Behind the Music: Season 1
Episodes
Milli Vanilli
Aug 17, 1997 · 60 min
Girl, you know it's true…but unfortunately it wasn't, for the 80's dance duo whose Grammy-winning triumph turned sour when their producer revealed that his hunky proteges were shak
MC Hammer
Aug 24, 1997 · 60 min
The dawn of the 1990's was unquestionably Hammer time. A scrappy striver from Oakland CA. named Stanley Burrell took hip-hop to P.T. Barnum scales: baggy trousers over rubbery legs
Boy George
Aug 31, 1997 · 60 min
In 1984, George O'Dowd accepted a Grammy Award for Culture Club by quipping that America "knows a good drag queen" when it sees one. And Boy George was not just a good drag queen,
Fleetwood Mac
Sep 7, 1997 · 60 min
A successful British blues band in the '60s, Fleetwood Mac became the legends we know today when they hooked up with a young singer-songwriter couple who were almost ready to give
Nowhere to Hide
Sep 21, 1997 · 60 min
This cautionary episode of Behind the Music documents the growing menace of stalkers. Considered by some the "prototype" for fans who take their celebrity obsessions to dangerous a
Imagemakers
Sep 28, 1997 · 60 min
Rock 'n' roll wouldn't exist without its image, and it's been the job of rock photographers to capture that divine union of talent, passion and style that makes a singer a star. Ev
Lynyrd Skynyrd
Oct 19, 1997 · 60 min
This episode marked the 20th anniversary of the infamous plane crash (10/20/77) with a special episode on the bad boys from Jacksonville, Florida who put Southern Rock and Roll on
Teddy Pendergrass
Oct 26, 1997 · 60 min
Teddy's early experiences in life and music: "I wasn't raised with baby-sitters, my mother couldn't afford to have someone watch me. It just didn't work like that in the ghetto so
Billy Joel
Nov 9, 1997 · 60 min
He has penned enough hits to fill three Greatest Hits compilations. Yet, Billy Joel's rise to fame has been anything but smooth sailing. Behind the Music chronicles the ups and dow
Lilith Fair
Nov 16, 1997 · 60 min
In the summer of 1997, Canadian singer/songwriter Sarah McLachlan launched an event that would surpass Lollapalooza as the most successful concert tour of the year. Against all odd
Andy Gibb
Nov 30, 1997 · 60 min
He was the prince of Pop idols and by the tender age of 22, Andy Gibb had three #1 songs under his belt. But over the next 8 years, his career would falter, the love of his life, V
Jim Croce
Dec 2, 1997 · 60 min
Featuring never before seen family photos and performance footage, "Jim Croce: Behind the Music" traces the life and career of the man responsible for such hit songs as "Bad Bad Le
The Carpenters
Jan 1, 1998 · 60 min
In 1970 The Carpenters won the Best New Artist Grammy, and for five years it seemed as though they were indeed on "Top of the World" as song after song continued to ride up the cha
Sonny Bono
Jan 11, 1998 · 60 min
He couldn't sing or read music but he became a songwriter and pop star. And though he never cast a vote in his life, he was elected Mayor of Palm Springs, then Congressman. If ther
The Mamas & the Papas
Jan 18, 1998 · 60 min
A look at the trials & tribulations surrounding one of folk rockÍs most talented groups. Interviews with the remaining band members, Michelle Phillips, John Phillips and Denny Dohe
Meat Loaf
Feb 1, 1998 · 60 min
The incredible rise, fall and comeback of Meat Loaf. Interviews with Meat Loaf, his wife Leslie Aday, their two daughters, Todd Rundgren (producer, Bat Out of Hell), Karla DeVito (
Gladys Knight
Feb 15, 1998 · 60 min
Her career spans more than 50 years, 37 of which were spent headlining "Gladys Knight and the Pips." She has collected four Grammys, 12 gold records and a spot in the Rock and Roll
Willie Nelson
Mar 1, 1998 · 60 min
With 100 albums behind him and a career that spans 50 years, you might think Willie Nelson has had a smooth ride to fame and fortune.Behind The Music sets the record straight on th
Jerry Lee Lewis
Mar 8, 1998 · 60 min
Four decades have passed since the release of "Whole Lotta Shakin' Goin' On" and "Great Balls of Fire," but it's fair to say that no one has matched the sheer rock and roll excitem
Rick James
Mar 15, 1998 · 60 min
In the early 80s, Rick James was the king of funk, dominating the charts with hits like "Superfreak," "Mary Jane" and "Give It To Me Baby." James was best known for his outrageous
David Crosby
Mar 22, 1998 · 60 min
An advanced pop musician by anyone's standards, David Crosby has become a poster boy for a crash and burn hippie culture. From his early days with the Byrds, he had a wild twinkle
Selena
Mar 29, 1998 · 60 min
By the age of 23, Selena Quintanilla Perez had conquered the Tejano music scene and had become embraced by tens of thousands of fans. With her blend of natural talent, boundless en
Jefferson Airplane/Starship
Apr 5, 1998 · 60 min
Includes first-time interviews with all 6 members of the classic Jefferson Airplane line-up as well as an interview with Grace Slick.
Takin' It to the Streets
Apr 12, 1998 · 60 min
A cross-cultural look at people who sing for their supper features five different groups/artists from New York, New Orleans, Chicago and Los Angeles; features original compositions
Ozzy Osbourne
Apr 19, 1999 · 60 min
A look at this heavy metal legend, from his early days as the lead singer of Black Sabbath, to his controversial concert acts as a solo performer (he bit the head off a live bat on
Ted Nugent
Apr 26, 1998 · 60 min
Nugent started performing at age 13 and became one of the the biggest live acts in the '70s. Ted's not your typical rock 'n' roller. He is a political conservative, preaching famil
Joe Cocker
May 3, 1998 · 60 min
The dramatic ups and downs of Cocker's career including a recent interview before launching his April '98 tour, behind the scenes footage from his world-famous "Mad Dogs and Englis
Behind the Music (Ver 2)
May 18, 1998 · 60 min
Filmed mostly at the Naval Training Center and Miramar Naval Air Station in San Diego, Top Gun was the top grossing movie of 1986. Behind The Music explores the creation and cultur
Studio 54
May 24, 1998 · 60 min
It has been more than twenty years since Studio 54 first opened its doors on April 26, 1977, driven by a disco beat and ruled by the unlikeliest of overlords: gay, sociable restaur
Keith Moon
May 31, 1998 · 60 min
Keith Moon will always be remembered as a wild man of rock and roll who wrecked hotel rooms and destroyed his drums. What is often forgotten about Keith is that he was a drummer ex
Bonnie Raitt
Jun 7, 1998 · 60 min
An intimate look at one of the most successful and respected female rockers, from her early roots in Blues to her current pop/rock stardom.
