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VH1 Rock Docs: The Night James Brown Saved Boston
This episode of VH1 Music Studio showcases one of the most influential concerts of the 1960's. The night is April 5, 1968 - one night after the assassination of Martin Luther King, Jr., and America's inner cities began going up in flames. In an effort to keep the fragile peace in Boston, Mayor Kevin White considered canceling that day's long-scheduled James Brown concert in fear that it could incite civil unrest. Instead, the concert was televised and James encouraged his fans to watch the show at home. That night, James Brown sang, and the city of Boston didn’t burn. Now, 40 years later, through rarely seen footage of the concert and with the personal reminiscences of James Brown's band members, colleagues, awe-struck concert-goers, Boston city government officials and the pointed commentary of several distinguished observers of African-American history - the dramatic and emotionally-riveting story unfolds.
VH1 (1:00)(Year)
Music, Social Studies
VH1, September 2, October 7
4am EST/MT/PT, 3am CT, (11pm HST — Monday Night)
MUSIC LESSON PLANS:
Lesson
1
Lesson
2
Lesson
3
Click here to watch preview
VH1 Rock Docs: NY77: The Coolest Year In Hell
NY77: The Coolest Year In Hell tells the story of one of the most astonishing pop culture years in American history. New York City had fallen in decay and chaos. Yet out of the chaos emerged one of the most creative times any city has ever encountered. Hip Hop was emerging from the South Bronx, punk music was emerging from the lower eastside, and disco was emerging from Queens and midtown Manhattan. In the beginning of the year, the world was not paying attention, and most of this activity existed in its own underground bubble. Yet by the end of 1977, all of this artistic expression was about to become part of mainstream America and would remain popular for generations to come.
VH1 (1:00)(Year)
Music, Social Studies
VH1, November 6, December 4, 4am EST/MT/PT, 3am CT, (11pm HST - Monday Night)
MUSIC LESSON PLANS:
Lesson
1
Lesson
2
Lesson
3
Click here to watch preview
VH1 Rock Docs: Bling'd: Blood, Diamonds, and Hip Hop
This episode of VH1 Music Studio showcases a thought-provoking installment of VH1’s documentary series VH1 Rock Docs. VH1 Rock Docs: Bling'd: Blood, Diamonds, and Hip Hop takes a hard-hitting look at the illegal diamond trade in Sierra Leone, West Africa and how "blinging" in the flashy world of commercial hip-hop played a role in the 11-year civil war, which ended in 2002. In Bling'd, Hip Hop heavyweights Paul Wall, Raekwon (of Wu Tang Clan), reggaetón king Tego Calderon, Kanye West, Jadakiss, as well as other luminaries weigh in on how hip-hop can redefine the diamond culture and the consequences of that embrace. Due to some graphic images, teacher discretion is advised.
VH1 (1:00)(Year)
Music
VH1, May 1, 4am EST/MT/PT, 3am CT, (11pm HST -- Monday Night)
Lesson 1
Lesson 2
Lesson 3
SOCIAL STUDIES LESSON PLANS:
Lesson 1
Lesson 2
Lesson 3
VH1's ICE-T's RAP SCHOOL
In honor of Music In Our Schools Month, March’s VH1 Music Studio will feature a program every week, highlighting the entire six episodes of VH1's hit series Ice-T’s Rap School. Rap legend Ice-T adopts a class of 7th and 8th graders that attend New York City’s exclusive York Prep School on Manhattan’s Upper West Side. Throughout the series, Ice-T teaches the class how to express themselves lyrically using hip hop as an art form. The students learn to use rap to find their own voices and gain confidence in themselves, while Ice-T uses this chance to prove to skeptical parents and faculty that hip hop can be a positive force in children’s lives.
March 6 - Episodes 1 & 2
March 13 - Episodes 3 & 4
March 20 - Episodes 5 & 6
4am EST/MT/PT, 3am CT, (11pm HST -- Monday Night)
Click here to watch preview.
MUSIC LESSON PLANS:
Lesson
1
Lesson
2
Lesson
3
VH1 Storytellers: Pearl Jam
This episode of VH1 Storytellers showcases one of the most influential bands of the 1990s grunge movement: Pearl Jam. Eddie Vedder, Stone Gossard, Mike McCready, Jeff Ament and Matt Cameron take the stage to perform new songs from their latest self-titled album Pearl Jam in addition to some of their past hits, and in between sets answer questions from their fans. VH1 Storytellers features the greatest singers and songwriters performing their music and telling the stories behind their greatest songs on this acclaimed VH1 music performance series. Each one-hour episode takes viewers behind the scenes with a single artist or group, featuring intimate musical performances and the first-hand stories behind the performer's hits and sentimental favorites.
VH1, November 7, 4am EST/MT/PT, 3am CT, (11pm HST - Monday Night)
Click here to watch preview.
MUSIC LESSON PLANS:
Lesson
1
Lesson
2
Lesson
3
SOCIAL STUDIES LESSON PLANS:
Lesson 1
Lesson 2
Lesson 3
VH1 Driven: Shakira
This month's episode of VH1 Music Studio showcases VH1's biographical series Driven: Shakira, and takes viewers behind the scenes of this worldwide pop sensation's life. With her unique musical style, a blend of pop, rock, Latin, and Middle Eastern influences, Shakira has captured the hearts of legions of fans across the world, and as she continues to release cross-over albums in two languages, her popularity is sure to only grow. From her musical beginnings in Columbia to her breakthrough success on the American music scene, VH1 documents her rise to fame and success, including all the triumphs and setbacks along the way.
May 2 - VH1 Driven: Shakira
VH1, May 2 at 4am ET/MT/PT, 3am CT
Click here to watch preview.
