Best Documentaries About Miles Davis
Exploring the Legend of Jazz
Miles Davis, often referred to as the "Prince of Darkness", remains one of the most influential figures in jazz history. His innovative approach to music and his ability to seamlessly transition between various jazz styles left an indelible mark on the genre.
Exploring the best documentaries on Miles Davis offers a captivating glimpse into the life and legacy of this legendary musician. Each documentary provides a unique perspective, allowing viewers to appreciate the artistry and impact of Davis's work across different periods of his career.
1) 'Round About Midnight' – Miles Davis (1986)
The 1986 documentary, ''Round About Midnight,' explores the life and music of Miles Davis, with a notable focus on his acclaimed 1957 album of the same name.
This film provides an in-depth look into the creation of the album, recorded with his quintet at Columbia's New York studio between October 1955 and September 1956.
The documentary features interviews with key figures in Davis's life and career, offering insights into his creative process.
With detailed exploration of Davis's use of the Harmon mute and the unique sound it brought to tracks like the title ballad, the film highlights his influence on the jazz genre.
Viewers gain an understanding of Davis's collaboration with musicians such as tenor saxophonist John Coltrane, whose career gained wider recognition through these sessions.
Covering the intricacies of Davis's compositions and the emotional depth of his performances, the documentary serves as a thorough tribute to one of jazz's most influential figures.
To learn more, visit the IMDb page for 'Round About Midnight (1986).
2) 'Kind of Blue' – Miles Davis (1959)
'Kind of Blue' is a seminal album by jazz trumpeter Miles Davis. Released on August 17, 1959, the album is renowned as one of the most influential jazz records of all time. It features a lineup of musicians who are legends in their own right.
The recording sessions saw Davis collaborating with saxophonists John Coltrane and Julian "Cannonball" Adderley. Pianist Bill Evans, bassist Paul Chambers, and drummer Jimmy Cobb completed the ensemble. Wynton Kelly also played piano on one track, "Freddie Freeloader."
An exemplar of modal jazz, the album showcases the shift from bebop to a more minimalist approach. Each track on 'Kind of Blue' was recorded in a single take, underscoring the improvisational prowess of the performers.
The album has sold over 4 million copies in the United States. It enjoys cross-genre appeal, being cherished by fans of rock, classical, and jazz alike. This broad acceptance cements 'Kind of Blue' as a timeless masterpiece.
For more information on 'Kind of Blue', visit Wikipedia.
3) 'Miles Ahead' – Stanley Nelson (2015)
'Miles Ahead,' directed by Stanley Nelson in 2015, is a deeply insightful documentary that explores the dynamic and complex life of Miles Davis. The film delves into various pivotal moments and transformative phases in Davis’s career, meticulously capturing his evolution as an artist.
Stanley Nelson, known for his ability to dive into cultural and historical subjects, provides a well-researched and comprehensive look at Davis's journey. The documentary highlights the musician’s early years, his revolutionary approach to jazz, and the personal struggles that influenced his music.
The film is particularly notable for its candid interviews with those who were close to Davis. These narratives offer a more personal glimpse into his life, revealing the man behind the myth. Nelson’s direction ensures that the essence of Davis’s genius and complexities are well captured.
Critically acclaimed, 'Miles Ahead' received a warm reception for its detailed and engaging portrayal of one of jazz’s most enigmatic figures. The documentary is a must-watch for both long-time fans and newcomers eager to understand the legend of Miles Davis.
For more information on the film visit IMDB.
4) 'The Miles Davis Story' – Mike Dibb (2001)
Directed by Mike Dibb, "The Miles Davis Story" offers a comprehensive look into the life and career of Miles Davis. This 120-minute documentary blends rare interviews with Davis himself and conversations with his family, friends, and collaborators.
Notable musicians such as Herbie Hancock, Clark Terry, and Joe Zawinul share their insights, adding depth to the film.
The documentary features classic performances spanning all eras of Davis's career. It highlights his influence on the jazz genre while uncovering lesser-known aspects of his life, such as his upbringing in East St. Louis and his late-career world travels.
This film serves as a detailed and respectful tribute to one of jazz's most influential figures. It was shown on Bravo in 2002 and remains a valuable resource for fans and newcomers alike.
More information can be found here.