Robbie Robertson
Jun 14, 1998 · 60 min
Robbie Robertson reflects on the history and break-up of his critically acclaimed group, The Band. When drugs began to erode the bond that held them together, Robbie decided to put
Def Leppard
Jun 21, 1998 · 60 min
The biggest selling pop band of the '80's lived the text book rock star life: limos and liquor, drugs and groupies – hedonism defined their daily ritual. But even record sales over
Tony Orlando
Jun 28, 1998 · 60 min
One of the hottest pop music performers of the 70's candidly discusses his struggle with cocaine addiction and his mental breakdown. Songs include "Knock Three Times," "Candida," "
Gloria Estefan
Jul 5, 1998 · 60 min
The triumph and tribulations of a "Diva" who has come to symbolize the American dream. Highlights include Gloria discussing her accident, her fatherÍs death, the birth of her son i
Jan and Dean
Jul 12, 1998 · 60 min
A look at the successful 60's surf rock duo, Jan Berry and Dean Torrence. With hits like "Surf City," "Dead Man's Curve" and "Little Old Lady from Pasadena" these California croone
Harry Chapin
Jul 19, 1998 · 60 min
Singer/songwriter Harry Chapin made a successful career out of setting short stories to music with hits like "Taxi," "W.O.L.D.", "Cats in the Cradle" and "Sequel." A staunch suppor
Gloria Gaynor
Jul 26, 1998 · 60 min
Profile of superstar Gloria Gaynor, the disco diva whose song, titled, "I Will Survive," inspired millions of fans with a confident message of hope, but for Gloria to survive, she
Madonna
Aug 16, 1998 · 60 min
Madonna's blonde ambition was born when she was still a brunette living in Detroit. Her desire to "rule the world" drew the dancer and fledgling musician to New York's East Village
1968
Aug 30, 1998 · 60 min
A look back to the SixtiesÍ most explosive, chaotic, tragic and inspiring year. A time when youth raged in the streets, leaders were martyred, and cities burned. This episode explo
Steppenwolf
Sep 6, 1998 · 60 min
Steppenwolf was a band of rock and roll wild men whose high times and big hits, "Born to be Wild" and "Magic Carpet Ride", could not hold the pack together. We hear from former lea
Blondie
Sep 27, 1998 · 60 min
Blondie, co-founded by Deborah Harry and Chris Stein, was the most successful band to grow out of New York's downtown punk rock scene in the late 1970's. But success did not come w
Shania Twain
Oct 4, 1998 · 60 min
The classic rags to riches story. Shania grew up poor in Canada, spending much of her childhood on the Mattagami Indian Reservation where many of her stepfather's relatives lived.
John Denver
Oct 11, 1998 · 60 min
The story of one of America's most treasured singers. We are premiering this episode 1 day before the 1 year anniversary of Denver's death. Denver was a huge sensation in the 70's,
Stevie Nicks
Nov 1, 1998 · 60 min
She was crowned the queen of Rock & Roll. A country girl who cast a spell on the world of pop music. She ascended to the top with Fleetwood Mac, then stole the spotlight when she s
John Mellencamp
Nov 8, 1998 · 60 min
This small town boy lived the American dream, topping the charts with his tales of everyman. After two decades of hard living and endless touring, though, he paid the price, with a
Metallica
Nov 22, 1998 · 60 min
We're just four lucky fans that got together and started playing; this could be you, says James Hetfield, co-founder of Metallica, which built its success on an uncompromising musi
KC & The Sunshine Band
Nov 29, 1998 · 60 min
They blasted onto the American airwaves in the fall of 1975 with a sexy, explicit invitation to just let go...a multi-cultural group of musicians who were all about the groove..led
R.E.M.
Dec 16, 1998 · 60 min
Tells the story of four friends from Athens, Georgia who formed a band in 1979 because they loved to play music together. For almost two decades, R.E.M. blended four personalities
Motley Crue
Dec 13, 1998 · 60 min
Rock's most notorious band embraced excess and pushed it as far as they could: from their wild stage theatrics (Nikki Sixx would light himself on fire), to the hair, makeup, spande
Lionel Richie
Dec 20, 1998 · 60 min
In 1968, Lionel Richie left the self-sufficient black community of Tuskeegee, Alabama and headed for New York City with his college band, The Commodores. With their fluid funky gro
Bette Midler
Jan 3, 1999 · 60 min
The diva who could make people laugh with her bawdy performances has had to overcome many personal tragedies including the loss of her sister in an automobile accident, the death o
Leif Garrett
Jan 10, 1999 · 60 min
He had a golden mane, a sparkling smile and an unforgettable name (pronounced Lafe). His movie star looks made young girls' hearts skip a beat, and he made his way to teen idol glo
Rick Springfield
Jan 17, 1999 · 60 min
Rick Springfield was the Wonder from Down Under, who lathered up his fans with his songs and his soaps. Before finally breaking through, Rick was perpetually on the verge of stardo
Heart
Jan 24, 1999 · 60 min
This episode follows the successful career of the "first sisters of Rock & Roll". Includes interviews with Ann and Nancy Wilson, all of the original band members, Cameron Crowe (Na
Day the Music Died
Feb 3, 1999 · 60 min
It was the end of an era, the end of an innocence for rock and roll. - Lou Diamond Phillips.Three of rock and roll's most influential stars of the 1950's were killed in a plane cra
Depeche Mode
Feb 28, 1999 · 60 min
The bandmates discuss their musical influences and lead singer Dave Gahan talks about his heroin addiction, his near brush with death due to a drug overdose and his arrest on felon
Grand Funk Railroad
Mar 7, 1999 · 60 min
They were a garage band from Flint Michigan who upstaged Led Zeppelin in Detroit and sold out Shea Stadium faster than the Beatles; excited fans nearly brought the structure down.
