16 Best Country Music Documentaries
Country music is a genre that is deeply rooted in American culture, and has been a staple of the entertainment industry for decades. From the early pioneers of the genre, to the modern-day superstars, modern country music has a rich history that is worth exploring. And what better way to do that than through the lens of a country music documentary streaming?
In this blog, we’ll be taking a look at a list of music documentaries that have been released over the years. These 16 country music movies cover a wide range of topics, from the rise of some of the genre’s biggest country western singers, to the struggles faced by country music’s earliest trailblazers. So, without further ado, let’s dive in!
1. The Life and Times of Hank Williams (1986)
Hank Williams is widely regarded as one of the greatest country music artists of all time, and this documentary about country music takes a deep dive into his life and career. It is a biopic film released in 1986 that tells the story of the legendary country singer-songwriter, Hank Williams. The film is a gripping portrayal of the life and career of one of the most influential musicians in the history of country music. Starring Richard Thomas as Hank Williams, the film covers the rise and fall of the singer, who died at the age of 29 due to alcoholism and drug abuse.
The film is a moving tribute to Williams' legacy, showcasing his iconic country songs, including classics such as "Your Cheatin' Heart," "I'm So Lonesome I Could Cry," and "Hey Good Lookin'." It also delves into the personal life of the singer, including his tumultuous relationship with his wife, Audrey, and his struggles with addiction. The film captures the essence of Hank Williams and his impact on music in a way that is both poignant and entertaining.
The Life and Times of Hank Williams on IMDb
2. Willie Nelson: Still is Still Moving (2012)
It is a documentary film released in 2012 that chronicles the life and career of the legendary country musician Willie Nelson. Directed by Steven Cantor, the film offers a fascinating look into the world of one of the most influential and enduring musicians in American history.
Willie Nelson is one of the country music legendary artists who has left an indelible mark on the genre. This music documentary explores his life and career, from his humble beginnings in Texas to his status as one of the most beloved artists in music history. It also delves into Nelson's personal life, including his struggles with addiction, his relationship with his family, and his activism on behalf of farmers and the environment.
Throughout this best documentary feature, Nelson's warmth, humor, and authenticity shine through, making it clear why he remains such a beloved figure in the world of music. The film features interviews with Nelson himself, as well as other famous musicians who his work has inspired.
3. Johnny Cash: The Man, His World, His Music (1969)
"Johnny Cash: The Man, His World, His Music" is an authorized documentary released in 1969 that offers an intimate look into the life and career of the legendary country singer-songwriter, Johnny Cash. Directed by Robert Elfstrom, the documentary combines archival footage, interviews with friends and colleagues, and performances from the Grand Ole Opry to create a compelling portrait of Cash and his music.
Overall, "Johnny Cash: The Man, His World, His Music" is an essential watch for fans of country music and those interested in the life of one of its most influential figures. The documentary captures Cash's unique voice and spirit, showcasing the man behind the music, some of his best country songs and the impact he had on the genre.
👉 Watch Johnny Cash: The Man, His World, His Music on Amazon Prime
👉 Buy Johnny Cash: The Man, His World, His Music as DVD on Amazon
4. Chet Atkins: A Life in Music (2000)
"Chet Atkins: A Life in Music" is a documentary film released in 2000 that celebrates the life and career of one of the most influential guitarists and record producers in the history of country music, Chet Atkins. The film features interviews with friends, family members, and fellow musicians, including Dolly Parton and record executive Chet Atkins himself.
Through a combination of archival footage and personal stories, "Chet Atkins: A Life in Music" explores Atkins' rise to fame, from his early days playing guitar on the radio to his success as a solo artist and his work behind the scenes as a record producer. The film also delves into Atkins' unique style of guitar playing, which combined elements of country, jazz, and pop music to create a sound that was all his own.
👉 Buy Chet Atkins: A Life in Music as DVD on Amazon
5. Merle Haggard: Learning to Live With Myself (2010)
"Merle Haggard: Learning to Live With Myself" is a 2010 documentary film that chronicles the life and career of the iconic country musician, Merle Haggard. The film offers a deeply personal look into Haggard's life, exploring his troubled childhood, his time in prison, and his rise to fame as one of the most influential figures in country music.
