The Last Waltz

A new concept for general release in cinemas. A visionary director and recorded in stereo sound in the early days of FM broadcasting in the UK. The film aired on TV and BBC Radio Two simultaneously allowing for stereophonic sound.

l can remember setting my alarm clock for 2 O Clock in the morning to get up and set the Stereo Video and radio station to be able to record and mix onto video tape the concert film. Terrestrial TV was not broadcasting at that time in Stereo. Obviously the concert later was easily available in all formats but in the 80s “simulticasts” as they were called was then cutting edge technology in the UK.

The "Decline of Western Civilization," "20 Feet from Stardom," and "Heartworn Highway" are particularly good mentions.  I would add the following:

"Festival Express" (train tour across Canada by The Band, Grateful Dead and The Flying Burrito Bros.)

"American Hardcore" (about the early Hardcore music scene)

"This is Spinal Tap" (the best fake documentary on any subject)

We really enjoyed this:

Road Diary: Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band  (2024)

Tom Petty: Heartbreakers Beach Party.  Paramount +.  Played on MTV one time in the early 80s.  Just updated and released.  The story of the band doing the album Long After Dark. RIP TP. 

Lots of good picks so far. If I had to only recommend one music related documentary, it would probably be "Muscle Shoals."

Here's a few that have not been mentioned yet: 

BADFINGER - Director's Cut

BECOMING LED ZEPPELIN - If you can see (and hear) this in an IMAX theater, it is well worth the time and effort.

HUNG UP ON A DREAM (The Zombies)

IMMEDIATE FAMILY - Directed by Damon Tedesco ("The Wrecking Crew") about the careers of studio musicians: Danny Kortchmar - Russ Kunkel - Lee Sklar & Waddy Wachtel.

SEARCHING FOR SUGARMAN (Rodriguez)