Iggy Pop
Mar 14, 1999 · 60 min
Born James Jewel Osterberg in Ypsilanti, Michigan in 1947, Iggy has been shocking audiences since he emerged on the Detroit music scene in 1968 as front man for his original band,
Vanilla Ice
Mar 28, 1999 · 60 min
In the early 90's, Vanilla Ice became the opening act at MC Hammer concerts. He would end up outselling Hammer as well as many other rap artists. In this episode, Ice discusses how
Duran Duran
Apr 4, 1999 · 60 min
A look at the career of super group Duran Duran, from their early days in Birmingham, England to their international stardom. It has not been a smooth ride for the fabulous five-so
Cher
Apr 11, 1999 · 60 min
Cher is one of the world's most famous and intriguing celebrities, having made her mark in pop music and as an Academy-Award winning actress. She burst onto the music scene with hu
TLC
Apr 18, 1999 · 60 min
The story of three girls from modest means and broken homes, whose fame came virtually overnight. Their first album went multi-platinum and their follow-up album, CrazySexyCool lau
Julian Lennon
Apr 25, 1999 · 60 min
Born into one of the most recognizable music legacies in history, Julian has struggled with the world's expectations of what his life should be. His life began in the public spotli
Alice Cooper
May 2, 1999 · 60 min
A look at a one of rock's most theatrical artists. Alice Cooper's music and boa constrictor antics on-stage are legendary. Here, Cooper discusses his band getting signed by Frank Z
Black Crowes
May 9, 1999 · 60 min
The trials and tribulations of one of the most rockin' rock & roll bands in the world during their decade together -- an era defined by an uncompromising musical vision, controvers
Tom Petty
May 16, 1999 · 60 min
Spotlights the highs and lows of this prolific musician's career. Petty discusses his early bar band, Mudcrutch, the formation of the Heartbreakers in 1975, the record company batt
Marianne Faithfull
May 23, 1999 · 60 min
Behind The Music takes a look at the tumultuous life of one of the most famous and infamous rock icons of the Sixties. With a countess for a mother and a spy for a father, Marianne
Red Hot Chili Peppers
May 31, 1999 · 60 min
The Red Hot Chili Peppers - Hillel Slovak, Anthony Kiedis, Flea, Chad Smith, John Frusciante -- burst onto the early 80s L.A. scene, taking their love of outrageous and spontaneous
Eric Burdon and The Animals
Jun 13, 1999 · 60 min
A look at the life of a Rock & Roll Hall of Famer whose music career would be challenged by drug abuse, depression, bad business deals and failed marriages. Burdon discusses his ea
Donna Summer
Jun 20, 1999 · 60 min
Donna Summer was disco's first lady of love. With her sultry voice, sexy image and passionate songs, Donna provided the quintessential soundtrack to the decade of decadence. But wh
Lenny Kravitz
Jun 27, 1999 · 60 min
Since 1989 critics have been taking shots at Lenny Kravitz, one of the hottest musicians in popular music today. This Behind the Music is a look at the accomplishments of a modern
Weird Al Yankovic
Jul 4, 1999 · 60 min
Weird Al is widely recognized as a performer who creates inventive music videos and as music's most productive comedy artist. "Weird Al Yankovic: Behind The Music" highlights Yanko
Poison
Jul 11, 1999 · 60 min
This Behind the Music highlights the rock and roll lifestyle of Poison, one of the premier 1980s heavy metal bands. The show includes candid interviews with each of the four band m
Quiet Riot
Jul 18, 1999 · 60 min
A look at the first metal band to release a #1 US album. Entitled Metal Health (1982), the album sold roughly 7 million copies-- the high point of Quiet Riot's success. The band di
Natalie Cole
Jul 25, 1999 · 60 min
A look at the life of distinguished diva, Natalie Cole, daughter of Nat King Cole. Deciding to follow in her fatherÍs footsteps, Natalie began her singing career with a small band
Melissa Etheridge
Aug 1, 1999 · 60 min
This Behind the Music tracks Melissa EtheridgeÍs journey from a young Kansas girl to an international rock star. Early on, Melissa discovered her musical talents, as well as her at
Woodstock
Aug 8, 1999 · 60 min
The 60's was a time of unforgettable events from the Vietnam War, to psychedelic drug use, to youth revolutions. And it was during this turbulent time that four men decided to stag
Bay City Rollers
Aug 21, 1999 · 60 min
A look at one of the '70s biggest teen idol bands. Originally from Edinburgh Scotland, the five band members made teen fashion statements with plaid, tartan tunics, platform shoes
Donny & Marie
Aug 22, 1999 · 60 min
Donny Osmond made his television debut at age 5, performing "You Are My Sunshine" on the Andy William's Show, while Marie was introduced at age 3 under the spotlight of her brother
Bad Company
Aug 28, 1999 · 60 min
A look at one of the most high-profile supergroups of the '70's. They were the first band to sign with Led Zeppelin's fledgling label, Swan Song. Under the guidance of Zeppelin's m
Peter Tosh
Aug 29, 1999 · 60 min
Peter Tosh was born in Jamaica in 1944 into a very religious Christian family. At age 15, he moved into the city of Kingston to pursue a music career, and soon met and befriended t
Goo Goo Dolls
Sep 5, 1999 · 60 min
A look at the Goo Goo Dolls' "overnight success" after nearly a decade of endless touring, nasty legal battles and bitter breakups. Lead singer, Johnny Rzeznik, discusses his troub
Glen Campbell
Sep 19, 1999 · 60 min
As country music's first cross-over artist, Glen Campbell hit the top of the pop and country charts throughout the 70's, with hits like "Rhinestone Cowboy" and "By The Time I Get T
Sting
Oct 13, 1999 · 60 min
In 1978, a fledging trio called The Police "couldn't get arrested in England," as their booking agent put it. So the band flew to the U.S. for a cheapo club tour that began at Amer
Thin Lizzy
Oct 17, 1999 · 60 min
A look at the trials & tribulations surrounding this '70's Irish rock band. Thin Lizzy combined hard rock, R&B and traditional Irish music in a whole new way, with a twin guitar at
Rocky Horror Picture Show
Oct 31, 1999 · 60 min
Inspired by the Fredericks of Hollywood catalog, the Rocky Horror Show stage musical hit London at the height of the glam era, intstantly attracting the likes of David Bowie and El
Alanis Morissette
Nov 14, 1999 · 60 min
