Independent Lens Season 6 Episode 20 End of the Century: The Ramones; Joe Strummer Rocks Again

End of the Century: The Ramones; Joe Strummer Rocks Again is the twentieth episode of the sixth season of the Emmy Award-winning series, Independent Lens. This episode follows the life and times of two of the most iconic punk rock bands in history: The Ramones and The Clash.

The first part of the episode takes viewers on a journey through the rise and fall of The Ramones, one of the most influential bands in the history of punk rock. The Ramones were formed in New York City in 1974 by Joey Ramone, Johnny Ramone, Dee Dee Ramone, and Tommy Ramone. Their music was fast, loud, and in your face, and their lyrics often spoke of the struggles of working-class life.

Through a series of interviews with band members, fans, and music experts, viewers get a glimpse into the early days of The Ramones, when they were playing at small clubs in the Lower East Side of Manhattan. As their popularity grew, the band's sound became more refined, and they began to tour nationally and internationally.

However, despite their success, The Ramones were plagued by infighting and personal demons. Through interviews with band members and their friends, as well as archival footage, viewers get a sense of the toll that fame and success took on the band. Eventually, in 1996, after more than 20 years of touring and recording, The Ramones played their final show in Los Angeles, and the band officially disbanded.

The second part of the episode focuses on Joe Strummer of The Clash, who was one of the most important figures in the punk rock movement. Strummer was the lead singer and guitarist of The Clash, and his political and social views were reflected in the band's music.

Through interviews with Strummer's friends, band members, and music experts, viewers get a glimpse into the life of one of punk rock's most influential figures. Strummer's early years in London, where he formed The Clash with Mick Jones, are explored in depth, as are the band's early recordings and tours of the UK.

However, Strummer's life was not without its challenges. In the late 1980s, The Clash broke up due to infighting and creative differences. Strummer struggled with addiction and depression, but he eventually found his way back to music, collaborating with a number of artists and forming new bands.

The episode culminates with Strummer's performance at the Roskilde Festival in Denmark in 1999. This performance, which is widely regarded as one of the greatest of Strummer's career, is a testament to the power and enduring influence of punk rock.

Overall, End of the Century: The Ramones; Joe Strummer Rocks Again is a fascinating look at two of the most important bands in the history of punk rock. Through interviews, archival footage, and performances, viewers get a sense of the impact that these bands had on the music industry and on society as a whole. Whether you're a fan of punk rock or just interested in learning more about music history, this episode of Independent Lens is definitely worth watching.