Arena Gazette Feed

'Blurred Lines' court case awards $7.5m

2015-03-17T11:05:59+00:00

A US jury has ruled that the writers of 'Blurred Lines' - one of the best selling singles of all time copied Marvin Gaye's 1977 track 'Got To Give It Up'. Gaye's children - Nona, Frankie and Marvin Gaye III sued Pharell Williams and Robin Thicke back in 2013, and this week the decision was made that the 2013 single breached the copyright of Gaye's track. The family has now been awarded $7.3m (£4.8m) in damages.

Nona and Frankie Gaye are the grandchildren of legendary jazz musician Slim Gaillard. His daughter Jan married Marvin in 1977, shortly after his divorce from first wife Anna Gordy. Not only was Slim father in law to Gaye, but he also contributed backin vocals to his famous track 'Sexual Healing'. Arena followed Slim back in 1989 as he takes us through his life, here seen jamming with his extensive family, along with daughter Jan and grandchildren Frankie and Nona Gaye.

A Tribute to Jack Bruce

2014-10-31T12:35:51+00:00

Cream

Jack Bruce, the bassist from 1960s band ‘Cream’ has died aged 71. The group which included Eric Clapton and Ginger Baker are now considered one of the most important bands in rock history, selling 35 million albums in just over two years and given the first ever platinum disc for Wheels of Fire. Bruce wrote and sang most of the songs, including "I Feel Free" and "Sunshine Of Your Love". The band performed live at the Royal Albert Hall for the last time in their 1968 ‘Farewell Concert’. The concert was filmed and broadcast on the �鶹Լ��, and here they are performing the legendary ‘Sunshine of Your Love’

Cream perform 'Sunshine of Your Love' from Tony Palmer's 'Cream Farewell' 1968

From Tony Palmer's Cream Farewell 1968

Arena’s series editor, Anthony Wall began his career as the Morning Star’s rock critic from 1974-78. We dug out an interview he did with Jack Bruce in 1975, where he talks candidly about his political and musical roots, and on the formation of 'Cream’.

Cream article

INTO THE GLOBAL VILLAGE PERIOD - Jack Bruce talks to Anthony Wall, Morning Star Rock Critic

Jack Bruce, bassist extraordinary and all-round accomplished musician, comes from a Communist Party family from Bishop Briggs, near Glasgow. In 1971 he showed he hadn’t rejected his roots, by giving a series of fund-raiding benefit concerts for the UCS work-in. He was a member of the Young Communist League and sang in its choir. The music had a strong influence on his later work. “The music I write – it’s Scottish. We’re moving into the global village period, so the music I write has influences from the ghettoes of America, from India, but most of all from Scottish folk music”.

Bruce first came to prominence in the rhythm and blues scene of the mid 60s. So did drummer Ginger Baker and guitarist Eric Clapton and together they formed Cream and achieved unprecedented success and acclaim. Since then Bruce has played with a number of bands including Lifetime, which featured John MacLaughlin and Tony Williams, who played with Miles Davis for about nine years. At the beginning of this year Bruce formed a new group. ‘I hope that the band I’m with now will last forever, because it has the potential to do everything I want to. And I think that the only way you’ll achieve what you want to musically is by playing with the same group of musicians for a long time”.

The group consists of brilliant Mick Taylor (guitar), late of The Rolling Stones, Carla Bley (keyboards), a leading avant garde jazz composer, Bruce Gary, an American session drummer, and Ronnie Leahy (piano) who has played with a number of British bands, ‘I didn’t ask any of them, with the exception of Ronnie Leahy, to join the band. They all asked me if they could join because they wanted to play my music. This is marvelous – obviously”. Bruce is clearly the band leader and during their recent tour they relied heavily on material from his latest album “Out of the Storm”, but he is insisting on the others writing and there should be no shortage of ideas in a group so full of talent. Carla Bley has already written some pieces for a planned first album. Bruce has a unique bass playing style. “I play melodic bass, if you like, but that doesn’t mean I play it like a lead guitar. The bass was liberated in the late ‘50s, early ‘60s by jazz musicians like Charlie Haden and I feel I’m a logical development of that, moving into the rock field. “But I don’t think it matters what instrument you play. An instrument is merely an extension of your personality”. Bruce feels the same way about his songs. Though the words have usually been supplied by Pete Brown their overall meaning relates as much to him

