Icon: Music Through the Lens

Watch Icon: Music Through the Lens

  • 2021
  • 1 Season
  • 8.8  (78)

Icon: Music Through the Lens is a docuseries that takes viewers on a journey through the evolution of music photography. The series showcases the work of some of the most iconic music photographers of all time, including Mick Rock, Danny Clinch, and Bob Gruen. The series is produced by Universal Music Group’s Mercury Studios and explores how music photography has not only captured some of the most memorable moments in music history, but also shaped the way we view and remember those moments. The series consists of six hour-long episodes and each episode delves into the work of a different music photographer. For each photographer, the show not only showcases their work, but also explores how their individual personalities and stories have influenced the music industry as a whole. Through interviews with these legendary photographers, as well as some of the musicians they've photographed, Icon: Music Through the Lens provides a unique insight into the creative process and the sometimes-unpredictable nature of music photography. Mick Rock's work is the focus of the first episode. Hailed by many as "the man who shot the seventies," Rock was responsible for capturing some of the most iconic images of David Bowie, Iggy Pop, Lou Reed, and Queen during the glam-rock era of the 1970s. Through interviews with Rock himself and some of the musicians he's photographed, the episode provides a fascinating look into the creative process that goes into capturing a moment in time. The second episode explores the work of Danny Clinch, who has been photographing musicians for over three decades. Clinch's style is different from Rock's; he often captures the more intimate and personal moments that happen behind the scenes, such as musicians tuning their instruments or sharing a laugh. In the episode, Clinch talks about his approach to photography and how his relationship with many of the musicians he's photographed has developed over the years. The third episode is all about Bob Gruen, who has been photographing rock stars since the 60s. Gruen's work includes some of the most iconic images of John Lennon, including the famous photo of Lennon wearing a New York City t-shirt. In the episode, Gruen reflects on his long career and shares some of his favorite photographs and memories of working with some of the most legendary musicians of all time. Icon: Music Through the Lens is not just about showcasing the work of individual photographers, it's also a celebration of music itself. The series explores the symbiotic relationship between music and photography, and how each has influenced and shaped the other over the years. From the early days of rock'n'roll, through punk and disco, and up to the present day, Icon: Music Through the Lens provides a comprehensive overview of the role music photography has played in shaping our cultural landscape. Throughout the series, viewers are treated to a captivating mix of music and photography, and the stories behind the images are just as engaging as the images themselves. Icon: Music Through the Lens is a celebration of creativity, and the show's passionate appreciation of music and photography is infectious. Whether you're a fan of classic rock or contemporary pop, there's something for everyone in this captivating series. Overall, Icon: Music Through the Lens is a must-watch for anyone with an interest in music or photography. The series provides an insightful and comprehensive overview of the evolution of music photography, and the individual stories behind each photographer's work are fascinating in their own right. With its combination of stunning imagery and compelling storytelling, Icon: Music Through the Lens is a show that will leave you feeling inspired and enriched.

Icon: Music Through the Lens
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Seasons
On the Net
6. On the Net
August 13, 2021
Where does music photography sit in the contemporary pop culture landscape? The seismic switch from analogue to digital is discussed alongside the rise and influence of social media. The series ends by asking whether music photography still has a role to play. Does it still carry the same importance? Who are the new standard-bearers of the profession?
On the Wall
5. On the Wall
August 13, 2021
Examine the transition of music photography from a niche pastime to a highly collectable and often valuable art form. Take an in-depth look at the relationship between art and commerce, and trace the journey from the early days of low-paid assignments through to the first gallery exhibitions of music photography, to expensive coffee table books and individual prints.
On the Cover
4. On the Cover
August 6, 2021
Music magazines played a pivotal role in elevating music photography to iconic status. Journalists, musicians and publicists among others join the music photographers who shot some of the most memorable front covers to discuss the uncensored and often unheard stories behind these amazing photographs alongside the enduring appeal and importance of the printed page.
On the Record
3. On the Record
July 30, 2021
The evolution of record sleeve photography from its roots in jazz and early rock 'n' roll through to the highly stylized concepts and imagery of modern-day music genres is discussed by art directors, musicians and, of course, those music photographers responsible for some of the world's most iconic album covers.
On the Road
2. On the Road
July 23, 2021
From the embryonic days of the modern music industry, live music photography has provided some of its most visually striking and era-defining imagery. First-hand recollections and eye-opening stories from those early trailblazers and those still devoted to capturing the magic of live music, paint a vivid picture of life on the tour bus and in the photo pit.
On Camera
1. On Camera
July 16, 2021
What defines an iconic image? This question provides the central theme for episode one as we are introduced to some of music photography's greatest names.
Description

