Behind the Music

Girl, you know it's true…but unfortunately it wasn't, for the 80's dance duo whose Grammy-winning triumph turned sour when their producer revealed that his hunky proteges were shaking their booty to someone else's song. The ensuing…

The dawn of the 1990's was unquestionably Hammer time. A scrappy striver from Oakland CA. named Stanley Burrell took hip-hop to P.T. Barnum scales: baggy trousers over rubbery legs, sizable samples of past hits, commercial endorsements…

In 1984, George O'Dowd accepted a Grammy Award for Culture Club by quipping that America "knows a good drag queen" when it sees one. And Boy George was not just a good drag queen, but a drag queen with a tremendously soulful voice,…

A successful British blues band in the '60s, Fleetwood Mac became the legends we know today when they hooked up with a young singer-songwriter couple who were almost ready to give up the biz. Stevie Nicks and Lindsey Buckingham brought…

This cautionary episode of Behind the Music documents the growing menace of stalkers. Considered by some the "prototype" for fans who take their celebrity obsessions to dangerous and often criminal extremes, John Lennon's murderer, Mark…

Rock 'n' roll wouldn't exist without its image, and it's been the job of rock photographers to capture that divine union of talent, passion and style that makes a singer a star. Ever since Elvis Presley melted the camera lens with his…

This episode marked the 20th anniversary of the infamous plane crash (10/20/77) with a special episode on the bad boys from Jacksonville, Florida who put Southern Rock and Roll on the map with classic songs like Freebird and Sweet Home…

Teddy's early experiences in life and music: "I wasn't raised with baby-sitters, my mother couldn't afford to have someone watch me. It just didn't work like that in the ghetto so because of that I had the unique opportunity to see the…

He has penned enough hits to fill three Greatest Hits compilations. Yet, Billy Joel's rise to fame has been anything but smooth sailing. Behind the Music chronicles the ups and downs of the pop star's career and life... from his earlier…

In the summer of 1997, Canadian singer/songwriter Sarah McLachlan launched an event that would surpass Lollapalooza as the most successful concert tour of the year. Against all odds, the women-only Lilith Fair lineup sold out arenas…

He was the prince of Pop idols and by the tender age of 22, Andy Gibb had three #1 songs under his belt. But over the next 8 years, his career would falter, the love of his life, Victoria Principal, would leave him, and the world would…

Featuring never before seen family photos and performance footage, "Jim Croce: Behind the Music" traces the life and career of the man responsible for such hit songs as "Bad Bad Leroy Brown," "Time in a Bottle" and "Operator." Through…

In 1970 The Carpenters won the Best New Artist Grammy, and for five years it seemed as though they were indeed on "Top of the World" as song after song continued to ride up the charts. Easy listening lovers of all generations found the…

He couldn't sing or read music but he became a songwriter and pop star. And though he never cast a vote in his life, he was elected Mayor of Palm Springs, then Congressman. If there's a lesson to be learned from Sonny Bono's life, which…

A look at the trials & tribulations surrounding one of folk rockÍs most talented groups. Interviews with the remaining band members, Michelle Phillips, John Phillips and Denny Doherty. They speak openly about how the band came together,…

The incredible rise, fall and comeback of Meat Loaf. Interviews with Meat Loaf, his wife Leslie Aday, their two daughters, Todd Rundgren (producer, Bat Out of Hell), Karla DeVito (former back-up singer) and Sam Ellis (tour manager).…

Her career spans more than 50 years, 37 of which were spent headlining "Gladys Knight and the Pips." She has collected four Grammys, 12 gold records and a spot in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, but Gladys Knight's life has never been…

With 100 albums behind him and a career that spans 50 years, you might think Willie Nelson has had a smooth ride to fame and fortune.Behind The Music sets the record straight on the life of a country legend who has endured plenty of…

Four decades have passed since the release of "Whole Lotta Shakin' Goin' On" and "Great Balls of Fire," but it's fair to say that no one has matched the sheer rock and roll excitement of the pioneering piano pounder Jerry Lee Lewis. It's…

In the early 80s, Rick James was the king of funk, dominating the charts with hits like "Superfreak," "Mary Jane" and "Give It To Me Baby." James was best known for his outrageous live concerts and flamboyant drug use. Ironically, it was…

An advanced pop musician by anyone's standards, David Crosby has become a poster boy for a crash and burn hippie culture. From his early days with the Byrds, he had a wild twinkle in his eye, and while recording political and romantic…

By the age of 23, Selena Quintanilla Perez had conquered the Tejano music scene and had become embraced by tens of thousands of fans. With her blend of natural talent, boundless energy and magnetic charm she was poised to become popular…

Includes first-time interviews with all 6 members of the classic Jefferson Airplane line-up as well as an interview with Grace Slick.

A cross-cultural look at people who sing for their supper features five different groups/artists from New York, New Orleans, Chicago and Los Angeles; features original compositions and stories from street musicians throughout the show;…

A look at this heavy metal legend, from his early days as the lead singer of Black Sabbath, to his controversial concert acts as a solo performer (he bit the head off a live bat onstage as well as a live dove during a Columbia Records…

Nugent started performing at age 13 and became one of the the biggest live acts in the '70s. Ted's not your typical rock 'n' roller. He is a political conservative, preaching family values & anti-drug messages. He's also fond of hunting…

The dramatic ups and downs of Cocker's career including a recent interview before launching his April '98 tour, behind the scenes footage from his world-famous "Mad Dogs and Englishmen" tour, a candid look at his infamous, drug-fueled…

Filmed mostly at the Naval Training Center and Miramar Naval Air Station in San Diego, Top Gun was the top grossing movie of 1986. Behind The Music explores the creation and cultural impact of the film, from the early obstacles faced by…

It has been more than twenty years since Studio 54 first opened its doors on April 26, 1977, driven by a disco beat and ruled by the unlikeliest of overlords: gay, sociable restaurant chain owner Steve Rubell and straight, shy real estate…

Keith Moon will always be remembered as a wild man of rock and roll who wrecked hotel rooms and destroyed his drums. What is often forgotten about Keith is that he was a drummer extraordinaire who had a zest for life that was full of…

An intimate look at one of the most successful and respected female rockers, from her early roots in Blues to her current pop/rock stardom.

