Behind The Music Season 12 Episode 14 Duran Duran

As one of the most iconic bands of the 1980s, Duran Duran's music has been the soundtrack to many people's lives. In this episode of Behind the Music, we take a look at the rise of this British group and the challenges they faced along the way.

We start with Duran Duran's early days in Birmingham, England. Formed in the late 1970s, the band members were influenced by the punk scene but also had a love for dance music and fashion. With their good looks and catchy songs, they quickly became a sensation in their hometown and soon caught the attention of record labels.

The episode then delves into the band's big break with their debut single "Planet Earth" and their first album, which went to the top of the charts in the UK. This success opened up doors for Duran Duran to break into the US market, where they became superstars almost overnight. Their music videos, which featured exotic locations and beautiful models, were groundbreaking and helped to propel the band's image as fashion icons.

But with success came challenges. The band was constantly in the public eye and faced criticism from both fans and the media. They were accused of being too commercial and not authentic, and even faced backlash for their controversial song "Girls on Film." Additionally, tensions within the band were starting to surface, with various members wanting different creative directions for their music.

The episode then explores Duran Duran's evolution throughout the 1980s, with the release of albums like Seven and the Ragged Tiger and Notorious. The band experimented with different styles of music, incorporating funk and soul into their sound. However, this phase was not without its difficulties. The band's record label pressured them to produce more hits and the pressure took a toll on the band's relationship.

The episode also dives into the band's personal lives, including the impact of fame and the struggles with addiction that some members faced. We learn how this affected their music and relationships with each other.

Towards the end of the episode, we see the band discuss the challenges they faced during the years leading up to their reunion in the 2000s. There was tension within the band, they were often criticized for their music, and their relevance was called into question. However, they persevered and became a staple in the music industry once again, with the release of their successful album Astronaut in 2004.

Finally, the episode concludes with discussions on Duran Duran's influence on music and fashion, and their legacy as a band. We see how their music continues to resonate with fans today and has inspired a new wave of musicians.

Overall, this episode of Behind the Music offers a fascinating look into the rise and challenges of one of the most iconic bands of the 1980s. Through interviews with the band members and those closest to them, we gain insight into their creative process, personal struggles, and their impact on the music industry. It's a must-watch for any fan of Duran Duran and for those who appreciate the music of the 1980s.