Through interviews with Haggard and his family members, as well as archival footage and live performances, "Learning to Live With Myself" offers a fascinating insight into the mind of a true American icon. The film captures Haggard's unique voice and spirit, showcasing the man behind the music and his enduring legacy in the world of country music.
Merle Haggard: Learning to Live With Myself on IMDb
6. Country Music: A Film by Ken Burns (2019)
"Country Music: A Film by Ken Burns" is a 2019 documentary series exploring country music’s history in America. Spanning eight episodes, Ken Burns country music streaming Netflix film takes viewers on a journey through the roots of country music, from its origins in the rural south to its rise to popularity in the mainstream.
Featuring interviews with country music legends such as Dolly Parton, Loretta Lynn, and Willie Nelson, as well as historians and experts in the genre, the series provides a comprehensive look at the impact and influence of country music on American culture.
With stunning archival footage and a compelling narrative, it is a powerful tribute to the enduring legacy of country music and its role in shaping the country we know today.
👉 Watch Country Music: A Film by Ken Burns on Amazon Prime
👉 Buy Country Music: A Film by Ken Burns as DVD on Amazon
7. Loretta Lynn: Still a Mountain Girl (2016)
"Loretta Lynn: Still a Mountain Girl" is a 2016 documentary film that tells the incredible story of one of country music's most iconic and trailblazing artists. Through rare footage, personal interviews, and Lynn's own candid reflections, viewers are taken on a journey through her life and career.
From her humble beginnings in Kentucky to becoming a music legend and feminist icon, Loretta Lynn's story is one of perseverance, resilience, and authenticity. This film explores her struggles and triumphs, including her marriage at just 13 years old, her rise to fame in the male-dominated music industry, and her role as a voice for working-class women. It is a must-watch for anyone who appreciates great music, powerful storytelling, and the indomitable human spirit.
👉 Watch Loretta Lynn: Still a Mountain Girl on Amazon Prime
👉 Buy Loretta Lynn: Still a Mountain Girl as DVD on Amazon
8. George Strait: The Cowboy Rides Away (2014)
"George Strait: The Cowboy Rides Away" is a 2014 concert film that captures the magic of a historic moment in country music. The film documents Strait's final concert, which took place in Arlington, Texas, in front of a record-breaking crowd of over 100,000 fans.
George Strait is one of the most successful country music artists of all time, and this documentary follows him as he embarks on his farewell tour before retiring from live performances. The film features live concert footage, interviews with Strait and his family, and a look back at his storied career. For fans of The King of Country, this documentary is a must-watch.
Featuring over two hours of incredible performances from Strait and special guests such as Miranda Lambert, Alan Jackson, and Jason Aldean, this film is a must-watch for any country music fan. The concert also includes heartfelt speeches from Strait as he reflects on his career and expresses his gratitude to his fans.
👉 Watch George Strait: The Cowboy Rides Away on Amazon Prime
9. American Masters: Patsy Cline (2003)
"American Masters: Patsy Cline" is a 2003 documentary film that tells the story of one of the most influential and beloved country music artists of all time. Through rare footage, personal interviews, and Cline's own music, viewers are taken on a journey through her life and career.
Patsy Cline was one of the most talented and beloved country music artists of the 20th century, and this documentary explores her life and legacy. Through interviews with family members, friends, and fellow musicians, the film provides a glimpse into the woman behind the music. Live performances and rare archival footage showcase Cline’s unparalleled talent and charisma.
From her early days in Virginia to her rise to fame as a trailblazing female artist, Patsy Cline's story is one of passion, determination, and raw talent. The film also delves into the personal struggles that plagued her throughout her life and ultimately led to her untimely death at the age of 30.
American Masters: Patsy Cline on IMDb
10. The Highwomen (2020)
"The Highwomen" is a supergroup comprising some of the most talented women in country music, including Brandi Carlile, Natalie Hemby, Maren Morris, and Amanda Shires. This documentary follows one of the best country bands of all time as they record their debut album, which pays homage to the women who have paved the way in country music. The film also features interviews with other women in the genre who discuss the challenges and triumphs of being a woman in country music.
