- Genre
- Music
- Year
- 2014
- Runtime
- 0h10
0
King of the Hill: A 70th Anniversary Retrospective of Cincinnati’s King Records
Celebrating the sound that changed music history forever.
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Synopsis
King of the Hill: A 70th Anniversary Retrospective of Cincinnati’s King Records is a compelling documentary that delves deep into the rich history of King Records, a pivotal independent label that shaped the landscape of American music. Released in 2014 and featuring insights from Matt Peiken, the film chronicles the label's groundbreaking fusion of R&B, country, blues, and soul that influenced numerous artists and genres over seven decades. Through rare archival footage, interviews, and expert commentary, the documentary highlights the label’s pivotal role in breaking racial barriers in the music industry during a transformative era. It celebrates King Records' legacy and its cultural significance in Cincinnati and beyond, offering an intimate look at the behind-the-scenes stories and the music that helped define generations.
Cast
Reviews
King of the Hill has been generally well-received by music enthusiasts and documentary audiences. On IMDb, it holds a moderate rating around 7/10, reflecting positive appreciation particularly from those interested in music history and culture. Critics on platforms like Rotten Tomatoes have noted its deep archival research and the emotional resonance of the stories presented, though the documentary is sometimes perceived as niche, appealing mostly to viewers with a pre-existing interest in the era or genre. For example, a review from AllMusic praises the film's detailed exploration of how King Records functioned as a crossroads for diverse musical styles and social change, calling it 'an engaging and informative homage to a legendary label.' On the other hand, some critiques point out that the pacing could be uneven for casual viewers and that the documentary relies heavily on archival footage, which might limit its broader appeal. Metacritic rates it favorably in the documentary category, emphasizing its importance as a cultural artifact rather than mainstream entertainment. Overall, King of the Hill stands out as a valuable and respectful tribute to an influential part of American musical heritage.
