1. Oh Well Whatever, Nevermind: The Birth of Britpop

What was life like before Britpop? Join Steve Lamacq and Jo
Whiley as they rewind the tape to hear how the UK sounded at the
start of the 90’s. Britpop emerged at a very specific time in
British History, recession and war had dominated the headlines,
the Iron Lady left Downing Street for the final time and the UK’s
music scene was fractured. Rave was still in relatively rude
health, terrifying the tabloids and the parents of teenagers,
Morrissey had felt the wrath of music fans after appearing on
stage in a Union Jack and the Manic Street Preachers were
bringing their own unique blend of rock n roll to the world. But
there was one genre that dominated the airwaves and co-opted the
ears of the UKs Youth... Grunge. In Episode 1 of The Rise and
Fall of Britpop, Steve and Jo have new interviews, never before
heard archive and more giving us a warts and all look back at the
genesis of the scene. Discovering how these different elements
collided to create the perfect conditions for a big bang which
saw a new wave of British creativity spewed into existence.
Warning: this episode contains strong language, adult themes and
descriptions of self-harm and suicide, which some listeners may
find distressing. Details of help and support are available at
bbc.co.uk/actionline


Listen only on BBC Sounds.