MUSIC LESSON PLANS:
Lesson 2
Lesson 3
Show's website
VH1 Storytellers: Dave Matthews Band
This episode of VH1 Music Studio spotlights the Dave Matthews Band as they perform old favorites and a host of new songs from their latest album Stand Up, during an intimate taping of VH1 Storytellers. In quintessential Storytellers form, the band (Dave Matthews, Stefan Lessard, Leroi Moore, Boyd Tinsley, and Carter Beauford) answers questions from fans and give an honest and revealing look at the stories behind their songs. VH1 Storytellers features the greatest singers and songwriters performing their music and telling the stories behind their greatest songs on this acclaimed VH1 music performance series. Each one-hour episode takes viewers behind the scenes with a single artist or group, featuring intimate musical performances and the first-hand stories behind the performer's hits and sentimental favorites.
February 7 - VH1 Storytellers: Dave Matthews Band
Click here to watch preview.
MUSIC LESSON PLANS:
Lesson
3
VH1 News Presents: Tracking the Monster: Ashley Judd and India.Arie Confront AIDS in Africa
This episode of VH1 Music Studio chronicles two emotional journeys to Africa by actress Ashley Judd and Grammy winner India.Arie as they witness the effects of HIV/AIDS in Kenya and Madagascar. In Nairobi, India.Arie assists KENWA (the Kenya Network of Women with AIDS), an organization that provides treatment and care for women and children orphaned by AIDS. Meanwhile, Ashley volunteers in Madagascar as a peer educator, helping the public understand the importance of being tested for HIV, and building public awareness about modifying their behavior in regards to AIDS. This documentary reveals the broad story of the global AIDS crisis -- and the fact that no matter where you go, the real enemy is ignorance. And the common cure is understanding.
Click here to watch preview.
For more information and materials, please click here.
SOCIAL STUDIES LESSON PLANS:
Lesson
1 - Fame, Fortune and Responsibility
Lesson
2 - Geography and AIDS - Mapping the Monster
Lesson
3 - Disease, Pandemics, and the role of Government
VH1 All Access Spotlight:
U2
This episode takes viewers on an intimate journey behind
the scenes and on the road with one of the world's greatest bands. After
a three-year absence from the spotlight, U2 is rocking the world and VH1
is catching up with the super group. After selling 180 million albums
and winning 17 Grammy's, the band is as relevant today as they were in
the 1980's with their mega hit album The Joshua Tree. Now, after
releasing their 11th new album How to Dismantle an Atomic Bomb,
VH1 is with them every step of the way as the band prepares for their
highly anticipated world tour. From their rehearsal in Rosarito, Mexico,
to the dress rehearsal in Vancouver, Canada to opening night in San Diego,
only VH1 is there as U2 discusses their lives, their inspirations, and
their music.
Click here to watch preview.
MUSIC LESSON PLANS:
Lesson
3
VH1's When Disco Ruled the World
This episode features VH1's oral history of "When Disco Ruled the World," revealing how disco music, fashion and culture evolved from the underground to the mainstream as this new party music swept through the country's nightclubs, radio stations, and television shows. The release of Saturday Night Fever marked the peak of disco's popularity, and artists as diverse as the Bee Gees, the Rolling Stones, and Barbra Streisand all tried their hand at recording disco records. But eventually this fun-loving lifestyle that sought to unify gender, race, and class took a hard turn and the disco market took its toll. By the late 1970s, a counter-reaction to disco was started by those who felt the country had lost its better judgment, and by 1980, disco was all but over. VH1 interviews the top DJs, label heads, TV producers, musical artists and movie stars of the era that made disco the supreme cultural event it was. Please note, this show contains some references to sexuality and drugs that may not be appropriate for all classrooms. Teacher discretion is advised.
VH1, May 3 4:00 am, 4am ET/MT/PT, 3am CT
Click here to watch preview.
MUSIC LESSON PLANS:
Lesson
1 - Minority Influence on the Disco Era
Lesson 3 - "Disco Sucks!"
SOCIAL STUDIES LESSON PLANS:
Lesson
1 - Finding Our Place in Time
Lesson 2 - Did Disco Change
America?
Lesson 3 - Disco - Voices
of a New Generation
Bands Reunited:
The English Beat and Berlin
This episode features VH1's hit show Bands Reunited,
which chronicles the efforts to reunite two of the most popular and influential
bands from the 1980s: The English Beat and Berlin. The English Beat featured
a diverse line-up in terms of age, race, and musical styles, and their
unique fusion of punk, reggae and ska led to a string of hits whose influence
continues to be heard in some of the most popular music of today. Berlin,
perhaps best known for "Take My Breath Away," the hit theme from Top Gun,
was one of the hottest new wave/electro-pop groups of the 1980s, but after
their bitter break-up, many members chose to pursue careers outside of
music. Each program of VH1's Bands Reunited chronicles the effort to reunite
a popular band from decades past for an unscripted one time only reunion
and performance. This episode illustrates important lessons in perserverance,
practice, teamwork and resolving differences.
VH1, March 8 4:00 am, 4am ET/MT/PT, 3am CT
Click here to watch clip
1, clip
2.
MUSIC LESSON PLANS:
Lesson
3
VH1's
25 Greatest Protest Songs
This episode features VH1's salute to the songs that
made a difference in the countdown show "25 Greatest Protest Songs."
Hosted by John Mellencamp, the show highlights a broad cross section of
American music - from the anthems of the civil rights era to the revolution
rock of today. The songs featured are influential not only for their musical
impact but also for their ability to educate and inspire generations with
the various social issues that are found within their lyrics. The diverse
list of songs include Bob Dylan's "Blowin' in the Wind", Bruce
Springsteen's "Born in the USA", and Marvin Gaye's "What's
Goin' On." This episode illustrates how music can be used as a powerful
tool to allow those who are not always represented by the media to exercise
their right to freedom of speech, as well as shows how music can help
to influence and change the world.
VH1, February 1, 4am ET/MT/PT, 3am CT
Click
here to watch preview.
