20 Feet from Stardom

Backup singers need to blend into the background while still providing a foundation for the leads.  Director Morgan Neville shines a light on some of these extraordinary performers as they share anecdotes about their experiences working with music legends on now iconic songs.  Well-known musicians also sing their praises and share their own memories of these performers.

Most of the women were pastors daughters that learned to sing in church.  They were hired to bring the "black sound" to songs.  Many tried to go solo, after their backup work was lauded, but failed to become household names.  A beautiful, emotional, mesmerizing documentary.


After watching this film, you will never listen to music the same way.  It is a powerful film, making you rethink the songs you love.  The women at the center of this documentary are captivating and great storytellers, with incredible voices and experiences.

Darlene Love, Merry Clayton, Lisa Fischer, Tata Vega, Claudia Lennear and others recall how their vocals were used in memorable songs... but their debut solo albums didn't work out as well as they hoped.  The film also focuses on Judith Hill, who was on season 4 of "The Voice" (which was filmed after this documentary), who is trying to kick start her solo career.

This is my pick for the Oscar for Best Documentary feature.  Powerful stuff and lots of good music.

20 Feet from Stardom (2013) 89 minutes
Rating: PG-13 for some strong language and sexual material
Director: Morgan Neville
Starring: Darlene Love
Merry Clayton
Lisa Fischer
Judith Hill
Tata Vega
Claudia Lennear
Gloria Jones
Janice Pendarvis
The Waters: Oren Waters, Maxine Waters, Julia Waters
Stevvi Alexander
Jo Lawry