🪶 Story & Synopsis
“Clive Davis: The Soundtrack of Our Lives” is a captivating documentary that delves into the illustrious career of American record executive Clive Davis. Directed by Chris Perkel, the film offers a mesmerizing glimpse into the life and work of a music industry legend who played a pivotal role in shaping the pop music landscape over the past six decades.
From his early days at Columbia and Arista Records, Clive Davis showcased an unparalleled talent for discovering and nurturing musical talent. The documentary features a star-studded lineup of interviews with iconic artists such as Janis Joplin, Bruce Springsteen, Aretha Franklin, Dionne Warwick, Santana, Whitney Houston, and Barry Manilow, among others, who credit Davis for his exceptional acumen in recognizing talent and selecting hit songs.
While the film primarily focuses on Davis’s professional accomplishments, it also sheds light on the tragic life of Whitney Houston, whose career trajectory intersects with Davis’s legacy. As the narrative unfolds, viewers are treated to a comprehensive retrospective of the evolution of pop music under the guidance of one of its most influential figures.
Through poignant storytelling and insightful commentary from music industry luminaries, “Clive Davis: The Soundtrack of Our Lives” immerses audiences in a journey through the golden era of popular music, highlighting Davis’s indelible impact on the industry and the artists he championed. The documentary serves as a testament to Davis’s enduring legacy as a visionary tastemaker and a driving force behind the iconic soundtracks that have shaped our lives.
🧑 Cast & Crew
Clive Davis
| Actor | Role |
|---|---|
| Clive Davis | Himself |
| Simon Cowell | Himself |
| Jimmy Iovine | Himself |
| Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs | Himself |
| Larry Jackson | Himself |
| Berry Gordy | Himself |
| L.A. Reid | Himself |
| Monte Lipman | Himself |
💬 Reviews and feedback
Lights, camera, action! Get ready to groove to the beat of “Clive Davis: The Soundtrack of Our Lives.” This documentary is not just a melody; it’s a symphony of success, passion, and musical marvels. Imagine being whisked away on a journey through the legendary career of Clive Davis, an icon in the music industry. It’s like diving into a treasure trove of melodies and memories, where every note is a story waiting to be told.
From humble beginnings to becoming a music mogul, Clive Davis’ life unfolds like a chart-topping hit. The documentary paints a vivid picture of his evolution in the industry, showcasing his impeccable taste in talent and his unwavering dedication to the art of music. It’s not just about the business; it’s about the man behind the music—a man with great ears and an even greater passion for what he does.
One can’t help but be captivated by the journey portrayed in “Clive Davis: The Soundtrack of Our Lives.” It’s more than just a documentary; it’s a celebration of creativity, resilience, and the power of believing in your dreams. As you watch Clive Davis navigate through the ups and downs of the music industry, you can’t help but feel inspired by his tenacity and unwavering spirit.
The film beautifully captures the essence of Clive Davis’ legacy, highlighting his pivotal role in shaping the careers of iconic artists like Janis Joplin and Whitney Houston. It’s like taking a walk down memory lane, reminiscing about timeless classics that have left an indelible mark on the music industry.
The directorial finesse displayed in this documentary is commendable. Chris Perkel has masterfully crafted a narrative that not only entertains but also educates viewers about the intricacies of the music business. The pacing is perfect, allowing each chapter of Clive Davis’ life to unfold seamlessly, keeping you hooked from start to finish.
The cinematography is top-notch, capturing intimate moments and larger-than-life performances with equal finesse. Every frame is like a painting come to life, immersing you in the world of music and magic that Clive Davis has created throughout his illustrious career.
Now let’s talk about the soundtrack—the heart and soul of any musical documentary. The score complements each scene flawlessly, evoking emotions and setting the tone for pivotal moments in Clive Davis’ journey. It’s not just background noise; it’s an integral part of storytelling that elevates the viewing experience.
And let’s not forget about production design and special effects—elements that add depth and dimension to any film. In “Clive Davis: The Soundtrack of Our Lives,” these aspects are subtle yet impactful, enhancing the overall visual appeal without overshadowing the narrative at hand.
