Ep 2. Atlantic Records: the House That Ahmet Built

In the second episode of season 21 of American Masters, viewers are taken on a musical journey through the history of one of the most influential record labels in American history: Atlantic Records. Founded in 1947 by Turkish immigrant Ahmet Ertegun, Atlantic Records became a home for music that was ahead of its time, breaking down racial barriers and launching the careers of some of the biggest names in music history.

Narrated by actor and director Bette Midler, the episode features interviews with some of the most influential artists and producers in the history of music, including Mick Jagger, Aretha Franklin, Phil Collins, and more. Through their stories, viewers get a sense of just how significant Atlantic Records was in shaping the sound of popular music in America.

Throughout the episode, viewers are taken on a chronological journey through the history of Atlantic Records, beginning with its founding in 1947. From there, we see how Ertegun and his team worked tirelessly to find and promote talent that other record labels were overlooking. This led to some notable early successes, such as Ruth Brown and Ray Charles, who became the label's first breakout stars.

As the years went on, Atlantic Records continued to sign groundbreaking artists that pushed the boundaries of what was considered popular music at the time. This included acts like The Coasters, The Drifters, and Ben E. King, whose unique sounds blended elements of soul, jazz, and rock and roll.

But perhaps the most significant moment in Atlantic Records' history came in the mid-1960s, when they signed a little-known British band called The Rolling Stones. Mick Jagger and Keith Richards sit down to talk about how Ertegun took a chance on them when no one else would, and how that decision changed the course of their career forever.

The episode also highlights the role that Atlantic Records played in the civil rights movement, particularly in the 1960s. With a roster of artists that included Sam & Dave, Wilson Pickett, and Otis Redding, Atlantic Records became a powerhouse in the world of soul music, providing a platform for black artists to be heard and celebrated at a time when segregation was still prevalent in many parts of the country.

Throughout the episode, viewers also get an inside look at the creative process behind some of Atlantic Records' biggest hits. Producers such as Tom Dowd and Jerry Wexler share their insights into what made the label's sound so distinctive, revealing the techniques and technologies they used to make the recordings that still resonate with audiences today.

Overall, Atlantic Records: The House That Ahmet Built is a fascinating and engaging look at one of the most important record labels in American music history. With its talented roster of artists, its groundbreaking approach to music production, and its early commitment to racial integration, Atlantic Records remains a true icon of the music industry. This episode is a must-watch for music lovers and anyone interested in the cultural impact of music on American society.