What's Happening in Scottsdale, AZ…

Scottsdale’s Arizona MusicFest is hosting a screening of 20 Feet from Stardom this August.

The free screening, part of the Movies at Musicfest series’ lineup of other documentaries this year, will include a discussion hosted by musicians afterward.

The film explores the lives and stories of the backup singers who helped shape some of the most well-known musical artists. Using interviews from Bette Midler, Sting, Bruce Springsteen, Stevie Wonder and Mick Jagger, among others, 20 Feet from Stardom shines a light on the unsung vocalists who helped elevate some of pop’s biggest names in the music world.

Concert footage is incorporated alongside the interviews to weave the tales of these singers, many of whom were African American. Some of these notable singers include Darlene Love, Merry Clayton, Lisa Fisher, Stephanie Alexander and Patti Austin.

Written and directed by Morgan Nevill, 20 Feet from Stardom won the Academy Award for Best Documentary in 2014.

After the film screening, a discussion will be led by music director, local conductor and pianist Josh Condon. Condon has toured the world on major cruise lines and created jazz ensemble interpretations of pop hits.

Movies like this may choose to use poster printing to create low-cost promotion in the community.

20 Feet from Stardom with Josh Condon is playing on August 26 from 10 am to 11:45 am at The Annex at Arizona MusicFest at 7950 E Thompson Peak Parkway in Scottsdale.