5 Must-Watch Hip-Hop Documentaries Arriving In 2023

As 2023 marks the 50th anniversary of the birth of hip-hop, this year promises an array of music documentaries that transport us into the lives and creative journeys of legendary artists, shedding light on the trials and triumphs that have shaped the soundtracks of our lives.

From exploring the enigmatic rise of trailblazing female figures in hip-hop to shedding light on the private struggles of iconic musicians, these films offer a captivating glimpse into the essence of music, highlighting both its cultural significance and the transformative power it holds.

In this article, we present a curated list of must-see music documentaries set to release in 2023 - some of which have already gone live — each providing a unique window into the lives, challenges, and triumphs of influential artists who have made their mark on the culture.

Release date: Jan. 22, 2017

Where to watch: Netflix

"Roxanne, Roxanne" is a 2017 American drama film directed by Michael Larnell. The film is a biographical drama inspired by the life of Lolita Shanté Gooden, better known as Roxanne Shanté. It follows the life and struggles of Roxanne Shanté as a young woman growing up in the Queensbridge Projects in New York City during the 1980s — from a troubled upbringing to her rise as one of the first female battle rappers.

Fans can expect an intimate look at how the artist navigated the challenges and obstacles she faced on her path to success, including her difficult family life, dealing with misogyny in the male-dominated hip-hop scene, as well as her struggles with poverty and violence in her neighborhood. Gooden's journey is one of resilience and determination.

Release date: Feb. 10, 2022

Where to watch: Netflix

"Jeen-yuhs: A Kanye Trilogy" is a docu-series that delves into the life, career, and impact of controversial rapper and producer, Kanye West — including his work as a musician, fashion designer, and cultural influencer.

Known for pushing boundaries and challenging the status quo in both his music and fashion endeavors "Jeen-yuhs" offers a comprehensive retrospective of his life, showcasing his creative evolution, personal struggles, and cultural influence over the decades; providing viewers with a more intimate and behind-the-scenes look at West's impact on shaping his artistry.

Release date: Aug. 9, 2023

Where to watch: Netflix

As 2023 commemorates the 50th anniversary of the birth of hip-hop, the timing of this four-part limited documentary, "Ladies First," couldn't have been more fitting. The first trailer of the documentary features hip-hop icons like Queen Latifah and Da Brat, who reflect on the formidable challenges they faced in establishing their presence in a predominantly male-driven industry.

Netflix describes the series as a recontextualization of the "pioneering women in hip-hop," reaffirming their pivotal role in the genre's 50-year history and rightfully placing them at the center of its narrative, both from its inception to the present day.

Release date: TBD

Where to watch: TBD

Nicki Minaj's highly-anticipated documentary, initially announced in November 2020, has generated significant buzz among her fans. In July 2022, Nicki the Ninja teased a trailer for the six-part series on her Instagram, hinting that it's "coming sooner than you think."

While originally set to premiere on HBO Max, the series has encountered changes in distribution. Nevertheless, enthusiasts can anticipate its release sometime this year. In the trailer, Minaj candidly discusses her journey to superstardom, the challenges of the music industry, and her unwavering dedication to the art of rap, despite the historical lack of recognition for female artists in the genre.

Release date: TBD

Where to watch: A&E

Get ready for 'Biography: Ol’ Dirty Bastard,' the first-ever authorized documentary about the late rapper Ol' Dirty Bastard, set to release in 2023 on A&E Networks.

This two-hour film is slated to feature interviews with peers, family, and his wife, Icelene Jones, who provided never-before-seen footage, offering an intimate look into the life of Russell Jones, the son, husband, father, and artist. Don't miss this in-depth portrayal of ODB's legacy.