As you immerse yourself in this captivating tale of triumph and tribulations, one thing becomes clear—Clive Davis is more than just a music executive; he’s a visionary who has left an indelible mark on an industry known for its highs and lows.
In conclusion, “Clive Davis: The Soundtrack of Our Lives” is a cinematic masterpiece that strikes all the right chords. It’s a tribute to one man’s unwavering passion for music and his relentless pursuit of excellence. So grab your popcorn, turn up the volume, and let yourself be serenaded by this extraordinary tale that will leave you humming along for days to come.
Rating: 9/10
Binge-watching Tips:
1. Pay close attention to the anecdotes shared by Clive Davis—they offer valuable insights into his creative process.
2. Make a playlist featuring songs from artists mentored by Clive Davis while watching to truly immerse yourself in their musical journey.
3. Stay till after credits for some hidden gems or bonus features that might enhance your viewing experience even further.
So there you have it—a glimpse into why “Clive Davis: The Soundtrack of Our Lives” is not just another documentary but an unforgettable ode to one man’s extraordinary contribution to music history. Let this film serenade you with its melodic storytelling and inspire you with its message—when passion meets talent, greatness is inevitable!
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Insightful look at the career of Clive Davis | Some may find the story overly simplistic |
| Reverent portrayal of a music industry icon | Lacks exploration of certain controversies or challenges |
| Touches on significant moments in music history | May not offer new information to those familiar with Clive Davis |
| Well-paced and engaging documentary | Focus may be too narrow for some viewers |
Feedback
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Clive Davis: The Soundtrack of Our Lives (2017) - IMDb
The life of music producer Clive Davis is the history of pop music just before and after Mitch Miller. Working intimately with the biggest names in the business few if any had his expertise or experience and this doc covers most of the creme de la creme of the music scene that Davis either discovered or gravitated toward him. Joplin, Springsteen, Aretha, Dion Warwick, Santana, Whitney, Barry Manilow among many others discovered and promoted by Davis having nothing but kind words for this impresario who had an incredibly keen sense of recognizing talent and selecting songs to promote the artist.Interesting not so much for Davis’s personal life it is the interviews of rock and pop stars over the generations informing us of his incredible acumen while at Columbia and Arista Records that provided us with the “soundtrack of our lives” which gives this doc legs. By the time they get around to the career and tragic life of Whitney Houston Clive’s background recedes into it and her dilemma takes center stage, his accomplishment a back seat to her tragedy but not before we get a semi-comprehensive history of pop music over the last 60 years under the stewardship of one of its greatest explorers.
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Clive Davis: The Soundtrack of Our Lives - Wikipedia
Clive Davis: The Soundtrack of Our Livesis a documentary about the career of American record executive Clive Davis. It was directed and edited by Chris Perkel and produced by Michael Bernstein. The film is based in his autobiographyThe Soundtrack of My Life, released in 2013.
Clive Davis: The Soundtrack of Our Lives Directed by Chris Perkel Release date
- April 2017Tribeca) (
Running time
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Clive Davis: The Soundtrack of Our Lives | Rotten Tomatoes
A documentary so passionate about its subject viewers will likely fall just as hard,Clive Davis: The Soundtrack of Our Livesis a touching tribute and a great reminder of the simple and complex pleasures of music.
Clive Davis: The Soundtrack of Our LivesWhere to WatchClive Davis: The Soundtrack of Our Lives
Watch Clive Davis: The Soundtrack of Our Lives with a subscription on Netflix, rent on Fandango at Home, or buy on Fandango at Home, Apple TV.
What to KnowCritics ReviewsAudience ReviewsMy RatingCast & Crew
Chris PerkelDirectorClive DavisSelfMichael BernsteinProducerMary LisioExecutive ProducerRidley Scott
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Clive Davis: The Soundtrack of Our Lives streaming - JustWatch
Clive Davis: The Soundtrack of Our Lives streaming: where to watch online?
Currently you are able to watch “Clive Davis: The Soundtrack of Our Lives” streaming on Netflix, Netflix basic with Ads. It is also possible to buy “Clive Davis: The Soundtrack of Our Lives” on Apple TV, Google Play Movies, YouTube, Vudu as download or rent it on Vudu, Google Play Movies, YouTube online.