“We write the words together. Sometimes Pete’s given me a poem or a set of lyrics, and I’ve set it to music in the traditional way, but usually we sit down and hammer out each image until it’s something I can sing”. Bruce talked about his musical ideals and the state of music at present. “I believe that rock and roll or rock or pop or whatever, that is, is the only music that is the people’s music. But what’s wrong with it is that it was a very limited emotional scope. What I’m trying to do is increase that.”. But he emphasized that the music had to work for the people who want to hear it. His ideal seemed to be musical freedom with the kind of rapport that exists between musicians and non-musicians among, say, black people in America.

“I spent a lot of time with Tony Williams, and he’s treated with such respect by non musicians, by his brothers. That’s what I thought we were beginning to move towards in ’67. Here it’s second class music, and I’m sure it’s kept that way because that’s the way the system is”. He talked about the way the possibilities that seemed to exist in Cream’s heyday, were destroyed. “When I started in the early 60s, we were very dedicated to spreading the word of improvised music, it wasn’t making money at all. Then there was an accident called Cream which made money. “It was the underground thing that happened in San Francisco and spread from there that made the group successful. There was a real underground, and at the beginning Cream was a member of it. I thought at last things were coming together. And then the big businessmen realized they could sell more records using the underground as a gimmick than they could to the ‘straights’. It was still called the underground, but it was very well thought out in a business way”. Bruce also criticized the approach some musicians had taken since then.

“Musicians spent a long time gaining freedom within a commercial basis, by which I mean being able to do the net gig, make the next record, not become millionaires. I think a lot of musicians are killing it. They go too far and play what to me is undisciplined drivel”. But Bruce feels that appreciation of music is underdeveloped in Britain. He has interesting views on the subject, which relate strongly to the way he sees society as a whole. “People talk in music, in time. Africans talk in 12, Japanese talk in three the British talk in two or four and their music comes out that way too. Africa music is wonderful, it incorporates all time signatures – or Balinese music which is the same. That’s what I’m trying to do”.

“It may seem complex, but it’s not. It’s because we’re still basically living with Victorian scruples. Even rock and roll is Victorian if you like, it was to be four square to succeed”. For Bruce there’s no straightforward formula for music and his attitude to music is inseparable from his attitude to life. “It’s pushing yourself to the limits in every way, in your life style. It’s as important as science or anything like that. It’s not that it should be this or it should be that, what is should be is people, extensions of their personalities, striving, really struggling, that’s what music is about”.

Free U2 album given to iTunes users

2014-09-17T11:36:21+00:00

Radio 4 reports on new U2 album given to every itunes account

Apple marked the launch of their new products by giving everyone with an iTunes account the new U2 album. The decision has not been universally well recieved and many immediately took to Twitter to complain about this infringement of their iTunes libraries. Comments included this from Owen Williams "Hi @tim_cook, my iPhone has a virus called "U2" how do I uninstall it?"

Whilst U2 might not be everyone's cup of tea, it's hard to deny the universal impact of the band. In 1999, Arena interviewed Bono after an unlikely partnership with Salman Rushdie. In Rushdie's novel "The Ground Beneath Her Feet", singer Vina Aspara is caught up in an earthquake on Valentines Day in 1989 and never seen again. On that day, Rushdie's own life was in upheaval as Ayatolla Khomeini pronounced the Fatwah against him. Bono based a song around the lyrics from the book and performs it here with guitarist, The Edge.

