One of our longest-running traditions on the Vintage King blog is that when the calendar nears the end of the year, we compile a list of new music documentaries to watch over the holidays. This year's list marks the 11th edition of our annual roundup, dating all the way back to 2014! Check out our previous lists here.

2024 was an incredible year for music documentaries, especially for those of us who love the magic of the recording studio. This year’s list takes us through epic one-night sessions with superstars, deep dives into legendary studios, and intimate stories of music legends. From classic moments to emotional tales of overcoming adversity, these documentaries offer an inside look at the artistry and struggles that define the songs and albums we love.

Music Documentaries To Watch Over The Holidays

Electric Lady Studios: A Jimi Hendrix Vision

Electric Lady Studios: A Jimi Hendrix Vision is a documentary that delves into the creation and legacy of one of the most iconic recording studios in music history. Founded by Jimi Hendrix in 1970, Electric Lady Studios in New York City was not just a place to record music; it was a bold expression of Hendrix's artistic vision. The documentary explores how the studio was designed to meet Hendrix's unique sonic needs, blending cutting-edge technology with a creative atmosphere that reflected his innovative approach to music. If you're looking for a doc with lots of shots of gear, this is the place to start.

Check out our recent interview with Electric Lady studio designer John Storyk here.

 

Yacht Rock: A Documentary

There’s a reason Steely Dan’s Aja and Toto’s IV are still used to test monitors decades later. The meticulously crafted, exquisitely recorded hits that define yacht rock are so enduring and sonically flawless that they remain virtually impervious to the passage of time. Yacht Rock: A Documentary traces the lineage of the genre, highlighting how its key players formed around the world of the Dan (though don’t ask Donald Fagen about the genre), creating an intricate web of bands that stamped their mark on smooth and easy sounds. Plus, you get bonus points if you had "Christopher Cross discusses selling weed to finance his early demos" on your 2024 bingo card.

 

The Greatest Night in Pop

How did Quincy Jones wrangle all of those music legends in one night? The Greatest Night in Pop answers that question, offering behind-the-scenes footage and anecdotes. The documentary takes viewers through the unforgettable recording session, during which Jones brought together an astonishing lineup that included everyone from Stevie Wonder and Lionel Richie to Tina Turner and Bob Dylan. It explores the meticulous planning and incredible chemistry that made the night possible, highlighting how Jones’ vision and charisma united these musical titans for a truly historic event.

 

ABBA: Against All Odds

Just as yacht rock has rightfully been reclaimed, so has ABBA. ABBA: Against All Odds offers a fresh look at the Swedish pop icons, delving into their rise to global superstardom and their enduring legacy. The documentary captures the band's infectious energy, spotlighting their creative process, cultural impact, and the unique blend of artistry and commercial success that made them a force in pop music. It also examines their fascinating personal dynamics, revealing how their relationships both fueled and shaped their iconic sound.

 

Elton John: Never Too Late

Elton John: Never Too Late follows the legendary artist as he reflects on his remarkable 50-year career in an emotionally charged, intimate, and uplifting full-circle journey. As he prepares for his final concert in North America at Dodger Stadium, Elton looks back on the extraordinary highs and heartbreaking lows of his early years. The documentary offers a candid exploration of his struggles with adversity and addiction, showing how he overcame these challenges to become the cultural icon he is today. With personal insights and powerful storytelling, Never Too Late paints a portrait of resilience, reinvention, and the enduring power of music.

 

Road Diary: Bruce Springsteen and The E Street Band

Is it just us, or does listening to Bruce Springsteen talk feel like having a conversation with your dad—in the best way possible? Bruce's Road Diary documentary offers a behind-the-scenes look at The E Street Band preparing for their latest tour, but it's the personal moments from the band's history that truly shine, often bringing both laughter and tears. Their stories of the glory days (heh) in the band's motorhome and heartfelt tributes to fallen members are nothing short of fantastic, offering a deeper, more emotional connection to the music and the bond they share.

 

The Beach Boys

There’s so much Beach Boys history to explore that it’s tough to capture it all in one documentary, but this Disney+ feature centers on their sun-drenched early years. From their rise as California’s hottest export to the groundbreaking creation of Pet Sounds, it tells the classic story of a family band becoming pop purveyors in the highest form. While many of these stories have been told before, any footage of Brian Wilson in the studio offers a rare glimpse into the mind behind their iconic sound.

 

Beatles '64

The incredible Get Back documentary from a few years ago gave us the story of The Beatles breaking up, but Beatles '64 takes us back to one of the band's most successful years. This film documents the cultural impact of the Beatles on the United States following their historic first visit in February of 1964, when they appeared on The Ed Sullivan Show for the first time. Through archival footage from the Beatlemania era, it explores the frenzy surrounding their arrival and the transformative effect they had on American pop culture.

 

Stax: Soulsville U.S.A.

Stax: Soulsville USA is a captivating TV documentary series that dives deep into the history of Stax Records, the legendary label that defined the sound of Southern soul. The series chronicles the rise of Stax in Memphis, showcasing its impact on music and culture, from the groundbreaking hits of artists like Otis Redding, Booker T. & the MG’s, and Isaac Hayes to its role in the civil rights movement. Through rare footage, interviews, and archival material, Soulsville U.S.A. paints a vivid picture of the label's unique blend of musical innovation and social consciousness. Stax was truly where the soul of Memphis met the soul of the world.

See a piece of gear in one of these docs that you need to have? Please contact a Vintage King Audio Consultant via email or by phone at 866.644.0160 for more information.