Icon: Music Through the Lens is a docuseries that takes viewers on a journey through the evolution of music photography. The series showcases the work of some of the most iconic music photographers of all time, including Mick Rock, Danny Clinch, and Bob Gruen. The series is produced by Universal Music Group’s Mercury Studios and explores how music photography has not only captured some of the most memorable moments in music history, but also shaped the way we view and remember those moments.

The series consists of six hour-long episodes and each episode delves into the work of a different music photographer. For each photographer, the show not only showcases their work, but also explores how their individual personalities and stories have influenced the music industry as a whole. Through interviews with these legendary photographers, as well as some of the musicians they've photographed, Icon: Music Through the Lens provides a unique insight into the creative process and the sometimes-unpredictable nature of music photography.

Mick Rock's work is the focus of the first episode. Hailed by many as "the man who shot the seventies," Rock was responsible for capturing some of the most iconic images of David Bowie, Iggy Pop, Lou Reed, and Queen during the glam-rock era of the 1970s. Through interviews with Rock himself and some of the musicians he's photographed, the episode provides a fascinating look into the creative process that goes into capturing a moment in time.

The second episode explores the work of Danny Clinch, who has been photographing musicians for over three decades. Clinch's style is different from Rock's; he often captures the more intimate and personal moments that happen behind the scenes, such as musicians tuning their instruments or sharing a laugh. In the episode, Clinch talks about his approach to photography and how his relationship with many of the musicians he's photographed has developed over the years.

The third episode is all about Bob Gruen, who has been photographing rock stars since the 60s. Gruen's work includes some of the most iconic images of John Lennon, including the famous photo of Lennon wearing a New York City t-shirt. In the episode, Gruen reflects on his long career and shares some of his favorite photographs and memories of working with some of the most legendary musicians of all time.

Icon: Music Through the Lens is not just about showcasing the work of individual photographers, it's also a celebration of music itself. The series explores the symbiotic relationship between music and photography, and how each has influenced and shaped the other over the years. From the early days of rock'n'roll, through punk and disco, and up to the present day, Icon: Music Through the Lens provides a comprehensive overview of the role music photography has played in shaping our cultural landscape.

Throughout the series, viewers are treated to a captivating mix of music and photography, and the stories behind the images are just as engaging as the images themselves. Icon: Music Through the Lens is a celebration of creativity, and the show's passionate appreciation of music and photography is infectious. Whether you're a fan of classic rock or contemporary pop, there's something for everyone in this captivating series.

Overall, Icon: Music Through the Lens is a must-watch for anyone with an interest in music or photography. The series provides an insightful and comprehensive overview of the evolution of music photography, and the individual stories behind each photographer's work are fascinating in their own right. With its combination of stunning imagery and compelling storytelling, Icon: Music Through the Lens is a show that will leave you feeling inspired and enriched.

Icon: Music Through the Lens is a series that is currently running and has 1 seasons (6 episodes). The series first aired on July 16, 2021.

Where to Watch Icon: Music Through the Lens

Icon: Music Through the Lens is available for streaming on the Sky Arts website, both individual episodes and full seasons. You can also watch Icon: Music Through the Lens on demand at and PBS.

  • Premiere Date
    July 16, 2021
  • IMDB Rating
    8.8  (78)