Bono writes song based on the lyrics from Rushdie's novel

From Arena: Salman Rushdie - The Ground Beneath His Feet (1999). Directed by Mary Dickinson, Series Editor - Anthony Wall

Amy Winehouse statue unveiled

2014-09-16T08:42:42+00:00

Radio 4 reports on new Amy Winehouse statue in Camden

A life sized statue of Amy Winehouse has been unveiled in Camden, North London, three years after the singers death to mark what would have been her 31st birthday. Her father Mitch said she was 'in love with Camden' and it is the place most fans associate with her. Crowds paid tribute to the legendary musician as the statue, complete with high heels and her iconic 'beehive', was revealed to the public.

Arena recorded a rare interview with Amy Winehouse when she visited the town of Dingle on Ireland's West Coast back in 2011. In a tiny church in the remote town, Amy sand an intimate set as part of the 'Other Voices' festival held every winter. To a crowd of no more than 80 people, it was a memorable gig. Presenter John Kelly interviewed the singer after her performance where she talks frankly on her musical roots and inspiration, not long before her tragic death.

Amy Winehouse performs and talks about her inspiration from Gospel music

Arena: Amy Winehouse - The Day She Came To Dingle (2012). Directed by Maurice Linanne, Series Editor - Anthony Wall

ARENA NEWS WEEK: Tribute to John Peel, Carmen Dell'Orefice opens Gallery and 'Under Milk Wood'

2014-09-09T07:13:45+00:00

TRIBUTE TO JOHN PEEL

Radio 6 Music tribute to the legendary DJ John Peel

To mark the 10th anniversary of the death of legendary DJ John Peel, �鶹Լ�� 6 Music hosted a series of special shows to celebrate his life and legacy. Contributors included Lauren Laverne, Annie Nightingale and Don Letts, heard here introducing one of Peel's favourite records from Misty-in-Roots.

Back in 1983, Arena filmed John Peel in his home and studio at the height of his career. His radio show provided a unique platform for thousands of groups who had been making music entirely outside the big business of the record industry. Peel and his producer John Walters recieved hundreds of tapes and LP's everyday from young hopefuls searching for a play on air. From his home studio in 'Peel Acres', John listens to Misty and talks about his love of Reggae.

John Peel filmed in his home and studio

Arena: Today Carshalton Beeches, Tomorrow Croydon (1983). Directed by Anthony Wall

CARMEN DELL'OREFICE OPENS GALLERY AT THE V&A

Carmen Dell'Orefice opens Gallery

The world's oldest supermodel Carmen Dell'Orefice opened an exhibition of works by the late fashion photographer Horst P Horst at the V&A Museum in London. Horst first discovered Carmen at the age of 15 and from then on, she soon became one of his muses. She spoke to �鶹Լ�� News about her collaborations with Horst, and how he influenced her life and work. See the full clip here

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/entertainment-arts-29017638

Horst was not the only photographer to find a muse in Carmen. She had a close relationship with fashion photographer Norman Parkinson, who first discovered her in New York in the 1950s. Arena interviewed Carmen in 2013 for the documentary 'aka Norman Parkinson' as she describes her first encounter with 'Parks' on a photo shoot at New York's Plaza Hotel. From that moment, she became one of Parkinson's most treasured friends as well as one of his greatest models.

Carmen Dell'Orefice's first photoshoot with Norman Parkinson

Arena: aka Norman Parkinson (2013). Directed by Nicola Roberts, Series Editor - Anthony Wall

DYLAN THOMAS' 'UNDER MILK WOOD'

How the sounds were recorded for Dylan Thomas's 'Under Milk Wood'

A new recording of 'Under Milk Wood' is to take place to mark the centenary of the poet Dylan Thomas. Radio 4 talks to the man who did the sound effects on the original recording with Richard Burton, as he explains the ad hoc nature of finding the right instrument to produce the right sound.

The art of the sound effect often comes from the most unlikely places, and nowhere more so than on the set of Spitting Image. The satirical puppet show took a crew of hundreds to ensure the puppets, scripts and sounds were all ready and in place for the weekly show. The chaos of the production meant it was all down to the last minute, and up in the Birmingham studio, sound specialist Peter Rubbery grabs a conveniently places polystyrene cup to record an unusual sound.