With powerful vocals, poignant lyrics, and a fresh perspective on the country music tradition with their female country vocal performances, "The Highwomen" have quickly become a force to be reckoned with in the industry. Their self-titled debut album collaborates with artists such as Sheryl Crow and Yola and has been praised for blending classic country sounds with modern sensibilities.
11. Glen Campbell: I'll Be Me (2014)
"Glen Campbell: I'll Be Me" is a 2014 documentary film that showcases the final tour of country music legend Glen Campbell. Campbell was not only an accomplished musician, but also an actor and television host, making him a true renaissance man of the entertainment industry.
In this film, we see the personal and professional struggles of a man who has been diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease. Campbell's fight against the debilitating illness is an inspiration to all who watch, and his determination to continue performing is a testament to his spirit and talent. It's a must-watch for anyone who loves great art thou and country music. The film shows the impact of Alzheimer's disease on one of the most beloved figures in music history and serves as a reminder of the enduring power of great music.
👉 Watch Glen Campbell: I'll Be Me on Amazon Prime
👉 Buy Glen Campbell: I'll Be Me as DVD on Amazon
12. Country: Portraits of an American Sound (2015)
"Country: Portraits of an American Sound" is a 2015 documentary film that explores the history and cultural impact of country music in the United States. Directed by Steven Kochones, the film features interviews with some of the most iconic country music artists. Through interviews with musicians, historians, and fans, the film provides a comprehensive look at the genre’s enduring appeal. Rare archival footage and live performances showcase the evolution of country music over the years.
The documentary takes viewers on a journey through the evolution of country music, from its early roots in Appalachia to its emergence as a mainstream genre in the 20th century. Through archival footage and intimate interviews with legendary musicians, "Country" offers a fascinating glimpse into the unique sound and spirit of this quintessentially American genre.
👉 Watch Country: Portraits of an American Sound on Amazon Prime
👉 Buy Country: Portraits of an American Sound as DVD on Amazon
13. Without Getting Killed or Caught (2021)
This is a fascinating film that delves into the life of Guy Clark, a legendary songwriter who is known for penning hits such as "L.A. Freeway," "Desperados Waiting for a Train," and "Dublin Blues."
The film is based on Tamara Saviano's book of the same name and takes us into the ins and outs of Guy's life, showcasing his musical abilities and the personal struggles he faced. The film was directed by Tamara Saviano and Paul Whitfield and features interviews with his family members and friends.
Without Getting Killed or Caught on IMDb
14. Dear Rodeo: The Cody Johnson Story (2021)
Cody Johnson is a rising star in the country music industry, and this documentary chronicles his journey from rodeo cowboy to country music hitmaker. The film features candid interviews with Cody Johnson himself, his family, and other industry professionals, giving us an inside look into his life and the making of his music.
This Cody Johnson movie is a story of perseverance, following Cody Johnson's journey as he overcomes all obstacles to make his dreams come true.
👉 Watch Dear Rodeo: The Cody Johnson Story on Amazon Prime
15. Jason Aldean: Night Train to Georgia (2013)
Jason Aldean is a country music superstar, and this film gives us a glimpse into the making of his fourth studio album, "Night Train."
The documentary follows the making of the album as he travels from Nashville to Georgia with his band members, showcasing the ins and outs of the recording process. The film features interviews with Jason Aldean and his band members, giving us a behind-the-scenes look into the making of one of the best albums of his career.
👉 Watch Jason Aldean: Night Train to Georgia on Amazon Prime
👉 Buy Jason Aldean: Night Train to Georgia as DVD on Amazon
16. Garth Brooks: The Road I’m On (2019)
Garth Brooks is one of the most successful country music artists of all time, and this documentary delves into his life, his career, and the making of his iconic music. The film features interviews with Garth Brooks himself, his family members, and industry professionals, giving us an intimate look into his life and his journey to fame.
The documentary also showcases his road to retirement, chronicling his farewell tour and the legacy he built.
👉 Buy Garth Brooks: The Road I'm On as DVD on Amazon
Conclusion
These are just some of the best country music documentaries out there waiting for you to watch. Whether you're a diehard fan of Garth Brooks or Cody Johnson, or just looking to explore the history of the genre, these documentaries are sure to be a treat. So, grab a pair of cowboy boots, hit the couch, and get ready for a journey into the world of country comfort and country music.
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