Waltz (1978)
PG | 117 min | Documentary, Biography, Music
A film account and presentation of the final concert of The Band.
Director: Martin Scorsese | Stars: Robbie Robertson, Muddy Waters, Neil Young, Van Morrison
Votes: 20,265 | Gross: $0.32M
69. The Carter (2009 Video)
72 min | Documentary, Music
An in-depth look at the artist Dwayne LIL' WAYNE Carter Jr, proclaimed by many as the "greatest rapper alive" With comprehensive and personal interviews with Lil' Wayne, this film will also... See full summary »
Director: Adam Bhala Lough | Stars: Birdman, Cortez Bryant, Reginae Carter, Drake
Votes: 683
70. Beats, Rhymes & Life: The Travels of A Tribe Called Quest (2011)
R | 97 min | Documentary, Music
Michael Rapaport documents the inner workings and behind the scenes drama that follows this innovative and influential band to this day.
Director: Michael Rapaport | Stars: Q-Tip, Phife Dawg, Ali Shaheed Muhammad, Jarobi White
Votes: 4,116 | Gross: $1.20M
71. A Band Called Death (2012)
Not Rated | 96 min | Documentary, Biography, Music
A documentary on the 1970s punk trio Death, and their new-found popularity decades after they disbanded.
Directors: Mark Christopher Covino, Jeff Howlett | Stars: Bobby Hackney, David Hackney, Dannis Hackney, Robbie Duncan
Votes: 3,999 | Gross: $0.13M
72. Marley (2012)
PG-13 | 144 min | Documentary, Biography, Music
A documentary on the life, music, and legacy of Bob Marley.
Director: Kevin Macdonald | Stars: Bob Marley, Ziggy Marley, Rita Marley, Jimmy Cliff
Votes: 14,600 | Gross: $1.41M
73.
Omnibus (1967–2003)
Episode:
The Prince of Paisley Park
(1991)
Not Rated | Documentary, Biography, Music
The Prince of Paisley Park.
Stars: Prince, Ingrid Chavez, Sheila E., Nelson George
Votes: 9
74. Buena Vista Social Club (1999)
G | 105 min | Documentary, Music
Aging Cuban musicians whose talents had been virtually forgotten following Castro's takeover of Cuba, are brought out of retirement by Ry Cooder, who travelled to Havana in order to bring the musicians together, resulting in triumphant performances of extraordinary music, and resurrecting the musicians' careers.
Director: Wim Wenders | Stars: Compay Segundo, Ibrahim Ferrer, Rubén González, Octavio Calderon
Votes: 20,652 | Gross: $7.00M
75. Say Amen, Somebody (1982)
G | 100 min | Documentary, Music
Documentary about the American gospel music scene, focusing on two of the movement's pioneering forces, Thomas A. Dorsey and Willie May Ford Smith.
Director: George T. Nierenberg | Stars: Willie Mae Ford Smith, Thomas A. Dorsey, Sallie Martin, Delois Barrett Campbell
Votes: 434
76. Madonna: Truth or Dare (1991)
R | 120 min | Documentary, Music
Documentary following singer Madonna on her controversial Blond Ambition tour in 1990.
Director: Alek Keshishian | Stars: Madonna, Donna DeLory, Niki Haris, Luis Camacho
Votes: 10,077 | Gross: $15.01M
77. The Wrecking Crew! (2008)
PG | 101 min | Documentary, History, Music
A celebration of the musical work of a group of session musicians known as "The Wrecking Crew", a band that provided back-up instrumentals to such legendary recording artists as Frank Sinatra, The Beach Boys and Bing Crosby.
Director: Denny Tedesco | Stars: Brian Wilson, Dick Clark, Cher, Herb Alpert
Votes: 3,696 | Gross: $0.80M
78. Thelonious Monk: Straight, No Chaser (1988)
PG-13 | 90 min | Documentary, Biography, Music
A documentary film about the life of pianist and jazz great Thelonious Sphere Monk. Features live performances by Monk and his band, and interviews with friends and family about the offbeat genius.