Spitting Image sound effects

Arena: Whatever Happened To Spitting Image? (2014). Directed by Anthony Wall

'Under Milk Wood' was originally a radio drama written by Dylan Thomas in 1954. A narrator invites the audience to listen to the dreams and innermost thoughts of the inhabitants of a fictional small Welsh village called Llareggub. It is thought this is based on the town where Dlyan spent much of his life, Laugharne. Arena visited Laugharne to film the 2003 film 'Dylan Thomas: Grave to Cradle'. The opening scene features the voices of significant people from Thomas' life and he reads from 'Under Milk Wood' as we drive through the Welsh town where it all happened.

Dylan Thomas reads from 'Under Milk Wood'

Arena: Dy;an Thomas - Grave to Cradle (2003). Directed by Nigel Williams, Series Editor - Anthony Wall

ARENA NEWS WEEK: 100 Years of The Panama Canal, Big Ben cleaned and Jazz Legends In New York

2014-08-22T09:35:51+00:00

100th ANNIVERSARY OF THE PANAMA CANAL

Radio 4 reports on 100 year since the opening of the Panama Canal

This week saw 100 year since the opening of the Panama Canal. It has been described as one of the wonders of the modern world, an astounding feat of engineering that connected the Pacific and Atlantic oceans for the first time. The canal was controlled by the US until the Panamanian government took it over in 1999. It has revolutionised global trade and today handles five percent of the world's maritime trade.

In 1976, Graham Greene recieved an invitation from General Omar Torrijos Herrera to visit Panama. He knew little of the country but claimed it had long haunted his imagination so accepted the invitation. A deep bond developed between the writer and general and Greene returned to Panama numerous times after. Following the death of Torrijos, Greene wrote 'Getting To Know The General' as a tribute to the friendship. In the 1989 Arena 'The Other Graham Greene', we hear the voice of Greene himself as he describes his first visit to Panama. He recalls a strange encounter of mistaken identity with another 'Graham Greene' on his travels.

Graham Greene recounts his first visit to Panama

Arena: The Other Graham Greene (1989), Directed by Nigel Finch, Series Editor - Anthony Wall

BIG BEN GETS A CLEAN

�鶹Լ�� News reports on the cleaning of London's Big Ben

The hands of the worlds most famous clock were stopped at midday on the 18th August as a team of abseilers scaled Big Ben to give it a clean. Angling sixty metres above ground from one of Britain's most famous landmarks, it was hardly an ordinary day in the office for these window cleaners. Chairman of the British Watch and Clock Makers' Guild, Paul Robeson told The Today Programme the cleaners were 'very brave or mad, one or the other'.

Arena's 'Radio Night' broadcast back in 1993 included a short film dedicated to the Time Signal. Following his discovery that the �鶹Լ�� 'pips' had dropped a semitone, English recorder player Dr. Carl Dolmetsch moved on to the great sounds of Big Ben. He believed the tone of the chiming bells was not the correct pitch and Arena talked to the Deputy Manager of the Palace of Westminster, Brian O'Doyle to find an answer.

Dr Carl Dolmetsch investigates the pitch of the famous Big Ben chimes

Arena: The Time Signal (1993), Directed by Fisher Dilke, Series Editor - Anthony Wall

'JAZZ CORNER' AT WOODLAWN CEMETERY

�鶹Լ�� Radio 4 reports from 'jazz corner' in Woodlawn Cemetery, New York

Jazz fans are now able to make their adoration permanent by buying a plot right next to some of the jazz greats buried in Woodlawn Cemetery, New York. The cemetery hosts its very own 'jazz corner' where Duke Ellington bought his lot in 1959, next to Miles Davis. Many other musical legends are buried here including Lionel Hampton, Max Roach and Celia Cruz. The five acre hill next door, formerly a composting site, has now been freed up fo the public, many of whom have bought plots to ensure they can be close to their jazz heroes.

