Watch Rock 'N' Roll Inventions

Rock 'N' Roll Inventions is a fascinating series that explores the innovative and groundbreaking inventions that have revolutionized the world of music. Produced by Smithsonian Channel Plus, this show takes viewers on a journey through the history of rock and roll, highlighting the key moments and people who changed the landscape of music forever.

Over the course of six episodes, Rock 'N' Roll Inventions delves into the stories behind some of the most influential instruments, gadgets, and technologies that made rock music possible. From the early days of the electric guitar to the birth of the digital music revolution, this series covers a wide range of topics and explores the various ways in which technology has shaped the sound and style of rock and roll.

The show is hosted by Matt O'Dowd, a physicist and science communicator who brings a unique perspective to the world of music. Drawing on his scientific expertise, O'Dowd breaks down the complex science behind some of the most iconic rock 'n' roll inventions, making it accessible and engaging for viewers of all ages and backgrounds.

Each episode of Rock 'N' Roll Inventions explores a different aspect of music technology, with topics ranging from the evolution of the electric guitar to the advent of digital recording. Along the way, the show features interviews with some of the most innovative and influential musicians and technologists of our time, including Eddie Van Halen, Les Paul, and Bob Moog.

Throughout the series, viewers learn about the challenges and triumphs that went into creating some of the most iconic instruments and technologies in rock history. We see how Les Paul's experimentation with magnetic tape gave birth to the concept of multi-track recording, and how the advent of digital synthesizers revolutionized the way that music is made.

Alongside these stories of technological innovation, Rock 'N' Roll Inventions also explores the cultural and social impact of these inventions. We learn about the ways in which guitars, amplifiers, and recording equipment became symbols of rebellion and counterculture, inspiring generations of musicians to push the boundaries of music and expression.

One of the most compelling aspects of Rock 'N' Roll Inventions is its use of archival footage and historical context. Through rare interviews, photographs, and performance footage, the series brings to life the stories behind some of the most iconic moments in rock history. Viewers get a front-row seat to the birth of rockabilly, the rise of psychedelic rock, and the explosion of punk music.

Despite its focus on technology and innovation, however, Rock 'N' Roll Inventions never loses sight of the human element of music-making. Throughout the series, we see how individual artists and musicians have used technology to shape their sound and create their own unique style. We hear first-hand accounts from musicians like Graham Nash and Lindsey Buckingham, who discuss the creative process behind some of their most famous songs and albums.

At its core, Rock 'N' Roll Inventions is a celebration of the ingenuity and creativity that have made rock music such a vital and influential force. Through its nuanced exploration of the history of music technology, the show helps us to understand the power and importance of music in our lives, and the role that innovation and experimentation have played in shaping this art form.

Overall, Rock 'N' Roll Inventions is a must-see series for anyone who is fascinated by the history of rock music, or who is interested in the ways in which technology has shaped our culture and society. It is a thrilling and engaging exploration of one of the most important and enduring artistic movements of the modern era, and a testament to the power of creative thinking and innovation.

Rock 'N' Roll Inventions is a series that is currently running and has 1 seasons (6 episodes). The series first aired on January 17, 2017.