Radio Two to tell the story of modern Britain
BBC Radio 2 has launched a brand new landmark 50-part series for 2013 and wants listeners to get involved by contributing stories that will feature in the programme.
Presented by Stuart Maconie, The People’s Songs will tell the story of modern Britain via 50 records that have provided the soundtrack to British culture.
Stuart Maconie says: “The People’s Songs is the story of modern Britain in 50 records. In the company of the Great British public, I aim to tell the story of the last seven decades via the records that sound-tracked this dramatic period; a period of conflict, social change, parties, prosperity, plenty, poverty, peace and war. These are the songs that people listened to, laughed to, loved to and laboured to, as well as downed tools and danced to. And we’d love to hear from listeners.”
Looking at the music that reflects the evolution of the world we live in, the series will weave a seamless journey through themes ranging from post-war optimism and the fissures and divisions in society during the punk years to mass immigration and the perils of fame, narcotics and the obsession with celebrity.
Bob Shennan, Controller of BBC Radio 2 and 6 Music, says: “Music plays such an important part in people’s lives. This series will be moving and evocative in equal measure.”
Radio 2 would like listeners to contribute to each programme now. By sharing stories, memories, comments and photographs online they can help shape each episode of the series before it is broadcast next year.
Each month The People’s Songs website will unveil 10 songs from landmark moments in Britain’s history until the full collection of 50 songs will be fully revealed early next year.
Some of the songs to feature in the series include, We’ll Meet Again representing Britain in the Second World War, Two Tribes with the threat of nuclear war, She Loves You looking at post-austerity Britain and a time of plentiful employment, God Save The Queen delves into when punk rocked jubilee Britain and Je T’aime the sexual pleasures of the British.
More details about this series and how to get involved in its making can be found at bbc.co.uk/peoplessongs.