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In this episode we take a look back at making some of Blur's best-known videos from 'Parklife' to 'Country house.' Featuring archive interviews with front man Damon Albarn, directors Damien Hirst and Pedro Romhanyi.
Documentary exploring the life and career of Roxy Music frontman Bryan Ferry, A rather miserly half-hour is allotted for a career overview of the Roxy Musician turned suave soloist. With his unique, sat-on-a-washing-machine vibrato, the singer has gone from sci-fi art rocker to mid-tempo crooner and from working-class upbringing to tuxedoed high society. Music critics weigh up the influence of pop’s Slave to Love and Jealous Guy, the unswerving vision he had for his group and the impact of their 1972 debut single Virginia Plain, notable for its pounded piano and early, Brian Eno synths.
Music journalists Camilla Pia, John Aizlewood, Will Hodgkinson, Michael Bonner and Hamish MacBain examine the history of the rock band and reflect on their success, Dire Straits. Led by Mark Knopfler, the band recorded six studio albums, including the bestselling Brothers in Arms. Dire Straits were a British rock band who emerged during the post-punk era of the late 1970s, active between 1977 and 1995.
Discovering: Eurythmics Documentary exploring the history of Eurythmics, examining Annie Lennox and Dave Stewart's unlikely partnership, the impact of their breakthrough hit Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This) and how they conquered the music scene on both sides of the Atlantic. When Annie Lennox first met Dave Stewart in a London restaurant, few predicted that the unlikely pair’s futuristic synthpop would become a defining sound of the 1980s. Critics and journalists including Michael Bonner, Hamish MacBain and John Aizlewood reflect on Stewart and Lennox's first band the Tourists and their early experiments with synthesizers.
Music journalists Camilla Pia, Will Hodgkinson and John Aizlewood are among those reflecting on the tumultuous history of Fleetwood Mac, from their early days led by founder Peter Green to the departure of Lindsey Buckingham ahead of a world tour in 1987. As well as discussing the band's deeply strained and intertwined personal lives, they examine how 1977 album Rumours exposed the turmoil that existed in the group at the time, and look at the experimental nature of their 1979 release Tusk.
We defy to you to watch this without singing along. Invisible Touch, In The Air Tonight, Tonight, Tonight, Tonight, Land of Confusion, In Too Deep, we could go on and on about the hits of the Grammy Award-winning band Genesis. This documentary takes a detailed look at the group's roots, which can be traced back to the Surrey school days of Tony Banks, Mike Rutherford and Phil Collins, through to their evolution into global superstars.
Charting the singer's rise to fame, from his partnership with Andrew Ridgeley in Wham! to his successful solo career in which he duetted with his idol Aretha Franklin.
Music critics Camilla Pia, Will Hodgkinson and Michael Bonner examine the 30-year career of synthpop duo Neil Tennant and Chris Lowe. They reflect on their hit singles, varied albums, reinventions, erudite and witty lyrics and love for highly theatrical costumes and colourful music videos.
Music journalists discuss the career of Phil Collins, whose writing talents have led him to sell over 100 million albums and win an Oscar for Disney's Tarzan soundtrack.
Pulp were arguably the greatest and most idiosyncratic pop group of the 1990s. This slight but hit-packed profile, cobbled together using archive stills, videos and some available talking heads, pays tribute to their glittering legacy. Although they formed in Sheffield in the early 1980s, their career didn't take off until the release of their 1994 album His 'n' Hers. After that, with epoch-defining records such as the volcanic Common People, they became one of the linchpins of Britpop. Their charismatic leader Jarvis Cocker was even a bona fide national celebrity and, with his NHS specs and charity shop clobber, an unlikely style icon. But having achieved fame at a relatively late age, it all proved too much for the band. Jarvis succumbed to cocaine addiction - thankfully, he's long since recovered - and their star eventually waned. Nevertheless, as this programme reminds us, the gangling bard of Sheffield remains one of the wittiest social commentators in the annals of pop. Music critics and journalists Michael Bonner, Hamish MacBain and John Aizlewood explore the band's frustration at the reception of their first three albums.
Journalists discuss Radiohead's rise from Oxfordshire school friends to rock superstars, looking back at their entire back catalogue, from Pablo Honey to The King of Limbs.
Documentary examining the defining moments in the musician's career. After coming to the world's attention as the charismatic leader of arena-filling power trio The Police, the man born Gordon Sumner went on to enjoy a hugely successful and varied solo career. The programme examines the internal bickering that led to his dramatic exit from the band following a sell-out performance at Shea Stadium, and the bold new identity he forged on his debut solo album The Dream of the Blue Turtles. It also explores the impact of his collaboration with rap superstar Nas, and the sampled use of his classic Every Breath You Take on Puff Daddy's hit tribute to the late Biggie Smalls.
A look at the life of Tintin creator Georges Remi, whose tales of reporter Tintin and his canine sidekick Snowy have stood the test of time, despite controversy over his early work.
Think you know all about ABBA? Think again. This fascinating documentary explores how they were formed and how they went on to become the second biggest selling pop act after The Beatles.
