5 Rockumentaries You Need to Watch

There’s something about rock documentaries—rockumentaries, if you will—that goes beyond the music. A great one plunges you into the grit, glory, and genius of rock, telling stories that redefine your understanding of the artists and their craft. Whether you’re a classic rock lover, a punk fan, or an indie aficionado, rockumentaries capture music’s greatest tales with all the twists and turns of a good movie (but with way better soundtracks). Here are some of the must-watch rockumentaries, featuring icons, underdogs, and unforgettable moments in rock history.

Gimme Shelter is both a celebration and a cautionary tale. The film follows The Rolling Stones on their 1969 U.S. tour, culminating in the infamous Altamont Free Concert, where violence erupted, and a fan lost his life. Directed by the Maysles brothers and Charlotte Zwerin, this rockumentary delivers the unfiltered highs and lows of life on tour and highlights the darker side of the ‘60s rock revolution. It’s intense, raw, and unforgettable.

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This film is a guitar lover’s dream. It Might Get Loud brings together three generations of guitar greats: Jimmy Page (Led Zeppelin), The Edge (U2), and Jack White (The White Stripes). Directed by Davis Guggenheim, the documentary dives into the artists’ inspirations, techniques, and creative journeys. Watching Page riff on Zeppelin classics or White build his own instruments on the spot is pure rock-and-roll magic.

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Dave Grohl, once the drummer for Nirvana, started Foo Fighters almost as a therapeutic solo project after Kurt Cobain’s death. Back and Forth covers their journey from this fragile beginning to becoming one of the biggest rock bands of the 2000s. Featuring interviews, behind-the-scenes footage, and an inside look at their creative process, this rockumentary is essential for fans of modern rock.

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History of the Eagles offers a comprehensive, two-part look into one of America’s greatest rock bands. With candid interviews, rare footage, and the Eagles’ incredible discography as the soundtrack, this documentary dives into the highs and lows of the band’s storied career. From the early days to the explosive breakup and reunion, it’s a raw, honest portrayal of the music, the personalities, and the drama behind hits like Hotel California and Take It Easy. If you're a fan of the Eagles, or just love stories of classic rock, this one’s a must-watch.

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Though not classic rock in the traditional sense, Amy captures the soul and tragedy of one of music’s most extraordinary voices, Amy Winehouse. Directed by Asif Kapadia, the film uses interviews, home videos, and performances to create a deeply personal and haunting portrait of Winehouse’s rise and fall. The documentary goes beyond the headlines, offering a real look at the pressures and isolation that often come with fame.

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Rockumentaries take us on stage, backstage, and deep into the lives of rock’s biggest legends. They’re more than just films—they’re stories of struggle, triumph, and unfiltered passion, revealing the grit behind the glory and the sacrifices made for the music. Each documentary on this list is a chance to see your favorite bands in their rawest form, from legendary live shows to intense studio sessions. If you're a fan of music, you're going to love these picks! Get ready to dive into the highs and lows that shaped the soundtrack of generations.