Watch Concert for Kampuchea

Concert for Kampuchea is a documentary film that takes viewers behind the scenes of the historic 1979 music festival that was held to raise funds for the victims of the Cambodian genocide. The festival took place over three nights at the Hammersmith Odeon in London and featured some of the biggest names in rock and roll at the time.

The film captures the excitement and energy of the event, as well as the poignant moments as musicians and fans alike grapple with the enormity of the tragedy they are trying to address. The festival was organized by Paul McCartney after he was approached by his old friend, the former Apple executive Tony Bramwell, who had recently returned from a trip to Cambodia and was deeply affected by what he had seen.

The first night of the festival featured performances by Wings, the band that McCartney had formed after the Beatles broke up, as well as Elvis Costello and the Attractions. The highlight of the evening was undoubtedly Wings' performance of "Coming Up," which had just been released as a single and quickly became a hit. McCartney and his bandmates were clearly enjoying themselves, and the energy they brought to the stage was infectious.

The second night kicked off with a set by The Clash, one of the most politically charged bands of the era. The band's performances of songs like "London Calling" and "Guns of Brixton" were powerful statements about the state of the world at the time, and their commitment to social justice was palpable.

The Pretenders followed The Clash, and lead singer Chrissie Hynde delivered a mesmerizing performance that showcased her raw talent and charisma. The Pretenders' set included hits like "Brass in Pocket" as well as a cover of the Kinks' "Stop Your Sobbing," which Hynde had recorded with the band earlier in her career.

Ian Dury and the Blockheads brought their unique blend of punk, funk, and pub rock to the stage next, delivering a raucous performance that had the crowd dancing and singing along. Dury's sharp wit and irreverent lyrics were on full display as he belted out classics like "Reasons to Be Cheerful (Part 3)" and "Sex & Drugs & Rock & Roll."

The highlight of the second night, however, was undoubtedly Rockpile's performance with Robert Plant. The Led Zeppelin frontman joined the band on stage to play a blistering version of "Little Sister," a song that had been a hit for Elvis Presley in the 1960s. Plant's raw vocals and magnetic stage presence were a sight to behold, and the audience was clearly thrilled to be witnessing such a historic moment.

The final night of the festival began with a set by Queen, who were at the height of their powers in 1979. Freddy Mercury and his bandmates delivered a high-energy performance that included hits like "We Will Rock You" and "Somebody to Love," as well as an epic rendition of "Bohemian Rhapsody" that brought the house down.

The Specials, one of the most important bands to come out of the UK's ska revival, followed Queen and kept the energy level high with their infectious mix of reggae, punk, and soul. The band's anti-racist message was particularly resonant in the context of the Cambodian genocide, and their performance was a powerful reminder of the importance of standing up against injustice.

The Who closed out the festival with a set that was a mixture of old classics and new material. The band's performances of songs like "My Generation," "Pinball Wizard," and "Won't Get Fooled Again" were electrifying, and the energy they brought to the stage was matched only by the enthusiasm of the crowd.

Throughout the film, viewers are treated to interviews with the musicians who participated in the festival, as well as with fans and activists who were moved by the tragedy in Cambodia and inspired by the music that helped raise funds and awareness for the cause. The film is a powerful reminder of the role that music can play in bringing people together and effecting change in the world.