A look at the life of this Canadian-born superstar. Includes Alanis' childhood as a twin, her early success with the release of her first Canadian single at the age of ten and the
Dr. Dre
Nov 21, 1999 · 60 min
A look at the trials and tribulations surrounding one of rap music's most successful artists/producers. Dr. Dre discusses his early years as an LA dee-jay, his first rap group, Wor
Barry White
Nov 28, 1999 · 60 min
A look at the career of the artist known by many as "The Love Man." White discusses his childhood in South Central LA, his early involvement in the LA gang scene, serving some pris
1999
Dec 12, 1999 · 60 min
Behind the Music wraps up the year with a recap of the trends and talents that made 1999 so significant. You'll see sexy teen bands like 'N Sync and the Backstreet Boys as well as
Genesis
Dec 19, 1999 · 60 min
In this one-hour documentary, VH1 explores the music of Genesis and the lives of those who created the band. Peter Gabriel, Tony Banks, Mike Rutherford and Anthony Phillips describ
The Partridge Family
Jan 2, 2000 · 60 min
In the 1970's the Partridge's were America's favorite singing family, but their sound and image were manufactured solely for the public. The actors featured on the sitcom weren't t
Michael Hutchence
Jan 9, 2000 · 60 min
Michael Hutchence became an international rock and roll superstar in the 1980s, fronting the Australian pop band, INXS. And though his celebrity never faded, his impact on the pop
Celine Dion
Jan 16, 2000 · 60 min
"Celine Dion: Behind the Music" tells the story of the incredible rise of the diva of pop music and the relationship, with her husband and manager, Rene Angelil. "Behind the Music"
Russell Simmons
Jan 23, 2000 · 60 min
A look at the life of the man many consider the "Godfather of Hip Hop." Nearly 20 years ago, Russell Simmons founded Def Jam Records, rap's most enduring record label. He was instr
Quincy Jones
Feb 6, 2000 · 60 min
A look at the life of Q (as his friends call him)-- from the tough streets of Chicago to New York City to Europe where he performed as a trumpet player, working with such greats as
Run-D.M.C.
Feb 20, 2000 · 60 min
A look at one of rap music's most successful pioneer groups. They were just three kids from Queens, NY who wanted to rock the house and ended up rocking the world. They were the fi
Tina Turner
Mar 5, 2000 · 60 min
A candid first-hand account of rock 'n' roll tragedy and triumph, featuring rare and never-before-seen archive video, film and home movie footage, concert clips, and songs, plus ex
Alan Freed
Mar 10, 2000 · 60 min
He was the first person inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, but many music fans still don't know his name. Alan Freed was a superstar disc jockey in the days when there w
Elton John
Mar 19, 2000 · 60 min
His name was Reginald Dwight, a shy, boy from an unhappy home in suburban London, who grew up to be one of the most prolific, flamboyant, successful, and at times, one of the most
Oasis
Apr 2, 2000 · 60 min
Oasis claims to be the best band in the world, but it's their behavior that's legendary. From the tough streets of Manchester, England - the band's debut broke the fastest-selling
No Doubt
Apr 9, 2000 · 60 min
No Doubt was originally a high school band formed in 1986 by John Spence. The band included brother and sister Eric and Gwen Stefani on keyboards and vocals. "No Doubt: Behind the
The Police
Apr 23, 2000 · 60 min
"The Police: Behind the Music" explores the rise and ruin of The Police, rock's most dynamic trio, from their start as struggling London punk rockers in the late '70s to their glor
1970
Apr 30, 2000 · 60 min
"1970: Behind the Music" traces the musical and social currents of a year which has come to represent a fascinating watershed in American life, one reflected by concurrent shifts o
1984
May 7, 2000 · 60 min
1984 was a year with no rules and no boundaries, a year of musical promiscuity, both literally and figuratively. This episode of "Behind the Music" addresses the social culture and
1977
May 17, 2000 · 60 min
1977 - the Year of the Outsider. In 1977 an eclectic group of original do-it-yourself (DIY) bands rose up to challenge the tired, bloated world of corporate rock ruled by the Eagle
1992
May 19, 2000 · 60 min
It was the year music fans changed the course of the industry. In Seattle, flannel replaced spandex and Nirvana's Kurt Cobain was crowned the king of a sound called "grunge." Nirva
Ricky Martin
May 28, 2000 · 60 min
A behind the scenes look into the life of a superstar, offering unprecedented access to a week in his life on the road, as he reflects on the ups and downs of his career from his d
The Go-Gos
Jun 4, 2000 · 60 min
A look at the first group of women rock stars who played their instruments, wrote their own songs and made it to the top. The band discusses their origins on the LA hardcore punk s
Bon Jovi
Jun 11, 2000 · 60 min
Born out of small-town, blue-collar New Jersey, Bon Jovi emerged as a revolutionary force in '80s rock and roll. They sold over 80 million albums, and scored eight top 10 hits betw
AC/DC
Jun 18, 2000 · 60 min
VH1 reveals the story behind Angus Young's schoolboy uniform and how AC/DC managed to take their raucous act out of Australia to become a worldwide phenomenon. In emotional intervi
The Monkees
Jun 25, 2000 · 60 min
They were four young men hired by Hollywood to play a make-believe band but their critics dubbed them "the pre-fab four". They fought to make their own records -- seizing control i
Queen Latifah
Jul 9, 2000 · 60 min
Queen Latifah has become a symbol of strength and integrity in the hip hop world, and beyond. At the age of 30, she has had a full career, starting in the rap world, and then trans
Public Enemy
Jul 16, 2000 · 60 min
With a radical dose of 60's Black Nationalism, Public Enemy carved hip-hop from dance music into the angry voice of a generation. As revolutionaries, Chuck D., Flava Flav and Profe
Faith Hill
Jul 23, 2000 · 60 min
Faith Hill may be a superstar in both the country and pop music worlds, but the road to the top hasn't been easy. Given up for adoption when she was born, Hill grew up with her ado
The Bangles
Jul 30, 2000 · 60 min
They were four California girls who dreamed of being the Beatles. They were an all-girl all-American garage band with a unique chemistry on and off stage. They were all for one and
Peter Frampton
Aug 6, 2000 · 60 min