5) 'Miles Davis: Birth of the Cool' – Stanley Nelson (2019)
Directed by Stanley Nelson, "Miles Davis: Birth of the Cool" (2019) delves into the life and career of one of jazz's most influential figures, Miles Davis.
The documentary features never-before-seen archival footage, studio outtakes, and rare photos. These unique materials provide a comprehensive look into Davis's creative process and personal life.
With full access to the Miles Davis Estate, the film includes intimate interviews with friends, family, and fellow musicians who knew him best.
Nelson's documentary explores Davis's role as a horn player, bandleader, and innovator. It captures his moments of brilliance and his struggles, painting a balanced portrait of a complex figure.
The film was nominated for a Grammy in the "Best Music Film" category and has been praised for its in-depth portrayal of Davis.
The running time is 114 minutes, and the documentary premiered at the Sundance Film Festival in January 2019.
Learn more about the film on Wikipedia or IMDb.
6) 'Jack Johnson' – Miles Davis (1971)
'Jack Johnson' is an influential album and documentary soundtrack by Miles Davis.
Released in 1971, this work was created to accompany a documentary about the legendary boxer Jack Johnson.
The music on this album displays Davis's unique fusion of jazz and rock, showcasing his innovative approach.
The album consists of two long tracks, each over 25 minutes. These pieces highlight Davis's ability to create cohesive and compelling compositions that push the boundaries of traditional jazz.
The project came about when filmmaker Bill Cayton approached Davis to provide the soundtrack for his documentary.
Davis's contributions add a vibrant and dynamic layer to the film, enhancing its narrative through sound.
'Jack Johnson' marks a significant period in Davis's career, showcasing his versatility as a musician and composer.
For more information on the album, visit Wikipedia.
7) 'The Miles Davis Quintet: Live in Europe 1967' – Miles Davis (2011)
Released in 2011, 'The Miles Davis Quintet: Live in Europe 1967' captures the dynamic performances of Miles Davis's "Second Great Quintet." This ensemble featured Wayne Shorter on tenor saxophone, Herbie Hancock on piano, Ron Carter on bass, and Tony Williams on drums.
The collection consists of three CDs and one DVD. The CDs include recordings from concerts in Antwerp, Copenhagen, and Paris. The DVD contains additional footage from concerts in Karlsruhe and Stockholm.
The set highlights the Quintet's groundbreaking explorations in jazz, showcasing their ability to improvise and push musical boundaries. It has received critical acclaim, including being named the Best Historic Recording/Boxed Set at the JJA Jazz Awards.
For those interested in jazz history, this release offers a rare glimpse into the innovative spirit of Davis's 1967 performances. More Information
8) 'Bitches Brew' – Miles Davis (1970)
'Bitches Brew,' released in 1970, stands as one of Miles Davis's most revolutionary works.
The album marked a significant shift in Davis's sound, embracing electric instruments and jazz fusion.
Recorded over three days in August 1969 at Columbia's Studio B in New York City, the album features a talented lineup, including Chick Corea, Wayne Shorter, and John McLaughlin.
Critically acclaimed, 'Bitches Brew' introduced Davis to a broader audience, bridging the gap between jazz and rock.
With its complex rhythms and innovative soundscapes, the album remains a testament to Davis's unending quest for musical evolution.
9) 'Miles Electric: A Different Kind of Blue' – Murray Lerner (2004)
In "Miles Electric: A Different Kind of Blue" (2004), filmmaker Murray Lerner documents a pivotal moment in Miles Davis's career. Focusing on his performance at the Isle of Wight Festival in August 1970, the film captures Davis's innovative shift towards electric instruments and rock rhythms.
The documentary features full live footage of the legendary gig. It includes recent interviews with Davis’s bandmates, like Chick Corea and Dave Holland, providing deep insights into his musical transformation.
The film also explores the public and critical reactions to Davis’s album "Bitches Brew," released in 1970. The album marked a significant departure from traditional jazz, blending electric sounds and free-form improvisation.
Lerner’s film effectively dramatizes the challenges Davis faced during this transitional phase. By integrating live performance with candid interviews, it offers a rich, immersive experience for viewers.
For more information, visit the film’s IMDb page.
10) 'Ascenseur pour l'échafaud' – Miles Davis (1958)
'Ascenseur pour l'Ă©chafaud,' also known as 'Elevator to the Gallows,' features a iconic soundtrack by Miles Davis.