Robbie Robertson reflects on the history and break-up of his critically acclaimed group, The Band. When drugs began to erode the bond that held them together, Robbie decided to put an end to the group. Their final performance together on…

The biggest selling pop band of the '80's lived the text book rock star life: limos and liquor, drugs and groupies – hedonism defined their daily ritual. But even record sales over 20 million couldn't prepare these former factory workers…

One of the hottest pop music performers of the 70's candidly discusses his struggle with cocaine addiction and his mental breakdown. Songs include "Knock Three Times," "Candida," "He Don't Love You (Like I Love You)," and "What are you…

The triumph and tribulations of a "Diva" who has come to symbolize the American dream. Highlights include Gloria discussing her accident, her fatherÍs death, the birth of her son in 1980 and her involvement in raising money for families…

A look at the successful 60's surf rock duo, Jan Berry and Dean Torrence. With hits like "Surf City," "Dead Man's Curve" and "Little Old Lady from Pasadena" these California crooners hit the top of the charts until Jan suffered severe…

Singer/songwriter Harry Chapin made a successful career out of setting short stories to music with hits like "Taxi," "W.O.L.D.", "Cats in the Cradle" and "Sequel." A staunch supporter of the socially disenfranchised, Chapin raised over…

Profile of superstar Gloria Gaynor, the disco diva whose song, titled, "I Will Survive," inspired millions of fans with a confident message of hope, but for Gloria to survive, she had to overcome weight problems and agonizing self doubt.…

Madonna's blonde ambition was born when she was still a brunette living in Detroit. Her desire to "rule the world" drew the dancer and fledgling musician to New York's East Village, where she became a fixture on the early '80s punk scene.…

A look back to the SixtiesÍ 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…

Steppenwolf was a band of rock and roll wild men whose high times and big hits, "Born to be Wild" and "Magic Carpet Ride", could not hold the pack together. We hear from former lead bandsman, John Kay, who retired the band in the late…

Blondie, co-founded by Deborah Harry and Chris Stein, was the most successful band to grow out of New York's downtown punk rock scene in the late 1970's. But success did not come without a price. As the band got bigger, lead singer Harry…

The classic rags to riches story. Shania grew up poor in Canada, spending much of her childhood on the Mattagami Indian Reservation where many of her stepfather's relatives lived. At 21, she had to care for her siblings when her parents…

The story of one of America's most treasured singers. We are premiering this episode 1 day before the 1 year anniversary of Denver's death. Denver was a huge sensation in the 70's, with a string of hits including "Take Me Home, Country…

She was crowned the queen of Rock & Roll. A country girl who cast a spell on the world of pop music. She ascended to the top with Fleetwood Mac, then stole the spotlight when she struck out on her own. Stevie Nicks accomplished the…

This small town boy lived the American dream, topping the charts with his tales of everyman. After two decades of hard living and endless touring, though, he paid the price, with a heart attack that nearly took his life. Our little ditty…

We're just four lucky fans that got together and started playing; this could be you, says James Hetfield, co-founder of Metallica, which built its success on an uncompromising musical vision and the fierce loyalty of its fans. For…

They blasted onto the American airwaves in the fall of 1975 with a sexy, explicit invitation to just let go...a multi-cultural group of musicians who were all about the groove..led by a charismatic singer who was convinced that someday he…

Tells the story of four friends from Athens, Georgia who formed a band in 1979 because they loved to play music together. For almost two decades, R.E.M. blended four personalities into a group that was greater than the sum of its parts,…

Rock's most notorious band embraced excess and pushed it as far as they could: from their wild stage theatrics (Nikki Sixx would light himself on fire), to the hair, makeup, spandex and stilettos with which they adorned themselves, to the…

In 1968, Lionel Richie left the self-sufficient black community of Tuskeegee, Alabama and headed for New York City with his college band, The Commodores. With their fluid funky grooves and outrageous costumes, they didn't go unnoticed for…

The diva who could make people laugh with her bawdy performances has had to overcome many personal tragedies including the loss of her sister in an automobile accident, the death of her mother to cancer, and multiple friends to AIDS.…

He had a golden mane, a sparkling smile and an unforgettable name (pronounced Lafe). His movie star looks made young girls' hearts skip a beat, and he made his way to teen idol glory before he was old enough to drive a car. But just four…

Rick Springfield was the Wonder from Down Under, who lathered up his fans with his songs and his soaps. Before finally breaking through, Rick was perpetually on the verge of stardom. In the early 70's he was set to steal David Cassidy's…

This episode follows the successful career of the "first sisters of Rock & Roll". Includes interviews with Ann and Nancy Wilson, all of the original band members, Cameron Crowe (Nancy's husband), family and friends. The sisters discuss…

It was the end of an era, the end of an innocence for rock and roll. - Lou Diamond Phillips.Three of rock and roll's most influential stars of the 1950's were killed in a plane crash on February 3, 1959, a date immortalized by songwriter…

The bandmates discuss their musical influences and lead singer Dave Gahan talks about his heroin addiction, his near brush with death due to a drug overdose and his arrest on felony drug charges. The band was nearly destroyed until Dave…

They were a garage band from Flint Michigan who upstaged Led Zeppelin in Detroit and sold out Shea Stadium faster than the Beatles; excited fans nearly brought the structure down. Grand Funk Railroad (named after Michigan's Grand Trunk…

