Watch Icon: Music Through the Lens

Icon: Music Through the Lens is a docuseries that takes viewers on a journey through the evolution of music photography. The series showcases the work of some of the most iconic music photographers of all time, including Mick Rock, Danny Clinch, and Bob Gruen. The series is produced by Universal Music Group’s Mercury Studios and explores how music photography has not only captured some of the most memorable moments in music history, but also shaped the way we view and remember those moments.

The series consists of six hour-long episodes and each episode delves into the work of a different music photographer. For each photographer, the show not only showcases their work, but also explores how their individual personalities and stories have influenced the music industry as a whole. Through interviews with these legendary photographers, as well as some of the musicians they've photographed, Icon: Music Through the Lens provides a unique insight into the creative process and the sometimes-unpredictable nature of music photography.

Mick Rock's work is the focus of the first episode. Hailed by many as "the man who shot the seventies," Rock was responsible for capturing some of the most iconic images of David Bowie, Iggy Pop, Lou Reed, and Queen during the glam-rock era of the 1970s. Through interviews with Rock himself and some of the musicians he's photographed, the episode provides a fascinating look into the creative process that goes into capturing a moment in time.

The second episode explores the work of Danny Clinch, who has been photographing musicians for over three decades. Clinch's style is different from Rock's; he often captures the more intimate and personal moments that happen behind the scenes, such as musicians tuning their instruments or sharing a laugh. In the episode, Clinch talks about his approach to photography and how his relationship with many of the musicians he's photographed has developed over the years.

The third episode is all about Bob Gruen, who has been photographing rock stars since the 60s. Gruen's work includes some of the most iconic images of John Lennon, including the famous photo of Lennon wearing a New York City t-shirt. In the episode, Gruen reflects on his long career and shares some of his favorite photographs and memories of working with some of the most legendary musicians of all time.

Icon: Music Through the Lens is not just about showcasing the work of individual photographers, it's also a celebration of music itself. The series explores the symbiotic relationship between music and photography, and how each has influenced and shaped the other over the years. From the early days of rock'n'roll, through punk and disco, and up to the present day, Icon: Music Through the Lens provides a comprehensive overview of the role music photography has played in shaping our cultural landscape.

Throughout the series, viewers are treated to a captivating mix of music and photography, and the stories behind the images are just as engaging as the images themselves. Icon: Music Through the Lens is a celebration of creativity, and the show's passionate appreciation of music and photography is infectious. Whether you're a fan of classic rock or contemporary pop, there's something for everyone in this captivating series.

Overall, Icon: Music Through the Lens is a must-watch for anyone with an interest in music or photography. The series provides an insightful and comprehensive overview of the evolution of music photography, and the individual stories behind each photographer's work are fascinating in their own right. With its combination of stunning imagery and compelling storytelling, Icon: Music Through the Lens is a show that will leave you feeling inspired and enriched.

Icon: Music Through the Lens is a series that ran for 1 seasons (6 episodes) between July 16, 2021 and on Sky Arts