Prog-rock legend and inventor of world music Brian Pern takes us on an imagined journey through the last half-century of rock music. In part one, Pern investigates rock's prehistoric origins, asks who was the smartest band and reminisces about dressing up as a crab.
Brian looks at rock stars who turn to acting (himself included), charity singles and protest songs. Noel Edmonds reveals for the first time how the Russians tried to take down the Concorde containing Phil Collins on his way to Live Aid in Philadelphia.
Brian looks at what breaks up bands, from drink and drugs to creative tension. Plus, rock stars who want to save the world and the state of music today as the series draws to a close.
Brian reunites with his Thotch bandmates to discuss the making of a jukebox musical.
Brian plans to stage his unreleased solo album live from the peak of Mount Kilimanjaro.
Brian records a charity Christmas record in aid of bi-polar polar bears.
After a year out of the public eye following his heart attack, Brian is making a major comeback and has allowed award-winning film maker Rhys Thomas access all areas. Not only is Brian appearing on Desert Island Discs and at the the Isle of Wight Festival, he has a new album, a new look and a new wife who is half his age - Astrid Maddox Pern. Taking her advice, Brian sacks his picky manager John Farrow by fax and lets her take over. She quickly says yes to every offer going, including an appearance at the Thotch Convention Cruise with annoying fan club president, Perry.
As Brian has been inducted into the USA Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, director Rhys Thomas explores how Brian broke America with the success of his classic album Shelf Life. He goes behind the scenes of the album's creation and looks at the real events in Brian's life that inspired the hit songs, both good and bad. He also follows Brian back to Los Angeles where he is reunited with his family and ex-wife after more than a decade.
The original Thotch line-up are forced to reform after they are sued by their former manager Basil Steel for non-payment of royalties. Although Brian refuses at first, when he is informed that guitarist Pat Quid has dementia, he decides to throw in the towel to help out an old friend - but there are problems ahead when former band member and recluse Bennet St John reappears wanting a piece of the action. Brian also runs into trouble with Martin Freeman, who has been assigned to read the audiobook of Brian's autobiography.
Featuring some of the musician's greatest Top of the Pops performances with some poorly written captions underneath.
Following the sudden death of Brian Pern in a Segway accident, BBC Four is to broadcast this special documentary, dedicated to the musician, celebrating his life and work. The one-off special will be directed by the award-winning film-maker Rhys Thomas OBE (self-proclaimed) who will talk exclusively to Brian's friends and family as well as any random celebrities he can get hold of at such short notice.
