You might have playlists loaded up with your favorite artists on Spotify or Apple Music, but how much do you really know about the stories behind those songs? What drove the artists to create those unforgettable tracks, and what was happening in their lives or the world around them at the time? Music documentaries offer a deeper understanding of the creative processes and contexts of artists whose work has soundtracked our lives.
From recording sessions with Taylor Swift, WHAM!, Lady Gaga, BLACKPINK, or Keith Richards to rehearsals for Beyoncé’s iconic Coachella performance, these documentaries provide insights that enhance our appreciation of the music. Netflix boasts an impressive lineup of music documentaries, featuring everything from Martin Scorsese’s exploration of Bob Dylan’s transformations to the much-discussed “Miss Americana.” Each documentary is filled with music, behind-the-scenes interviews, and footage of some of the most prolific artists of our time.
Here are the best music documentaries on Netflix, offering you a virtual ticket to explore the fascinating world of music without leaving your house.
1. WHAM!
George Michael and Andrew Ridgeley in Wham!
Get ready to have “Last Christmas” stuck in your head, but it’s worth it for this dive into the ’80s British pop sensation WHAM!, featuring George Michael and Andrew Ridgeley. This documentary finally shines a spotlight on Ridgeley, the lesser-known half of the duo, highlighting his contributions as a co-songwriter on all their hits. The film is a nostalgic trip back to the days of pegged jeans and puffy stickers, with that unforgettable “Careless Whisper” sax solo.
How to watch: WHAM! is now streaming on Netflix.
2. Homecoming
Beyoncé performs onstage at Coachella
Beyoncé’s “Homecoming” captures the magic of her 2018 Coachella performance, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the creation of her iconic set. Directed, written, and executive produced by Beyoncé herself, this electrifying film pays tribute to Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and features special appearances by Destiny’s Child, Jay-Z, and Solange.
How to watch: Homecoming is now streaming on Netflix.
3. Hate to Love: Nickelback
How did Nickelback go from hitmakers to punchline?
“Hate to Love: Nickelback” delves into the journey of the Canadian rock band, exploring how they became one of the most polarizing acts in music. Despite their success, selling over 50 million records, Nickelback became a meme, and this documentary seeks to understand why. The film is a fascinating look at the band’s career and the unexpected turns it took.
How to watch: Hate to Love: Nickelback is now streaming on Netflix.
4. Miss Americana
Taylor Swift’s journey in “Miss Americana”
“Miss Americana” offers a rare glimpse into Taylor Swift’s life, covering her songwriting process for the album “Lover,” her Reputation tour, and her personal battles, including the sexual assault lawsuit she won against David Mueller. Directed by Lana Wilson, this intimate portrait reveals Swift’s evolution from teen country singer to global superstar, and her decision to break her political silence.
How to watch: Miss Americana is now streaming on Netflix.
5. ReMastered: Tricky Dick and the Man in Black
Johnny Cash meets Richard Nixon
This documentary, co-directed by Sara Dosa and Barbara Kopple, revisits Johnny Cash’s 1970 White House performance for President Richard Nixon. It explores the unlikely meeting and the political and cultural tensions of the time. Cash’s complex persona and his sympathy for the downtrodden create a compelling narrative set against the backdrop of the Vietnam War.
How to watch: ReMastered: Tricky Dick and the Man in Black is now streaming on Netflix.
6. Rolling Thunder Revue: A Bob Dylan Story by Martin Scorsese
Bob Dylan’s 1975 tour with a twist
Martin Scorsese’s “Rolling Thunder Revue” blends real footage of Bob Dylan’s 1975 tour with fictional elements, leaving viewers to discern fact from fiction. The film includes performances, behind-the-scenes moments, and interviews with notable figures like Allen Ginsberg. This pseudo-documentary captures the spirit of Dylan’s ever-evolving persona.
How to watch: Rolling Thunder Revue is now streaming on Netflix.
7. Quincy
The life and legacy of Quincy Jones
“Quincy,” directed by Rashida Jones and Alan Hicks, celebrates the extraordinary career of Quincy Jones. With over 2,900 songs, 300 albums, and 79 Grammy nominations, Jones’s impact on music spans seven decades. The documentary features archival footage, personal interviews, and insights into Jones’s groundbreaking achievements as a Black musician and producer.
How to watch: Quincy is now streaming on Netflix.