In the mid 1970's Peter Frampton came "alive." His blockbuster double album spun on nearly every turntable in America. His photogenic good looks and soaring guitar licks rocketed h
Styx
Aug 13, 2000 · 60 min
"Styx: Behind the Music" traces the rise and fall of what was once America's most popular band. The first group to ever have four consecutive triple platinum albums (not even the B
Ice-T
Aug 27, 2000 · 60 min
A story of crime and courage, hustler savvy and artistic expression. Ice-T was an orphan by the age of 13, moved to Los Angeles, and after a brief stint in the Army, began an aston
Cat Stevens
Oct 1, 2000 · 60 min
Cat Stevens: Behind The Music tracks the musical and spiritual journeys of the '70s superstar singer-songwriter, born as Steven Georgiou and now known as Yusef Islam. Steven's earl
Barenaked Ladies
Oct 8, 2000 · 60 min
Barenaked ladies are five self proclaimed Canadian geeks getting the last laugh through music. Their live shows are unparalled - jam packed with energy, wit and onstage antics. But
Chicago
Oct 15, 2000 · 60 min
The rock group Chicago is a musical institution, playing their unique brand of horn-based rock and roll for over thirty three years. The bands career has been defined by unimaginab
Sinead O'Connor
Oct 22, 2000 · 60 min
An Irish protest singer who once ruled theworld's pop charts, Sinead O'Connor eventually foiled her own success by sparking up global controversy in the early 1990's. From her teen
Tiffany
Oct 29, 2000 · 60 min
Tiffany, the teeny-bopping mall rocker, was so hot she knocked Michael Jackson out of the #1 spot on the record charts. Girls all across the globe wanted to be like her. She was on
Bad Finger
Nov 5, 2000 · 60 min
Poised to be the "next big thing" when signed by the Beatles to their Apple label in 1968, Badfinger's future looked amazing, with four top ten hits in a row. Then financial misman
Brian Setzer
Nov 12, 2000 · 60 min
Brian Setzer has made a career of going against the grain. A pop pioneer who has defied the naysayers, rolled the dice and hit it big every time. For twenty years, Brian Setzer has
Snoop Dogg
Nov 19, 2000 · 60 min
Snoop Dogg (his lifelong nickname) grew up in the crime-filled streets of Long Beach, California and eventually landed in jail. Once released, he partnered with long-time rap produ
Creed
Nov 26, 2000 · 60 min
Follows the meteoric rise of rock's biggest feel-good band. Creed, made up of three guys from Florida, have managed to sell over ten million albums in just five years. They've done
John Lennon: The Last Years
Dec 3, 2000 · 60 min
Chronicles a period of time often glossed over in other documentaries - the years John Lennon took for himself and his family, as well as the final months that marked his triumphan
Everclear
Dec 10, 2000 · 60 min
Formed in 1992, Everclear was the last attempt by lead singer, Art Alexakis, to carve out a career in rock and roll. At age 30, the chance for success was slim, but the odds had al
2000
Dec 17, 2000 · 60 min
Takes a look back at the Year 2000, the highs, the lows, and all the controversies. It was a year that saw online music take center stage. The advent of Napster has revolutionized
Huey Lewis & The News
Feb 4, 2001 · 60 min
Tells the story of six boyhood friends who lived the American male fantasy--to grow up and become rock & roll stars. While playing harmonica for his supper in Casabanca, Huey Lewis
Journey
Feb 18, 2001 · 60 min
Journey was on top of music world in the early 80's producing a non-stop stream of hits: Open Arms, Faithfully, Don't Stop Believin'...it seemed as if every song they touched turne
Doobie Brothers
Feb 25, 2001 · 60 min
One of America's most popular bands in the 1970s, the Doobie Brothers personified good times and brotherhood. They took it to the streets with 11 gold albums (eight of which were i
Rod Stewart
Mar 4, 2001 · 60 min
Examines the life and career of one of the greatest vocalists in rock & roll history. From his birth in bombed-out, war torn London to his breakout hit with "Maggie May", and all t
Flashdance
Mar 11, 2001 · 60 min
The 1983 smash film "Flashdance" was the blue-collar Cinderella story of the 80's - Jennifer Beals plays a welder-by-day, dancer-by-night who follows her dreams and captures the he
Salt 'n' Pepa
Apr 8, 2001 · 60 min
In the late 80's, Salt 'n' Pepa was on the cutting edge of a cultural and feminist revolution. They were among the first female rappers to have hits in hip-hop and on the pop chart
Billy Idol
Apr 15, 2001 · 60 min
Right from the start, Billy Idol has been a rebel with a cause and a yell. From his early days running with the likes of the Clash and the Sex Pistols in London's punk scene, to hi
Megadeth
Apr 22, 2001 · 60 min
This episode details the tumultuous life and career of heavy metal pioneer Dave Mustaine. Kicked out of Metallica in 1982, the bad boy of rock forged his revenge by forming Megadet
1972
Apr 29, 2001 · 60 min
1972 was the year idealism gave way to cynicism. The once vibrant youth movement was feeling bitter and betrayed and rock & roll was losing faith in the revolution. America's innoc
1975
May 6, 2001 · 60 min
1975 was the year that America seemed on the verge of collapse as the Vietnam War finally ended. A year in which soft pop dominated the top 40 and some of the legendary bands of ro
Blues Traveler
May 27, 2001 · 60 min
First joining forces as a basement band in 1983 in Princeton, New Jersey, Blues Traveler charted a course that would have them playing 250 plus concert dates a year throughout the
1981
May 27, 2001 · 60 min
It was the year megabands ruled the arenas and the airwaves... in 1981, the music world bade farewell to some of its greatest luminaries and gorged itself on sugary pop. Music beca
1987
Jun 10, 2001 · 60 min
It was the year 80's excess reached critical mass and rock n' roll led the party. In 1987, the stock market swelled, scandal reigned and pop music turned a blind eye. 1987 saw heav
1994
Jun 17, 2001 · 60 min
1994 was a year the music world lost a living legend - Kurt Cobain - and a generation named x lost its most powerful poet. In 1994, Seattle grunge was dead, but a continent away, e
Rick Nelson
Jun 24, 2001 · 60 min
Looks at the life and career of rock & roll's first teenage idol, from his meteoric rise as a young rockabilly heartthrob in the late 1950's, to his 70's country-rock comeback with
Notorious B.I.G.
