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American Epic

  • Watchlist
  • 2015-2017
  • 1 Season
  • PBS
  • Documentary, Music
  • TV-14
  • Watchlist

Go inside one of the greatest-ever untold stories: how the ordinary people of America were given the opportunity to make records for the first time. This four-part film, narrated by Robert Redford, melds space, time and technology to reveal the raw roots of American music. Tracing the odyssey of the first recording teams, from the gritty streets of Memphis to the Texas plains and the islands of Hawaii, American Epic captures the breathtaking variety and excitement of their discoveries.

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Cast & Crew See All

Taj Mahal
Self
Robert Redford
Narrator
Jack White
Self

Season 1 Episode Guide See All

Episode 1

The Big Bang

Tue, May 16, 201757 mins

At the height of the Roaring Twenties, music scouts armed with cutting-edge recording technology set out across America to capture the breadth of American music and discover the artists that would shape our world. The recordings they made of all the ethnic groups of America democratized the nation and gave a voice to everyone. It was the first time America heard itself. As told by music pioneers, their families and eyewitnesses, we travel back in time to the "Big Bang" of modern popular music with the Carter Family, Will Shade and the Memphis Jug Band.

Where to Watch
American Epic, Season 1 Episode 1 image

Awards

  • 2015 - Halekulani Golden Orchid Award - Documentary Feature - nominated
  • 2016 - Audience Award - Best Documentary - nominated
  • 2017 - Primetime Emmy - Outstanding Music Direction - nominated

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