For many music buffs, studying the rich history of recorded music can uncover a wealth of information, inspiration and entertainment.
The latest resource in this endless deep dive into our past is PBS' insightful look at the earliest days of American recordings, aptly entitled "American Epic." This newest historical exploration, which comes on the heels of another PBS series, the successful "Soundbreakers," focuses on the 1920s and incorporates original photos and video with new interview and performance footage to create an undeniable link between modern music and a sometimes overlooked era.
At the helm of "American Epic" are two familiar names: T Bone Burnett and Jack White, both multiple GRAMMY winners and each former honorees at The Recording Academy Producers & Engineers Wing GRAMMY Week celebration.
A three-part historical documentary, the first episode spotlights the significant role the original Carter Family and Will Shade's Memphis Jug Band played in advancing the culture and influence of rural and urban music, respectively. The second episode takes a look at how music provided a refuge in difficult times, from gospel church to the coal mines of West Virginia and cotton fields of Mississippi.
Narrated by Oscar winner Robert Redford, "American Epic" will air in full on PBS May 30, followed by "The American Epic Sessions" on June 6. A commemorative DVD is available for those wishing to own this precious piece of American music history.
