Music Biopics: The 6 Best Biopics Fans Must Watch
Music biopics are best way to learn everything we didn’t know about some of our favorites. If you’re a music lover with an appreciation for the stories behind the legends we know, love, and for some, we dearly miss, then these films are just right for you . These top six biopics are worth scheduling an hour or two of your time to allow these stories to take you on a journey through the lives of some of the most iconic musicians who have left an indelible mark on the world and shaped the soundtrack of our lives.
Music Biopics of Those We Lost
Michael Jackson biopic “Michael”
Scheduled for an October 2025 release, “Michael” is set to captivate audiences with an intimate look at the life of Michael Jackson, the legendary King of Pop. Directed by Antoine Fuqua and starring Jaafar Jackson, Michael’s nephew, this film promises to be a heartfelt tribute. The delay in its release, originally slated for Easter, is believed to be a strategic move to align with awards season. Colman Domingo joins the cast as John Branca, Michael’s manager and co-executor of his estate. Branca was instrumental in the production of “Michael” and past Jackson documentaries like “Michael Jackson’s This Is It” and Spike Lee’s “Bad 25.”
This biopic not only honors Michael’s groundbreaking contributions to music but also offers a glimpse into the complex world he navigated. “Michael” is slated to release next year on October 3.
Whitney Houston: The Concert for a New South Africa
This upcoming release on November 8, 2024, is a must-see for fans of Whitney Houston. The concert film and live album capture her iconic 1994 performance in Durban, South Africa, which marked a historic moment as she became the first major Western musician to visit the country post-apartheid.
The footage has been digitally remastered in 4K with enhanced audio, ensuring that audiences experience the magic of Whitney’s performance like never before. This release not only celebrates her extraordinary talent but also pays homage to her role in supporting a newly liberated South Africa.
The live album releases Friday, November 8, and features performances of “Find Your Strength in Love,” which the New Jersey queen sings “near the end” of the album, as reported by AP News.
Luther Vandross Documentary
Directed by Dawn Porter, the Luther Vandross documentary offers a fresh perspective on the life of the beloved singer who passed away in 2005. Released at the 2024 Sundance Film Festival, this film presents interviews with close friends and collaborators like David Bowie and Roberta Flack. It explores Luther’s childhood, his evolution from a background singer to a music icon, and his private nature regarding his sexuality. This documentary provides a deeper understanding of the man behind the velvety voice and his remarkable journey.
Music Biopics: The Band(s)
Earth, Wind & Fire Documentary
Though still in development, the Earth, Wind & Fire documentary is already generating excitement.
Slated for a 2025 release, this film will delve into the legacy and cultural impact of the band known for their fusion of pop, soul, and funk. With original members Philip Bailey, Verdine White, and Ralph Johnson participating, and the support of the late Maurice White‘s estate, this documentary promises to be a comprehensive exploration of the group’s enduring influence.
White was the band’s founder. He was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in the ’90s. He died at the age of 74 in 2016. We have the talented Questlove to thank for this film and other music biopics on the way.
Produced in association with Sony Music Vision, the film is helmed by Ahmir “Questlove” Thompson, whose previous work, “Summer of Soul,” received critical acclaim and is next on our list.
“Summer of Soul”
While not new, “Summer of Soul” is an essential watch for any music enthusiast. Directed by Questlove, this documentary revisits the 1969 Harlem Cultural Festival, also known as “the Black Woodstock.” Released in 2021, it won an Academy Award and is available on Hulu. The film features performances by legends such as Stevie Wonder, Nina Simone, and Sly and the Family Stone.
It captures a pivotal moment in Black music history, celebrating the vibrant community and the powerful performances that resonated deeply during a time of social change. According to reports, Queestlove is working on more music biopics and is in the process finalizing the the story of Sly and the Family Stone.
Music Biopics Produced by Flava Unit
Queen Latifah Biopic
Queen Latifah, whose real name is Dana Owens, will soon have her life story told in a biopic produced by her own company, Flava Unit. In collaboration with Jesse Collins Entertainment and Westbrook Studios, this project promises to be an inspiring depiction of her journey. Known for her triumphs in music, television, and film, as well as her activism, Queen Latifah’s story will highlight her resilience and impact. The biopic aims to educate and inspire, showcasing her extensive career and the barriers she has broken in the entertainment industry.
According to Variety, Flava Unit is slated to produce even more hip hop biopics with the story of the queen as the first.
These music biopics promise to be more than just films; they are celebrations of the artists who have touched our lives through their music. Each story offers a unique perspective, whether it’s exploring the challenges they faced or celebrating their triumphs. So grab some popcorn, maybe even a microphone to sing along to the music, and prepare to be inspired by the incredible legacies of these musical legends.