MUSIC LESSON PLANS:
Lesson
1
Lesson 2
Lesson 3
SOCIAL STUDIES LESSON PLANS:
Lesson
1
Lesson 2
Lesson 3
Show's website
And You Don't Stop: 30 Years of Hip Hop (Part 1 and 2)
This episode features VH1's groundbreaking and innovative
documentary "And You Don't Stop: 30 Years of Hip Hop," which spotlights
the incredible rise of the hip hop art form from its humble beginnings
in the South Bronx to the global, cultural and economic powerhouse it
has become. VH1 documents this explosion in music and culture as it follows
hip hop's birth in an impoverished and neglected section of New York to
how it inspired a generation of downtown rockers and began to make inroads
into the record business, finally to emerge as a mainstream form of music.
The documentary showcases the evolution of hip hop from its initial debut
at 1970s New York street parties through to the present day, where hip
hop talent hails from cities across the US, and explores how and why hip
hop emerged in different communities across the country. It examines the
struggles and prejudice that female performers in hip hop faced in order
to succeed in a male dominated art form, and concludes by noting the astonishing
contemporary influence of hip hop on the worlds of high fashion, big money
advertising, professional sports, and national politics.
Part 1: VH1, December 7 2004, 4am ET/MT/PT, 3am
CT
Click
here to watch preview.
MUSIC LESSON PLANS:
Lesson
1
Lesson 3
SOCIAL STUDIES LESSON PLANS:
Lesson
1 - "Back in the Day" (The Origin of Hip Hop)
Lesson 2 - "Back in the
Day" (Our Story)
Lesson 3 - "Back in the
Day" (One World)
Part 2: VH1, January 4,2005 4am ET/MT/PT, 3am CT
Click
here to watch preview.
MUSIC LESSON PLANS:
Lesson
1
Lesson 2
Lesson 3
SOCIAL STUDIES LESSON PLANS:
Lesson
1 - A Comparative Study of the Civil Rights Movement & the Grassroots
Hip Hop Movement
Lesson 2 - Hip Hop and
Political Activism
Lesson 3 - Hip Hop and
Geography
Show's website
Presents: Soundtrack to War
This episode is an intimate, raw, and gripping account of
the strength and influence of music in wartime, and illustrates how music
serves as a powerful motivator to American soldiers during times of battle.
The troops confide how their favorite songs help to both psyche themselves
up and calm themselves back down, and they speak about how creating music
encourages them to open up about their experiences in the field. Many
of them find that sharing and performing songs together during the quiet
downtimes not only helps to relax them, but also helps them to survive.
Featuring spontaneous musical performances by battle-weary soldiers in
such genres as R&B, country, gospel, and even metal, this episode showcases
the uncanny ability that music has to calm, soothe, excite, inspire, and
energize people even under the most extreme conditions. Please note that
this show features war time footage, with some intense images.
VH1, November 2, 2004 4am ET/MT/PT, 3am CT
Click
here to watch preview.
SOCIAL STUDIES LESSON PLANS:
Lesson
1 - Music, Culture and War
Lesson 2 - Historical
Comparison of Anti-War Music
Lesson 3 - Creating
Music
MUSIC LESSON PLANS:
Lesson
1
Lesson 2 - Music:
A Uniting Force?
Lesson 3 - Songs
for Soldiers
Show's website
VH1(Inside)Out: Trey and Dave Go to Africa
This episode documents the historical, educational and
spiritual journey of Dave Matthews of the Dave Matthews Band and Trey
Anastasio of the band Phish as they travel halfway around the world to
Senegal, Africa to play with the legendary music group Orchestra Baobab,
whose unique blend of Afro-Cuban music has been captivating and influencing
international audiences for over 30 years. For Dave and Trey, who approached
this venture very much as a learning experience, and who had to overcome
language, cultural, and musical boundaries between themselves and their
new friends, their journey took them far away from their familiar surroundings
and into a new world, eventually culminating in a joint performance onstage
with Orchestra Baobab in front of an audience that didn't even know their
names, let alone their music. This episode emphasizes that despite their
obvious differences, both sides are able to learn from, and teach one
another, as well as connect on a very personal level through the common
language of music
VH1, October 5, 2004 4am ET/MT/PT
Click
here to watch preview.
LESSON PLANS:
Lesson
1
Lesson 2
Lesson 3
Ultimate Albums: Alicia Keys, Songs in A Minor
It was the album that launched the career of a musical prodigy and returned old-fashioned organic soul to the charts. Amid a sea of manufactured pop kittens, Alicia Keys was the real deal - a musician who composed, produced and arranged her own music. 2001's Songs In A Minor was a stunning achievement from a major artist in the making. Combining elements of classical, hip-hop, r&b and classic soul, Keys touched a nerve with a public hungry to keep it real. Showing an emotional depth beyond her years, Keys' rookie effort debuted at No. 1, and would go on to sell five million copies and earn multiple Grammys on the strength of poignant, wise-beyond-her-years singles like "Fallin" and "Woman's Worth."
VH1, May 4, 2004 4am ET/MT/PT, 3am CT
LESSON PLANS:
Lesson 3
VH1's 200 Greatest Pop Culture Icons - Hour 5
VH1's 200 Greatest Pop Culture Icons - Hour 5 In its latest edition of the acclaimed Greatest countdown series, VH1 burrows into the pop personas that have made the ultimate impact - names so familiar they're recognized and revered all over the world. This episode describes how recent history has been dominated by personalities and how these icons have shaped history. The 200 Greatest Pop Culture Icons is wide in scope, accounting for television characters (Gilligan and Miss Piggy) cartoon favorites (Bugs Bunny and Scooby Doo), Hollywood heroes (Rock Hudson and Jim Carrey), Political figures (John F. Kennedy, Sr. and Rudy Giuliani) and of course rock stars (Jimi Hendrix and the Rolling Stones). Important emphasis is based on how the electronic age has shaped knowledge and experiences through television and music. The five part series will reveal new tidbits of information about the Icons based on their subject's longstanding cultural significance. Hour 5 explores such greats as Elvis Presley, John Travolta, Frank Sinatra, Kurt Cobain, Lucille Ball and more!