8. I’ll Sleep When I’m Dead
The relentless life of Steve Aoki
“I’ll Sleep When I’m Dead” captures the high-energy life of EDM superstar Steve Aoki, who once played 300 shows in a year. Directed by Justin Krook, the film explores Aoki’s career, his relationship with his father, and his relentless drive. The documentary is a whirlwind of parties, performances, and cake-smashing moments.
How to watch: I’ll Sleep When I’m Dead is now streaming on Netflix.
9. Biggie: I Got a Story to Tell
The life of The Notorious B.I.G.
“Biggie: I Got a Story to Tell” offers an intimate look at the life of Christopher Wallace, aka The Notorious B.I.G. Directed by Emmett Malloy and made in collaboration with Biggie’s estate, the film features rare footage and interviews with family and friends. It explores Biggie’s musical influences, his rise to fame, and his lasting legacy.
How to watch: Biggie: I Got a Story to Tell is now streaming on Netflix.
10. Shania Twain: Not Just a Girl
Shania Twain’s remarkable career
“Shania Twain: Not Just a Girl” takes viewers on a journey through the career of the country/pop superstar. Filmed in her beautiful home by Lake Geneva, Switzerland, the documentary includes interviews with Twain about her influences and achievements. The film celebrates her success, including the best-selling studio album by a solo female artist, “Come On Over.”
How to watch: Shania Twain: Not Just a Girl is now streaming on Netflix.
11. What Happened, Miss Simone?
Nina Simone’s complex life
“What Happened, Miss Simone?” directed by Liz Garbus, explores the life of Nina Simone, a singer, classical pianist, and civil rights activist. The documentary delves into Simone’s public career and private struggles, including her battle with addiction and bipolar disorder. It paints a vivid picture of Simone’s impact on music and society.
How to watch: What Happened, Miss Simone? is now streaming on Netflix.
12. The Other One: The Long, Strange Trip of Bob Weir
Bob Weir’s journey with The Grateful Dead
“The Other One” focuses on Bob Weir, the rhythm guitarist of The Grateful Dead. Directed by Mike Fleiss, the documentary offers a glimpse into Weir’s life, his role in the band, and the memories from decades of touring. It captures the essence of The Grateful Dead’s enduring appeal and Weir’s unique contributions to the music scene.
How to watch: The Other One: The Long, Strange Trip of Bob Weir is now streaming on Netflix.
13. BLACKPINK: Light Up the Sky
Behind the scenes with BLACKPINK
“BLACKPINK: Light Up the Sky” provides an inside look at the lives of the K-pop group BLACKPINK. Directed by Caroline Suh, the documentary features behind-the-scenes footage, interviews, and reflections from the members Lisa, Jisoo, Jennie, and Rosé. It highlights their journey from trainees to global superstars, including their historic Coachella performance.
How to watch: BLACKPINK: Light Up the Sky is now streaming on Netflix.
14. Duran Duran: There’s Something You Should Know
The enduring legacy of Duran Duran
“Duran Duran: There’s Something You Should Know” revisits the career of the iconic ’80s band. Directed by Zoe Dobson, the documentary features interviews with band members and explores their rise to fame, memorable music videos, and continued influence. The film captures the band’s evolution and their lasting impact on music and pop culture.
How to watch: Duran Duran: There’s Something You Should Know is now streaming on Netflix.
15. Halftime
Jennifer Lopez’s career and Super Bowl performance
“Halftime” focuses on Jennifer Lopez’s preparations for her 2020 Super Bowl halftime show with Shakira. Directed by Amanda Micheli, the documentary also covers Lopez’s career milestones, from her early days as a dancer to her roles in “Selena” and “Hustlers.” The film highlights her resilience in the face of industry challenges and her commitment to making powerful statements through her performances.
How to watch: Halftime is now streaming on Netflix.
16. Clive Davis: The Soundtrack of Our Lives
The legendary career of Clive Davis
“Clive Davis: The Soundtrack of Our Lives” chronicles the career of the influential music producer who discovered and nurtured talents like Janis Joplin, Bruce Springsteen, and Whitney Houston. Directed by Chris Perkel, the documentary showcases Davis’s golden ear for talent and his significant contributions to the music industry over the decades.
How to watch: Clive Davis: The Soundtrack of Our Lives is now streaming on Netflix.