Musical pioneer Duke Ellington was a composer, pianist and bandleader of jazz orchestras from 1923 until his death in 1974. Born in Washington, he was based in New York from the mid 1920's and gained a national profile through his orchestra's appearances at the Cotton Club. He remains one of the most influential figures in jazz, if not in all American music. In 1983, Arena looked back at some of the great legends of jazz with 'Jazz Juke Box' presented by blues singer George Melley. He discusses the great work of Ellington in conversation with Slim Gaillard who recounts tales of Ellington's former partner Ivie Anderson and her famous chicken shack.

George Melley and Slim Gaillard discuss one of the great jazz legends Duke Ellington

Arena: Jazz Juke Box (1983). Directed by Anthony Wall

WORLD CUP SPECIAL - Jorge Ben, Pelé and Caetano Veloso

2014-06-13T13:13:12+00:00

�鶹Լ�� News reports on the start of the 2014 World Cup in Brazil

To celebrate this year's World Cup, Arena looks back on some of our finest Brazilian football and music moments from the archive. From Jorge Ben to Pele to Rio Carnival, take a journey into the heart and soul of Brazil....

JORGE BEN'S 'FIO MARAVILHA'

Joao Batista de Sales, better known as Fio Maravilha, is a former Brazilian football player. He is perhaps most famous for Jorge Ben's 1972 hit single 'Fio Maravilha'. Ben's inspiration came after he attended a game between Flamengo and Benfica at the Maracana Stadium in Rio. Fio Maravilha was left out of Flamengo's starting line-up but after a chorus of fans demanded he play, he was brought in as a substitute. Half an hour into the second half he scored "the goal of an angel" that was immortalised in Ben's song.

Brazilian musician Jorge Ben performs famous song 'Fio Maravilha'

From Arena series Rhythms of the World - Tudo Da Samba (1991), Directed by Anthony Wall

HUGH MCILVANNEY ON PELE

Pelé is regarded by many as the best football player of all time, with a total number of 1281 goals in 1368 games. In his native Brazil he is hailed as a national hero, winning three World Cups in 1958, 1962 and perhaps the greatest final in World Cup history, the 1970 match against Italy. Pelé's electrifying play and skill made him a star around the world, and sportswriter Hugh McIlvanney looks back at the 1970 World Cup final to see the master at work.

Hugh McIlvanney looks back at Pele's 1970 World Cup victory

Arena: Sportswriter (1992). Directed by Francis Hanly

CAETANO VELOSO AND MARDI GRAS

Brazilian composer and singer Caetano Veloso became known for his participation in the Brazilian musical movement Tropicalismo, encompassing theatre, poetry and music in the 1960s at the beginning of the Brazilian military dictatorship. The government viewed his music and political action as subversive and he was arrested along with fellow musician Gilberto Gil in 1969. The two were eventually exiled from Brazil and moved to London where they lived for two years before returning to their home country. Here, Veloso performs famous Jorge Ben track 'Charles - Angel 45', the story of a 'Robin Hood' of the Favelas.

Brazilian musician Caetano Veloso performs Jorge Ben track 'Charles - Angel 45'

Arena: All On A Mardi Gras Day (1988). Directed by Anthony Wall, Mark Dickinson and Nigel Finch

ARENA NEWS WEEK: Christopher Lee's 'My Way', Anniversary of Tiananmen Square and death of Lady Mary Soames

2014-06-06T12:09:53+00:00

CHRISTOPHER LEE RECORDS HEAVY METAL COVER OF 'MY WAY'

Radio 6 music interview with Sir Christopher Lee on his heavy metal recording of 'My Way'

Actor Sir Christopher Lee is marking his 92nd birthday by releasing an album of heavy metal cover versions. The album includes a version of Frank Sinatra's 'My Way', originally written by Paul Anka. "My Way is a very remarkable song" said the star..."It is also difficult to sing because you've got to convince people what you're saying is the truth".