A look at the life, music and legend of Johnny Cash, from his hard early life in Arkansas to his cover of the Nine Inch Nails song Hurt, released just months before his death in 2003. The film explores his friendship with Elvis Presley, his relationship with wife June Carter Cash, the influence of Bill Monroe, Hank Williams and Jimmie Rodgers on his music and his unexpected collaboration with record producer Rick Rubin. Featuring performance footage, including his rendition of A Boy Named Sue at Folsom Prison, as well as interviews with the star in his latter years
David Bowie is one of the most pioneering and influential performers of modern times. He's had a long and successful career and been a major figure in the music world for over four decades, during which time it is estimated he has sold about 140 million albums. As the Victoria and Albert Museum's David Bowie exhibition proves itself the fastest seller in the institution's history, leading music critics and DJs explore the life, music, legacy and larger-than-life stage characters of the glam rock legend, who recently made a chart comeback with his first album in a decade, The Next Day.
Documentary exploring the life and career of the guitarist, who is the only musician to have been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame three times - as a solo act and as a member of the Yardbirds and Cream
Leading music critics cast fresh light on the career of award-winning American singer songwriter Paul Simon. Simon's fame, influence and success began as part of duo Simon & Garfunkel, which was formed in 1964 with Art Garfunkel. The duo had many hits including The Sound Of Silence, Mrs Robinson and Bridge Over Troubled Water. Although they split up in 1970, Simon continued with a successful solo career. During his distinguished career he has received many honours and awards including 12 Grammys and in 2003 he was given a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award for his work as half of the successful duo.
Friends and fans of the legendary British rock band reflect on their remarkable career and how they continually pushed the musical envelope with each album leaving a legacy of outstanding songs and videos that shaped popular culture. The film includes archive interview footage of Freddie in the 80s, as well as contributions from leading figures in the music industry. Find out about the story behind their show stealing performance at Live Aid, their collaboration with David Bowie and the sadness behind the video of These Are The Days of Our Lives.
Born Reginald Dwight on 25 March 1947, he was something of a child prodigy and would go on to become a prolific songwriter and one of Britain's most accomplished and acclaimed musicians, selling out tours the world over. His humanitarianism has been suitably honoured, particularly in the ever-important fight against AIDS. Through all of this, he has continued to contribute extensively to the music industry, with songs that reach across the age spectrum and settle into the collective memory such as Your Song, Tiny Dancer, Rocket Man, Don't Let the Sun Go Down on Me, Candle in the Wind, Circle of Life and many more. Elton hasn't just limited himself to albums and concerts. He wrote the songs for the1994 animated film The Lion King, for which he won the Oscar for Best Song with Can You Feel the Love Tonight. Four years later he adapted The Lion King for Broadway and in 2005 he composed music for a West End stage production of Billy Elliot. This documentary takes a look at his long and successful career, exploring his greatest hits with the help of leading industry figures.
Leading music critics reflect on the life and career of Rod Stewart.
Music critics and fans look back at the 30-year career of progressive rockers Pink Floyd, famed for their hugely successful concept albums and elaborate live shows. Founded in 1965, the band originally consisted of students Syd Barrett, Nick Mason, Roger Waters, and Richard Wright. They first gained popularity performing in London's underground music scene during the late 1960s, and under Barrett's creative leadership they released two charting singles and a successful debut album. David Gilmour joined as a fifth member in December 1967, and Barrett left the band in April 1968 due to his deteriorating mental health. After Barrett's departure, Waters became their primary songwriter and lyricist. Pink Floyd achieved critical and commercial success with the concept albums The Dark Side of the Moon (1973), Wish You Were Here (1975), Animals (1977), The Wall (1979) and The Final Cut (1983).
A look at the rise of heavy metal pioneers Black Sabbath. The hell-raising quartet, led by Ozzy Osbourne, changed the face of rock with the release of Paranoid in 1970.
This fascinating look at the rise of English electronic band Depeche Mode follows David Gahan, Martin Gore and Andrew Fletcher from the band's formation in 1980 through to the creation of their hit compositions which would influence much of the electronic music that followed. Their early sound was defined by the synthesiser with hits such as Everything Counts 1983), People are People (1985) and Strangelove (1987). However it was the release of singles Personal Jesus and Enjoy The Silence followed by the album Violator (1990) that propelled Depeche Mode to global superstardom. Three years later their status as one of the biggest groups in the world was sealed when the LP Songs of Faith of Devotion secured the number one slot on both sides of the Atlantic. But the subsequent 14-month long 'Devotion Tour' would take its toll on the band. Here is a clip from Enjoy The Silence, a track that sits at number 15 in Pitchfork Media's Top 200 Tracks of the 90s.
A look at how Iron Maiden have led the way in heavy metal by selling more than 50 million records, setting trends and influencing bands from Metallica to Marilyn Manson
Music experts trace the rise of rock superstars Muse, from their early days in Devon to their multiple number one albums and electrifying gigs.
Documentary charting the rise of English band New Order, from their creation in the wake of Ian Curtis's death in 1980 to their subsequent 1983 hit Blue Monday and beyond.
