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Health & Fitness

'20 Feet From Stardom' Explores Life Near The Spotlight

So close, yet so far. The subjects of the documentary “20 Feet From Stardom,” are mostly unknown, yet they played (and some continue to do so) a major role in some of the most iconic songs of our time. Most have never been given their due, but “20 Feet From Stardom” strives to bring some depth and history to some of the most successful backup singers in music. And after seeing this documentary, you might listen to music in a whole new way (and even songs such as “Gimme Shelter” by the Rolling Stones that you've no doubt heard countless times).

The particular question explored in the doc is why some people make it and some people don't. After all, virtually all of the backup singers featured have both the amazing voice and presence that is required to make a star. Plus, it sure doesn't hurt to have commentators such as Stevie Wonder, Bruce Springsteen, Mick Jagger, and Bette Midler.

Many of these singers' stories are tied to the musical, societal, and political revolutions of the 60s and 70s. Apparently, before that backup singers were expected to rigidly stick to singing the words on the page and no more. Improvisation and uniqueness of any kind were discouraged. Oh, and all the singers had to be white.

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Of course, all of that changed by the 60s as gospel and R&B became more mainstream, and music became more varied and flexible. (And if you forget, the nearest baby boomer will be sure to remind you.) Backup singers were also encouraged to add their own ideas and to let their voices fly free, especially by rock stars.

But, as Springsteen notes, there is a huge gulf between singing backup and being the star. He acknowledges what has become common knowledge: that talent isn't enough, and it takes a whole lotta ego and self-promotion, not to mention good luck, circumstances, and business savvy to take and hold the spotlight.

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Then there's the complete change of mindset required to become a superstar. The subjects note that singing backup requires you to focus on the needs of others and what the song requires, and how to best harmonize with everyone as a whole. This means that backup singers are usually a completely different animal, one that may not be able to withstand the pressures of fame and what is required to keep it.

And many of these singers who did get their shot failed. One has a heartbreaking story of another group lip-syncing to her song. Another actually won a Grammy for her first album, but never got to release a second. But it also features Sheryl Crow, who was a former backup singer herself. Why do some of the best singers succeed while others (some of whom can't actually sing) fail? Of course, there are no real answers, but “20 Feet From Stardom” tries its best.

The real problem with the documentary is that sometimes it only scratches the surface of the many issues at play. Almost all of these singers are women, and most are African-American. The fact that there bosses were all white is never alluded to, and one of the only times they seriously touch on race is when one singer struggles about whether to sing backup for Lynyrd Skynyrd's “Sweet Home Alabama.” The failure to fully explore or ignore such issues leaves a gaping hole, and the women deserve better. After all, audiences don't often applaud when the final credits roll.

Grade: B+
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