Quick Summary
Charting the history of the magazine founded in San Francisco in 1967 – a compelling look at how the iconic publication fused cutting‑edge music coverage with bold political reporting, tracing its cultural influence from the late‑60s counter‑culture to the present day.
About This Program
Programme Overview
Charting the history of the magazine founded in San Francisco in 1967 by Jann Wenner and Ralph J Gleason that mixed music coverage with innovative political reporting is a one‑hour documentary episode on Sky Arts that explores the rise of an iconic publication whose blend of rock‑and‑roll journalism and bold political commentary reshaped both the music world and wider cultural discourse. The film follows the magazine from its modest beginnings in the counter‑cultural hub of San Francisco to its emergence as a global voice influencing generations of readers.
What to Expect
The episode weaves together archival footage, rare photographs and candid interviews with former editors, writers and musicians who lived through the magazine’s most defining moments. Viewers will discover how the founders’ vision combined cutting‑edge music coverage with fearless reporting on social and political issues, creating a template for modern cultural journalism. Key milestones—ground‑breaking interviews, controversial exposés and the publication’s role in pivotal historical events—are presented in a clear chronological narrative that highlights both artistic and editorial innovation.
Why Watch
For UK audiences interested in music history, media studies and the intersection of art and politics, this Sky Arts documentary offers an in‑depth, engaging portrait of a publication that helped shape the soundtrack and conscience of a generation. Its rich visual archive and insightful commentary make it an appealing watch for documentary enthusiasts, students of journalism, and anyone curious about how a magazine can influence popular culture and public debate.
Viewing Details
Broadcast on Sky Arts, the episode forms part of the channel’s commitment to arts‑focused documentary programming that examines pivotal cultural moments. At a concise hour in length, it fits comfortably into a prime‑time slot, providing a comprehensive yet accessible exploration suitable for both casual viewers and dedicated aficionados of music and media history.
Rolling Stone: Stories from the Edge broadcasts on Sky Arts at 4:10am, Thursday, 6 November 2025. (Subtitles, repeat)