American Epic

American Epic (2016-2017)

EndedDocumentary showMusic, History

American Epic is a journey back in time to the "Big Bang" of modern popular music.

In the 1920s, as radio took over the pop music business, record companies were forced to leave their studios in major cities in search of new styles and markets. Ranging the mountains, prairies, rural villages, and urban ghettos of America, they discovered a wealth of unexpected talent. The recordings they made of all the ethnic groups of America democratized the nation and gave a voice to everyone. Country singers in the Appalachians, blues guitarists in the Mississippi Delta, gospel preachers across the south, Cajun fiddlers in Louisiana, tejano groups from the Texas Mexico border, Native American drummers in Arizona, and Hawaiian musicians were all recorded. For the first time, a woman picking cotton in Mississippi, a coal miner in Virginia, or a tobacco farmer in Tennessee could have their thoughts and feelings heard on records played in living rooms across the country. It was the first time America heard itself. Virtually no documentation of these extraordinary events survives and nearly ninety percent of the recording masters have been destroyed. A vital part of American cultural history has been lost.

Over a four-part series, a companion book, a soundtrack featuring 100 remastered songs, an educational outreach program, and a historical archive, American Epic rescues this history. The remarkable lives of America's seminal musicians are revealed through previously unseen film footage and photographs, and exclusive interviews with music pioneers, their families and eyewitnesses to the era.

Network
Scheduleevery Tuesday at 21:00 (60 min)

Recent Episodes

EpisodeNameAirdate
S01E03Out of the Many, the OneMai 30, 2017
S01E02Blood and SoilMai 23, 2017
S01E01The Big BangMai 16, 2017
View all episodesView all seasons

Frequently Asked Questions  Warning: Spoilers

When did American Epic premiere?

American Epic premiered on May 16, 2016.

How many episodes does American Epic have?

American Epic has 3 episodes.

Who directed American Epic?

American Epic was directed by Bernard MacMahon.

Who narrated American Epic?

Robert Redford narrated American Epic.

What is American Epic about?

American Epic is a documentary series that explores the early days of American music and its impact on the world.

What kind of music is featured in American Epic?

American Epic features a wide variety of music genres, including blues, country, gospel, Cajun, and Native American.

Who are some of the famous musicians featured in American Epic?

Some of the famous musicians featured in American Epic include Jack White, Taj Mahal, Willie Nelson, and Elton John.

What is the focus of the first episode of American Epic?

The first episode of American Epic focuses on the origins of American music and the invention of the recording technology that made it possible.

What historical events are covered in American Epic?

American Epic covers many historical events, including the Great Depression, the Dust Bowl, and the rise of radio.

What was the role of record companies in promoting American music?

Record companies played a significant role in promoting American music, especially in the early days of recording technology.

How did American music influence popular music around the world?

American music had a significant influence on popular music around the world, as many musicians drew inspiration from American artists and styles.

What is the significance of the song "Stackalee" in American music history?

"Stackalee" is a significant song in American music history, as it has been covered by many famous artists and has been interpreted in many different styles.

What is the significance of the Carter Family in American music history?

The Carter Family is significant in American music history as one of the first recording acts to achieve commercial success in country music.

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