10 Movies & Shows Like Muscle Shoals

Description: A landmark concert film that captures the birth of the summer of love and the rise of psychedelic rock. It’s a vibrant snapshot of a cultural revolution through music.

Fact: The film includes legendary performances by Jimi Hendrix, Janis Joplin, and The Who. It was one of the first documentaries to use synchronized sound for live performances.

Description: A raw and unfiltered look at a historic concert that ended in tragedy, capturing the darker side of the music industry and the cultural shifts of the era. It’s a stark reminder of music’s power and its risks.

Fact: The film documents the infamous Altamont Free Concert, where a fan was killed. The Rolling Stones’ performance is interspersed with courtroom footage of the incident.

Description: An iconic documentary that immortalizes one of the most famous music festivals, celebrating the unity and counterculture of the 1960s. It’s a testament to the transformative power of music and community.

Fact: The film won the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature. It took six months to edit over 300 hours of footage into the final cut.

Description: A seminal concert film that captures the final performance of a legendary band, emphasizing the emotional and historical significance of live music. It’s a time capsule of a pivotal moment in rock history.

Fact: Directed by Martin Scorsese, it was one of the first concert films to use 35mm cameras. The guest lineup included icons like Bob Dylan, Neil Young, and Joni Mitchell.

Description: A gritty exploration of the punk rock scene, focusing on the raw energy and rebellious spirit of the musicians. It’s an unvarnished look at a subculture that defied mainstream norms.

Fact: The film features performances by bands like Black Flag and X. It was initially banned in several cities due to its controversial content.

Description: A groundbreaking concert film that blends innovative staging with electrifying performances, showcasing the creative genius of a band at its peak. It’s a masterclass in live music cinematography.

Fact: Directed by Jonathan Demme, it was the first concert film to use entirely digital audio. The film’s minimalist stage design became iconic.

Description: This documentary chronicles a traveling music festival, showcasing the camaraderie and spontaneity of live performances. It reflects the communal spirit and raw energy of music festivals.

Fact: The film features rare footage of Janis Joplin, The Grateful Dead, and The Band performing on a train. It was lost for decades before being restored and released.

Description: This documentary explores the unsung heroes of the music industry, much like the behind-the-scenes musicians who shaped iconic sounds. It delves into the collaborative and often overlooked contributions of session musicians.

Fact: The film features interviews with legendary musicians like Glen Campbell and Cher, who worked with The Wrecking Crew. It took over a decade to complete due to funding challenges.

Description: This documentary brings together legendary guitarists to discuss their craft, similar to how music documentaries often focus on the artistry and passion behind the instruments. It’s a celebration of musical innovation and personal expression.

Fact: The film features Jimmy Page, The Edge, and Jack White, each representing different generations of guitar heroes. Scenes were shot in unique locations, including White's childhood home.

Description: A compelling story about a forgotten musician whose impact was rediscovered decades later, highlighting the power of music to transcend time and geography. It captures the mystery and revival of an artist's legacy.

Fact: The film won the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature in 201The subject, Sixto Rodriguez, was unaware of his fame in South Africa until the filmmakers tracked him down.