Born James Jewel Osterberg in Ypsilanti, Michigan in 1947, Iggy has been shocking audiences since he emerged on the Detroit music scene in 1968 as front man for his original band, The Stooges. He has been known to do just about anything…

In the early 90's, Vanilla Ice became the opening act at MC Hammer concerts. He would end up outselling Hammer as well as many other rap artists. In this episode, Ice discusses how rap impresario, Suge Knight, threatened him on a hotel…

A look at the career of super group Duran Duran, from their early days in Birmingham, England to their international stardom. It has not been a smooth ride for the fabulous five-some. The group splintered into two bands in 1985 forming,…

Cher is one of the world's most famous and intriguing celebrities, having made her mark in pop music and as an Academy-Award winning actress. She burst onto the music scene with husband Sonny Bono in the 1960s, scoring hits with such…

The story of three girls from modest means and broken homes, whose fame came virtually overnight. Their first album went multi-platinum and their follow-up album, CrazySexyCool launched them to superstar status, selling 10 million copies.…

Born into one of the most recognizable music legacies in history, Julian has struggled with the world's expectations of what his life should be. His life began in the public spotlight as the first child born into Beatlemania. As a young…

A look at a one of rock's most theatrical artists. Alice Cooper's music and boa constrictor antics on-stage are legendary. Here, Cooper discusses his band getting signed by Frank Zappa, the friction that erupted between Cooper & his band,…

The trials and tribulations of one of the most rockin' rock & roll bands in the world during their decade together -- an era defined by an uncompromising musical vision, controversial appearances in the press, and the infamous sibling…

Spotlights the highs and lows of this prolific musician's career. Petty discusses his early bar band, Mudcrutch, the formation of the Heartbreakers in 1975, the record company battle in which he was sued for breach of contract and his…

Behind The Music takes a look at the tumultuous life of one of the most famous and infamous rock icons of the Sixties. With a countess for a mother and a spy for a father, Marianne Faithfull's story unfolds like a rock 'n' roll fairy…

The Red Hot Chili Peppers - Hillel Slovak, Anthony Kiedis, Flea, Chad Smith, John Frusciante -- burst onto the early 80s L.A. scene, taking their love of outrageous and spontaneous behavior and fusing it with in-your-face hardcore punk,…

A look at the life of a Rock & Roll Hall of Famer whose music career would be challenged by drug abuse, depression, bad business deals and failed marriages. Burdon discusses his early career as leader of the Animals, the band's break-up…

Donna Summer was disco's first lady of love. With her sultry voice, sexy image and passionate songs, Donna provided the quintessential soundtrack to the decade of decadence. But when "the last dance" ended, Donna faced her darkest demons.…

Since 1989 critics have been taking shots at Lenny Kravitz, one of the hottest musicians in popular music today. This Behind the Music is a look at the accomplishments of a modern musician who used his extensive talents to create a new…

Weird Al is widely recognized as a performer who creates inventive music videos and as music's most productive comedy artist. "Weird Al Yankovic: Behind The Music" highlights Yankovic's unique styles and demonstrates how he has redefined…

This Behind the Music highlights the rock and roll lifestyle of Poison, one of the premier 1980s heavy metal bands. The show includes candid interviews with each of the four band members, Rikki Rockett, Bobby Dall, CC Deville, and Bret…

A look at the first metal band to release a #1 US album. Entitled Metal Health (1982), the album sold roughly 7 million copies-- the high point of Quiet Riot's success. The band discusses their many band member changes, the tragic plane…

A look at the life of distinguished diva, Natalie Cole, daughter of Nat King Cole. Deciding to follow in her fatherÍs footsteps, Natalie began her singing career with a small band in her college town of Amherst, Massachusetts. Her big…

This Behind the Music tracks Melissa EtheridgeÍs journey from a young Kansas girl to an international rock star. Early on, Melissa discovered her musical talents, as well as her attraction to other girls. Determined and uncompromising,…

The 60's was a time of unforgettable events from the Vietnam War, to psychedelic drug use, to youth revolutions. And it was during this turbulent time that four men decided to stage a music festival that would become one of the most…

A look at one of the '70s biggest teen idol bands. Originally from Edinburgh Scotland, the five band members made teen fashion statements with plaid, tartan tunics, platform shoes and cheesy grins. On the surface they had it all: fame,…

Donny Osmond made his television debut at age 5, performing "You Are My Sunshine" on the Andy William's Show, while Marie was introduced at age 3 under the spotlight of her brothers' fame. They joined their 7 siblings, The Osmond…

A look at one of the most high-profile supergroups of the '70's. They were the first band to sign with Led Zeppelin's fledgling label, Swan Song. Under the guidance of Zeppelin's manager, Peter Grant, Bad Company achieved super-stardom…

Peter Tosh was born in Jamaica in 1944 into a very religious Christian family. At age 15, he moved into the city of Kingston to pursue a music career, and soon met and befriended the young Bob Marley. The two, along with another youth…

A look at the Goo Goo Dolls' "overnight success" after nearly a decade of endless touring, nasty legal battles and bitter breakups. Lead singer, Johnny Rzeznik, discusses his troubled childhood, meeting bass player Robby Takac at Buffalo…

As country music's first cross-over artist, Glen Campbell hit the top of the pop and country charts throughout the 70's, with hits like "Rhinestone Cowboy" and "By The Time I Get To Phoenix". But the good times turned to hard times, and…

In 1978, a fledging trio called The Police "couldn't get arrested in England," as their booking agent put it. So the band flew to the U.S. for a cheapo club tour that began at Ameripunk's ground zero, CBGB. They had spikey hair, a…

