The BBC has commissioned RDF, part of Banijay UK, to produce a four-part series, Rock Of All Ages (w/t), in which two famous names in music form bands of incredible musicians – who just happen to be over 65.
Each band will be hand-selected by Spandau Ballet’s Martin Kemp and rapper Lady Leshurr, following an extensive search of amateur musicians across the UK. From singers and guitarists, to keyboards and drummers, the band members could be in their 70s, 80s and even 90s.
Mentors Martin and Lady Leshurr will guide the bands, putting them through their paces and providing insight and support ahead of their final performance in front of thousands of music fans. The bands go head to head with the roar of the audience cheers to determine the winning performance.
Along the way, the mentors will also call on expert advice from famous faces to help inspire their new recruits.
Rock of All Ages is a 4 x 60′ for BBC Two and BBC iPlayer, made by RDF, part of Banijay UK. Executive Producer for the series is Dan Barraclough for RDF. It was commissioned Patrick Holland, Director Factual Arts and Classical Music Television. The Commissioning Editors for the BBC are Emily Smith and Owen Courtney.
Patrick Holland, BBC Director, Factual, Arts and Classical Music Television, says: “This promises to be a hugely inspiring, celebratory and emotional search to find some great musicians over 65 and put their creativity centre stage. RDF first pitched this idea before the pandemic and it always promised to unite the generations through a shared love of great music. Now the programme has become even more timely and resonant, showing that it is never too late to realise your dreams.”
Dan Barraclough, RDF Executive Producer, says: “After the year we’ve had, with families kept apart from parents and grandparents, it was time to put the older generation centre stage, and show that when it comes to music you’re never too old to rock it out with the best of them. There’s going to be some dusting down of ancient Fenders but we’re confident the talent is out there. And we’re thrilled to have Martin Kemp and Lady Leshurr on board to lead their troops into battle.”
Jon Creamer
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