- Runtime 30 minutes
- Total runtime 17 hours
- Status Ended
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External links
TheTVDB page
TheMovieDB page -
Last update
17 juillet 2018 - 20:41
on 11 databases
The Rock 'n' Roll Years
Documentary series which revisits the years from when rock 'n' roll began, connecting the events with the music via newsreels, headlines, movies, broadcasts, and rock performance footage. The Rock 'n' Roll Years was a BBC television programme aired between 1985 and 1994. In a half-hour time slot the programme focused on a different year each week, starting with the year 1956 and ending with 1989.
The format of the programme, which was based on the BBC Radio 1 series 25 Years of Rock, was primarily of news clips with narrative subtitles set to music of the time with no presenters or voice-overs. Archive footage of performers, mostly from BBC programmes such as Top of the Pops, was also featured. For instance, the programme on 1960 featured the Sharpeville massacre, the Russians shooting down two US spy planes, the advent of stiletto heels and the election of Kennedy to the White House set to music by Adam Faith, Duane Eddy and the Rebels, Cliff Richard and the Shadows, the Everly Brothers and Roy Orbison
Like 25 Years of Rock the programme was noted for its occasionally witty juxtaposition of news footage with appropriate songs, as when an excerpt from the wedding of Prince Charles and Princess Diana - in an episode made after the couple had split up - was accompanied by Lionel Richie and Diana Ross singing "Endless Love".
If you're a fan of music, nostalgia, or simply great TV, then you might want to tune into "Top of the Pops," a legendary British pop-music television series that captured hearts and defined generations. Running for over 40 years from 1964 to 2006, this iconic show not only showcased live performances but also featured pop videos that counted down to the UK Singles Chart's Number One record each week. With an impressive tally of over 2,200 editions, it stands as the longest-running weekly music show in history.
"Top of the Pops" offers viewers a unique glimpse into musical eras past. The series opened its doors with unforgettable performances like Dusty Springfield's "I Only Want To Be With You" and welcomed numerous famous artists throughout its run. From household names like The Beatles and Elvis Presley to contemporary stars like Snow Patrol during its final episode, each performance brought something special that resonated with audiences. The show's lasting legacy is evident in how it influenced popular culture—many artists consider their appearances on TOTP as significant milestones in their careers.
The format was straightforward yet captivating: each episode would feature a countdown of songs from the UK Singles Chart, showcasing both established hits and fresh new entries. Listeners could experience crowd favorites alongside new talent while enjoying memorable moments from presenters like Jimmy Savile and Alan Freeman. The chemistry between hosts added charm to every episode, drawing viewers back week after week for more sensational performances.
