AC/DC's Brian Johnson and Dire Straits' Mark Knopfler announce six-part TV series
Johnson and Knopfler's Music Legends
North East rock icons and good friends, Brian Johnson and Mark Knopfler, have joined forces for a new six-part documentary series.
Launching on Sky Arts, Freeview and NOW on Thursday 25th April, Johnson and Knopfler’s Music Legends follows the AC/DC and Dire Straits stars as they meet six influential figures from the music industry.
Each weekly one-hour episode will see the pair meet an eminent musician, and it kicks off with Welsh vocal powerhouse Sir Tom Jones.
Other musicians who feature are Carlos Santana, Nile Rodgers, Cyndi Lauper, Emmylou Harris and Sam Fender.
A description of the show reads: ‘From hanging out with Elvis to drinking with David Bowie, a host of the world’s most iconic names reflect on the secrets of rock and roll in new series, Johnson and Knopfler’s Music Legends.
‘Audiences will be treated to a joyous journey through decades of music with exclusive access to a series of once-in-a-lifetime meetings, interviews and jam sessions between rock’s ultimate legends.
‘Join AC/DC singer, Brian Johnson and Dire Straits singer and guitarist, Mark Knopfler as they share their incredible knowledge and experiences with each other - and a hand-picked selection of music royalty.
‘Guests share stories from their own careers and discuss the tracks that shaped them as musicians and fans. Mark and Brian do the same, painting a fascinating portrait of their shared musical lives.’
Phil Edgar Jones, Director of Sky Arts, comments: “When two rock and roll legends open up their address books it turns out they are full of other legends and we are thrilled to be bringing this revealing and utterly charming series to the small screen; an hour in their company with the likes of Tom Jones, Carlos Santanta, Cyndi Lauper, Sam Fender and Emmylou Harris is a very special treat.”
Mark Knopfler was previously a guest on the second series of Brian Johnson’s A Life on the Road in March 2019, where they took a trip around Northumberland.
Brian Johnson performs two gargantuan shows at London’s Wembley Stadium with AC/DC on Wednesday 3rd and Sunday 7th July as part of the band’s European tour.
Mark Knopfler, meanwhile, will premiere the full version of his star-studded Guitar Heroes remake of ‘Going Home (Theme From Local Hero)’ this Friday (15th March).
Johnson and Knopfler’s Music Legends episode guide:
Episode 1: Tom Jones:
In the series opener, Brian and Mark meet icon, Sir Tom Jones. In conversation and song, they reminisce on their earliest musical influences and Sir Tom shares captivating stories from his career, including his friendship with Elvis Presley.
Episode 2: Sam Fender:
Brian and Mark visit Mark’s own British Grove recording studio to meet UK singer-songwriter and fellow Geordie, Sam Fender. Sam tells the story of his musical journey so far, discusses the influence Brian & Mark have had on him and shows them how to play Seventeen Going Under.
Episode 3: Cyndi Lauper:
Brian and Mark hook up with 80s icon Cyndi Lauper at New York’s legendary recording studio, The Power Station. Cyndi discusses her tumultuous career in the music industry and brings her dulcimer along to teach Brian & Mark a special arrangement of her classic hit, True Colours.
Episode 4: Nile Rodgers:
In Miami, Brian and Mark meet disco legend Nile Rodgers and explore his impressive musical career, from Studio 54 to David Bowie and Daft Punk. Nile and Mark jam together on an exclusive ‘Johnny Cash version’ of Chic’s disco classic, Good Times.
Episode 5: Carlos Santana:
Brian and Mark travel to California to visit Carlos Santana, who recounts his incredible journey in music, from early days, through his Woodstock performance and resurgence in the late 90s. Together, they jam an amazing version of Black Magic Woman and Carlos plays some of his biggest hits.
Episode 6: Emmylou Harris:
Brian and Mark head to Music City - Nashville - and meet up with Mark’s longtime friend and sometime collaborator, Emmylou Harris. Emmylou shares her career highlights and discusses her relationship with legendary country rock pioneer Gram Parsons. They’re also joined for an exclusive jam session with country music superstar guitarist, Vince Gill.
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