A look at the trials & tribulations surrounding this '70's Irish rock band. Thin Lizzy combined hard rock, R&B and traditional Irish music in a whole new way, with a twin guitar attack that was by turns sensual and lethal. The band, led…

Inspired by the Fredericks of Hollywood catalog, the Rocky Horror Show stage musical hit London at the height of the glam era, intstantly attracting the likes of David Bowie and Elvis. The subsequent film, starring a na•ve Susan Sarandon…

A look at the life of this Canadian-born superstar. Includes Alanis' childhood as a twin, her early success with the release of her first Canadian single at the age of ten and the release of her first Canadian album at 14. In search of…

A look at the trials and tribulations surrounding one of rap music's most successful artists/producers. Dr. Dre discusses his early years as an LA dee-jay, his first rap group, World Class Wreckin Cru, starting Ruthless Records with drug…

A look at the career of the artist known by many as "The Love Man." White discusses his childhood in South Central LA, his early involvement in the LA gang scene, serving some prison time on a theft charge and his motivation to better his…

Behind the Music wraps up the year with a recap of the trends and talents that made 1999 so significant. You'll see sexy teen bands like 'N Sync and the Backstreet Boys as well as belly-baring temptresses like Christina Aguilera and…

In this one-hour documentary, VH1 explores the music of Genesis and the lives of those who created the band. Peter Gabriel, Tony Banks, Mike Rutherford and Anthony Phillips describe how they formed the group during their childhood days at…

In the 1970's the Partridge's were America's favorite singing family, but their sound and image were manufactured solely for the public. The actors featured on the sitcom weren't the musicians creating The Partridge Family records. The…

Michael Hutchence became an international rock and roll superstar in the 1980s, fronting the Australian pop band, INXS. And though his celebrity never faded, his impact on the pop music charts certainly did. In the '90s, Hutchence turned…

"Celine Dion: Behind the Music" tells the story of the incredible rise of the diva of pop music and the relationship, with her husband and manager, Rene Angelil. "Behind the Music" delves into their relationship's transformation as Rene…

A look at the life of the man many consider the "Godfather of Hip Hop." Nearly 20 years ago, Russell Simmons founded Def Jam Records, rap's most enduring record label. He was instrumental in building the careers of Run-DMC (who he…

A look at the life of Q (as his friends call him)-- from the tough streets of Chicago to New York City to Europe where he performed as a trumpet player, working with such greats as Lionel Hampton and Ray Charles. Over the years, Jones…

A look at one of rap music's most successful pioneer groups. They were just three kids from Queens, NY who wanted to rock the house and ended up rocking the world. They were the first rap group to go gold...to go platinum...to go…

A candid first-hand account of rock 'n' roll tragedy and triumph, featuring rare and never-before-seen archive video, film and home movie footage, concert clips, and songs, plus exclusive interviews with Tina's sister Aileen Bullock, her…

He was the first person inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, but many music fans still don't know his name. Alan Freed was a superstar disc jockey in the days when there was no such thing. He helped launch the careers of Buddy…

His name was Reginald Dwight, a shy, boy from an unhappy home in suburban London, who grew up to be one of the most prolific, flamboyant, successful, and at times, one of the most maligned recording stars in the world. In this one hour…

Oasis claims to be the best band in the world, but it's their behavior that's legendary. From the tough streets of Manchester, England - the band's debut broke the fastest-selling record set by their heroes, The Beatles. The tabloids…

No Doubt was originally a high school band formed in 1986 by John Spence. The band included brother and sister Eric and Gwen Stefani on keyboards and vocals. "No Doubt: Behind the Music" tracks the band's early days in Long Beach all the…

"The Police: Behind the Music" explores the rise and ruin of The Police, rock's most dynamic trio, from their start as struggling London punk rockers in the late '70s to their glory days in the early '80s when they were the biggest band…

"1970: Behind the Music" traces the musical and social currents of a year which has come to represent a fascinating watershed in American life, one reflected by concurrent shifts of politics and popular culture, and one in which a climate…

1984 was a year with no rules and no boundaries, a year of musical promiscuity, both literally and figuratively. This episode of "Behind the Music" addresses the social culture and climate of the time as well as what events domestically…

1977 - the Year of the Outsider. In 1977 an eclectic group of original do-it-yourself (DIY) bands rose up to challenge the tired, bloated world of corporate rock ruled by the Eagles, Fleetwood Mac, Boston, and Linda Ronstadt. The year saw…

It was the year music fans changed the course of the industry. In Seattle, flannel replaced spandex and Nirvana's Kurt Cobain was crowned the king of a sound called "grunge." Nirvana and other rockers like Pearl Jam gave validity to the…

A behind the scenes look into the life of a superstar, offering unprecedented access to a week in his life on the road, as he reflects on the ups and downs of his career from his days in Menudo to the success of La VIda Loca. He also…

A look at the first group of women rock stars who played their instruments, wrote their own songs and made it to the top. The band discusses their origins on the LA hardcore punk scene, their commercial makeover into America's sweethearts…

Born out of small-town, blue-collar New Jersey, Bon Jovi emerged as a revolutionary force in '80s rock and roll. They sold over 80 million albums, and scored eight top 10 hits between 1986 and 1989. However, the group's grueling schedule…

VH1 reveals the story behind Angus Young's schoolboy uniform and how AC/DC managed to take their raucous act out of Australia to become a worldwide phenomenon. In emotional interviews, the rockers sadly talk about the death of former…

They were four young men hired by Hollywood to play a make-believe band but their critics dubbed them "the pre-fab four". They fought to make their own records -- seizing control in a high-stakes musical mutiny. The phony foursome stopped…

Queen Latifah has become a symbol of strength and integrity in the hip hop world, and beyond. At the age of 30, she has had a full career, starting in the rap world, and then transcending it, as she conquered new territory with a…

