In Partnership with SAG-AFTRA of Nashville, TN
Sounds In Cinema Presents
20 Feet From Stardom | A Film Screening & Live Discussion with Singer-Songwriter,
Janice Pendarvis
Date: Saturday, May 16, 2026
Film: 2:00 PM
Discussion: 3:30 PM
Location: The Roots Theater, National Museum of African American Music (NMAAM), 510 Broadway, Nashville, TN 37203
About Sounds In Cinema:
Join us for a curated documentary screening series that explores the powerful intersection of African American music and cinema. Each program highlights the stories, sounds, and cultural impact that have shaped generations, brought to life through compelling film and storytelling.
As part of our Sounds in Cinema free film series, these screenings go beyond the screen—featuring authentic industry conversations, special guest appearances, and, when possible, live discussions with the artists, producers, and music professionals behind the work. It’s an opportunity to engage directly with the voices who help preserve and elevate these stories, while experiencing the rich legacy of Black music through a cinematic lens.
About The Event:
Experience an unforgettable evening at the National Museum of African American Music with a special screening of 20 Feet from Stardom—the acclaimed film that brings long-overdue recognition to the extraordinary backup singers whose voices have defined some of music’s most iconic moments. Through powerful storytelling and intimate interviews, the film celebrates the talent, resilience, and influence of artists who have often stood just outside the spotlight.
Join us for a pre-screening reception during Heartbeat Saturday hosted in the NMAAM Lobby from 11:30 AM - 1:30 PM — featuring a live DJ, served with curated cocktails.
Following the screening, the conversation continues with an engaging panel featuring renowned singer-songwriter Janice Pendarvis, moderated by Grammy and Dove Award-nominated artist and SAG-AFTRA Nashville Chapter Vice President Bob Bailey. Together, they’ll dive deeper into the legacy, artistry, and cultural impact of these unsung heroes—offering personal insight and industry perspective on those voices. Unsung and unmatched: These are the stories that shaped the soundtrack of our time.
About the Film:
20 Feet From Stardom is an Academy Award–winning documentary that brings long-overdue recognition to the backup singers who have shaped some of the greatest moments in music history. Through powerful interviews and archival footage, the film follows artists like Darlene Love, Merry Clayton, and Judith Hill as they navigate the complexities of life just outside the spotlight. Both intimate and inspiring, the film explores themes of talent, sacrifice, recognition, and the pursuit of artistic fulfillment—revealing the voices that helped define generations of sound.
For more information: www.nmaam.org
Location: 510 Broadway, Nashville, TN 37203
Questions? Contact NMAAM at (629) 215-4130 or visit nmaam.org