9/10 - Prepare your roof because it's gonna get blown off.
I couldn't wait to watch this documentary exploring the backup singers and music culture that happens behind the curtain. I love music docs, whether it's home movies of what a band filmed while on tour, or the ongoing history of a person, place, genre, etc. 20 Feet From Stardom illuminated a history of the industry I had never heard of before.
This doc follows the lives of some of the greatest singers you've never heard of. These black women revolutionized the music industry and never stopped trying to live their dream, making music for a living. Some of these women experienced the soul crushing heartbreak of having their voice used for a track that had massive success being marketed by a different singer. This isn't the feel-good movie you're hoping it to be, it lays down the disappointing reality that often even when these extraordinary talents get the opportunity to feature their voice, not everyone will be selected for the fame machine.
Some of the stunning women featured in this movie include Merry Clayton, who recounts some of the most memorable stories of her work as a featured or background singer. She manages to professionally walk the line of being the biggest diva in the room with her voice. Darlene Love proved herself to be a musical pioneer, with a powerful story of struggle to fight for that which she was passionate for. The beautiful and level headed Lisa Fisher will knock you out with the sounds she creates. As well as the young Judith Hill is bursting with talent as seen from both Michael Jackson This Is It, and Season 4 of The Voice. Its an incredible cast of brilliant women, who frequently outshine guest appearances by Sting and Mick Jagger.
The movie chronicles the ups and downs these women have felt in the industry, from the stereotypical start as the daughters of preachers across the board, to launching the success of others, and finding the passion for their job being able to stay on stage even if they are not the headlining act. It's debatable whether everyone wants to be a solo artists with their own success because the incredible longevity in their careers has proven them to remain sharp, and level headed individuals with well tuned instruments. The craving they express, though is for recognition. The painful retelling of Darlene Love recording 'He's a Rebel' only to have it race up the charts with The Crystals lip syncing is devastating.
This documentary touches on so many great moments, being about the struggles of women of color, and the hardships in pursuing your dream. Like Searching for Sugar Man, there is something really intrinsic about the unstoppable passion some people have. It's both inspiring and fragile. As a woman, and as a music lover, I'm so thankful I was able to experience the stories shared by this film.
20 Feet from Stardom won the 2013 Academy Award for Best Documentary.
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