These lesson plans are to be used in conjunction with the 5-part series "200 Greatest Pop Culture Icons." The Standards-based lessons focus primarily on the musicians included on the list, but also incorporate several of the non-musician icons who may have a surprising role in the world of music. The wide range of styles and eras represented by the music icons allows for exciting lessons that look into topics such as TV music, cross-over performers, women in music, and even our favorite cartoon characters. Taking some time to study the impact these icons have had on our society over the decades is a worthwhile addition to curriculum in the music and social studies classroom.
VH1, January 6, 2004 4am ET/MT/PT, 3am CT
LESSON PLANS:
Pop Icons: Lesson
1
Women as Pop Icons:
Lesson 1
Women as Pop
Icons: Lesson 2
Elements of Musical
Exoticism: Lesson 1
Show's website
True Spin
VH1's "True Spin" is the definitive show
that uncovers the truth behind the classic songs of our time. Within the
tapestry of our pop culture, myths about our favorite songs flourish exponentially.
However, every song has its own original and unique story. True Spin will
ask all sorts of important questions about the origins of these songs.
Why were the songs written, what was the cultural significance as well
as the social climate at the time. The show features songs such as Born
in the USA, Losing My Religion, Back in Black, Ray of Light, Rio, Under
The Bridge, Every Breath You Take, The Safety Dance, In The Air Tonight
and Walk Like an Egyptian.
VH1, February 3, 2004 4am ET/MT/PT, 3am CT
LESSON PLANS:
Lesson
1
Lesson 2
Lesson 3
Lesson 4
Moulin Rouge
VH1's "Movies That Rock" features film favorites plus all new VH1 Original Movies made exclusively for VH1 viewers. This month "Movies that Rock" showcases Moulin Rouge - a visually opulent, heartrending musical story reminisicent of the opera La Boheme. Christian (Ewan McGregor), a young wannabe Bohemian poet living in 1899 Paris, defies his father by joining the colorfully diverse clique inhabiting the dark, fantastical underworld of Paris' now legendary Moulin Rouge. The poet-innocent finds himself plunged into a passionate but ultimately tragic love affair with Satine (Nicole Kidman), the club's famous star. Their romance is played out against the infamous club and brings to life the culture of belle époque Paris with magical realism. With music drawn from familiar 20th century sources and incorporated with operatic arias this episode explores the integral way that music and pop culture are intertwined.
VH1, Part 1, March 2, 2004 4am ET/MT/PT, 3am CT
VH1, Part 2, March 9, 2004 4am ET/MT/PT, 3am CT
LESSON PLANS:
Lesson
1
Lesson 2
Lesson 3
Behind The Movie: Chicago
A timeless tale crackling with crime and corruption... when Chicago was released as a major motion picture in 2002, the film was peppered with a star-studded cast of vixens and villains, featuring a soundtrack full of spicy hip-hop tracks and pop confections. Richard Gere learned how to tap dance, Catherine Zeta-Jones found a decade old dancing groove was still intact, and Renee Zellweger learned to sing and dance with the best of them. The twenties tale introduced a whole new generation to vaudeville. Behind The Movie shows you, through never-before-seen footage and interviews, how a film that almost never saw the light of day became the runaway hit of the year.
VH1, March 16, 2004 4am ET/MT/PT, 3am CT
LESSON PLANS:
Lesson 2
Lesson 4
VH1's 200 Greatest Pop Culture Icons - Hour 2
In its latest edition of the acclaimed Greatest countdown series, VH1 burrows into the pop personas that have made the ultimate impact - names so familiar they're recognized and revered all over the world. This episode describes how recent history has been dominated by personalities and how these icons have shaped history. The 200 Greatest Pop Culture Icons is wide in scope, accounting for television characters (Gilligan and Miss Piggy) cartoon favorites (Bugs Bunny and Scooby Doo), Hollywood heroes (Rock Hudson and Jim Carrey), Political figures (John F. Kennedy, Sr. and Rudy Giuliani) and of course rock stars (Jimi Hendrix and the Rolling Stones). Important emphasis is based on how the electronic age has shaped knowledge and experiences through television and music. The five part series will reveal new tidbits of information about the Icons based on their subject's longstanding cultural significance. Hour 2 explores such greats as Julie Andrews, Gwen Stefani, Prince, David Bowie, Mr. Rogers and more!
These lesson plans are to be used in conjunction with the 5-part series "200 Greatest Pop Culture Icons." The Standards-based lessons focus primarily on the musicians included on the list, but also incorporate several of the non-musician icons who may have a surprising role in the world of music. The wide range of styles and eras represented by the music icons allows for exciting lessons that look into topics such as TV music, cross-over performers, women in music, and even our favorite cartoon characters. Taking some time to study the impact these icons have had on our society over the decades is a worthwhile addition to curriculum in the music and social studies classroom.
VH1, March 23,2004 4am ET/MT/PT, 3am CT
LESSON PLANS:
What
Is a Pop Icon: Lesson 1
Women as Pop Icons:
Lesson 1
Women as Pop Icons:
Lesson 2
Elements of Musical
Exoticism: Lesson 1
FanClub: Dave Matthews Band
In this episode, VH1 FanClub delves into world of being the fan of the highly popular Alternative Rock Band. The show features a sports agent who is constantly trying to convert her friends to become DMB fans; a housewife and cancer research fundraiser who makes tribute videos using DMB music; a college student who credits DMB for helping her get through the student shootings in Littleton, CO; and a Delta Airlines ramp agent who is able to fly all over the country to see DMB in concert. VH1 FanClub explores the connection between the artists and their fan base. This episode explores the lives of these diehard devotees whose lives are defined by the music they love.