With a radical dose of 60's Black Nationalism, Public Enemy carved hip-hop from dance music into the angry voice of a generation. As revolutionaries, Chuck D., Flava Flav and Professor Griff launched an all-out assault on hypocrisy unlike…

Faith Hill may be a superstar in both the country and pop music worlds, but the road to the top hasn't been easy. Given up for adoption when she was born, Hill grew up with her adoptive family in a small Mississippi town. Hill went onto…

They were four California girls who dreamed of being the Beatles. They were an all-girl all-American garage band with a unique chemistry on and off stage. They were all for one and one for all until one of them became a star. They reached…

In the mid 1970's Peter Frampton came "alive." His blockbuster double album spun on nearly every turntable in America. His photogenic good looks and soaring guitar licks rocketed him to the outer reaches of megastardom. Frampton conquered…

"Styx: Behind the Music" traces the rise and fall of what was once America's most popular band. The first group to ever have four consecutive triple platinum albums (not even the Beatles or Stones did that), Styx was a crowd-pleasing…

A story of crime and courage, hustler savvy and artistic expression. Ice-T was an orphan by the age of 13, moved to Los Angeles, and after a brief stint in the Army, began an astonishingly successful life of crime. However, as he watched…

Cat Stevens: Behind The Music tracks the musical and spiritual journeys of the '70s superstar singer-songwriter, born as Steven Georgiou and now known as Yusef Islam. Steven's early pop chart successes in the late '60s were followed by a…

Barenaked ladies are five self proclaimed Canadian geeks getting the last laugh through music. Their live shows are unparalled - jam packed with energy, wit and onstage antics. But it was their eye-catching name that made them unlikely…

The rock group Chicago is a musical institution, playing their unique brand of horn-based rock and roll for over thirty three years. The bands career has been defined by unimaginable success and marked by unthinkable tragedy. In 1967…

An Irish protest singer who once ruled theworld's pop charts, Sinead O'Connor eventually foiled her own success by sparking up global controversy in the early 1990's. From her teenage days in Dublin in the 1980's playing with local acts…

Tiffany, the teeny-bopping mall rocker, was so hot she knocked Michael Jackson out of the #1 spot on the record charts. Girls all across the globe wanted to be like her. She was on the cover of teen magazines, there were Tiffany dolls,…

Poised to be the "next big thing" when signed by the Beatles to their Apple label in 1968, Badfinger's future looked amazing, with four top ten hits in a row. Then financial mismanagement and legal troubles ended up paralyzing them.…

Brian Setzer has made a career of going against the grain. A pop pioneer who has defied the naysayers, rolled the dice and hit it big every time. For twenty years, Brian Setzer has followed his heart up the charts. Along the way, he's…

Snoop Dogg (his lifelong nickname) grew up in the crime-filled streets of Long Beach, California and eventually landed in jail. Once released, he partnered with long-time rap producer and ex-NWA member, Dr. Dre which resulted in the album…

Follows the meteoric rise of rock's biggest feel-good band. Creed, made up of three guys from Florida, have managed to sell over ten million albums in just five years. They've done it all on their own with hard music and a heavy message.…

Chronicles a period of time often glossed over in other documentaries - the years John Lennon took for himself and his family, as well as the final months that marked his triumphant return to rock and roll. Features John telling his story…

Formed in 1992, Everclear was the last attempt by lead singer, Art Alexakis, to carve out a career in rock and roll. At age 30, the chance for success was slim, but the odds had always been stacked against him. After Art's parents split…

Takes a look back at the Year 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 as well as sparking…

Tells the story of six boyhood friends who lived the American male fantasy--to grow up and become rock & roll stars. While playing harmonica for his supper in Casabanca, Huey Lewis realized that his greatest dream would be to make a…

Journey was on top of music world in the early 80's producing a non-stop stream of hits: Open Arms, Faithfully, Don't Stop Believin'...it seemed as if every song they touched turned to platinum. However, as the decade came to a close,…

One of America's most popular bands in the 1970s, the Doobie Brothers personified good times and brotherhood. They took it to the streets with 11 gold albums (eight of which were in the Top 5 on the charts), rocked with a dozen top ten…

Examines the life and career of one of the greatest vocalists in rock & roll history. From his birth in bombed-out, war torn London to his breakout hit with "Maggie May", and all the blues, bands, breakups, and blondes that have marked…

The 1983 smash film "Flashdance" was the blue-collar Cinderella story of the 80's - Jennifer Beals plays a welder-by-day, dancer-by-night who follows her dreams and captures the heart and spirit of audiences across the country. The…

In the late 80's, Salt 'n' Pepa was on the cutting edge of a cultural and feminist revolution. They were among the first female rappers to have hits in hip-hop and on the pop charts. With their big hair, polka-dot clothes and pop-tinged…

Right from the start, Billy Idol has been a rebel with a cause and a yell. From his early days running with the likes of the Clash and the Sex Pistols in London's punk scene, to his years as the most famous face in rock, he has become as…

This episode details the tumultuous life and career of heavy metal pioneer Dave Mustaine. Kicked out of Metallica in 1982, the bad boy of rock forged his revenge by forming Megadeth. His mission statement for his new band: " ... to be the…

1972 was the year idealism gave way to cynicism. 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.…

1975 was the year that America seemed on the verge of collapse as the Vietnam War finally ended. A year in which soft pop dominated the top 40 and some of the legendary bands of rock seem to lose their way. It was a year in which a grungy…

First joining forces as a basement band in 1983 in Princeton, New Jersey, Blues Traveler charted a course that would have them playing 250 plus concert dates a year throughout the late 80's and 90's. With their brand of high-octane improv…

It was the year megabands ruled the arenas and the airwaves... in 1981, the music world bade farewell to some of its greatest luminaries and gorged itself on sugary pop. Music became something to see as passion, politics, money and…

