The Summer of Soul (…Or, When the Revolution Could Not Be Televised) is a 2021 documentary film directed by Questlove that explores the 1969 Harlem Cultural Festival. The festival was a six-week event that took place in Mount Morris Park (now Marcus Garvey Park) in Harlem, New York, and featured some of the biggest musical acts of the time, including Stevie Wonder, Nina Simone, B.B. King, and Sly and the Family Stone.
Despite its incredible lineup and cultural significance, the festival received very little attention from the mainstream media at the time and was largely forgotten until the release of this documentary. The film includes never-before-seen footage and interviews with attendees and performers, providing a powerful look at the music, culture, and politics of the time.
The Summer of Soul is an important cultural document that sheds light on a pivotal moment in American history and the Black experience. It is a testament to the power of music to bring people together and inspire change, and an essential watch for anyone interested in the history of music, civil rights, and cultural movements.