VH1, March 30, 2004 4am ET/MT/PT, 3am CT
VH1 News Presents: AIDS: A Pop Culture History
VH1, April 6, 2004 4am ET/MT/PT, 3am CT
MUSIC LESSON PLANS:
Lesson
1
Lesson 2
Lesson 3
HEALTH LESSON PLANS:
Background/Getting
Started
Linda Berne Q & A
Making A Difference
Web Resources
Additional Curriculum Section
For more information and materials, please
click here.
VH1 Legends: 100 Greatest Women of Rock & Roll
VH1 In honor of Music In Our Schools month, VH1 has set aside extra airtime for special broadcasts of VH1 Music Studio programming. Depicting a celebration of the talented and powerful female artists "100 Greatest Women of Rock & Roll" will air as a five hour, five episode series of specials starting Tuesday, March 4, 11, 18, 25 and April 1 at 4am(ET/PT). The series includes all new interviews with many of the greatest women of rock history and their admirers, with an eclectic mix of artists representing diverse styles and influences. Each hour is highlighted by vintage performances throughout four decades. VH1's "100 Greatest Women of Rock And Roll" were chosen by the most influential women in society today, all of who share a passion for music. The panel of over 300 women included politicians, photographers, writers, actresses, fashion figures, music industry executives and, of course, the musicians themselves.
100 Greatest Women of Rock & Roll (100 - 81)
Tuesday, March 4th, 2004 4am
100 Greatest Women of Rock & Roll (80 - 61)
Tuesday, March 11th, 2004 4am
100 Greatest Women of Rock & Roll (60 - 41)
Tuesday, March 18th, 2004 4am
100 Greatest Women of Rock & Roll (40 - 21)
Tuesday, March 25th, 2004 4am
100 Greatest Women of Rock & Roll (20 - 1)
Tuesday, April 1st, 2004 4am
LESSON PLANS:
Lesson
1
Lesson 3
Lesson 4
Lesson 5
Lesson 6
VH1 Legends: Sam Cooke
In this first-ever TV biography of the definitive soul singer, "Legends: Sam Cooke" looks at his extraordinary career and personal life - from his gospel-singing roots in the early 1950's through his R&B and pop music career to his untimely death in 1964. This episode features rare and never-before-seen footage and exclusive interviews with Aretha Franlin, Muhammad Ali and Dick Clark. Born in the South, Cooke started singing in the Church choir as a child and joined with his siblings to form a gospel group. Cooke crossed over into the world of popular music as an adult in 1957, and shot to the top of the R&B and Pop charts with his self-penned "You Send Me." A triumphant early-'60s tour of the U.K. left a generation of young musicians like the Beatles, the Rolling Stones, Van Morrison and Rod Stewart in thrall as well. Refusing to perform for segregated audiences in the South, Cooke utilized his stature as a performer to help break down the color lines separating blacks from whites. Cooke wrote "A Change Is Gonna Come," a song that would become an anthem of the civil rights movement. "Legends" is VH1's long-running series of documentary specials that tell the real stories behind important and influential artists and their music.
VH1, February 4, 2004 4 am ET
LESSON PLANS:
Lesson
1
Lesson 2
FanClub: ABBA
In this episode, VH1 FanClub: ABBA goes into the world of being a fan of the most successful band to come out of Sweden. ABBA owned the '70s, attracting international audiences with their unqiue blend of pop, disco and European folk songs. Despite having been broken up for two decades, the band is more popular than ever, as evidenced by their fanatical fans who span all generations, and the success of the ABBA-inspired musical, "Mamma Mia." Several ABBA hits are showcased including Dancing Queen, The Winner Takes It ALL, SOS, Waterloo, Take a chance on me and of course, Mamma Mia. VH1 FanClub explores the connection between the artist and their fan base. Each episode profiles four fan stories and explores these diehard devotees whose lives are defined by the music they love.
VH1, November, 5 2004 at 4 am ET/PT
LESSON PLANS:
Lesson
1
Lesson 4
Ultimate Albums: Legend - Bob Marley
In this episode, Bob Marley's "Ultimate Albums: Legend" goes behind the making of the late megastar's international hit compilation disc. From his humble Trenchtown beginnings, Bob Marley took only his talent and religious beliefs, and gave the world a body of brilliant and evocative music. The living essence of Jamaica's unique reggae sound, Marley's work has stretched across three decades with a timeless and universal sound that's summed up in a single recording -- "Legend." The episode examines one of the top-selling albums in pop music history. It is a sonic autobiography that spotlights 14 essential and enduring tracks from Marley's years with Island Records, including "Is This Love," "No Woman No Cry," "Could You Be Loved," "Buffalo Soldier," "Get Up Stand Up," "Jamming," "One Love" and "I Shot the Sheriff." Line by line, song by song, "Legend" delves into Marley's early life, radical political beliefs and even his soul -- at the same time speaking to and for the oppressed, the poor, and even the lovelorn as a global anthem.
September 3, 2004 4 am EST/ 3:00 am CST
LESSON PLANS:
Lesson
1
Lesson 2
History of Rock 'n Roll Episode #1 - Rock 'n Roll Explodes (The Origins of Rock n' Roll)
A new sound called "rhythm & blues" came out of the post-WWII era to change music forever. At first invisible to the mass media, inaudible to most white listeners, it was marketed to black audiences as pop music made by black artists. Slowly, a new audience eavesdropped on a new kind of musical conversation. White artists began to copy what they heard and the records began to "cross over". The new sound soon became linked with youthful rebellion-- rock 'n' roll was a new kind of music that shook youth culture and has been shaking young musicians ever since. Songs featured include: Chuck Berry’s "Maybelline," Elvis Presley’s "Heartbreak Hotel," and Fats Domino’s "Blue Monday."