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Watch Clive Davis: The Soundtrack of Our Lives | Prime Video
Rent or buy
Clive Davis: The Soundtrack of Our Lives
A fascinating and music-filled journey through record executive and producer Clive Davis’ astonishing five-decade career as the world’s preeminent hit-maker.16+Arts, Entertainment, and Culture·Documentary·Cerebral·ExcitingThis video is currently unavailableto watch in your locationto watch in your location
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⚠️ Explanation (Spoiler)
Clive Davis: The Soundtrack of Our Lives
If you’re a music enthusiast or simply curious about the behind-the-scenes magic of the music industry, ‘Clive Davis: The Soundtrack of Our Lives’ is a documentary you won’t want to miss. Originally produced by Apple Music and now available for streaming on Netflix, this film is a deep dive into the illustrious career of Clive Davis, a legendary figure in the world of music.
The documentary takes you on a chronological journey through Davis’s nearly 50-year career as a record executive, showcasing his remarkable achievements that span from working with Kenny G to the Notorious B.I.G. It’s a mesmerizing highlight reel of hit records and iconic collaborations that have shaped the music landscape.
One of the most striking aspects of Davis’s story is his humble beginnings. Growing up in a middle-class Jewish family in Brooklyn, music wasn’t initially a passion for him. Tragedy struck early in his life when he lost both his parents while still a teenager, leaving him with a profound sense of loss and a drive to succeed that fueled his relentless work ethic throughout his career.
After a fortuitous phone call led him to a job at CBS/Columbia Records, despite his initial lack of musical knowledge, Davis quickly rose through the ranks due to his keen ear for hits. His pivotal moment came during a transformative visit to the Monterey Pop Festival in 1967, where he recognized the commercial potential of the emerging rock counter-culture and began signing groundbreaking acts like Janis Joplin’s Big Brother & The Holding Company, Chicago, and Santana.
While the documentary delves into Davis’s professional accomplishments, it also touches on personal aspects of his life, such as his bisexuality and encounters with iconic artists like Janis Joplin. Despite the potential for more intimate storytelling, the focus remains on his contributions to the music industry and his knack for recognizing talent.
Davis’s ability to work with a diverse range of artists, from jazz legends like Miles Davis to rock icons like Bruce Springsteen and Billy Joel, showcases his versatility and foresight. He not only propelled established stars to new heights but also revitalized the careers of older artists for new generations to appreciate.
However, Davis’s journey wasn’t without its challenges. In 1973, he faced false accusations in a fraud scheme that led to his dismissal from CBS. Despite being completely cleared of any wrongdoing, he used this setback as an opportunity to start Arista Records, where he continued his streak of producing hit records.
Throughout the documentary, artists express their admiration for Davis’s ability to select hit songs and guide their careers, even when they initially doubted his choices. His impact on the music industry is undeniable, making ‘Clive Davis: The Soundtrack of Our Lives’ a captivating tribute to a true music visionary.
👪 Parents Guide & Age Rating
TV-MA
Age Rating:
Clive Davis: The Soundtrack of Our Lives has not received an official rating. However, due to the nature of the documentary focusing on the career of music executive Clive Davis, it is generally suitable for all ages.
Parental Guide:
Sex & Nudity:
There is no sexual content or nudity in the documentary Clive Davis: The Soundtrack of Our Lives. It is safe for all audiences in this regard.
Violence & Gore:
There is no violence or gore depicted in the documentary. It primarily focuses on the life and successes of Clive Davis as a music executive.
Profanity:
There is minimal profanity in the documentary, with occasional mild language used in interviews and discussions. It is infrequent and not pervasive throughout the film.
Alcohol, Drugs & Smoking:
There are some references to alcohol and drugs in the context of the music industry but no scenes depicting substance abuse. These references are related to the industry and not glorified.
Frightening & Intense Scenes:
There are no frightening or intense scenes in the documentary. It primarily focuses on the music industry and the career of Clive Davis.
Overall, Clive Davis: The Soundtrack of Our Lives is a documentary suitable for all ages, offering an insightful look into the life and work of a music producer without containing any concerning content for viewers.
