The Best Jazz Music Documentaries You Need to See

Looking for some great jazz music documentaries to watch? Look no further than this list of the best ones out there. From documentaries about the history of jazz to ones that focus on specific artists, there’s something for everyone here.

Introduction

The best jazz music documentaries offer a chance to explore the lives and work of some of the genre’s most important figures. From early pioneers like Louis Armstrong to more contemporary artists like Wynton Marsalis, these films offer a fascinating look at the people who helped shape jazz into the respected art form it is today.

If you’re a fan of jazz music, or simply want to learn more about its rich history, be sure to check out some of the best jazz music documentaries listed below. Each one offers its own unique perspective on the genre, and provides an insightful look at the artists who have made it so special.

“A Great Day in Harlem”

A Great Day in Harlem is a 1994 documentary directed by Jean Bach. The film chronicles the story of the day in 1958 when 57 jazz musicians gathered together for a group photograph in front of a Harlem brownstone. The photo, which was taken by Art Kane for Esquire magazine, has become one of the most well-known and iconic images in jazz history.

The film features interviews with many of the musicians who were there that day, including Dizzy Gillespie, Art Blakey, Count Basie, Thelonious Monk, Sonny Rollins, and Horace Silver. It also features archival footage of many of these musicians in performance.

A Great Day in Harlem is a must-see for any fan of jazz music or photography. It’s a fascinating documentary that captures an important moment in jazz history.

“Thelonious Monk: Straight, No Chaser”

Perhaps the most famous jazz documentary of all time, “Thelonious Monk: Straight, No Chaser” was directed by Charlotte Zwerin and released in 1988. The film takes an intimate look at the legendary pianist and composer, exploring both his music and his personal life.

Featuring interviews with Monk’s family, friends, and collaborators, as well as never-before-seen footage of him in rehearsal and performance, “Thelonious Monk: Straight, No Chaser” is a must-see for any fan of jazz music.

“Miles Davis: Birth of the Cool”

“Miles Davis: Birth of the Cool” is a documentary about the legendary jazz musician Miles Davis. The film chronicles Davis’ life and career, from his childhood in Missouri to his time as one of the most influential musicians of the 20th century. “Miles Davis: Birth of the Cool” features interviews with Davis’ family and friends, as well as footage of the musician himself.

“Bebop or Die: The Story of the Dizzy Gillespie All-Stars”

Bebop or Die: The Story of the Dizzy Gillespie All-Stars is a 1992 American documentary film directed by Carol Friedman. The film profiles the last band led by trumpeter Dizzy Gillespie, known as the Dizzy Gillespie All-Stars. The band was formed in 1989 and featured Gillespie’s so-called “reunion band” of longtime collaborators, including trombonist Wilbur Bascomb, vibraphonist Milt Jackson, bassist Paul Chambers, and drummer Jimmy Cobb.

The film features performance footage of the band, as well as interviews with Gillespie, Jackson, Chambers, Cobb, and others. Bebop or Die was nominated for the Grand Jury Prize at the 1992 Sundance Film Festival.

“Ella Fitzgerald: Something to Live For”

Ella Fitzgerald was one of the most influential jazz singers of all time. She had a beautiful voice and an amazing ability to improvise. She was also a great interpreter of lyrics. This documentary tells the story of her life and career, from her humble beginnings in Harlem to her rise to stardom.

The film features interviews with some of the biggest names in jazz, including Dizzy Gillespie, Benny Goodman, and Norman Granz. There are also performance footage and home movies. This is a must-see for any fan of Ella Fitzgerald or jazz music in general.

“The Savoy King: Chick Webb and the Music That Changed America”

This is a great documentary about one of the most important and influential jazz musicians of all time, Chick Webb. The film tells the story of how Webb changed the face of American music with his innovative and unique style of drumming. It also features some of the most famous jazz musicians of the time, including Duke Ellington, Dizzy Gillespie, and Ella Fitzgerald.

“The Spirit of ’45”

“The Spirit of ’45” is a 2013 British documentary film directed by Ken Loach. The film is about the British social and economic conditions during and after the Second World War. “The Spirit of ’45” was screened in the Special Presentations section at the 2013 Toronto International Film Festival.

“The Girls in the Band”

This documentary is about the forgotten history of female jazz instrumentalists and their contributions to the genre. It features interviews with some of the most influential women in jazz, including Valerie Capers, Terry Blaine, Geri Allen, and Ingrid Jensen. It’s a must-see for any fan of jazz music.

Conclusion

There are countless great jazz music documentaries out there, but these are some of the best of the best. If you’re a fan of jazz music, then you need to check out these essential films.

From Ken Burns’ legendary documentary series to more recent releases, these documentaries offer insights into the lives and careers of some of the most important figures in jazz history. They also showcase the enduring power of this truly American art form.

So sit back, relax, and enjoy some of the best jazz music documentaries you need to see.