When it comes to the best music documentaries, the magic lies in how they pull back the curtain on iconic careers, groundbreaking albums, and unfiltered moments. Whether you’re a fan of rock, pop, hip-hop, or punk, these films go beyond surface-level storytelling. From legends like The Beatles and Beyoncé, these documentaries dive deep into the rhythm of what makes music unforgettable.
Here are 12 of the best music documentaries every true fan should add to their must-watch list.
12. This Is Us, One Direction
Directed by Morgan Spurlock, This Is Us takes fans behind the scenes of the global boy band phenomenon, One Direction. Blending concert footage with personal stories and behind-the-scenes moments, the film captures the whirlwind journey from X Factor beginnings to international superstardom. It’s a joyful, energetic experience for any Directioner and a fascinating look at modern pop success.
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11. Lewis Capaldi: How I’m Feeling Now, Lewis Capaldi
This heartfelt documentary follows Scottish singer Lewis Capaldi as he navigates sudden fame, mental health challenges, and the pressure to live up to his debut success. It’s a refreshingly honest look at the music industry through the eyes of someone still figuring it all out, making it one of the best music documentaries in modern day. Fans will appreciate the candid vulnerability and emotional resonance.
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10. What Happened, Miss Simone?, Nina Simone
Through powerful archival footage and intimate interviews, this documentary explores the chaotic life of jazz icon Nina Simone. It chronicles her musical brilliance alongside her civil rights activism and emotional struggles. Simone’s defiant voice, both literally and politically, makes this a huge tribute to a revolutionary artist.
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9. Oasis: Supersonic, Oasis
Focusing on the band’s meteoric rise in the ‘90s, Supersonic gives viewers an all-access pass into the creativity and sibling rivalry between Liam and Noel Gallagher. Told in the band’s own words, the documentary features concert footage, interviews, and candid moments that bring their tumultuous journey to life. It’s pure rock ‘n’ roll storytelling and one of the best music documentaries.
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8. Kurt Cobain: Montage of Heck, Kurt Cobain
This visually innovative documentary explores the life of Nirvana frontman Kurt Cobain through a mix of animation, home videos, journal entries, and audio recordings. It’s a haunting look at Cobain’s creative genius and personal struggles. Directed by Brett Morgen, it captures the chaos and emotion of an icon whose influence still reverberates.
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7. Summer of Soul, Various Artists
Directed by Questlove, Summer of Soul uncovers never-before-seen footage from the 1969 Harlem Cultural Festival, a forgotten moment in music and Black American history. Featuring legendary performances by Stevie Wonder, Nina Simone, and Sly and the Family Stone, it’s more than one of the best music documentaries; it’s a vital cultural artifact brought to life.
6. Homecoming, Beyoncé
A cultural phenomenon in its own right, Homecoming documents Beyoncé’s groundbreaking 2018 Coachella performance. Combining electrifying concert footage with personal reflections and extensive planning, the film celebrates Black culture, heritage, and excellence. It’s not just a concert doc, but it’s also a statement of purpose, discipline, and artistry from a generation-defining performer.
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5. Miss Americana, Taylor Swift
This intimate documentary follows Taylor Swift through a pivotal point in her life and career. It reveals the behind-the-scenes struggles with body image, industry pressure, and political silence as she steps into her own voice both as an artist and activist. Beautifully shot and emotionally honest, Miss Americana shows a pop star reckoning with identity and purpose.
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4. The Beatles: Get Back, The Beatles
Directed by Peter Jackson, this three-part docuseries redefines the Beatles’ narrative during the creation of “Let It Be.” With over 60 hours of restored footage from 1969, it captures the camaraderie and tension of the band in what feels like real time. Its brilliance in collaborative artistry makes it one of the best music documentaries for any fan of the Fab Four.
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3. Gaga: Five Foot Two, Lady Gaga
This documentary delivers an unflinching look at the vulnerability behind Lady Gaga’s bold persona. It follows her through physical and emotional challenges during the creation of her Joanne album and the lead-up to her Super Bowl halftime performance. With candid scenes of pain, resilience, and inspiration, this doc provides a rare behind-the-scenes look at the woman behind the glam.
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2. Amy, Amy Winehouse
As one of the best music documentaries in recent memory, Amy paints a heartbreaking yet human portrait of the late British singer. Directed by Asif Kapadia, the film uses home videos, interviews, and unreleased tracks to trace Winehouse’s rise to fame and her tragic downfall. It’s an emotional deep dive into the cost of stardom and a powerful tribute to her extraordinary voice and soul.
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1. This Is It, Michael Jackson
Offering an intimate look into the rehearsals for what would have been his final tour, This Is It captures the brilliance and meticulousness of Michael Jackson. Directed by Kenny Ortega, the film serves as a bittersweet reminder of Jackson’s unmatched talent, showcasing his work ethic, creativity, and vision in stunning detail. It’s a celebration of a pop icon’s enduring legacy and a must-watch for longtime fans.
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