Christopher Lee is by no means the first person to cover Frank Sinatra's masterpiece. The Arena classic 'My Way' investigates the appeal and power of the popular song through it's multiple versions. From Elvis Presley, to Sid Vicious and David Bowie, it has become an anthem for the individual. The song has been recorded over 140 times but none so powerfully as Dame Shirley Bassey, here seen giving a belting performance.

Arena looks back at the influence of Frank Sinatra's anthem

Arena: My Way (1979), directed by Nigel Finch

To see more on the origins of 'My Way' and a piece from Arena series editor Anthony Wall, visit the Arena webpage http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b006pn88/profiles/myway

25th ANNIVERSARY OF TIANANMEN SQUARE

�鶹Լ�� News reports on the 25th anniversary of the Tiananment Square protests in Beijing

This week marks the 25th anniversary of the Tiananmen Square pro-democracy demonstrations in Beijing. Crowds of protestors, including students and factory workers camped out in the square before the Chinese security services moved in on the 4th June 1989. The estimated death toll ranged from several hundred to several thousand and 1,600 protestors were arrested.

Two years after the events in Tiananmen Square, Arena travelled to China to investigate the growing phenomena of Chinese rock music, which emerged in the years surrounding the protests. Cui Jian was the country's first rock star and through his ability to rally the youth against a political movement, he has been cited as China's answer to Bob Dylan. One of his most famous songs became a protest song for the Tiananmen march and his band went on to symbolise a new musical revolution in China.

Arena follows China's first rock star Cui Jian

Arena: Rhythms of the World - China Rocks: The Long March of Cui Jian (1991)

Directed by H.O. Nazareth, Series Editor - Anthony Wall

DEATH OF LADY MARY SOAMES

Lady Mary Soames

Lady Mary Soames, Winston Churchill's last surviving child, has died at the age of 91. She was the youngest of the five children of the wartime Prime Minister and his wife, Clementine. Mary Soames served in the auxiliary territorial service during World War Two, manning anti-aircraft batteries in London, Belgium and Germany.

Mary Soames went on to become the chairman of The National Theatre from 1989 - 1995, appointed by Margaret Thatcher's government. Arena interviewed her last year for the documentary charting the history and influence of The National Theatre. She candidly talks about her role as chairman which was regarded with deep suspicion by the theatre. Whilst Thatcher's idea may have been to have her keep an eye on the National, it was not long before she fell into good company with many of the actors, remembered fondly here by Ian McKellen and Richard Eyre.

Interview with Lady Mary Soames, chairman of The National Theatre from 1989 -95

Arena: The National Theatre (2013)

Directed by Adam Low, Produced by Martin Rosenbaum and David Sabel, Series Editor - Anthony Wall

ARENA NEWS WEEK: Stones manager dies, Sophia Loren at Cannes and Celia Cruz on fleeing Cuba

2014-05-27T13:56:29+00:00

ROLLING STONES MANAGER DIES

Radio 4's Today Programme reports on the death of Stones manager Rupert Loewenstein

Prince Rupert Loewenstein, credited with turning the Rolling Stones into the world's richest rock band, has died at the age of 80. He was the band's financial manager for nearly 40 years, becoming a close friend to Mick Jagger. Through his advice, the band became tax exiles, retreating to the South of France in the 1970s. Loewenstein famously commented that he was not a fan of the Stones' music "or indeed of rock and roll in general", but regarded the band with great affection.

From the South of France to the Caribbean, Arena caught up with the Stones in 1989 when they retreated to Monsterrat to record at the studio of legendary music producer George Martin. After years of well publicised acrimony amongst band members, they reunited for the 1989 'Steel Wheels' tour which proved an enormous financial success. Here, whilst rehearsing the track 'Mixed Emotions', Mick Jagger and Keith Richards speak about the band reuniting and making music.

