Overview

• Questlove's second documentary, 'Sly Lives!' examines the life and career of Sly Stone, focusing on his influence on music and culture as well as the personal struggles he faced.
• The film highlights Sly and the Family Stone's revolutionary approach to music, blending genres and breaking racial and gender barriers in the late 1960s and early 1970s.
• Through archival footage, interviews with artists like André 3000 and Chaka Khan, and expert analysis, the documentary explores the concept of 'Black genius' and its burdens.
• While some critics praise the film's musical insights and compelling historical context, others note its conventional structure and uneven exploration of its broader themes.
• The documentary emphasizes Sly Stone's enduring legacy, showcasing his influence on artists like Prince and Janet Jackson, despite his struggles with fame and substance abuse.