Jul 8, 2001 · 60 min
Biggie Smalls, a/k/a Notorious B.I.G., grew up dealing drugs on the streets of Brooklyn's Bed-Stuy, but traded the crack game for the rap game. Composing mesmerizing rhymes about t
Green Day
Jul 15, 2001 · 60 min
Green Day built their own buzz with a do-it-yourself punk rock attitude in the early 90's. Centered in Berkeley, CA, they became a part of a counter-culture community as regulars a
Neil Diamond
Jul 22, 2001 · 60 min
Neil Diamond: Behind The Music profiles one of music's most popular, enduring and misunderstood superstars - a singer-songwriter whose tunes never seem to go away. From mid-Sixties
Pat Benatar
Aug 5, 2001 · 60 min
Pat Benatar broke into the music industry boy's club with songs of feminine fury and reigned as the queen of rock and roll in the 1980's. As she shook up the music world with her s
Reo Speedwagon
Aug 12, 2001 · 60 min
Formed in 1971, this Illinois group needed almost 10 years to create its signature slick sound, and to make the album - 1980's Hi-Infidelity - that would push its sales into the mu
Twisted Sister
Aug 19, 2001 · 60 min
Twisted Sister ruled the world of Heavy Metal Hair in 1984 and when the "Animal House" based parody video "We're Not Gonna Take It" hit the MTV airwaves, the make-up laden head-ban
Hair
Aug 26, 2001 · 60 min
In the late 60's at the height of the Vietnam War, Civil Rights movement, and the Sexual Revolution, a brood of anti-establishment, avant-garde performers were creating a musical i
Blind Melon
Sep 9, 2001 · 60 min
In the spring of 1990, five diversely talented musicians with small town roots banded together in the heart of LA's Glam rock scene. Within months of forming, Blind Melon signed on
Judas Priest
Sep 23, 2001 · 60 min
Chronicles the colorful history of the quintessential hard rock band of the 80s. Four guys from working-class rural England, rose from the smoke of their heavy industry town in the
Sean "P. Diddy" Combs
Oct 7, 2001 · 60 min
For the first time, Puff Daddy sits down to tell VH1 his entire, dramatic life story. From his mother teaching him how to fight in the family kitchen to building a mini-empire as a
Aaliyah
Oct 14, 2001 · 60 min
Singer, musician, composer, actress, dancer, businesswoman, role model and leader -- Aaliyah had accomplished incredible things by the time she turned 22. But Aaliyah Dana Houghton
Lindsey Buckingham
Nov 11, 2001 · 60 min
Legendary Fleetwood Mac guitar player, singer and songwriter Lindsey Buckingham juggled his multi-platinum record selling sound while struggling with his love affair to band member
Mary J. Blige
Nov 18, 2001 · 60 min
This episode let's us take a look from how Mary J. Blige transformed from a feisty tough girl from Yonkers to the dazzling queen of hip-hop soul. While most hip-hop artists sing ab
Sublime
Dec 9, 2001 · 60 min
If you only judged Sublime by their breakthrough hit, "Date Rape", you might dismiss the band as just another a novelty act. But the trio was much more than that. Led by their char
The Cult
Jan 20, 2002 · 60 min
All the city of Bradford had to its credit was curry houses and the Industrial Revolution. Then the Cult came along. Made tough by the North of EnglandÍs piss-stained punk clubs, I
Hall & Oates
Jan 27, 2002 · 60 min
Hall & Oates are the best selling Pop Duo of all time. In the 80's they ruled the MTV airwaves,and dominated the record sales charts with 6 #1 singles, and 16 top ten hits. Critics
Busta Rhymes
Feb 17, 2002 · 60 min
From his explosive rap style to his ever-evolving, outrageous looks, Busta Rhymes is a true original. With high octane performances and outlandish music videos he bumrushed the mai
Anthrax
Mar 10, 2002 · 60 min
For more than twenty years, the band Anthrax has been called the underdogs of heavy metal. Now, after post September 11th events, Anthrax is not sure what to call themselves as the
Sheryl Crow
Mar 17, 2002 · 60 min
Long before she was a roots rock sensation, Sheryl Crow honed her skills by singing backup for Don Henley and Michael Jackson and jamming with other L.A.-based musicians in the Tue
Garbage
Apr 7, 2002 · 60 min
Garbage was the brainchild of Madison, Wisconsin producers Butch Vig, Duke Erikson, and Steve Marker. But it wasn't until they hooked up with Angelfish singer Shirley Manson that t
Foreigner
Apr 28, 2002 · 60 min
With nearly fifty million albums sold in the United States alone, Foreigner is one of the most successful rock bands in history. Formed in 1976, the group is brainchild of British-
2 Live Crew
· 60 min
As the larger-than-life goddess tells it, behind her Bob Mackie flash and brazen personality she's still a shy girl and at 50-something she still looks like one. This newly updated
Hootie & the Blowfish
Jun 23, 2002 · 60 min
They were four college buddies who set out with a simple plan: to play music and have fun. But in 1995, Hootie and the Blowfish's infectious blend of rock, country and R&B struck a
Bob Marley
Jun 30, 2002 · 60 min
"Behind the Music: Bob Marley" tells the story of the rasta rebel with rare and never-before-seen photos, film, news video, performance footage and more, plus new interviews featur
Boyz II Men
Aug 25, 2002 · 60 min
From having no water or heat in their childhood homes to having the longest-running #1 single in music history, Boyz II Men brought New Jack Swing to the classic Philly sound. Thro
Aerosmith
Sep 1, 2002 · 60 min
Think that Aerosmith had an easy time climbing to the top of the rock 'n' roll mountain? Dream on...In a 30-year career, the Boston-based group has hit the highest highs and the lo