It was the year 80's excess reached critical mass and rock n' roll led the party. In 1987, the stock market swelled, scandal reigned and pop music turned a blind eye. 1987 saw heavy metal go light... and hip hop go white. In a sea of…

1994 was a year the music world lost a living legend - Kurt Cobain - and a generation named x lost its most powerful poet. In 1994, Seattle grunge was dead, but a continent away, east coast rap energized an entire nation of young mcs.…

Looks at the life and career of rock & roll's first teenage idol, from his meteoric rise as a young rockabilly heartthrob in the late 1950's, to his 70's country-rock comeback with "Garden Party", his tragic death in a flaming plane wreck…

Biggie Smalls, a/k/a Notorious B.I.G., grew up dealing drugs on the streets of Brooklyn's Bed-Stuy, but traded the crack game for the rap game. Composing mesmerizing rhymes about the gangsta life, Biggie ascended to the throne of Hip Hop.…

Green Day built their own buzz with a do-it-yourself punk rock attitude in the early 90's. Centered in Berkeley, CA, they became a part of a counter-culture community as regulars at 924 Gilman Street, an old warehouse that was converted…

Neil Diamond: Behind The Music profiles one of music's most popular, enduring and misunderstood superstars - a singer-songwriter whose tunes never seem to go away. From mid-Sixties when the moody "Solitary Man" and the infectious "Cherry,…

Pat Benatar broke into the music industry boy's club with songs of feminine fury and reigned as the queen of rock and roll in the 1980's. As she shook up the music world with her striking sound and sexy image, Pat Benatar won four…

Formed in 1971, this Illinois group needed almost 10 years to create its signature slick sound, and to make the album - 1980's Hi-Infidelity - that would push its sales into the multi-platinum zone. However, behind the touching lyrics of…

Twisted Sister ruled the world of Heavy Metal Hair in 1984 and when the "Animal House" based parody video "We're Not Gonna Take It" hit the MTV airwaves, the make-up laden head-bangers were catapulted to superstardom. The album "Stay…

In the late 60's at the height of the Vietnam War, Civil Rights movement, and the Sexual Revolution, a brood of anti-establishment, avant-garde performers were creating a musical in Manhattan's East village. What began as an eccentric,…

In the spring of 1990, five diversely talented musicians with small town roots banded together in the heart of LA's Glam rock scene. Within months of forming, Blind Melon signed on with Capitol Records and dubbed the next big thing in…

Chronicles the colorful history of the quintessential hard rock band of the 80s. Four guys from working-class rural England, rose from the smoke of their heavy industry town in the late 70's to become pioneers of 'The New Wave of British…

For the first time, Puff Daddy sits down to tell VH1 his entire, dramatic life story. From his mother teaching him how to fight in the family kitchen to building a mini-empire as a paper delivery boy to becoming the youngest executive in…

Singer, musician, composer, actress, dancer, businesswoman, role model and leader -- Aaliyah had accomplished incredible things by the time she turned 22. But Aaliyah Dana Houghton, the reigning Queen of Urban Pop, wasnÍt sitting still.…

Legendary Fleetwood Mac guitar player, singer and songwriter Lindsey Buckingham juggled his multi-platinum record selling sound while struggling with his love affair to band member Stevie Nicks. Craving more creative control of his music,…

This episode let's us take a look from how Mary J. Blige transformed from a feisty tough girl from Yonkers to the dazzling queen of hip-hop soul. While most hip-hop artists sing about glorified relationships, Mary sings about abusive…

If you only judged Sublime by their breakthrough hit, "Date Rape", you might dismiss the band as just another a novelty act. But the trio was much more than that. Led by their charismatic lead singer, Brad Nowell, Sublime turned the…

All the city of Bradford had to its credit was curry houses and the Industrial Revolution. Then the Cult came along. Made tough by the North of EnglandÍs piss-stained punk clubs, Ian Astbury and Billy Duffy migrated to the glittering…

Hall & Oates are the best selling Pop Duo of all time. In the 80's they ruled the MTV airwaves,and dominated the record sales charts with 6 #1 singles, and 16 top ten hits. Critics dismissed them as nothing more than a hitmaking…

From his explosive rap style to his ever-evolving, outrageous looks, Busta Rhymes is a true original. With high octane performances and outlandish music videos he bumrushed the mainstream - and without sacrificing his raw edge or…

For more than twenty years, the band Anthrax has been called the underdogs of heavy metal. Now, after post September 11th events, Anthrax is not sure what to call themselves as their name has taken on a meaning they never imagined. This…

Long before she was a roots rock sensation, Sheryl Crow honed her skills by singing backup for Don Henley and Michael Jackson and jamming with other L.A.-based musicians in the Tuesday Night Music Club. But by the time her catchy single…

Garbage was the brainchild of Madison, Wisconsin producers Butch Vig, Duke Erikson, and Steve Marker. But it wasn't until they hooked up with Angelfish singer Shirley Manson that their alternative/techno venture turned golden. Shirley is…

With nearly fifty million albums sold in the United States alone, Foreigner is one of the most successful rock bands in history. Formed in 1976, the group is brainchild of British-born guitarist Mick Jones and found its voice with the…

As the larger-than-life goddess tells it, behind her Bob Mackie flash and brazen personality she's still a shy girl and at 50-something she still looks like one. This newly updated episode of Behind The Music documents Cher's early years…

They were four college buddies who set out with a simple plan: to play music and have fun. But in 1995, Hootie and the Blowfish's infectious blend of rock, country and R&B struck a chord with listeners who were seeking a reprieve from the…

"Behind the Music: Bob Marley" tells the story of the rasta rebel with rare and never-before-seen photos, film, news video, performance footage and more, plus new interviews featuring The Wailers' co-founder Bunny Wailer, Keith Richards,…

