Although many documentaries that focus on a particular musical artist tend to stray into the territory of live concert films, there are plenty of others that find a way to create more personal stories about the artists. Being able to accurately sum up an entire artist's career or even a particular moment in time for artists can be a difficult thing to do but when done correctly, it can offer a fascinating insight into the wild and fast lifestyles that many musicians live.
There are hundreds of music documentaries covering everything from obscure music scenes to detailed s of legendary concerts or tragic stories about a specific artist's life. All these documentaries have the power to humanize and demystify the artists that so many love and adore.
Wu: The Story Of The Wu-Tang Clan (6.7)
The complete history of one of the most influential musical artists ever, Wu is a documentary that can be enjoyed by long-time fans of the NYC rap group or those who are just testing the waters on old-school hip hop.
Telling the story of perhaps the most important rap group in hip hop history, the documentary relies on hours of archival footage to give an inside look at the group's formation and subsequent rise to fame. The documentary is one of the most authentic looks into the groups' life. The story of The Wu-Tang Clan was also adapted into a series on Hulu.
Nas: Time Is Illmatic (7.1)
One of the most influential and ground-breaking rappers of all time, Nas is a household name for anyone that claims to be a hip-hop head. The 2014 documentary focuses specifically on the release of his debut album Illmatic in 1994 that went on to change the scope of music in the United States.
The doc also focuses on Nas's early life and the early years of his career. Providing fascinating insight and filled with some of the biggest names in the music industry today, the documentary is a can't miss for rap and hip hop fans.
Something From Nothing: The Art Of Rap (7.2)
Produced by none other than Ice-T, Something From Nothing provides a broader look at rap and how it went grew from a niche genre to one of the most popular music genres in the world in a matter of years.
With features from just about every name in the hip hop world like Snoop Dogg, Dr. Dre, and of course Ice-T, the documentary also lays a heavy emphasis on the crafting of verses and lyrics as opposed to the production or musical side of rap.
All Things Must (7.3)
Record stores may largely be a thing of the past but for those looking for a healthy dose of nostalgia, All Things Must might be what they're looking for. The documentary covers the rise and fall of Tower Records. The record industry was a culture of its own and one that has mostly disappeared with the digitization of the medium.
Music industry stars like Elton John, Bruce Springsteen, and Dave Grohl, who has a documentary of his own, all lend their thoughts and memories of the now-extinct record store.
Feast Of Friends (7.3)
Most people know The Doors from their frequent featuring in movie soundtracks, but Feast Of Friends shows a different side. One of the rawest and unfiltered music documentaries ever made, the infamous documentary film was made by The Doors about The Doors.
At just 38 minutes long the documentary merely gives viewers a glimpse into the world of the famous rock band and feels more like just hanging out with the band rather than learning about their history and influences. Produced by Jim Morrison himself the short film also features a brilliant live version of "This Is The End"
The Night James Brown Saved Boston (7.4)
Part music documentary and part cultural documentary, the documentary film focuses on one of the most important nights in the artist's impressive career.
In an effort to curb the violence and rioting in Boston following the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King, the mayor of Boston decided to televise James Brown's concert that had been scheduled in Boston for months. The film showcases the power of James Brown's music and his significance as a cultural figure and is still incredibly relevant today.
Backstreet Boys: Show 'Em What You're Made Of (7.6)
The Backstreet Boys took the world by storm in the late '90s and continued their success into the early 2000s. Easily one of the biggest music acts in the world for a period of time the band changed the scope of music as it headed into the new millennium.
The film chronicles the band's early days, from their formation in 1993 all the way up to their 2013 album and the world tour that followed. With every member of the band featuring in the documentary, there are plenty of hilarious stories and first-hand s to be had.
Jackson Browne: Going Home (7.6)
Jackson Browne has managed to stand the test of time by music industry standards. With a career spanning several decades the singer-songwriter has been able to say relevant and in the public lexicon for the entirety of his career.
Going Home follows the typical music documentary format with archival footage, interviews, and live performances used to weave the story of Browne's incredible 25-year career as an artist.
Sign 'o' the Times (8.1)
One of the most important and greatest concert films ever, Prince proved himself to be the ultimate performer during his 1987 concert film. Originally released in an effort to boost album sales in the United States, the film went on to be one of Prince's best performances ever.
Aside from his skills as a singer and musician, it's Princes' ability to tell a story on stage that makes this film so special. Prince's on-stage presence truly lets him shine as an artist and separates himself from the rest. Prince is at his absolute best here and fans of the rockstar would do well to watch it more than once.
The Kids Are Alright (8.1)
A profile of one of the greatest rock bands of all time, The Kids Are Alright features concert footage, interviews, and archival footage that gives viewers an intimate and behind-the-scenes look into The Who.
Showcasing the phenomenal lives shows that the band was known for, the documentary will take fans right back to 1979 when The Who were at their peak. With tons of great live performances, the documentary also features drummer Keith Moon's last performance before his untimely death in 1979.