Onyx Collective’s Documentary ‘Sly Lives!’ Sets Hulu Premiere Date, Directed by Questlove [TEASER TRAILER]

Hulu has announced that Sly Lives! (aka The Burden of Black Genius), a documentary exploring the life and legacy of music legend Sly Stone, will debut on Thursday, February 13, 2025. Directed by Roots co-founder and Academy Award-winning filmmaker Ahmir “Questlove” Thompson, the film is part of Disney’s Onyx Collective and takes an in-depth look at the career and challenges of the trailblazing artist.

The newly released teaser trailer provides an early look at the documentary, which captures Stone’s rise to fame as the leader of Sly and the Family Stone. Known for their innovative fusion of soul, pop, and rock, the band left an indelible mark on music history. The film will make its world premiere at the 2025 Sundance Film Festival before streaming on Hulu.

The documentary features a range of guest appearances, including contributions from Andre 3000, D’Angelo, Chaka Khan, Q-Tip, Nile Rodgers, Jimmy Jam, Terry Lewis, George Clinton, Ruth Copeland, and Clive Davis. Additionally, bandmates Jerry Martini, Greg Errico, Larry Graham, and the late Cynthia Robinson share reflections on their groundbreaking work as part of Sly and the Family Stone. Personal stories from family members Sylvette Phunne Robinson, Novena Carmel, and Sylvester Stewart Jr. further enrich the narrative.

Formed in the San Francisco Bay Area in 1966, Sly and the Family Stone pushed boundaries with their multi-racial, multi-gender lineup and socially conscious anthems such as “Everyday People,” “Stand!,” and “Dance to the Music.” Their landmark performance at Woodstock and the success of the Stand! album solidified their status as cultural icons. However, Stone’s struggles with addiction and the pressures of fame led to a tumultuous period in his life and career. His recent autobiography, Thank You (Falettinme Be Mice Elf Agin), co-written with Questlove and Ben Greenman, delves into his story and legacy.

Sly Lives! is brought to life by the team behind the Oscar-winning Summer of Soul (…Or, When the Revolution Could Not Be Televised). Questlove serves as director, with Joseph Patel as producer and Josh Pearson as editor. Produced by MRC, Network Entertainment Inc., Two One Five Entertainment Inc., RadicalMedia, Stardust Films LLC, and ID8 Multimedia, the film’s executive producers include Common, Shawn Gee, and Zarah Zohlman.

Sly Lives! will debut exclusively on Hulu on February 13, 2025. The documentary offers a detailed exploration of Sly Stone’s music, influence, and the challenges he faced as a Black artist in America.

Watch the teaser trailer above and learn more about the life and legacy of one of music’s most transformative figures.