Country music stars are the stuff of legends. Whether you're a fan of old-school names like Johnny Cash and Dolly Parton or more modern voices like Carrie Underwood and the Zac Brown Band, these artists are inarguably larger-than-life. But they didn't start out that way.
With the Western genre and lifestyle getting a well-deserved resurgence in the public eye, filmmakers are turning their attention to the seemingly unreal stories behind major artists and major milestones in country music. In 2023, iconic filmmaker Ken Burns dedicated eight full years to creating an in-depth documentary for PBS that explores the origins of the genre and its major turning points.
"In country music, we found a love for storytelling that translates everyday experiences into universal truths that we can all identify with," he said in a statement, adding that the film (aptly titled Country Music) "chronicles the highs and lows of country music's early days, from southern Appalachia's songs of struggle, heartbreak, and faith to the rollicking Western swing of Texas, California's honky-tonks and Nashville's Grand Ole Opry."
While Burns' doc is definitely making waves, he isn't the first filmmaker to shine a light on the country music scene. Below are 10 documentaries every country fan needs to watch.
Shut Up & Sing (2006)
Credit: Cabin Creek
Where to stream: The Roku Channel, Pluto TV, Redbox, and Vudu
Every country music fan remembers the controversy surrounding The Chicks (formerly known as The Dixie Chicks) and their outspoken views against the war in Iraq. This documentary follows their almost instantaneous plunge from the top of the country charts after a single statement from lead singer Natalie Maines at a London show. It's a rare glimpse into the power of celebrity and how quickly cancel culture can turn a beloved act into the enemy.
Chely Wright: Wish Me Away (2011)
Credit: First Run Features
Where to stream: Tubi, Pluto TV, Kanopy, Freevee, Flimzie, Revry, and Plex
When her song "Single White Female" topped the charts, Chely Wright became an overnight sensation. But her newfound fame and country superstar image clashed with a secret that became increasingly difficult to keep: her sexuality. This documentary details her eventual decision to be the first commercial country music star to come out with exclusive interviews, private video diaries, and footage of her "plan" to show the world who she truly was.
Glen Campbell: I'll Be Me (2014)
Credit: PCH Films
Where to stream: Tubi
Country music legend Glen Campbell's story is one of hope and resilience in the face of a degenerative brain disorder. This documentary follows the rhinestone cowboy's farewell tour as he struggles with Alzheimer's and his family's attempts to keep him safe while continuing to perform. Through it all, Campbell remains a beacon of positivity and courage as he shows the world how to maintain grace in the face of adversity.
Tricky Dick and the Man in Black (2018)
Credit: All Rise Films and Triage Entertainment
Where to stream: Netflix
Unlike many country music docs you'll find today, this is one that doesn't chronicle the rise of success for any one individual. Instead, this film looks back at a crucial moment in history when President Richard Nixon invited country legend Johnny Cash to perform at the White House in an attempt to solidify himself with Middle America. But despite Nixon's hope of using the show to further his own agenda, Cash had ideas of his own.
If I Leave Here Tomorrow: A Film About Lynyrd Skynyrd (2018)
Credit: Passion Pictures
Where to stream: Netflix
This film explores the incredible but short-lived career of Southern rock legend Lynyrd Skynyrd and those behind it. In particular, it focuses on lead singer Ronnie Van Zant and his contradictory reputation as both a poet and a troublemaker. With rare interviews and archival footage that's never before seen the light of day, this documentary attempts to paint a clearer picture of the mysterious frontman.
Alan Jackson: Small Town Southern Man (2018)
Credit: Eagle Rock Film Productions
Where to stream: Prime Video
Being able to maintain the level of stardom that singer Alan Jackson has achieved is a feat few can match. This documentary follows the country star's improbable journey from the small town of Newnan, Georgia to selling out stadiums across the world. It gives us a glimpse into how chance encounters can completely change your life—if you have the courage to take them.
Garth Brooks: The Road I'm On (2019)
Credit: Endeavor Content and Film 45
Where to stream: A&E, Frndly TV, and Philo
This two-part documentary follows the life and career of one of country music's most iconic and beloved stars, Garth Brooks. From his childhood in Oklahoma to breaking records with his world tours, this film tells the stories of how he went from playing small-town bars to becoming industry royalty. If you want to know the man behind the music—and sneak a peek at his relationship with his wife and fellow country powerhouse Trisha Yearwood—this is a must-watch.
Dolly Parton: Here I Am (2019)
Credit: Man Alive Productions
Where to stream: Netflix
It's impossible to talk about country music without mentioning the queen, Dolly Parton. This documentary follows her musical career from its humble beginnings in the Smoky Mountains of Tennessee to her rise as a multi-Grammy-winning phenomenon. You get a look inside the songwriting genius of Parton as well as interviews with the people she believes shaped her iconic career into what it is today.
Dear Rodeo: The Cody Johnson Story (2021)
Credit: COJO Music, Warner Music Nashville and Tackle Box Films
Where to stream: Tubi, and Freevee
Most documentaries tend to focus on decades-old events or well-entrenched country stars. But this one takes a deeper look into the more modern scene and follows Cody Johnson's rise from Texas rodeo champion to the headliner of his own show at the historic Houston Rodeo. It's a story of hard work, faith, and determination that will inspire any fan who dreams of making it big in music.
Not Just a Girl (2022)
Credit: Mercury Studios
Where to stream: Netflix
Shania Twain has been a staple of the country music industry since the early 1990s—but her life and career haven't been without challenges. This documentary details not only how she transcended genres and reached superstardom, but also the numerous setbacks she faced along the way. Fans will get a rare glimpse into all of the defining moments of her career that have helped her craft her identity as so much more than "just a girl."