Director: Charlotte Zwerin | Stars: Thelonious Monk, John Coltrane, Jimmy Cleveland, Harry Colomby
Votes: 1,335 | Gross: $0.52M
79. Don't Look Back (1967)
Not Rated | 96 min | Documentary, Music
Documentary covering Bob Dylan's 1965 tour of England, which includes appearances by Joan Baez and Donovan.
Director: D.A. Pennebaker | Stars: Bob Dylan, Albert Grossman, Bob Neuwirth, Joan Baez
Votes: 10,060
80. Scratch (2001)
R | 92 min | Documentary, Music
The story of the hip-hop DJ from the birth of hip-hop to the invention of scratching and "beat-juggling" vinyl, to the more recent "turntablism" movement. Underdogs and virtuosos who have radically changed the way we hear and create music.
Director: Doug Pray | Stars: The Allies, A-Trak, Craze, DJ Infamous
Votes: 2,926
81.
American Masters (1985– )
Episode:
Aretha Franklin: The Queen of Soul
(1988)
TV-14 | 60 min | Documentary, Biography, History
Aretha Franklin's recording career is examined through archival footage and interviews with family and prominent figures within the music industry.
Director: Cathe Neukum | Stars: Aretha Franklin, C.L. Franklin, Carolyn Franklin, Erma Franklin
Votes: 105
82. Lady Day: The Many Faces of Billie Holiday (1990 TV Movie)
59 min | Documentary
Lady Day: The Many Faces of Billie Holiday tells us the story of one of jazz's greatest singers ever. Although Billie Holiday lived a life filled with tragedy, this documentary focuses more... See full summary »
Director: Matthew Seig | Stars: David Langston Smyrl, Billie Holiday, Ruby Dee, Buck Clayton
Votes: 50
83. We Are Twisted Fucking Sister! (2014)
Not Rated | 135 min | Documentary, Biography, Comedy
They were the Grand Funk of Glam and the NY Dolls of Metal. Some considered Twisted Sister a joke, others called them the greatest bar band in the world. While microcosm of Punk/New Wave ... See full summary »
Director: Andrew Horn | Stars: Sally Avellino, Donna Boccuzzi, Garry Bushell, Phil Carson
Votes: 1,767
84. Lemmy (2010)
116 min | Documentary, Biography, Music
A documentary on the life and career of revered heavy-metal musician Lemmy Kilmister.
Directors: Greg Olliver, Wes Orshoski | Stars: Lemmy, Phil Campbell, Mikkey Dee, Dave Navarro
Votes: 8,665
85. The Ritchie Blackmore Story (2015)
134 min | Documentary, Biography, Music
Documentary about legendary guitarist Richie Blackmore, who is best known for his work with rock bands Rainbow and Deep Purple.
Director: Alan Ravenscroft | Stars: Ed Eales White, Ritchie Blackmore, Steve Lukather, Brian May
Votes: 276
86. All Things Must Pass (2015)
Not Rated | 94 min | Documentary, History, Music
'All Things Must Pass' is a documentary that explores the rise and fall of Tower Records, and its legacy forged by its rebellious founder, Russ Solomon.
Director: Colin Hanks | Stars: Russ Solomon, Michael Solomon, Heidi Cotler, Paul Brown
Votes: 3,579 | Gross: $0.17M
87. Jaco (2015)
Not Rated | 110 min | Documentary, Biography, Drama
JACO" tells the story of Jaco Pastorius, a self-taught, larger-than-life musician who single-handedly changed the course of modern music by redefining the sound and the role of the electric bass guitar.
Directors: Stephen Kijak, Paul Marchand | Stars: Jaco Pastorius, Jerry Jemmott, Robert Trujillo, Flea
Votes: 1,264
88. Joe Cocker: Mad Dogs & Englishmen (1971)
GP | 117 min | Documentary, Music
Joe Cocker and Leon Russell perform live at the Fillmore East and Santa Monica Civic Auditorium.
Director: Pierre Adidge | Stars: Joe Cocker, Leon Russell, Chris Stainton, Jim Price
Votes: 325
89. Be Here to Love Me (2004)
Not Rated | 99 min | Documentary, Biography, Music
Be Here to Love Me - Chronicles the fascinating and often turbulent life of musician Townes van Zandt.