Cyndi Lauper
Sep 8, 2002 · 60 min
As the MTV darling of the '80s, Cyndi Lauper became an international super-star. Behind the Music traces Cyndi Lauper's life, career, and forever evolving identity. After a tumultu
Matchbox Twenty
Nov 17, 2002 · 60 min
They are an increasingly rare commodity: a pop group that actually writes its own songs. With nearly 20 million in album sales, Matchbox Twenty's radio friendly and palatable tunes
Top Gun
· 60 min
Filmed mostly at the Naval Training Center and Miramar Naval Air Station in San Diego, Top Gun was the top grossing movie of 1986. Behind The Music explores the creation and cultur
Britney Spears
Nov 9, 2003 · 60 min
She came from nowhere to capture America's heart ... and blossomed into a global sensation, becoming the fastest selling female artist of all time while still just a teen. But amaz
Spice Girls
Nov 23, 2003 · 60 min
They are a proud and sassy slew of songsters whose catchy dance-pop and colorful, sexy personalities made them musical superstars. Spice Girls are a British pop sensation who explo
TLC: The Final Chapter
Mar 13, 2004 · 60 min
They went bankrupt. One of them nearly died. Another one burned down a mansion. And that was just the first four years.TLC: The Final Chapter picks up where the first Behind The Mu
Guns N' Roses
Jul 4, 2004 · 60 min
Guns N' Roses emerged from thicket of the hair metal jungle on Hollywood's Sunset Strip in the mid-80s and single-handedly reinvented rock and roll with righteous riffs and a real
George Michael
Aug 22, 2004 · 60 min
He ranks beside Prince, Madonna, Springsteen and Jacko in the pantheon of true '80s pop giants. He's sold over 70 millions albums worldwide and his fashion trademark - leather jack
LL Cool J
Oct 10, 2004 · 60 min
He's the first true hip-hop sensation, something like a phenomenon in the rap world. By the age of eighteen, LL Cool J had achieved the rank of platinum performer and was defining
New Edition
Apr 28, 2005 · 60 min
They were the original boy band. Five friends from Boston whose undeniable talent lifted them out of the projects and into the hearts of countless teenage girls. But while New Edit
Backstreet Boys
Jun 13, 2005 · 60 min
The Backstreet Boys are by far one of the most famous boy bands in music history. They've sold over sixty million albums worldwide and have left millions of screaming girls love si
Kid Rock
Mar 2, 2006 · 60 min
He's a rapper, a rocker and a country charter, a stone cold pimp with a deep love for music. By the turn of the 20th century, Kid Rock was one of America's most well known personal
Ratt
May 11, 2006 · 60 min
Ratt grabbed a decade of decadence by the tail, but their legendary excess came back to bite them -- it cost them their career, and, in the case of guitarist Robbin Crosby, his lif
Pantera
May 11, 2006 · 60 min
In the early 1990s, when hair metal was being sheered from the charts by grunge and earnest hard-rockers like Guns N Roses, Pantera, righteously flew the hard-edged heavy metal fla
Nick Lachey
Jun 10, 2006 · 60 min
A behind the scenes look at Nick Lachey that no one has ever seen before covering his entire life story from beginning to end in an exclusive sit down interview.
New Kids on the Block
Sep 28, 2008 · 60 min
In 1988, when the New Kids On The Block's second album "Hangin' Tough" was released, there were very few acts that equaled the success of The Beatles or Michael Jackson. But overni
Lil Wayne
Sep 10, 2009 · 60 min
By the time he was 11 years old, Dwayne Michael Carter Jr., aka Lil Wayne, had lost his virginity, dealt drugs, snorted cocaine and nearly shot himself to death after accidentally
Pink
Sep 17, 2009 · 60 min
Scarred by her parents divorce, Pink (who grew up Alecia Moore) was a troubled, angst-ridden teenager who rebelled against authority, experimented with drugs and often ran away fro
Bobby Brown
Sep 24, 2009 · 60 min
Growing up in the tough, poverty stricken projects of Roxbury, MA, Bobby Brown was a bad boy from the start. He experimented with drugs and idolized the gang leaders who ruled the
Bret Michaels
Oct 1, 2009 · 60 min
Bret Michaels and his band of brothers left home in Pennsylvania with a rock-n-roll dream and a desire to taste the good life on L.A's notorious Sunset Strip. It was the 80's, hair
T.I.
Oct 8, 2009 · 60 min
T.I, aka Clifford Harris Jr, grew up on the tough streets of Atlanta's Bankhead neighborhood, an area filled with crime, violence and drugs. By the time he was 18, he was a high sc
50 Cent
Oct 13, 2009 · 60 min
Curtis Jackson III, aka 50 Cent, grew up on the violent and drug infested streets of Jamaica, Queens. His mother was murdered when he was 8, and by the time he was a teenager, he w
DMX
Jun 7, 2010 · 60 min
Born Earl Simmons and raised in the notorious School Street Projects of Yonkers, NY, multi platinum rapper DMX was drawn to life on the streets. This episode of Behind the Music wi
Christina Aguilera
Jun 13, 2010 · 60 min
Surviving an abusive childhood and struggling against a record label trying to control her image, Christina Aguilera's road to superstardom was not an easy one.
Eve
Jun 14, 2010 · 60 min
Behind the Music: Eve tracks the rocky rise to fame of one of rap's most successful female artists. A journey plagued by bouts of depression, excessive drinking, a stint at a strip
Courtney Love
Jun 21, 2010 · 60 min
Courtney Love is one of the most controversial, reviled and riveting rock stars in the world and during this episode, she tells the epic story of the rock star, actress and mother.
