Philadelphia's '80s Rock Scene: An Underrated Legacy
The '80s rock music scene in Philadelphia is often overlooked, but a new documentary aims to shed light on its significant influence. 'When We Rocked' delves into the city's vibrant music history, exploring the experiences of artists who shaped the metal and hardcore sound from 1978 to 1992. This documentary, based on the book of the same name, features interviews with iconic figures like Chris Natalini from Blood Feast, revealing their struggles to break into the mainstream and the city's unique musical identity.
Michael Kelly, a music professor, emphasizes the city's distinct sound, yet questions its proper label. The documentary's creators, Matthew Scott Johnston and Mick Michaels, sought to capture the voices of these artists, resulting in a rich tapestry of stories. The film includes rare footage, photos, and live performances, offering a glimpse into the era's energy and passion.
One of the most intriguing aspects is the reunion of artists for the theme song, written by Michaels. This collaboration brings together legends like Reggie Wu, Jaron Gulino, Frankie Cross, and Mad T, showcasing the enduring connections within the Philly music community. The documentary's goal, as Michaels explains, is to bridge the gap in the city's music history, giving these artists the platform they deserve.
What makes this documentary particularly captivating is the contrast between Philadelphia's reputation for producing early rock 'n' roll icons like Frankie Avalon and Chubby Checker, and the '80s scene's relative obscurity. Michaels argues that the city's contributions to glam rock and heavy metal were overshadowed, dismissed, and often misunderstood. The documentary meticulously compiles stories from bands like Roughhouse, Britny Fox, and Heavens Edge, tracing the evolution of disco, hard rock, and grunge.
'When We Rocked' is not just a retrospective; it's an expansion of the Philly rock scene's legacy. Antonio Aloia, the co-author, describes it as a 'solidification of modern American music history.' The documentary's release is a testament to the power of storytelling, offering a unique perspective on a city's musical contributions and the artists who shaped its identity.