Director: Margaret Brown | Stars: Joe Ely, Guy Clark, Willie Nelson, Kris Kristofferson
Votes: 1,423 | Gross: $0.13M
90. Gram Parsons: Fallen Angel (2004)
90 min | Documentary, Music
The legend of country rock musician and million-dollar heir Gram Parsons: his extraordinary life, his tragic death and its bizarre aftermath, and his profound influence on music history.
Director: Gandulf Hennig | Stars: Tracey MacLeod, Peter Buck, Gretchen Carpenter, Elvis Costello
Votes: 259
91.
Great Performances (1971– )
Episode:
Respect Yourself: The Stax Records Story
(2007)
TV-G | 155 min | Music, Musical
Spectacular rise & disgraced collapse of Memphis' socially-conscious, neighborhood-based Stax Records, which spawned many of the best soul sounds of the 60's and 70's is told mostly by its ... See full summary »
Directors: Robert Gordon, Morgan Neville | Stars: Samuel L. Jackson, Jim Stewart, Estelle Axton, Deanie Parker
Votes: 221
92. Mavis! (2015)
TV-14 | 80 min | Documentary, Biography, Music
Her family group, the Staple Singers, inspired millions and helped propel the civil rights movement with their music. After 60 years of performing, legendary singer Mavis Staples' message of love and equality is needed now more than ever.
Director: Jessica Edwards | Stars: Mavis Staples, Jeff Tweedy, Adam Ayres, Donny Gerrard
Votes: 404
93. Gimme Shelter (1970)
GP | 91 min | Documentary, Music, Thriller
When three hundred thousand members of the Love Generation collided with a few dozen Hells Angels at San Francisco's Altamont Speedway, the bloody slash that transformed a decade's dreams into disillusionment was immortalized on this film.
Directors: Albert Maysles, David Maysles, Charlotte Zwerin | Stars: Mick Jagger, Keith Richards, Mick Taylor, Charlie Watts
Votes: 12,956 | Gross: $0.25M
94. Sonic Highways (2014)
TV-MA | 60 min | Documentary, Music
Sonic Highways commemorates the Foo Fighters 20th anniversary by documenting the eight-city recording odyssey that produced their latest, and eighth, studio album.
Stars: Dave Grohl, Taylor Hawkins, Pat Smear, Chris Shiflett
Votes: 3,781
95. Mr. Dynamite: The Rise of James Brown (2014)
Not Rated | 120 min | Documentary, Biography, Music
A look at the music career of musician James Brown beginning with his first hit song, "Please, Please, Please," in 1956.
Director: Alex Gibney | Stars: James Brown, Christian McBride, Bobby Byrd, Greg Tate
Votes: 1,499
96. Finding Fela (2014)
Not Rated | 119 min | Documentary, Biography, History
A look at the life and music of Nigerian singer Fela Kuti.
Director: Alex Gibney | Stars: Fela Kuti, Yeni Kuti, Femi Kuti, Seun Kuti
Votes: 845
97. Patti Smith: Dream of Life (2008)
Not Rated | 109 min | Documentary, Music
An intimate portrait of poet, painter, musician and singer Patti Smith that mirrors the essence of the artist herself.
Director: Steven Sebring | Stars: Patti Smith, Lenny Kaye, Oliver Ray, Tony Shanahan
Votes: 1,077 | Gross: $0.03M
98. The Man from Mo'Wax (2016)
116 min | Documentary, Music
An energetic and phenomenal presentation charting the life and career of DJ icon, music producer, and global trip-hop mogul James Lavelle.
Director: Matthew Jones | Stars: James Lavelle, DJ Shadow, Ian Brown, Josh Homme
Votes: 347
99. Gimme Danger (2016)
R | 108 min | Documentary, Music
An in-depth look at legendary punk band The Stooges.
Director: Jim Jarmusch | Stars: Iggy Pop, Jim Jarmusch, Bob Waller, The Stooges
Votes: 6,549 | Gross: $0.44M
100. No Distance Left to Run (2010)
Not Rated | 104 min | Documentary, Biography, Music
An insightful rockumentary looking at the history of the British rock band, Blur, as they head out on the road for their 2009 reunion tour.
Directors: Will Lovelace, Dylan Southern | Stars: Damon Albarn, Mike Smith, Wayne Hernandez, Sam Freeman
Votes: 1,387
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