Watch What Is Classic Rock?

What Is Classic Rock? is a music documentary film released in 2016. The film explores the origins, evolution, and legacy of the classic rock genre which emerged in the late 1960s and dominated the music scene of the 1970s and beyond. The film features interviews with iconic rock musicians including Randy Bachman, Country Joe McDonald, Gilby Clarke, and Bruce Kulick, who share their insights and experiences on what defines classic rock and why it continues to resonate with audiences today.

The film begins by tracing the roots of classic rock back to the 1950s and the emergence of rock and roll as a cultural phenomenon. It then explores how classic rock evolved from the psychedelic, blues, and folk influences of the late 1960s to become a distinct and influential genre in its own right. The film examines the key musical and cultural elements that define classic rock, including the importance of guitar riffs, lyrical themes of rebellion and freedom, and the role of live performances and iconic festivals such as Woodstock and Monterey Pop.

Throughout the film, the interviews with Bachman, McDonald, Clarke, and Kulick provide a unique perspective on the classic rock genre. Bachman, who was a founding member of the Guess Who and Bachman-Turner Overdrive, discusses the importance of riff-driven rock and the influence of bands such as the Beatles and the Rolling Stones. McDonald, who was a frontman for Country Joe and the Fish, talks about the role of protest music and countercultural movements in the emergence of classic rock. Clarke, who played guitar for Guns N' Roses and other bands, discusses the evolution of the genre in the 1980s and 1990s and the influence of punk and hard rock. Kulick, who played guitar for Kiss and other bands, provides insights into the role of visual spectacle and theatrics in the classic rock genre.

The film also explores the diverse range of sub-genres within classic rock, including progressive rock, hard rock, heavy metal, and arena rock. Through interviews with musicians, critics, and fans, the film examines the unique characteristics and contributions of each of these sub-genres and how they influenced the evolution of classic rock as a whole.

In addition to the interviews, the film includes archival footage and performances from classic rock icons such as Led Zeppelin, Pink Floyd, Queen, and Jimi Hendrix. These performances bring to life the energy and excitement of classic rock and showcase the genre's enduring appeal to audiences of all generations.

Overall, What Is Classic Rock? is a fascinating and insightful exploration of one of the most important and enduring genres in the history of popular music. The film provides a comprehensive overview of classic rock and its evolution over the past six decades, while also offering unique perspectives and experiences from some of the most influential musicians of the era. Whether you're a die-hard classic rock fan or simply curious about the genre, What Is Classic Rock? is a must-see film that will inform, entertain, and inspire.

What Is Classic Rock? is a 2018 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 32 minutes.