Cindy Trillo gives us a slick list of some of the best music documentaries made in the past few years.

The release of the Freddie Mercury biopic Bohemian Rhapsody has ignited passion from music lovers all over the world. We were starstruck, not only by the incredible songs and Queen’s rise to fame, but also by the joy and tragedy of their personal lives.

Music appeals to us on so many levels, both spiritual and emotional. It’s no wonder that the musicians behind the soundtrack to our lives fascinates us on such a deep level. Here are three remarkable music documentaries to inspire you.

Beware of Mr. Baker 

Beware of Mr Baker, produced by Erik H. Gordon, is a thought-provoking documentary featuring interviews from the legendary drummer Ginger Baker, of Cream and Blind Faith fame. What is most interesting is how his life has panned out in comparison to Eric Clapton. Baker, once adored by millions of fans worldwide, has certainly had some ups and downs throughout his life. There are patterns of self destruction leading to financial ruin. Scenes of his current life on a compound in South Africa are also completely captivating. 

Amy

Some of the brightest stars shine so briefly. Amy, directed by Asif Kapadia is a documentary following British singer and songwriter Amy Winehouse. This legend was tipped to a pop and jazz superstar. She was dead by the age of 27 from alcohol intoxication. The movie is the highest grossing of all  British music documentaries, taking in an incredible £3 million in its first weekend alone. It has won 30 major awards to date. Even at her darkest times, Amy’s personality lights up the screen—it’s a deep shame that she is no longer making music. 

Searching for Sugarman

This inspirational documentary follows two South Africans from Cape Town who are on a mission to find out what happened to one of their favorite musical heroes, Rodriguez. This mysterious rock star from the 1970s, was rumoured to have died. The movie became a cultural phenomenon in South Africa—it holds a 94% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. It also won an Oscar for Best Documentary at the 85th Academy Awards ceremony. The soundtrack, which contains many original songs by Rodriguez, has become a worldwide success, even as far as Sweden and Denmark. Searching for Sugarman is a music documentary that shows how music can inspire a life-changing journey.

The lives of so many musicians are often fascinating. We want to know the stories behind the songs we love so much. These are music documentaries that will truly stand the test of time.

–by Cindy Trillo