Release dates: January 23, 2025 Sundance
February 13, 2025 Hulu and Disney+
Director: Ahmir "Questlove" Thompson
Appearances: Andre 3000, D'Angelo, Chaka Khan, Q-Tip, Nile Rodgers, Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis, George Clinton, Ruth Copeland, Clive Davis
Genre: Documentary
Run time: 1 hour 52 minutes
Country: United States
Language: English
An extraordinary film from director Ahmir "Questlove" Thompson ‘Sly Lives! (aka The Burden of Black Genius)’ gives an inside look at a man who revolutionized music with his unique style.
We have heard his great music for decades and now have the opportunity to learn about behind the music.
The film will certainly have you wanting to laugh and cry as Sly’s life unfolds.
We have heard his great music for decades and now have the opportunity to learn about behind the music.
The film will make you want to laugh and cry as Sly’s life unfolds.
Questlove does a wonderful job directing the film. It's not a story of sensationalism or exploitation of a man, but an honest look at who he was and how he came to be in the music business.
One cannot help but see the weight of the burden he is carrying. All the while, dealing with what appears to be mental health issues. It makes you wonder, was his drug use a means of self-medicating?
For a revolutionary musician and songwriter who had a huge impact on music, Sly and the Family Stone's story was long overdue.
Questlove has directed another great film. Stream it, you will not be disappointed.