VH1, March 5, 2004 4 am ET LESSON PLANS:
Lesson 1: Overview
Lesson 2
History of Rock 'n Roll Episode #6
- My Generation ( Haight Ashbury Scene)
By 1967, rock 'n' roll was a touchstone for youth around the world. More
than a genre of music , it was a way of being. Mind-bending drugs permeated
society and Timothy Leary’s "Turn on, tune in, drop out",
became the slogan of the youth culture. In 1969, a poorly organized music
festival in Woodstock, NY, would become the defining moment for a generation
who dreamed of an utopian society which was to never be. Songs featured
include: The Doors’ "Break on Through to the Other Side,"
Jimi Hendrix’s "All Along the Watchtower," Jefferson Airplane’s
"Somebody to Love," The Grateful Dead’s "China Cat
Sunflower," and The Beatles’ "Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds.”
VH1, March 12, 2004 4 am ET
Lesson 1
History of Rock 'n Roll Episode #8 - The 70's: Have a Nice Decade
The 1970s were the best of times, and also the worst. For the first time in history, rock music was ubiquitous. At the same time, rock's audience was becoming more and more fragmented by niche marketing. Some listeners gravitated to veteran soul stars like Stevie Wonder and Marvin Gaye, while others embraced a new phenomenon called "disco". Hard rock fans found cause to cheer with the meteoric rise of Bruce Springsteen. Songs featured include: Elton John’s "Bennie and The Jets," Peter Frampton’s "Do You Feel Like I Do,” Sly and The Family Stone’s "Take Ya Higher,” and The Village People’s "YMCA.”
VH1, March 19, 2004 4 am ETLESSON PLANS:
Lesson 1
Lesson 2
History of Rock 'n Roll Episode #10 - Up from the Underground
recounts the evolution of urban music’s most powerful and trend-setting genres through firsthand accounts of those who experienced and created the history, including James Brown, Queen Latifah, T-Boz, Smokey Robinson, and George Clinton. Covering jazz, blues, gospel, and hip-hop through modern R&B and soul.
Click here for more information
VH1, March 26, 2004 4 am ET
LESSON PLANS:
Lesson 1
Lesson 2
Say It Loud!: A Celebration of Black Music in America
In this episode, Bob Marley's "Ultimate Albums: Legend" goes behind the making of the late megastar's international hit compilation disc. From his humble Trenchtown beginnings, Bob Marley took only his talent and religious beliefs, and gave the world a body of brilliant and evocative music. The living essence of Jamaica's unique reggae sound, Marley's work has stretched across three decades with a timeless and universal sound that's summed up in a single recording -- "Legend." The episode examines one of the top-selling albums in pop music history. It is a sonic autobiography that spotlights 14 essential and enduring tracks from Marley's years with Island Records, including "Is This Love," "No Woman No Cry," "Could You Be Loved," "Buffalo Soldier," "Get Up Stand Up," "Jamming," "One Love" and "I Shot the Sheriff." Line by line, song by song, "Legend" delves into Marley's early life, radical political beliefs and even his soul -- at the same time speaking to and for the oppressed, the poor, and even the lovelorn as a global anthem.
October 9, October 16, October 23, October 30, 2004
4:00 am EST/ 3:00 am CST
LESSON PLANS:
1. “Keep On Pushin’” explores
black music and its relationship to politics, protest, and spreading the
message, including the profound influence of black music on the Civil
Rights movement since its beginnings in the 19th century. Featured artists
include James Brown, Curtis Mayfield, Stevie Wonder, Dr. Dre, and NWA.
Lesson 1: Roots and Styles
Of Black Music
Lesson 2: Making Change
Through Music
Lesson 3: Conveying Message
Through Musical Composition
Lesson 4: Conveying Message
Through Musical Composition
Lesson 5: Songs that Bring
Us Together
2. “Pursuing The Dream” traces
the progress of black artists in the music business, from exploitation
to eventual ownership and power in the publishing, recording and entertainment
industries. Stories include Berry Gordy’s shaping of Motown and rap’s
rise to power through black-owned record labels Death Row and Def Jam.
Lesson 1: The Music Industry
Part I
Lesson 2: The Music Industry
Part II
Lesson 3: Early Motown-The
1960s Part 1
Lesson 4: The Motown Dynasty
(1969-1980) Part 2
Lesson 5: Louis Armstrong
Part 1: New Orleans Beginnings
3. “Can I Get A Witness” eals
with the spiritual pulse of black music, from the crucial influence of
gospel and the musicians’ dedication to the church to an overwhelming
desire to create “the devil’s music.” Featured artists
include Sam Cooke, Ray Charles, Aretha Franklin, and Al Green.
Lesson 1: Spirituality
In Music
Lesson 2: Spirituality In Music
Lesson 3: Spirituality In Music
4. “Express Yourself” examines
the style and image projected by black artists in the past and how they
eventually evolved to shape popular culture from fashion to language.
The show profiles Louis Armstrong, Marvin Gaye, Sly & The Family Stone
and Michael Jackson’s influence on style and pop culture.
Lesson 1:
Part 1: Image and Meaning
Part 2: Different Experiences, Different Views
(written in conjunction with Quincy Jones)
Lesson 2:
Part 1: Music Reflects History
Part 2: Different Experiences, Different Views
Lesson 3 Express Yourself
Lesson 4 Express Yourself
Lesson 5: Express Yourself
(Can also accompany: Episode 2: Pursuing The Dream)
Lesson 5 of 5 Louis Armstrong Part 1: New Orleans Beginnings
Show's website
VH1 Legends: Aretha Franklin
Follows the life of the legendary performer. It features
rare photographs of Aretha's childhood and family, with archival performance
footage and interviews highlighting Franklin's career. Musical influences
include gospel, jazz and R&B, as well as historical attributes to
the Civil Rights movement, Vietnam and Martin Luther King.
