If you were captivated by the gripping documentary 'What the Hell Happened to Blood, Sweat & Tears?' (2023), you're likely craving more stories that delve into the rise and fall of iconic bands, political intrigue, and untold music industry drama. This article explores 10 similar movies and shows that will satisfy your curiosity, offering deep dives into legendary artists, behind-the-scenes chaos, and the price of fame.

Gimme Shelter (1970)
Description: Captures the darker side of music festivals and the chaos that can ensue, much like how it reveals the tensions and realities behind the scenes of major musical events.
Fact: The film documents the Rolling Stones' 1969 tour, culminating in the tragic Altamont Free Concert where a fan was killed.


Woodstock (1970)
Description: Documents a defining moment in music history, showcasing the cultural and musical impact of a legendary festival, similar to how it explores the intersection of music and society.
Fact: Woodstock was originally planned for 50,000 attendees but ended up drawing over 400,000, becoming a symbol of the 1960s counterculture.


The Last Waltz (1978)
Description: Chronicles the final concert of a legendary band, offering an intimate look at their music and relationships, much like how it captures pivotal moments in musical history.
Fact: Directed by Martin Scorsese, The Last Waltz is considered one of the greatest concert films ever made, featuring performances by Bob Dylan, Neil Young, and Joni Mitchell.


The Decline of Western Civilization (1981)
Description: Provides a raw and unfiltered look at a music scene, similar to how it exposes the gritty realities and passions of underground music movements.
Fact: The film focuses on the Los Angeles punk rock scene in the late 1970s and early 1980s, featuring bands like Black Flag and X.


Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers: Runnin' Down a Dream (2007)
Description: A comprehensive look at a band's journey through the music industry, capturing their highs and lows, similar to how it portrays the struggles and triumphs of musical careers.
Fact: The documentary spans four hours and covers Tom Petty's career from his early days to his success with the Heartbreakers and as a solo artist.


Laurel Canyon (2020)
Description: Dives into a vibrant music scene and the artists who defined it, much like how it captures the collaborative spirit and creative energy of a musical era.
Fact: Laurel Canyon was home to musicians like Joni Mitchell, The Byrds, and The Mamas & the Papas, who created some of the most influential music of the 1960s and 1970s.


The Wrecking Crew (2008)
Description: This documentary explores the untold story of a group of session musicians who played on countless hit records, similar to how it delves into the behind-the-scenes contributions of artists in the music industry.
Fact: The Wrecking Crew played on hits for artists like The Beach Boys, Frank Sinatra, and The Monkees, yet remained largely unknown to the public.


Muscle Shoals (2013)
Description: Focuses on the legendary recording studio and the musicians who created a distinctive sound, much like how it highlights the collaborative and often overlooked efforts in music production.
Fact: Muscle Shoals, Alabama, became a musical hub where artists like Aretha Franklin and The Rolling Stones recorded some of their most iconic songs.


Amy (2015)
Description: A poignant look at the rise and fall of a talented musician, similar to how it portrays the pressures and pitfalls of fame in the music industry.
Fact: The film uses extensive archival footage to tell Amy Winehouse's story, including her struggles with addiction and the media.


What Happened, Miss Simone? (2015)
Description: Explores the life and career of a groundbreaking artist, delving into her personal struggles and artistic genius, much like how it examines the complexities of musical legacies.
Fact: Nina Simone's activism and mental health struggles are central themes in this documentary, which uses never-before-heard recordings and interviews.