A unique look at the rise of REM, from their early days in Athens, Georgia, to their sell-out tours and bestselling albums.
New. Music experts take a revealing look at Mick Hucknall's multi-Brit Award-winning soul and pop band that has sold more than 50 million albums over a 25-year career.
Documentary charting the rise and enduring legacy of The Smiths, who offered a guitar-based alternative to the synth-heavy sound of the 80s.
Documentary looking into the successes and struggles of Guns N' Roses, one of the world's bestselling and most controversial bands.
Documentary charting the rise of rock band Foo Fighters, from their debut album, consisting solely of Dave Grohl's solo recordings, to their sell-out tours and beyond.
Music journalists discuss the life and career of singer Amy Winehouse, who found worldwide fame with her eclectic mix of jazz, pop, soul and R&B before passing away in 2011.
Music journalists shine a light on the Bee Gees, whose hits such as Jive Talkin', How Deep Is Your Love and Stayin' Alive continue to light up dance floors around the world
A look back at the music of new wave and punk pioneers Blondie. Led by Debbie Harry and Chris Stein, the group hit the mainstream with their 1978 album Parallel Lines.
Music journalists look at the remarkable career of Cher, from her duets with then-husband Sonny Bono to her Academy, Grammy and Emmy Award wins and more.
A look at the rise of British rock band Coldplay, from their formation in London in 1996 to their bestselling albums, sell-out tours and multiple Grammy Award wins.
Music experts look at the work of Paul Weller, the singer-songwriter who was a member of bands The Jam and The Style Council before embarking on a successful solo career.
The spotlight falls on the colourful life of rock'n'roll icon Little Richard, whose dance-worthy hits include Good Golly, Miss Molly and Tutti Frutti.
A fascinating look at English punk rock band The Clash. Led by Joe Strummer and guitarist Mick Jones, The Clash helped define the punk rock sound of the late 1970s.
Journalists examine the life and music of Tina Turner, who rose to fame in the 1960s alongside then-husband Ike Turner, before enjoying a highly successful solo career.
Considered by many to be one of the pioneers of punk music, Iggy Pop found fame with his wild on-stage antics and hit song Real Wild Child.
Music journalists discuss the rise of Irish rock band U2, from their humble beginnings in Dublin to finding international superstardom with the Joshua Tree and beyond.
A look at the legacy of LA rock band The Eagles. Among the most successful recording artists of the 1970s, their hits include Hotel California and Take it Easy.
Music experts explore the music of Jethro Tull, one of the most commercially successful and eccentric progressive-rock bands Britain has ever produced.
Music journalists examine the life and music of Michael Lee Aday, better known as Meat Loaf, the larger than life singer-songwriter behind Bat Out of Hell.
A look at the rise of rock opera pioneers The Who, from their formation at school in Acton, London, to their award-winning albums and sell out tours around the world.
Music experts discuss the life and music of Jimi Hendrix, who wowed audiences in the 1960s with his outrageous electric guitar playing skills and his experimental sound.
A look at the life and music of Janis Joplin. Known for her powerful, blues-inspired vocals, she rose to fame in the late 1960s before dying of a drug overdose in 1970.
Music experts discuss the legacy of 1970s brother and sister pop duo the Carpenters, who sang such hits as (They Long to Be) Close to You and We've Only Just Begun.
A look at the rise of The Beach Boys, the iconic rock/pop group who rose to stardom with their happy, fun-loving songs that were filled with beautiful harmonies.
Music experts discuss the rise of The Monkees. Though made for a TV show, the group had real-life hits including I'm a Believer and Daydream Believer.
Leading music journalists explore the music of Peter Gabriel, a founding member of Genesis who went on to achieve great solo success around the world.
A fascinating look at The Mamas and The Papas, the American folk rock group whose easygoing vocal harmonies provided the soundtrack to the late 60s.
A fascinating look at the life and career of James Brown. Dubbed 'the Godfather of Soul', he was one of the most iconic figures in music up until his death in 2006.
Music journalists examine the life and music of Stevie Wonder, the iconic figure whose hits include You Are the Sunshine of My Life and Superstition.
Music journalists examine the life and music of Roy Orbison, the rock'n'roll hall of fame legend behind hits Oh, Pretty Woman, Only the Lonely and Crying.
A fascinating look at English rock band The Cure. Led by the inimitable Robert Smith, they are one of the most influential new wave bands in history.
Music journalists examine the life and music of Elvis Costello, who exploded on to the late 70s new wave scene with raw energy and ingenious songwriting.
A fascinating look at American rock band The Doors. Led by Jim Morrison, they were one of the most revolutionary and influential bands of the 60s.
An eye-opening look at Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young, the folk-rock super group famed for their vocal harmonies and volatile interpersonal relationships.
From Crazy Horse to Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young, Neil Young was a driving force behind some of the biggest groups of the 60s before finding huge success on his own.
A look at the life and music of Canadian singer-songwriter Leonard Cohen, who was known for his poetic lyrics and iconic songs, such as Bird on the Wire and Hallelujah.