LESSON PLANS:
Lesson 1: Gospel
Beginnings
Lesson 2: From Sacred to Secular
Exploration of Vocal Styles/Crossing between styles
Lesson 3: Musical Roles
Lesson 4: A Voice for the Times
VH1 "The Concert of the Century for VH1 Save The Music"
Legends of the blues (B.B. King, Eric Clapton), country (Garth Brooks), soul, rock (John Fogerty, John Mellencamp, Bono) and latin (Gloria Estefan) will team up with some of the new stars of the 90s (Sheryl Crow, Lenny Kravitz, N'Sync), and other surprise guests to perform their own hits and classic songs from the American Century. Musical director will be Paul Shaffer, leading the CBS "Late Show" band. The event was created with President Bill Clinton and First Lady Hillary Rodham Clinton, in support of VH1 Save the Music, the national non-profit organization that works to restore music programs to public schools and to create awareness of the links between music education and childrens' academic performance.
Click here for more information
LESSON PLANS:
Lesson
1: American Music Styles
rican Music Styles - Regional
Songs in the Southern American Experience
Lesson 7: American Music Styles
- American Music Advocacy
Lesson 9: American Music Styles
- Folk
VH1 Live From The White House: Jazz An Expression Of Democracy
Hosted by President Clinton and Mrs. Clinton, and telecast live without commercial interruption from the East Room of the White House, "Jazz: An Expression of Democracy" will feature the Grammy Award-winning artist Wynton Marsalis and an all-star jazz orchestra, and celebrated jazz musician Marian McPartland. There will be a discussion with President and Mrs. Clinton and several participating musicians and scholars of the impact jazz has had on the American culture. Other participating musicians and commentators include Dr. Billy Taylor, Dr. Loren Schoenberg, Diane Reeves and Dr. David Baker. The event was part of the White House Millennium Evenings where a series of lectures and cultural showcases highlight creativity and inventiveness through ideas, art and scientific discoveries.
LESSON PLANS:
Lesson 1: Jazz: An Expression of Democracy
Lesson 4: Women in Jazz
Glossary
VH1 Save the Music is teaming up with Noggin to present Greatest TV Moments: Sesame Street Music A to Z
Demonstrating there's one street in America where many of today's pop stars got their musical start. REM, Goo Goo Dolls, Faith Hill and N'Snyc all grew up watching Bert and Ernie and the rest of the gang on Sesame Street. All grown up, these artists joined the distinguished ranks of Stevie Wonder, Johnny Cash, Paul Simon and James Taylor by appearing on the program.
In this episode, Sesame Street's staff of writers and composers worked with some of the pop world's hottest acts to parody songs like James Taylor's "Whenever You See a Grouchy Face," or Smokey Robinson's "U Really Got a Hold on Me," and Patti Labelle's torch song "I Miss My "X."" The special will feature these moments plus unforgettable Sesame Street songs, "Rubber Ducky," "Put Down the Ducky," and "Sing," which went on to hit the top of the billboard charts as a Carpenters single.
LESSON PLANS:
Lesson 1: Music Styles
Lesson 2: Music Styles
Lesson 6: Music In Your Neighborhood
VH1 Instruments for Change
Hosted by Frasier's Kelsey Grammer, presents a look into how music education impacts the lives of children. This special features the music teacher who inspired and influenced the creation of Boys II Men as well as, Wynton Marsalis' and Nathalie Merchant's commitment to encouraging students to study music
LESSON PLANS:
Lesson 1: School Music Advocacy
Lesson 4: Celebrate Music In Our Schools Month
VH1 In "Road To Fame: Harry Connick, Jr. Music Special
The singer and actor discusses his first musical experiences, the profound influence his parents had on his musical education and how growing up in New Orleans affected his decision to become a musician. The program visits Harry's hometown and talks to Ellis Marsalis, famed jazz artist who taught Harry while he attended the renowned New Orleans Center for Creative Arts. This episode also visits some of the local clubs where Harry performed and finds out what brought him to New York, and how he was discovered once he was there.
VH1, April 2, 2004 4 am ET LESSON PLANS:
Lesson 4
VH1 Storytellers: Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young
In this episode, VH1 Storytellers: Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young, the reunited legends transport an awe-struck audience with selected gems from their three decades of music making. The reunited CSNY recorded this Storytellers in the midst of their CSNY2000 tour. Graham Nash reveals that he wrote "Our House" for his then-girlfriend Joni Mitchell, and David Crosby poignantly recalls the genesis of "Dream for Him" (from 1999's Looking Forward), a song about a father's concern for his young son. Neil Young plays a haunting organ rendition of "After the Gold Rush," and then invites the audience to sing along on "Teach Your Children." The set also includes "Only Love Can Break Your Heart" and "Guinevere." VH1 Storytellers explores the greatest singers and songwriters playing their music and telling the stories behind their most memorable songs
VH1, January 7, 2004 4 am ET/PT
LESSON PLANS:
Lesson
1: Exploration of Folk Music
Lesson 3: Exploration
of Live vs. Recorded
VH1 In "Wyclef Jean: Storytellers"
The former Fugee philosophizes about music's role in society and proves that even a hip-hop song can sound pretty with a country guitar driving it along. "People are always surprised when I take out an instrument," says Wyclef Jean (of The Fugees), sitting onstage with a 12-string acoustic guitar. He then breaks into a classical riff which makes it breathtakingly obvious that this man is a musician. Charismatic and comfortable, Jean makes up a song about a woman in the audience; channels Johnny Cash, Frank Sinatra and Billy Joel; and performs tunes including a spare, beautiful "Gone Til November", a special duet with Bono singing "New Day" and a funky version of Santana's "Maria Maria" (which Wyclef performs with Santana on Supernatural) - featuring Sheila E. on percussion.
