In the summer of 1969, an epic six-week cultural event took place in Mount Morris Park (now Marcus Garvey Park) in Harlem – just 100 miles south of Woodstock. The Harlem Cultural Festival celebrated Black history, culture and fashion; but the film footage from this event remained largely forgotten - until now. In his debut as a filmmaker, Ahmir “Questlove” Thompson presents a powerful documentary about the event that is part music film and part historical record. Summer of Soul brings to light the importance of history to spiritual well-being and the healing power of music during times of unrest. The documentary includes concert performances by Stevie Wonder, Nina Simone, Sly & the Family Stone, Gladys Knight & the Pips, Mahalia Jackson, B.B. King, the 5th Dimension and more.
