If you were captivated by the mesmerizing documentary 'A Life in Waves' (2017), which explores the pioneering work of electronic music composer Suzanne Ciani, you'll love these 10 similar films and shows. This article delves into other fascinating stories about music innovators, sound design, and the creative process behind groundbreaking art. Whether you're a fan of experimental music or simply enjoy inspiring documentaries, this list has something for you.

Linda Ronstadt: The Sound of My Voice (2019)
Description: This documentary chronicles an artist's journey through different musical genres and personal challenges, much like other films that trace an artist's evolution over time. It celebrates both the music and the person behind it.
Fact: The film reveals how Ronstadt continued to sing privately after losing her ability to perform publicly. It includes interviews with collaborators like Dolly Parton and Emmylou Harris.


Laurel Canyon (2020)
Description: This documentary series explores a specific time and place that became a creative hub, similar to other films about influential music scenes. It captures the intersection of personal lives and artistic collaboration.
Fact: The series features never-before-heard demo recordings from iconic albums. It explores how the casual, communal atmosphere of Laurel Canyon fostered musical innovation.


The Wrecking Crew (2008)
Description: This documentary explores the unsung heroes of the music industry, much like the focus on influential but often overlooked figures in another music-centric film. It delves into the behind-the-scenes work of session musicians who shaped the sound of an era.
Fact: The Wrecking Crew played on hundreds of hit records in the 1960s and 1970s, including classics by The Beach Boys and Frank Sinatra. The documentary took over a decade to complete due to funding challenges.


Gimme Danger (2016)
Description: Focusing on a pioneering band that changed music history, this documentary shares the same reverence for musical innovation as other films about groundbreaking artists. It captures both the chaos and creativity of its subjects.
Fact: Iggy Pop personally approved Jim Jarmusch to direct the documentary. The film includes rare footage of The Stooges' early performances.


The Punk Singer (2013)
Description: This documentary profiles a groundbreaking female musician, examining her influence on music and culture. It shares the intimate, personal approach of other music documentaries that explore artists' lives and creative processes.
Fact: The film reveals why Kathleen Hanna suddenly disappeared from public view in 200It includes never-before-seen footage from Bikini Kill's early days.


Muscle Shoals (2013)
Description: Like other music documentaries, this film celebrates a specific sound and place that became legendary in music history. It focuses on how a small town in Alabama produced some of the most iconic recordings of all time.
Fact: Muscle Shoals Sound Studio was located in a former coffin showroom. Artists like Aretha Franklin and The Rolling Stones recorded there, drawn by the unique 'Muscle Shoals sound'.


What Happened, Miss Simone? (2015)
Description: This in-depth portrait of a musical genius examines both the artist's creative brilliance and personal struggles. It mirrors other documentaries that explore the complex relationship between artistic genius and personal demons.
Fact: The film includes previously unheard recordings and rare archival footage. Nina Simone's daughter served as an executive producer on the project.


David Crosby: Remember My Name (2019)
Description: With its unflinching look at an artist's life, career, and regrets, this documentary shares the raw honesty of other musician portraits. It doesn't shy away from difficult truths while celebrating musical achievements.
Fact: Crosby participated extensively in the film, knowing it might be his final documentary. The film includes his last interview with Graham Nash before their falling out.


The Sparks Brothers (2021)
Description: Focusing on a cult band with a devoted following, this documentary shares the same appreciation for niche but influential artists as other music films. It celebrates creative persistence and artistic integrity.
Fact: The film features interviews with over 80 collaborators and fans. Sparks' music has been featured in over 40 films, though they remain relatively unknown to mainstream audiences.


The Bee Gees: How Can You Mend a Broken Heart (2020)
Description: This documentary examines both the meteoric success and subsequent challenges faced by its subjects, similar to other films about artists who experienced dramatic career arcs. It explores family dynamics within a musical group.
Fact: The film includes rare home movie footage from the brothers' childhood. It explores how the Bee Gees became one of only a few acts to have number one hits in three consecutive decades.