LESSON PLANS:
Lesson 3
Behind the Music 2000
This special year-end episode of Behind the Music takes a look back at 2000: the highs, the lows, and all the controversies. It was a year that saw online music take center stage; the advent of Napster has revolutionized the way music is heard and distributed, and sparked a heated debate on artists' rights and consumer behavior. We also take a look at the role of Rock and Roll marketing, as the creation of massive, integrated campaigns for major artists such as Sting, Christina Aguilera, and N'SYNC saw them rise to unprecedented heights. And what can explain the continuing dominance of teen pop in the marketplace? These are just a few of the phenomena BTM 2000 explores, plus we bring you a day in the life of a music-loving couple trying to find where they belong in this era of endless music choices.
VH1, April 2, 2002, 4 am ET
LESSON PLANS:
Lesson
1: Influences on Musical Styles
Lesson 2: Music in Advertising
Lesson 3: Music Technology in 2000
VH1 Presents the 80's: Impact Episode
VH1 Presents The '80's Impact episode looks at the decade's biggest musical artists and styles, and explores how music reflected and influenced our ideas about politics, money, technology, fashion, the media, and race issues. The 1980s were a decade of innumerable contradictions for rock and roll and the audience that grew up with it. The music that had challenged authority during years social upheaval became part of the establishment. Anthems of the anti-war movement and civil rights struggle were co-opted by corporate America who used them sell the products to aging baby boomers. The commitment to social change expanded with other benefits like Live Aid to fight starvation in Africa; Farm Aid, organized to raise money for American family farmers, and Little Steven Van Zandt's antiapartheid album "Sun City." This edition deals with events that impacted the music and social world during the 80s: the murder of John Lennon; Ronald Regan as President; and an obsession with wealth and status that was reflected in fashion and popular culture, as well as the end of the Cold War.
January 8, 2001 4 am ET, 3 am CT
LESSON PLANS:
Lesson
1
Lesson 2
Lesson 3
VH1 Behind the Music 1972
As part of VH1's Behind the Music series, BTM 1972 offers an intimate look into the personal lives of musical artists as well as the provocative and often controversial issues and trends shaping the world of music. 1972 was a pivotal year in politics and pop, and idealism gave way to cynicism as Vietnam dragged on and Nixon was reelected, only to shortly resign. The once vibrant youth movement was feeling bitter and betrayed and rock & roll was losing faith in the revolution. America's innocence was dealt a series of punishing blows; as the U.S. began its slow retreat from Vietnam, a music scene long united by opposition to the war was dividing. Some rockers lashed out, other songwriters looked inward. 1972 was an election year and a White House under siege conspired to silence John Lennon - an outspoken critic. Impervious to politics, the original rebels of rock - the Rolling Stones - came rollin' down main street for their first U.S. tour since Altamont, and singer-songwriters made the personal political. This BTM explores how so much internal strife and disconnection could yield so much vital music.
LESSON PLANS:
Lesson 2: A Songwriter Not Silenced
Lesson 3: Artistic Influence
VH1 Behind the Music 1968
Presents a look back to the Sixties' most explosive, chaotic, tragic and inspiring year. A time when youth raged in the streets, leaders were martyred, and cities burned. This episode explores some of the most exciting, enduring, influential music of our times and the stories "Behind the Music" through dramatic footage and revealing interviews with many of the great musicians who spoke for an angry, alienated generation. Includes interviews with Grace Slick, David Crosby, James Brown, Graham Nash, John Fogerty, Aretha Franklin, P.J. O'Rourke, Art Garfunkel, Rennie Davis and Country Joe McDonald.
LESSON PLANS:
Lesson 2: Songs from Two Generations
Lesson 4: Songs of Unrest
VH1 Behind The Music: Takin' It To The Streets
Provides a rare and revealing look inside the lives of the modern-day minstrels known as street musicians. This episode shines the spotlight on five musical stories full of heart, rhythm and soul from the "Classical Strings" of Manhattan to the "Blues" of New Orleans' French Quarter. This program describes how street musicians can stop their audience dead in their tracks with driving energy, compelling sounds and raw talent. Musician-styles include classical, jazz, rhythm and blues and alternative rock & roll.
LESSON PLANS:
Lesson
1: Musicians' Roles The Modern Day Minstrel
VH1 Behind the Music 1970
Offers an intimate look into the personal lives of musical artists as well as the provocative and often controversial issues and trends shaping the world of music. 1970 was the year the Vietnam war came home and peaceful ideals of the '60s gave way to horror. Anti-war activists protesting the invasion of Cambodia found themselves being gunned down for their beliefs. CSNY memorialized the Kent State tragedy in the song "Ohio." It was also the year that generational icons Jimi Hendrix and Janis Joplin fell victim to their excesses, and the Beatles collapsed under the weight of their enormous popularity. In California, "good vibrations" soured when failed rock musician Charles Manson struck back against an industry which didn't understand his "genius"; the mayhem he orchestrated became forever linked to the Beatles song "Helter Skelter." The counterculture found itself guilty by association, and "save the world" turned into "save yourself." Introspective singer/songwriters like James Taylor and Joni Mitchell replaced revolutionary rockers; Simon & Garfunkel's "Bridge Over Troubled Water," certainly a cry of help, was the song of 1970. BTM looks back at this pivotal year with archival footage, journalistic commentary, and interviews with Paul McCartney, David Crosby, Judy Collins, former Sen. Tom Hayden, and many others.
LESSON PLANS:
Lesson 2: Protest Songs
VH1 Behind the Music 1992
Takes a look at the year when the rock and roll changed its course and headed for the sights of Seattle. President Bush took rap music to task and future President Clinton picked up a saxophone and rocked the voters on late night television. 1992 was a farewell to the big hair bands of the late 80s and a progression into flannel wearing grunge bands.
LESSON PLANS:
Lesson 2: Words and Music
