20 Feet From Stardom

20 Feet From Stardom is an absorbing, poignant, and highly-praised documentary film directed by Academy Award-winning filmmaker, Morgan Neville. Released in 2013, the movie reveals the incredible journey of the untold stories of many talented background singers. The film's rich storyline mainly profiles the lives and careers of Darlene Love, Merry Clayton, Lisa Fischer along with other backup vocalists in the music industry who have largely remained under the radar but have significantly impacted popular music.

The documentary dives right into the heart of music, shining a light on these talented individuals who are usually in the background or '20 feet from stardom'. Through a series of intimate interviews and archival footage, the film celebrates the unsung heroes of music – the gifted backup singers. It's a fascinating exploration of the interplay between the main act and the backup singer, looking at what talent, ambition, and luck can do in the unpredictable world of show biz.

One of the prominent stories explored is that of Darlene Love, who began her career in the 1960s and quickly became a sought-after backup singer for numerous renowned acts. Love's powerful voice and unique soul have made her a highly respected figure in the pop music industry, even as she spent years singing in the shadows of many famous artists, from Elvis Presley to Frank Sinatra. Her far-reaching vocals influenced not only the sound of Los Angeles pop but the revolutionary songs of the golden era.

The film also focuses on the formidable Merry Clayton, best known for her killer vocals in The Rolling Stones' song “Gimme Shelter”. Audiences are given the opportunity to get to know the woman behind that powerful, chilling voice. There is a complex mix of excitement and melancholy as Clayton shares her experiences, providing an inside look into the struggles and triumphs she faced on her path to success and during her challenging times.

Another highlight profile is of the Grammy-winning Lisa Fischer who, apart from singing the backup for luminaries like Tina Turner and Sting, has also enjoyed an incredible solo career. Her segment brilliantly showcases her extraordinary talent and heartwarming journey to the forefront of the music industry.

One of the key themes developed in 20 Feet From Stardom is the fickle fate within the musical field. It sheds light on how much the industry relies on luck and timing, and how one's career trajectory can be significantly altered by one skipped opportunity. The film uncovers the challenging side of the industry, showcasing that beyond the glitz and glamour, there is a much deeper and sometimes darker journey.

Individual histories interweave with deeper examinations of the cultural and social context, enhancing the film's engagement. 20 Feet From Stardom delves into questions of race and gender, and how these factors have influenced and shaped the path for these singers within an industry that often commodifies talent for mainstream consumption. These singers broke musical and societal boundaries, contributing greatly to the hits of our favorite rock, pop, R&B, and soul stars while fighting to maintain their personal identities, voices, and ambitions.

Accompanied by a riveting soundtrack that incorporates a dynamic selection of music that beautifully illustrate their stories and a collection of moving performances, the film provides an unforgettable musical journey. Behind-the-scenes shots and exclusive interviews with music icons like Bruce Springsteen, Mick Jagger, Stevie Wonder, and Bette Midler among many others help to further illuminate the incredible talent and historical importance of these hidden figures of the music industry.

20 Feet From Stardom is an emotional powerhouse, blending historical insight with personal journey - An absolute must-see for any music fan. A captivating viewing experience that not only enlightens the audience about the professional struggles and personal sacrifices these artists have made, but also ensures that these unsung talents are finally given the recognition they truly deserve. The film stands as a heart-warming tribute, a truly celebratory exploration of the remarkable career journeys of the individuals who are typically just 20 feet away from the spotlight, but whose contributions to music have been impressively far-reaching.