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From having no water or heat in their childhood homes to having the longest-running #1 single in music history, Boyz II Men brought New Jack Swing to the classic Philly sound. Through the highs of success and the lows of losing a close…

Think that Aerosmith had an easy time climbing to the top of the rock 'n' roll mountain? Dream on...In a 30-year career, the Boston-based group has hit the highest highs and the lowest lows -- and lived to tell it all. VH1's Behind The…

As the MTV darling of the '80s, Cyndi Lauper became an international super-star. Behind the Music traces Cyndi Lauper's life, career, and forever evolving identity. After a tumultuous and lonely childhood in Brooklyn, NY, Cyndi became a…

They are an increasingly rare commodity: a pop group that actually writes its own songs. With nearly 20 million in album sales, Matchbox Twenty's radio friendly and palatable tunes appeal to just about everyone. The band's melody driven…

Filmed mostly at the Naval Training Center and Miramar Naval Air Station in San Diego, Top Gun was the top grossing movie of 1986. Behind The Music explores the creation and cultural impact of the film, from the early obstacles faced by…

She came from nowhere to capture America's heart ... and blossomed into a global sensation, becoming the fastest selling female artist of all time while still just a teen. But amazingly, even after three blockbuster albums, a burgeoning…

They are a proud and sassy slew of songsters whose catchy dance-pop and colorful, sexy personalities made them musical superstars. Spice Girls are a British pop sensation who exploded into a worldwide phenomenon. In the summer of 1996,…

They went bankrupt. One of them nearly died. Another one burned down a mansion. And that was just the first four years.TLC: The Final Chapter picks up where the first Behind The Music: TLC left off, chronicling the alternately triumphant…

Guns N' Roses emerged from thicket of the hair metal jungle on Hollywood's Sunset Strip in the mid-80s and single-handedly reinvented rock and roll with righteous riffs and a real and present element of danger. Songs like "Welcome to the…

He ranks beside Prince, Madonna, Springsteen and Jacko in the pantheon of true '80s pop giants. He's sold over 70 millions albums worldwide and his fashion trademark - leather jacket, Ray-Bans, five o'clock shadow - is an image burned in…

He's the first true hip-hop sensation, something like a phenomenon in the rap world. By the age of eighteen, LL Cool J had achieved the rank of platinum performer and was defining a unique, new genre of American music. Amazingly, twenty…

They were the original boy band. Five friends from Boston whose undeniable talent lifted them out of the projects and into the hearts of countless teenage girls. But while New Edition was paving the way for some of the biggest bands of…

The Backstreet Boys are by far one of the most famous boy bands in music history. They've sold over sixty million albums worldwide and have left millions of screaming girls love sick along the way. These five heartthrobs have managed to…

He's a rapper, a rocker and a country charter, a stone cold pimp with a deep love for music. By the turn of the 20th century, Kid Rock was one of America's most well known personalities and best-selling musicians, commanding admiration…

Ratt grabbed a decade of decadence by the tail, but their legendary excess came back to bite them -- it cost them their career, and, in the case of guitarist Robbin Crosby, his life. This special edition of Behind the Music contains…

In the early 1990s, when hair metal was being sheered from the charts by grunge and earnest hard-rockers like Guns N Roses, Pantera, righteously flew the hard-edged heavy metal flag, almost single-handedly saving the genre from…

A behind the scenes look at Nick Lachey that no one has ever seen before covering his entire life story from beginning to end in an exclusive sit down interview.

In 1988, when the New Kids On The Block's second album "Hangin' Tough" was released, there were very few acts that equaled the success of The Beatles or Michael Jackson. But overnight, "Hangin' Tough" sales catapulted the five young teens…

By the time he was 11 years old, Dwayne Michael Carter Jr., aka Lil Wayne, had lost his virginity, dealt drugs, snorted cocaine and nearly shot himself to death after accidentally pulling the trigger on a gun he found in his mother's…

Scarred by her parents divorce, Pink (who grew up Alecia Moore) was a troubled, angst-ridden teenager who rebelled against authority, experimented with drugs and often ran away from home. Music was her one salvation, and after toiling…

Growing up in the tough, poverty stricken projects of Roxbury, MA, Bobby Brown was a bad boy from the start. He experimented with drugs and idolized the gang leaders who ruled the neighborhood. He was also enormously talented. A naturally…

Bret Michaels and his band of brothers left home in Pennsylvania with a rock-n-roll dream and a desire to taste the good life on L.A's notorious Sunset Strip. It was the 80's, hair metal was thriving and Poison soon exploded onto the…

T.I, aka Clifford Harris Jr, grew up on the tough streets of Atlanta's Bankhead neighborhood, an area filled with crime, violence and drugs. By the time he was 18, he was a high school dropout who was behind bars for dealing crack.Stuck…

Curtis Jackson III, aka 50 Cent, grew up on the violent and drug infested streets of Jamaica, Queens. His mother was murdered when he was 8, and by the time he was a teenager, he was following in her footsteps, dealing crack to make ends…

Born Earl Simmons and raised in the notorious School Street Projects of Yonkers, NY, multi platinum rapper DMX was drawn to life on the streets. This episode of Behind the Music will trace DMX's journey from his childhood home of violent…

Surviving an abusive childhood and struggling against a record label trying to control her image, Christina Aguilera's road to superstardom was not an easy one.

Behind the Music: Eve tracks the rocky rise to fame of one of rap's most successful female artists. A journey plagued by bouts of depression, excessive drinking, a stint at a strip club, and painful reminders of her past.>> Eve talks…

Courtney Love is one of the most controversial, reviled and riveting rock stars in the world and during this episode, she tells the epic story of the rock star, actress and mother.