Jennifer Hudson
Jun 28, 2010 · 60 min
Behind The Music traces Jennifer Hudson’s humble beginnings of growing up on the south side of Chicago to her early elimination from "American Idol". Interviews include Randy Jacks
Jennifer Lopez
Jul 4, 2010 · 60 min
Perhaps no other entertainer in the last two decades has dominated the media landscape more than the Bronx, New York bombshell, Jennifer Lopez. Better known to her fans as JLO, she
Usher
Jul 19, 2010 · 60 min
From a small town choirboy who was discovered at a local talent show to one of the biggest selling R&B artists of all time, Usher is a triple threat entertainer starring in film, T
Fantasia
Aug 24, 2010 · 60 min
In this episode of Behind the Music, Fantasia speaks for the first time - in an exclusive interview -- about her harrowing pill overdose and suicide attempt; and her relationship w
Missy Elliott
Jun 29, 2011 · 60 min
Behind the Music: Missy Elliott tracks the rocky road to stardom of one of hip hop's most pioneering, successful female hip hop artists. Born in Virginia, Missy Elliott's childhood
Nelly
Jul 3, 2011 · 60 min
Behind the Music: Nelly will trace the artist's epic journey from St. Louis hoodlum to rap superstar. Born to parents who were unable to care for him, Nelly spent his early years b
Ice Cube
Jul 6, 2011 · 60 min
Follow the three-decade-long career of legendary rapper Ice Cube from his journey as a founding member of the notorious rap group NWA to a blockbuster movie star.
Miranda Lambert
Jul 13, 2011 · 60 min
Twenty-seven year-old, Grammy Award-winning Miranda Lambert fell in love with music at a young age and was determined to one day be a part of the country music world, keeping her t
Mary J. Blige
Jul 24, 2011 · 60 min
Take a look inside the life and outstanding career of Mary J. Blige, the reigning Queen of R&B. Watch as VH1 captures the story of how faith, courage and a never-ending search for
Enrique Iglesias
Jul 31, 2011 · 60 min
Enrique Iglesias is the son of a legendary musical family and one of few artists who can legitimately be called a "global sensation." Beginning his career by singing Spanish love s
Adam Lambert
Aug 7, 2011 · 60 min
Glam-rock powerhouse, Adam Lambert has taken pop music by storm with his handsome looks, electrifying stage theatrics and jaw-dropping vocal acrobatics. In this episode of "Behind
Ricky Martin
Aug 14, 2011 · 60 min
Nobody's got female fans' hearts fluttering more than Ricky Martin with his sexy dance moves and sultry voice. As one of the most successful crossover singers in history, Ricky sol
Pitbull
Mar 15, 2012 · 60 min
It's only through struggle that resilience arises and for Armando Christian Perez, better known to the world as Pitbull, the past ten years have seen the charismatic Cuban-American
Game
Mar 22, 2012 · 60 min
"Behind The Music: Game" tracks the unlikely rise of a young gangbanger from Compton into the most successful west coast rapper since N.W.A. and Snoop Dogg. Born into a life of dru
T-Pain
Mar 29, 2012 · 60 min
"Behind the Music: T-Pain" explores the rise of a shy kid from Tallahassee, Florida to the heights of the music industry. T-Pain was born Faheem Najm into a stable, middle class fa
Aaliyah
Apr 5, 2012 · 60 min
More than ten years after the tragic death of Aaliyah, Behind The Music revisits the original 2001 episode that documented the career and untimely passing of the young talent consi
Akon
Apr 11, 2012 · 60 min
In "Behind The Music: Akon," VH1 traces the artist's early beginnings in Senegal, Africa, through his struggles forging an identify in America and his criminal past as a car thief,
Nas
Apr 18, 2012 · 60 min
"Behind The Music: Nas" tells the story of one of hip hop's most daring and prolific icons. Raised in the gritty Queensbridge projects of New York City, Nas narrowly escaped his vi
Brandy
Apr 25, 2012 · 60 min
"Behind The Music: Brandy" will chronicle the Grammy Award-winning artist from her days as young girl singing in her church choir to flourishing into a successful musician and actr
Notorious B.I.G.
May 2, 2012 · 60 min
Behind The Music: Notorious B.I.G. shows the Brooklyn-born MC rising from the streets to the throne of hip hop, revealing how his thriving career and larger-than-life presence was
Train
Sep 16, 2012 · 60 min
Despite their days of obscurity and struggles to get a record deal Train rose to rock stardom before personal losses, drugs and alcohol abuse threatened to destroy it all.
Ne-Yo
Sep 23, 2012 · 60 min
"Behind The Music: NE-YO" explores the R&B heartthrob's status from talented up-and-comer to one of the industry's most ubiquitous and successful singer-songwriters.
Carrie Underwood
Sep 30, 2012 · 60 min
Carrie Underwood speaks openly about the challenges that came along with her sudden fame. She also discusses her search for love, which led to her fairytale romance with her hockey
Nicole Scherzinger
Oct 7, 2012 · 60 min
Nicole Scherzinger discusses the road to stardom and the struggles along the way, including opening up for the first time about the behind-the-scenes tension that came with the meg
Gym Class Heroes
Oct 14, 2012 · 60 min
Alternative/hip-hop group Gym Class Heroes discuss their rapid rise to fame and the significant challenges it brought, including Travie McCoy's addiction to painkillers and his ver
Toni Braxton
Oct 29, 2012 · 60 min
In "Behind The Music: Toni Braxton," the ultimate R&B icon and survivor speaks candidly and openly for the first time about her roller coaster career journey: her health struggles,
T.I.
Nov 5, 2012 · 60 min
"Behind the Music: T.I." (aka Clifford Harris Jr.) will catch up with the prolific rapper in the eventful 3 years since his last "Behind the Music" special. T.I.'s update will incl
Pink
Nov 13, 2012 · 60 min
"Behind The Music: P!nk" will discuss how motherhood has changed her life as well as her continued career success since her previous "Behind the Music" special. The show will also
Ludacris
Jul 28, 2013 · 60 min
BTM Ludacris shines a spotlight on one of the South's finest hip hop lyricists. In his most revealing interview, Ludacris opens up about his struggle to achieve rap notoriety and d
Linda Perry
Jul 16, 2014 · 60 min
Linda Perry talks candidly about her abusive childhood and how she turned her angst into hit songs. After quitting 4 Non Blondes, Linda went on to produce and write for stars like