Shows Like Behind the Music (2021)

Jennifer Lopez, LL Cool J, Ricky Martin, and Fat Joe in Behind the Music (2021)

7.8 / 10 (based on 52 reviews)

The best of the vault remastered and updated with artist interviews, a creative refresh, and reimagined visual style.

Genre: Documentary, Biography, Music

Main Cast: LL Cool J, Eminem, Ricky Martin, Jennifer Lopez
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1 season, 8 episodes

Shows Most Like Behind the Music (2021)

For Heaven’s Sake (2021)

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6.9 / 10 (based on 289 reviews)

The search for Harold Heaven, who mysteriously disappeared from his remote cabin in Ontario, Canada, in the winter of 1934.

Genre: Documentary, Comedy, Crime

Main Cast: Mike Mildon, Jackson Rowe, Blake Canning, Sylvain Plasse
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1 season, 8 episodes, 30.0-minute runtime

From Cradle to Stage (2021)

From Cradle to Stage (2021)

8.6 / 10 (based on 261 reviews)

Series based on the book “From Cradle to Stage.”

Genre: Documentary

Main Cast: Dave Grohl, Pharrell Williams, Brandi Carlile, Miranda Lambert
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1 season, 6 episodes

Dietland (2018)

Dietland (2018)

6.6 / 10 (based on 2744 reviews)

Plum Kettle is a ghostwriter for the editor of one of New York’s hottest fashion magazines. Struggling with self-image and fed up with how she’s treated by her boss and society, Plum sets out on a wildly complicated road to self-awakening. At the same time, everyone is buzzing over news reports about men, accused of sexual abuse and assault, who are disappearing and meeting untimely, violent deaths.

Genre: Comedy, Drama

Main Cast: Joy Nash, Tamara Tunie, Robin Weigert, Rowena King
Creators: Marti Noxon
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1 season, 10 episodes, 45.0-minute runtime

The Harper House (2021)

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5.2 / 10 (based on 347 reviews)

An overconfident female head-of-a-household as she struggles to regain a higher status for herself, and for her family of oddballs, after losing her job and moving from the rich side to the poor side of an Arkansas small town.

Genre: Animation, Comedy

Main Cast: Rhea Seehorn, Jason Lee, Ryan Flynn, Tatiana Maslany
Creators: Brad Neely
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1 season, 10 episodes, 30.0-minute runtime

Queen of the Universe (2021)

Queen of the Universe (2021)

7 / 10 (based on 758 reviews)

Features drag queen contestants from 10 different countries, singing for the crown.

Genre: Game-Show, Reality-TV

Main Cast: Graham Norton, Leona Lewis, Trixie Mattel, Michelle Visage
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1 season, 6 episodes, 45.0-minute runtime

Coyote (2021)

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6.9 / 10 (based on 3026 reviews)

After 32 years of service, Border Patrol agent Ben Clemens finds himself helping people he has always tried to keep out of the United States.

Genre: Crime, Drama, Thriller

Main Cast: Michael Chiklis, Juan Pablo Raba, Adriana Paz, Kristyan Ferrer
Creators: Michael Carnes, Josh Gilbert, David Graziano
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1 season, 6 episodes, 290.0-minute runtime

The Game (2021)

The Game (2021)

6.1 / 10 (based on 628 reviews)

New players offer a modern-day examination of Black culture through the prism of pro football, while trying to keep their souls as they play The Game.

Genre: Comedy, Drama, Romance, Sport

Main Cast: Wendy Raquel Robinson, Adriyan Rae, Vaughn W. Hebron, Hosea Chanchez
Creators: Mara Brock Akil
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1 season, 10 episodes, 30.0-minute runtime

Guilty Party (2021)

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5.6 / 10 (based on 938 reviews)

A discredited journalist desperate to salvage her career by latching on to the story of a young mother sentenced to life in prison for maiming and murdering her husband, crimes she claims she didn’t commit.

Genre: Comedy, Crime, Mystery

Main Cast: Kate Beckinsale, Jules Latimer, Tiya Sircar, Laurie Davidson
Creators: Rebecca Addelman
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1 season, 10 episodes, 30.0-minute runtime


Behind the Music, a name that resonates with fans of music documentaries, made a significant comeback in 2021. The series, originally launched in 1997, has been a staple for music enthusiasts, offering in-depth looks into the lives and careers of some of the most iconic artists in the industry. The 2021 revival brought with it a fresh batch of episodes, promising to delve deeper into the stories of new and legendary artists alike. This article explores what makes Behind the Music a must-watch, highlighting its unique approach to storytelling, the artists it features, and why it stands out in a sea of music documentaries.

A Fresh Take on a Classic Formula

At its core, Behind the Music sticks to what made it a hit in the first place: a documentary series that goes beyond the surface to reveal the struggles, triumphs, and untold stories of musicians. However, the 2021 version brings something new to the table. It’s not just about the nostalgia of revisiting the tales of veteran artists; it’s also about introducing newer talents and stories that resonate with today’s audience. This blend of the old and the new ensures that the show remains relevant and engaging for both long-time fans and newcomers.

Deep Dives Without the Fluff

One of the show’s strengths lies in its commitment to cutting through the noise and getting to the heart of each artist’s story. There’s no room for fluff here. Instead, viewers are treated to a carefully curated journey through the highs and lows of an artist’s career, with insights from those who know them best—family, friends, and the artists themselves. This direct approach not only keeps the narrative focused but also ensures that each episode packs an emotional punch, leaving viewers with a deeper understanding of the person behind the music.

A Diverse Lineup of Artists

The 2021 revival of Behind the Music boasts an impressive roster of artists, spanning genres, eras, and backgrounds. From rock legends to pop icons and everything in between, the show offers a rich tapestry of musical stories. For instance, viewers can explore the meteoric rise of a pop princess, delve into the troubled life of a rock star, or learn about the groundbreaking achievements of a hip-hop mogul. This diversity not only highlights the universal themes of struggle, creativity, and resilience but also celebrates the wide-ranging impact of music across cultures.

Examples That Resonate

Consider the episode featuring a groundbreaking female artist who shattered glass ceilings in a male-dominated industry. Through candid interviews and rare footage, the show paints a vivid picture of her journey, from her humble beginnings to her ascent to global fame. Or take the story of a band that overcame internal conflicts and external pressures to deliver a groundbreaking album that would define a generation. These are just a few examples of how Behind the Music goes beyond the headlines to offer compelling narratives that resonate with viewers.

Why It Stands Out

In a world where music documentaries are plentiful, Behind the Music distinguishes itself through its storytelling approach. It’s not just about recounting events; it’s about understanding the human experience behind the music. The show excels in connecting the dots between personal struggles, artistic creativity, and cultural impact, offering viewers a comprehensive look at an artist’s journey.

Moreover, the production values of the 2021 revival are top-notch. High-quality visuals, engaging interviews, and a soundtrack that perfectly complements each story come together to create a viewing experience that is both informative and immersive. This attention to detail ensures that each episode is not just a documentary but a tribute to the artist’s legacy.

Conclusion

Behind the Music, in its 2021 incarnation, successfully revitalizes a beloved format for a new generation while staying true to the essence of what made the show a classic. It offers a unique blend of nostalgia and contemporary relevance, deep dives without unnecessary embellishments, and a diverse lineup of artists with stories that appeal to a wide audience. Whether you’re a long-time fan of the series or new to the world of music documentaries, Behind the Music provides a compelling, insightful, and emotionally rich exploration of the lives and careers of some of the most influential figures in the music industry. In a landscape filled with content, this show stands out as a testament to the power of music and the human stories behind it.

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