📺 Streaming and where to watch
| streaming service | extra information |
|---|---|
| Netflix | Watch Clive Davis: The Soundtrack of Our Lives on Netflix. |
| Amazon Prime Video | Currently unavailable on Prime Video. |
| Apple TV, Google Play Movies, YouTube, Vudu | Buy or rent on Apple TV, Google Play Movies, YouTube, Vudu. |
❝ Quotes and Cult
The film is based in his autobiography The Soundtrack of My Life, released in 2013.
Clive Davis: The Soundtrack of Our Lives highlights an era of the music industry that has now vanished.
For those who recognize the name from his annual pre-Grammy parties or the face as that old dude who used to pick songs for the three 'American Idol' finalists, 'Clive Davis: The Soundtrack ...
🤖Clive Davis: The Soundtrack of Our Lives Reddit Talks
Clive Davis: The Soundtrack of Our Lives is a documentary that chronicles the life and career of legendary music producer Clive Davis. The film features interviews with some of the biggest names in the music industry, including Bruce Springsteen, Patti Smith, and Paul Simon.
One of the main topics of discussion in the film is Davis’s ability to spot and develop talent. He is credited with discovering and signing some of the most iconic artists of all time, including Janis Joplin, Bruce Springsteen, and Whitney Houston. Davis’s knack for spotting talent is often attributed to his keen ear for music and his ability to connect with artists on a personal level.
Another topic of discussion in the film is Davis’s role in the development of the music industry. He is credited with helping to create the modern music industry, and he played a key role in the development of genres such as rock and roll, pop, and hip hop. Davis’s influence on the music industry is undeniable, and he is considered one of the most important figures in the history of music.
The film also explores Davis’s personal life. He talks about his childhood, his family, and his relationships with some of the biggest names in the music industry. Davis is a complex and fascinating character, and the film provides a unique glimpse into his life and career.
Overall, Clive Davis: The Soundtrack of Our Lives is a well-made and informative documentary that provides a unique glimpse into the life and career of one of the most important figures in the history of music. The film is a must-see for fans of music and anyone interested in the history of the music industry.
Here are some of the specific topics that are discussed in the film:
- Davis’s early life and career
- His discovery and signing of some of the biggest names in music
- His role in the development of the music industry
- His personal life and relationships
- His legacy and influence
The film is a comprehensive and insightful look at the life and career of Clive Davis. It is a must-see for fans of music and anyone interested in the history of the music industry.
Top discussions
- https://www.reddit.com/r/FosterThePeople/comments/1ayy6si/soundtrack_of_our_lives/
- https://www.reddit.com/r/musicindustry/comments/1clnrud/behind_the_music_a_conversation_with_clive_davis/
- https://www.reddit.com/r/vinyl/comments/bfkf67/the_soundtrack_of_our_lives_behind_the_music/
- https://www.reddit.com/r/Jazz/comments/1ckbs1l/did_kenny_g_buy_his_way_into_the_music_scene/
- https://www.reddit.com/r/MinistryBand/
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
What is the movie soundtrack of our lives?
Clive Davis: The Soundtrack of Our Lives is a documentary about the career of American record executive Clive Davis. It was directed and edited by Chris Perkel and produced by Michael Bernstein. The film is based on his autobiography, The Soundtrack of My Life, released in 2013.
Is there a documentary on Clive Davis?
This music-driven documentary charts Clive Davis’ 50-year career as one of the world’s most influential record moguls. Featuring interviews with Bruce Springsteen, Patti Smith, Paul Simon, and other stars about Davis’ musical impact.
Who is Clive Davis’ wife?
Davis has been married and divorced twice. He was married to Helen Cohen from 1956 to 1965 and to Janet Adelberg from 1965 to 1985.
Who did Clive Davis work with?
Under Davis’ leadership, Arista launched the careers of Whitney Houston, Barry Manilow, Patti Smith, Kenny G, and Sarah McLachlan. The label also attracted important artists like Aretha Franklin, The Grateful Dead, The Kinks, Lou Reed, Eurythmics, Dionne Warwick, Hall & Oates, and Carly Simon.
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