The Music Industry Films Worth Watching
The music industry is one of the most dynamic and exciting industries in the world. It is an industry that constantly evolves and changes, and one that has a profound impact on our culture and society. One of the best ways to gain a deeper understanding of the music industry is to watch films that explore its history, culture, and inner workings. In this article, we will take a look at the top 10 must-watch music industry films.
1. The Blues Brothers (1980)
Directed by John Landis, The Blues Brothers is a classic comedy that features some of the greatest musicians of all time, including James Brown, Aretha Franklin, and Ray Charles. The film follows two brothers, Jake, and Elwood Blues, as they try to save their childhood orphanage by putting on a benefit concert.
2. Almost Famous (2000)
Directed by Cameron Crowe, Almost Famous is a coming-of-age story set in the 1970s about a young journalist who goes on tour with a rock band. The film is loosely based on Crowe’s own experiences as a teenage writer for Rolling Stone magazine.
3. Straight Outta Compton (2015)
Directed by F. Gary Gray, Straight Outta Compton tells the story of the rise of the hip-hop group N.W.A. The film explores the group’s impact on the music industry and its role in bringing attention to issues such as police brutality and racial inequality.
4. Ray (2004)
Directed by Taylor Hackford, Ray is a biopic about the life of Ray Charles. The film explores Charles’ early life, his rise to fame, and his struggles with drug addiction and personal relationships. Jamie Foxx won an Academy Award for his portrayal of Charles.
5. 8 Mile (2002)
Directed by Curtis Hanson, 8 Mile is a drama that follows the life of a young rapper from Detroit named Jimmy Smith Jr. (played by Eminem). The film explores the challenges that Jimmy faces as he tries to make a name for himself in the music industry.
6. La Bamba (1987)
Directed by Luis Valdez, La Bamba is a biopic about the life of rock and roll musician Ritchie Valens. The film explores Valens’ rise to fame and his tragic death at the age of 17 in a plane crash.
7. Walk the Line (2005)
Directed by James Mangold, Walk the Line is a biopic about the life of the country music legend Johnny Cash. The film explores Cash’s early life, his rise to fame, and his relationship with June Carter.
8. Purple Rain (1984)
Directed by Albert Magnoli, Purple Rain is a musical drama that stars Prince as a talented musician named The Kid. The film explores The Kid’s relationship with his bandmates, his romantic interest, and his abusive father.
9. The Runaways (2010)
Directed by Floria Sigismondi, The Runaways is a biopic about the all-girl rock band of the same name. The film explores the band’s rise to fame and their struggles with drug addiction, personal relationships, and the music industry.
10. This Is Spinal Tap (1984)
Directed by Rob Reiner, This Is Spinal Tap is a mockumentary that follows the fictional heavy metal band Spinal Tap on their tour of the United States. The film is a satire of the music industry and the excesses of rock and roll culture.
Key Takeaways:
- Watching films about the music industry can provide a deeper understanding of the industry’s history, culture, and inner workings.
- The top 10 must-watch music industry films include The Blues Brothers, Almost Famous, Straight Outta Compton, Ray, 8 Mile, La Bamba, Walk the Line, Purple Rain, The Runaways, and This Is Spinal Tap.
- To further your education and career in the music industry, consider taking the NYU x Billboard | Music Industry Essentials online course and certificate program offered by Yellowbrick.
