Muscle Shoals, population 13,000, sits on the Tennessee River, "the river that sings," according to Native American legend.Over the past 50 years, some of the world's top musicians have made hit records in Muscle Shoals."This is a rural spot in rural America, whereas when you think of other music meccas in America, they are more urban-based," explains filmmaker Greg Camalier.It started with the vision and determination of Rick Hall, says Camalier. Hall started FAME studios in Muscle Shoals in the late 1950s."His first hit was a song by a local bellhop at the hotel there, and it was a guy named Arthur Alexander, and he recorded the song "You Better Move On," said Camalier.Using old films and photos, the documentary shows how Hall developed a unique sound based on skilled studio engineering and the support of local talent, regardless of race.At a time when Alabama Governor George Wallace was fighting efforts to end racial segregation, black and white musicians in this corner of the state were working together, producing huge hits.