Behind The Music traces Jennifer Hudson’s humble beginnings of growing up on the south side of Chicago to her early elimination from "American Idol". Interviews include Randy Jackson, Jamie Foxx, and many others.

Perhaps no other entertainer in the last two decades has dominated the media landscape more than the Bronx, New York bombshell, Jennifer Lopez. Better known to her fans as JLO, she is an undeniably charismatic dancer--actor-singer who…

From a small town choirboy who was discovered at a local talent show to one of the biggest selling R&B artists of all time, Usher is a triple threat entertainer starring in film, TV and Broadway.

In this episode of Behind the Music, Fantasia speaks for the first time - in an exclusive interview -- about her harrowing pill overdose and suicide attempt; and her relationship with a married man that triggered a national scandal. But…

Behind the Music: Missy Elliott tracks the rocky road to stardom of one of hip hop's most pioneering, successful female hip hop artists. Born in Virginia, Missy Elliott's childhood was plagued by poverty, horrific domestic abuse between…

Behind the Music: Nelly will trace the artist's epic journey from St. Louis hoodlum to rap superstar. Born to parents who were unable to care for him, Nelly spent his early years bouncing from home to home, sleeping on couches and…

Follow the three-decade-long career of legendary rapper Ice Cube from his journey as a founding member of the notorious rap group NWA to a blockbuster movie star.

Twenty-seven year-old, Grammy Award-winning Miranda Lambert fell in love with music at a young age and was determined to one day be a part of the country music world, keeping her tough Texan attitude as she rose to the top.

Take a look inside the life and outstanding career of Mary J. Blige, the reigning Queen of R&B. Watch as VH1 captures the story of how faith, courage and a never-ending search for love and contentment helped one of the world's most…

Enrique Iglesias is the son of a legendary musical family and one of few artists who can legitimately be called a "global sensation." Beginning his career by singing Spanish love songs, Enrique soon conquered the Latin music market and…

Glam-rock powerhouse, Adam Lambert has taken pop music by storm with his handsome looks, electrifying stage theatrics and jaw-dropping vocal acrobatics. In this episode of "Behind the Music" Adam Lambert opens up to VH1 about the…

Nobody's got female fans' hearts fluttering more than Ricky Martin with his sexy dance moves and sultry voice. As one of the most successful crossover singers in history, Ricky sold upwards of 60 million albums with global chart toppers…

It's only through struggle that resilience arises and for Armando Christian Perez, better known to the world as Pitbull, the past ten years have seen the charismatic Cuban-American rapper evolve from an embattled upstart to become one of…

"Behind The Music: Game" tracks the unlikely rise of a young gangbanger from Compton into the most successful west coast rapper since N.W.A. and Snoop Dogg. Born into a life of drugs and hustling, by the age of seven he was in a foster…

"Behind the Music: T-Pain" explores the rise of a shy kid from Tallahassee, Florida to the heights of the music industry. T-Pain was born Faheem Najm into a stable, middle class family that supported his natural curiosity and talent in…

More than ten years after the tragic death of Aaliyah, Behind The Music revisits the original 2001 episode that documented the career and untimely passing of the young talent considered the Princess of R&B. We'll look back into Aaliyah's…

In "Behind The Music: Akon," VH1 traces the artist's early beginnings in Senegal, Africa, through his struggles forging an identify in America and his criminal past as a car thief, landing him in prison. While there he ultimately found…

"Behind The Music: Nas" tells the story of one of hip hop's most daring and prolific icons. Raised in the gritty Queensbridge projects of New York City, Nas narrowly escaped his violent surroundings. He later channeled his experiences…

"Behind The Music: Brandy" will chronicle the Grammy Award-winning artist from her days as young girl singing in her church choir to flourishing into a successful musician and actress. It will also follow Brandy's trials and tribulations,…

Behind The Music: Notorious B.I.G. shows the Brooklyn-born MC rising from the streets to the throne of hip hop, revealing how his thriving career and larger-than-life presence was cut short when he was gunned down at 24.

Despite their days of obscurity and struggles to get a record deal Train rose to rock stardom before personal losses, drugs and alcohol abuse threatened to destroy it all.

"Behind The Music: NE-YO" explores the R&B heartthrob's status from talented up-and-comer to one of the industry's most ubiquitous and successful singer-songwriters.

Carrie Underwood speaks openly about the challenges that came along with her sudden fame. She also discusses her search for love, which led to her fairytale romance with her hockey player husband, Mike Fisher.

Nicole Scherzinger discusses the road to stardom and the struggles along the way, including opening up for the first time about the behind-the-scenes tension that came with the mega success of the Pussycat Dolls.

Alternative/hip-hop group Gym Class Heroes discuss their rapid rise to fame and the significant challenges it brought, including Travie McCoy's addiction to painkillers and his very public relationship and breakup with pop superstar Katy…

In "Behind The Music: Toni Braxton," the ultimate R&B icon and survivor speaks candidly and openly for the first time about her roller coaster career journey: her health struggles, including her diagnosis with lupus and her son's autism,…

"Behind the Music: T.I." (aka Clifford Harris Jr.) will catch up with the prolific rapper in the eventful 3 years since his last "Behind the Music" special. T.I.'s update will include the artist and wife Tiny discussing both stints in…

"Behind The Music: P!nk" will discuss how motherhood has changed her life as well as her continued career success since her previous "Behind the Music" special. The show will also include new interviews with P!nk and her husband, Carey…

BTM Ludacris shines a spotlight on one of the South's finest hip hop lyricists. In his most revealing interview, Ludacris opens up about his struggle to achieve rap notoriety and dealing with his loving yet alcoholic father.

Linda Perry talks candidly about her abusive childhood and how she turned her angst into hit songs. After quitting 4 Non Blondes, Linda went on to produce and write for stars like Pink, Alicia Keys and Christina Aguilera.