Music documentaries bring groove to 2021
In a year where music and the joys it can bring were needed more than ever, these music documentaries knocked it out of the park.
In “Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road,” Rolling Stone editor Jason Fine brings audiences along for the ride of a lifetime. Wilson, who reached international stardom in The Beach Boys, recollects decades of music, hope, tragedy, and love. The documentary includes interviews with Bruce Springsteen and Elton John, among others, plus a new song titled “Right Where I Belong.” Watching Wilson navigate memories from his career, plus make new ones with Fine, is truly one of the most exquisite music experiences this year.
Alanis Morrissette shines in “Music Box: Jagged.” However, Morrissette has revealed that because she and director Alison Klayman had different visions for the film, she cannot support the finished version. The best ways to support Morrissette, instead, are by visiting her official website and store, purchasing her albums, or going to see her live. Though the documentary failed to meet the mark, Morrissette’s music carried many through 2021, and she is deserving of a spot on the list.
“The Beatles: Get Back” explores the writing and recording of “Let It Be,” the band’s second to last studio album. Arguably the most immersive documentary of the year, the way Peter Jackson approaches editing is brilliant, and strengthens the power of the footage he had to work with. Of all the music documentaries 2021 had to offer, Jackson delivered one of the very best.
Though 2021 saw the emergence of live music, it was clear that the music industry as a whole had to change to accommodate something as huge as a pandemic. As increasingly worrying variants made their way across the world, these documentaries kept audiences positive, and helped thousands of people discover a new favorite song, album, or artist.
