Ep 1. Everyday Sunshine: The Story of Fishbone
- January 22, 2012
Everyday Sunshine: The Story of Fishbone is the first episode of the fourth season of Afropop: The Ultimate Cultural Exchange. In this episode, viewers are taken on a journey through the history of the band Fishbone, a group that has been credited with influencing many well-known musicians in the alternative rock scene.
The episode begins with interviews and footage of Fishbone during their early years, when they were still a group of young high school students in Los Angeles. Viewers learn about the various members of the group and their musical influences, such as punk, ska, and funk.
We then see how Fishbone began to gain popularity in the Los Angeles music scene, opening for more well-known bands and quickly becoming local favorites. Interviews with other musicians from the scene, such as Mike Watt and Flea from the Red Hot Chili Peppers, help to place Fishbone within the broader context of the alternative rock movement of the 1980s.
As Fishbone's popularity grew, they began to tour around the country and even internationally. The episode shows footage from some of their most memorable performances, such as their appearance on Saturday Night Live in 1991.
But the episode also delves into some of the more difficult aspects of Fishbone's journey, such as racism and discrimination they faced as a multicultural band in a predominantly white industry. Members of the band and their family members speak candidly about the challenges they faced and how they persevered despite them.
Throughout the episode, we see how Fishbone's music and message evolved over time. For example, the band became increasingly political in their lyrics and performances, addressing social issues such as poverty and police brutality. The episode also shows how the band's sound changed as they experimented with different genres and musical styles.
In addition to interviews with members of Fishbone and other musicians, the episode also includes archival footage and photos, giving viewers a sense of the band's evolution over time. The episode concludes with a look at where the members of Fishbone are today and the legacy they have left on the music industry.
Everyday Sunshine: The Story of Fishbone is a powerful and engaging episode that celebrates the music and legacy of one of the most influential alternative rock bands of the past few decades. By exploring the band's history and significance, viewers gain a deeper appreciation for the role that Fishbone played in shaping the music and culture of their time.
