The first of the two films I directed & scripted for this highly ambitious 10-part Sky Arts music series. With a strongly defined cinematic style, each of the 10 programmes approaches its subject in a richly-themed rather than chronological manner. The desire for decadence, wanting it all, breaking the rules, challenging social conventions, pushing things to the limit – these are the primal constituents of rock and roll. It was never just about musical notes. With amazing access and specially-shot footage, this film takes an inventive dive into this indulgent world – from 1960’s teenage kicks to theatrical overload of the 1970’s, from getting high with Cypress Hill to the art of turning it up to 11…

Wayne Kramer, of the revolutionary band, MC5, describes the desire to get into rock & roll – and its promises of excess in 1960’s Detroit. Rick Wakeman recalls “Spinal Tap” moments in the 1970’s – the same decade that Bolan and Bowie beamed androgyny and homoerotism into the homes of middle England. The adventures in glamour continue with Martin Kemp and Duran Duran’s Nick Rhodes exploring the pop video decadence of the 1980’s. As Cypress Hill help to legalize weed, Slayer’s Kerry King reveals the fine art of amplification – and the sound of cats being run over. The road to excess might not always lead to the palace of wisdom, but as this film reveals it’s all about the ride, not the final destination.

DIRECTOR : James Maycock

BROADCASTER: SKY ARTS

PROGRAMME DURATION: 65 minutes

PRODUCTION COMPANY: PULSE FILMS

SERIES DIRECTOR: Sam Bridger

PULSE FILMS EXECUTIVE PRODUCER: Emma Cooper

SKY ARTS COMMISSIONING EXEC: Barbara Lee