Rock 'N' Roll Inventions

Crank up the volume as we go behind the power chords and pounding rhythms to celebrate the innovations that made rock 'n' roll what it is today. Join us as we explore the instruments, special effects, and moments of inspiration that gave the world vinyl, electric guitars, synthesizers, digital singles, and even laser shows. Music legends Martha Reeves, Dave Davies, and others share their insights, all accompanied by the classic and modern hits that have provided the soundtrack to our lives.

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Episode Guide

  • Billy Lockett sitting in a recording studio.

    Stage to Spectacle

    Revisit the history of the rock concert and see how bands and artists use technology to keep upping the wow factor.

  • Martha Reeves sitting in a blue lit room.

    Special EFX

    See how sound effects like echo, reverb, distortion and sampling evolved to become part of the musical mainstream.

  • Rick Wakemen in front of electric keyboards.

    Rise of Keyboards

    From the Mellotron to the Minimoog, see how synthesized sound took music to futuristic worlds and astronomical heights.

  • A producer in front of a recording studio soundboard.

    Sultans of Sound

    Witness the technological developments in music recording, from studio innovations to mobile capabilities.

  • Richard McDonald, vice president of Fender Guitars, posing with a stratocaster.

    Going Electric

    See how the electric guitar emerged from back row player to center stage superstar.

  • Dave Davies of The Kinks in front of electric guitars. © Bosie Vincent/Sky Vision

    This Damn Music

    See how stereo sound, music videos, CDs, and digital downloads changed rock 'n' roll forever.

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