The groundbreaking documentary SLY LIVES! (aka the Burden of Black Genius), directed by the acclaimed Ahmir “Questlove” Thompson, has made waves, and now, the musical journey continues with the release of its highly anticipated original motion picture soundtrack. Music lovers and fans of Sly And The Family Stone Sly And The Family Stone are in for a treat as Legacy Recordings, in collaboration with Sony Music Entertainment, announces the arrival of this sonic companion.
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This musical collection not only features the iconic hits that defined sly and the family stone sly and the family stone but also unveils a treasure trove of seven rare and previously unreleased alternate versions of their beloved tracks. Adding a contemporary flavor, the soundtrack includes three brand new edits masterfully crafted by Questlove himself, alongside Brooklyn’s own DJ, remixer, and hip-hop producer J.PERIOD.
Delving into the Soundscape of SLY LIVES!
The SLY LIVES! (aka The Burden of Black Genius) Original Motion Picture Soundtrack is a carefully curated experience, brought to life by author and music journalist Jeff Mao and producer/director Joseph Patel. Co-produced by Mao, Patel, Questlove, and Rob Santos, this soundtrack is a testament to the enduring legacy of sly and the family stone sly and the family stone. Fans can immerse themselves in this musical journey through various formats: the digital edition is available now, offering immediate access to this rich soundscape. Physical editions on CD and LP are slated for release on May 9th, promising a tangible piece of music history. Pre-orders for the CD and LP versions are currently open.
The documentary itself, SLY LIVES! (aka the Burden of Black Genius), a production of Two One Five Entertainment and Network Entertainment in partnership with MRC Non-Fiction and Disney’s Onyx Collective, delves deep into the captivating story of sly and the family stone sly and the family stone. This pioneering interracial and mixed-gender band shattered conventions in the late 1960s and 70s. Their groundbreaking fusion of soul, funk, gospel, Latin, and psychedelic rock resonated across a string of Top 40 hits, including anthems like “I Want to Take You Higher” and “Thank You (Falettinme Be Mice Elf Agin).” Their albums, such as 1969’s Stand! and 1971’s There’s a Riot Goin’ On, are considered cornerstones of music history.
The film poignantly captures the band’s meteoric rise and cultural dominance, while also exploring the complexities and often-unseen challenges faced by successful Black artists in America. Adding further depth, the documentary features insights from a stellar lineup of artists and luminaries including André 3000, D’Angelo, Nile Rogers, Chaka Khan, George Clinton, Q-Tip, Clive Davis, Ruth Copeland, and Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis.
Acclaim for SLY LIVES! and its Musical Journey
Since its premiere at the Sundance Film Festival on January 25th, SLY LIVES! (aka the Burden of Black Genius) has garnered widespread critical acclaim. Publications like Variety hailed it as a “dazzling and definitive funk-pop documentary,” while Vulture celebrated its insightful and exhilarating nature. The Wrap lauded the film as “illuminating” and “exceptionally rich,” praising Questlove’s directorial prowess. The Hollywood Reporter recognized it as a “tender and sobering love letter,” and Collider declared it an “essential rock documentary,” solidifying its status as a must-see film for music enthusiasts and fans of sly and the family stone sly and the family stone.
SLY LIVES! (aka the Burden of Black Genius) stands as Questlove’s second directorial venture of 2025, following Ladies & Gentlemen… 50 Years of SNL Music. These projects follow his Oscar-winning debut, Summer of Soul (…Or, When the Revolution Could Not Be Televised), further cementing his position as a significant voice in documentary filmmaking.
The SLY LIVES! Original Motion Picture Soundtrack is more than just a collection of songs; it’s an integral part of the sly and the family stone sly and the family stone story, enriching the documentary experience and offering fans a deeper connection to their music. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to the sounds of sly and the family stone sly and the family stone, this soundtrack is an essential addition to any music collection, promising a vibrant and historically significant listening experience.