17. Lewis Capaldi: How I’m Feeling Now
Lewis Capaldi’s rise to fame
“Lewis Capaldi: How I’m Feeling Now” offers an intimate look at the Scottish singer-songwriter’s journey to stardom. The documentary captures his struggles with mental health, the pressure of his newfound fame, and the creation of his debut album. It provides a candid and heartfelt portrait of Capaldi’s rise in the music industry.
How to watch: Lewis Capaldi: How I’m Feeling Now is now streaming on Netflix.
18. Under the Volcano
The story of AIR Studios Montserrat
“Under the Volcano” tells the story of AIR Studios Montserrat, a recording studio on a small Caribbean island that hosted some of the biggest names in music during the ’80s. Directed by Gracie Otto, the film features interviews with artists like Sting and Mark Knopfler, exploring the studio’s influence and the legendary albums recorded there.
How to watch: Under the Volcano is now streaming on Netflix.
19. FYRE: The Greatest Party That Never Happened
The infamous Fyre Festival debacle
“FYRE: The Greatest Party That Never Happened” recounts the disastrous Fyre Festival, a supposed luxury music festival in the Bahamas that turned into a chaotic nightmare. Directed by Chris Smith, the documentary exposes the fraud and mismanagement by organizers, including Billy McFarland and Ja Rule, through firsthand accounts and shocking footage.
How to watch: FYRE: The Greatest Party That Never Happened is now streaming on Netflix.
20. The Two Killings of Sam Cooke
The life and mysterious death of Sam Cooke
“The Two Killings of Sam Cooke,” part of the ReMastered series, explores the life and controversial death of the soul legend. Directed by Kelly Duane de la Vega, the documentary delves into Cooke’s music career, his role in the civil rights movement, and the unresolved questions surrounding his untimely death in 1964.
How to watch: The Two Killings of Sam Cooke is now streaming on Netflix.
21. Katy Perry: Part of Me
The rise of Katy Perry
“Katy Perry: Part of Me” follows the pop star on her California Dreams tour, offering a behind-the-scenes look at her performances and personal life. The documentary captures Perry’s journey from gospel singer to global pop sensation, highlighting her resilience and determination amid personal and professional challenges.
How to watch: Katy Perry: Part of Me is now streaming on Netflix.
22. Keith Richards: Under the Influence
Keith Richards’ musical journey
“Keith Richards: Under the Influence” offers an in-depth look at the Rolling Stones guitarist’s musical influences and creative process. Directed by Morgan Neville, the documentary features interviews and footage of Richards as he works on his solo album “Crosseyed Heart.” It explores his love for blues, country, and rock ‘n’ roll.
How to watch: Keith Richards: Under the Influence is now streaming on Netflix.
23. Lady Gaga: Five Foot Two
A personal look at Lady Gaga
“Lady Gaga: Five Foot Two” provides an intimate portrait of the pop icon as she prepares for the release of her album “Joanne” and her Super Bowl halftime show performance. Directed by Chris Moukarbel, the documentary explores Gaga’s struggles with chronic pain, her creative process, and her efforts to balance fame and personal life.
How to watch: Lady Gaga: Five Foot Two is now streaming on Netflix.
24. The Defiant Ones
The partnership of Dr. Dre and Jimmy Iovine
“The Defiant Ones” chronicles the careers of Dr. Dre and Jimmy Iovine, from their humble beginnings to their billion-dollar deal with Apple for Beats by Dre. Directed by Allen Hughes, the documentary features interviews with artists like Eminem, Snoop Dogg, and Bruce Springsteen, highlighting the duo’s influence on the music industry.
How to watch: The Defiant Ones is now streaming on Netflix.
25. This Is Pop
The evolution of pop music
“This Is Pop” is a docuseries that explores the history and impact of pop music through various lenses, from the Brill Building in the ’60s to the rise of boy bands and country-pop crossovers. Each episode focuses on a different aspect of pop music, featuring interviews with artists, producers, and industry insiders.
How to watch: This Is Pop is now streaming on Netflix.
Each of these documentaries offers a unique perspective on the world of music, providing a deeper appreciation for the artists and the stories behind their work. Whether you’re a fan of pop, rock, hip-hop, or classical music, there’s something for everyone on Netflix. So grab your popcorn, sit back, and enjoy the show.
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