Recorded in Paris over two days in 1957, this album became a landmark in film music. Davis worked with French jazz musicians, spontaneously creating the tracks.
This soundtrack highlights Davis's ability to improvise and innovate. It blends seamlessly with Louis Malle’s film noir style. It's been widely praised by critics and remains a must-listen for jazz enthusiasts.
The film and its soundtrack hold an equally significant place in music and cinema history, offering a fascinating glimpse into Davis’s creative genius.
Miles Davis: Musical Genius and Cultural Icon
Miles Davis stands as a towering figure in jazz history, recognized for his influential albums and enduring legacy. His early life, groundbreaking work, and lasting impact reveal the story of a true innovator in music.
Early Life and Musical Influences
Born in 1926 in Alton, Illinois, Miles Dewey Davis III grew up in a musical family. His mother was a violinist, while his father was a dentist who also appreciated music. By age 13, Davis received his first trumpet and began honing his craft under local musicians.
In 1944, Davis moved to New York to attend Juilliard School, but the city's vibrant jazz scene drew him more. He soon performed with legends like Charlie Parker, gaining invaluable experience. These early years shaped his unique style, blending bebop with fresh, cool jazz elements.
Groundbreaking Albums
Miles Davis's discography includes multiple groundbreaking albums that redefined jazz. "Kind of Blue" (1959) is often cited as a masterclass in modal jazz, featuring classics like "So What" and "Freddie Freeloader." It remains one of the best-selling jazz albums of all time.
Bitches Brew (1970) marked a significant shift to jazz fusion, incorporating electronic instruments and rock influences. Its experimental nature expanded the horizons of jazz and brought Davis to a new audience.
Other notable works include Miles Ahead (1957), showcasing his collaboration with arranger Gil Evans, and In a Silent Way (1969), which further developed his fusion concepts.
Legacy and Impact on Jazz
Miles Davis's influence on jazz is immeasurable. He was a pioneer across several jazz movements, from bebop and cool jazz to hard bop and fusion. His ability to continually reinvent his sound set a new standard in the genre.
Davis nurtured many young musicians who later became formidable jazz artists themselves, such as John Coltrane and Herbie Hancock. His legacy lives on through their works and countless others inspired by his innovation.
His collaborations, prolific output, and willingness to embrace new styles, ensured his status as a cultural icon, extending beyond jazz to the broader music landscape.
Exploring Themes and Narratives
Several documentaries about Miles Davis offer distinct insights into his innovations in jazz, his social and cultural impact, and his personal struggles and triumphs. Each of these themes contributes to a richer understanding of Davis as an artist and a cultural icon.
Innovations in Jazz
Miles Davis reshaped jazz multiple times throughout his career. His work in the 1940s and 1950s with the Bebop movement set the stage for future jazz developments. Davis's collaboration with Gil Evans on albums like Birth of the Cool introduced a more relaxed and sophisticated style.
In the late 1950s, he pioneered modal jazz with the landmark album Kind of Blue. Modal jazz emphasized musical modes rather than chord progressions, allowing more improvisational freedom. In the 1970s, Davis was instrumental in the creation of jazz fusion, blending jazz with rock, funk, and electronic elements. Innovative albums like Bitches Brew highlighted this era. Each phase of his career broke new ground and influenced countless artists.
Social and Cultural Context
Miles Davis was not just a musician; he was a cultural icon whose life and work intersected with significant social changes. During the Civil Rights Movement, Davis's prominence as a successful African American artist contributed to the broader struggle for equality. His music often reflected the tensions and aspirations of the times.
Davis also challenged racial stereotypes and expectations of African American public figures, insisting on his own identity and artistry without compromise. His collaborations across racial lines—especially in the societal context of segregation—were acts of cultural integration. Film treatments of Davis explore his role in these social and cultural shifts, illustrating his impact beyond music.
Personal Struggles and Triumphs
Miles Davis faced numerous personal challenges, including substance abuse and health issues, which significantly impacted his career and personal life. Documentaries often delve into his battle with heroin addiction in the 1950s and how he managed to overcome it, marking a substantial period of recovery and creative resurgence.
Beyond his struggles, Davis's resilience stands out. His ability to reinvent himself and his music in the face of adversity remains a key narrative. Personal relationships, including tumultuous romantic entanglements and professional collaborations, reveal the complexities of his character. This human aspect of Davis's story enriches the understanding of his contributions to music and culture.
