In an era where the intersection of music, legend, and personal struggles often goes unnoticed, two new documentaries bring much-needed attention to two of the most iconic musical figures of the 20th century: Sly Stone and Led Zeppelin. Through compelling storytelling, these films delve into the lives of Sly Stone, the genius behind Sly and the Family Stone, and the legendary rock band Led Zeppelin, revealing the profound impact these figures had on music and culture while exploring the challenges they faced on their paths to greatness.
Sly Stone: “Sly Lives!”
The first documentary, Sly Lives! (aka The Burden of Black Genius), directed by Ahmir “Questlove” Thompson, tells the story of Sly Stone’s turbulent yet transformative journey. Known for his groundbreaking contributions to soul, funk, and rock music, Stone’s impact is undeniable. He was the mastermind behind the multiracial, genre-defying band Sly and the Family Stone, which bridged the gap between black and white music, creating a sound that captivated audiences across the globe. Hits like “Everyday People,” “Thank You (Falettinme Be Mice Elf Agin),” and “Dance to the Music” became anthems of the 1960s and 1970s, combining funk, soul, and psychedelia in a way no one had before.
However, Stone’s success came with a heavy price. Sly Lives! goes beyond his musical genius to explore the personal and professional struggles that led to his eventual retreat from the public eye. The documentary highlights how his battle with substance abuse, the pressures of fame, and the toll of being an innovative black artist in America contributed to his decline. Through interviews with artists such as D’Angelo and André 3000, Questlove examines the complexities of being a musical visionary, the isolation Stone felt, and the heavy burden of his genius. While the film honors Stone’s legacy, it also sheds light on the high cost of brilliance.
Led Zeppelin: “Becoming Led Zeppelin”
The second documentary, Becoming Led Zeppelin, directed by Bernard MacMahon and Allison McGourty, takes a more intimate approach to the story of one of the greatest rock bands of all time. Unlike many of the sensationalized stories of rock ‘n’ roll excess, Becoming Led Zeppelin focuses on the formative years of the band, beginning with the individual journeys of its members—Jimmy Page, Robert Plant, John Paul Jones, and John Bonham—and the moments that led them to form the musical powerhouse known as Led Zeppelin.
The film highlights the band’s early musical collaborations and the artistic vision that drove them before they achieved global superstardom. With rare archival footage and personal accounts from the members themselves, Becoming Led Zeppelin offers a look at the band’s beginnings, exploring the challenges they faced as they navigated the music industry and their creative evolution. What sets this documentary apart is its refusal to dive into the typical rock ‘n’ roll mythos of sex, drugs, and rock ‘n’ roll, instead focusing on the authenticity and integrity that characterized the band’s early years.
By focusing on their creative process, the documentary presents Led Zeppelin as a group of musicians who were more concerned with innovation than with fame. With a particular emphasis on their groundbreaking 1970 performance at the Royal Albert Hall, Becoming Led Zeppelin demonstrates how the band’s relentless drive for musical perfection would lead to one of the most influential legacies in rock history.
Honoring Legends, Beyond the Hype
Both documentaries serve as vital reminders of the complexities that come with fame and genius. Whether it’s the burden that came with Sly Stone’s musical innovations or the understated beginnings of Led Zeppelin, Sly Lives! and Becoming Led Zeppelin remind us that the journey to greatness is never simple. These films offer a new perspective on the music that shaped generations while celebrating the artists who dared to push boundaries and redefine genres.
