Streaming on Hulu is “Lilith Fair: Building a Mystery.” This documentary explores the Lilith Fair, a musical festival founded by Sarah McLachlan. The movie focuses on female solo musicians and female-led bands. McLachlan, Paula Cole, Sheryl Crow, Brandi Carlile, Erykah Badu, Bonnie Raitt, Jewel, Indigo Girls, Mya, Natalie Merchant, and Emmylou Harris are interviewed.

Things we learned from watching the Lilith Fair documentary:

It was born out of the need to prove the music industry (radio, promotors, record labels, etc) that female artists can tour together as a success. McLachlan recruited Paula Cole as her first artist.

Artists like Missy Elliot and Erykah Badu had their first touring experience at Lilith Fair. Some other future superstars appeared at Lilith Fair as well including Sheryl Crow, Tracy Chapman, Bonnie Raitt, Erykah Badu, Fiona Apple, Missy Elliott, Nelly Furtado, Jewel, Queen Latifah and Christina Aguilera.

The artists were trying to dispel the toxic energy of the 90s of sexism. In the era of the “shock jock” where men would make sexual comments about women’s bodies and the stereotype of women not being able have success without the images of sexuality behind it.

McLachlan is often asked if shoe would bring the Lilith Fair back. She tried it in but the culture has changed so it wasn’t successful.

It also mentions that the female artist of today are writing their own path like Beyonce, Taylor Swift, and Billie Eillish.

It is one to watch. The story is informative.

Starring: Sarah McLachlan, Sheryl Crow, Erykah Badu, Paula Cole, Jewel, Bonnie Raitt, Natalie Merchant, Indigo Girls, Emmylou Harris, Brandi Carlile and Olivia Rodrigo

Directed by Ally Pankiw

1 Hour and 39 Minutes