Arena interviews the Rolling Stones at George Martin's recording studio in Monsterrat

Arena: 25 x 5: The Continuing Adventure of The Rolling Stones (1989)

Directed by Nigel Finch

SOPHIA LOREN AT CANNES

�鶹Լ�� 4's Today Programme reports on actress Sophia Loren at the Cannes Film Festival

Italian actress Sophia Loren wowed the red carpet at this year's Cannes Film Festival, bringing some Hollywood glamour to the event. The 79 year old is no stranger to Cannes, as she was a staple at the film festival during the 1950s. Loren attended the premiere of 'Two Days One Night' looking every inch the screen goddess in a bejeweled gold gown.

Her beauty and sophistication was rarely unnoticed, not least from British comedian Spike Milligan who encountered Loren on a trip to Rome with Peter Sellers. Arena interviewed Spike in 1995 where he recalls his first encounter with the Hollywood icon, after being invited round for dinner at Mussolini's villa.

Spike Milligan remembers his first encounter with Loren at Mussolini's Villa

Arena: The Peter Sellers Story (1995)

Directed by Paul Lydon, Series Editor: Anthony Wall

For more glitz and glamour visit our 'Screen Goddesses' collection: http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b006pn88/features/screengoddesses

CUBAN EMBARGO RESTRICTIONS LIFTED

�鶹Լ�� Radio 4's Today Programme visits Miami's Cuban population

There are growing calls to lift the Cuban economic embargo, put in place over 50 years ago by the American government as an attempt to restrict the communist regime. Much of this movement is being channeled from Miami, where many Cubans now live after being forced to flee from Fidel Castro's communist regime. Traditionally staunch supporters of the embargo, some new voices are emerging in what has long been one of American's most influential political lobbies.

Latin American superstar Celia Cruz was one of the many who fled Cuba in 1961 at the time of the revolution. Arena interviewed her and her husband in 1988, 27 years after they left the country and found a new home in New York. Like many Cuban exiles, they were unable to return, creating large Cuban populations in American cities - mainly New York and Miami. Despite living in exile, Celia Cruz became one of the most succesful Latin American singers in the world, reaching even greater fame after fleeing Cuba.

Latin American superstar Celia Cruz discusses fleeing Cuba during the revolution

Arena: My Name is Celia Cruz (1988)

Directed by Anthony Wall

ARENA NEWS WEEK: Eurovision Song Contest, Tony Hancock and Metallica at Glastonbury

2014-05-16T09:02:09+00:00

AUSTRIA WINS EUROVISION SONG CONTEST

�鶹Լ�� News reports on the winner of this year's Eurovision Song Contest

This week saw Austrian drag act Conchita Wurst crowned the winner of the 59th annual Eurovision Song Contest, held in Copenhagen. The singer won with 290 points for song 'Rise Like A Phoenix'. It is the first time Austria has won the competition since 1966.

Not all Eurovision contestants have managed to score so highly, with Norway's Jahn Teigen famously being the first contestant to receive no points for his 1978 performance Mil etter mil (Mile after mile). Despite the lack of international recognition, the song gained a huge audience back in Norway where it dominated the national singles chart for more than four months. Arena caught up with Jahn on a visit to the UK in 1980 when David McGillivray interviewed him on arrival at the airport.

Interview with Norway's 1978 Eurovision contestant Jahn Teigen

Arena: Climb Every Mountain or Nothing Succeeds Like Failure (1980)

Directed by Nigel Finch

TONY HANCOCK HONOURED WITH BLUE PLAQUE

Radio 4's Today Programme visits the home of comedy legend Tony Hancock

Comedy star Tony Hancock has been honoured with a blue plaque outside his former London home in Kensington, on what would have been his 90th birthday. The Birmingham born star made his name on radio before transferring to television. After a lengthy battle with alcoholism and other difficulties in his personal life, Hancock sadly took his own life in June 1968.

'Hancock's Half Hour' writers Ray Galton and Alan Simpson unveiled the blue plaque outside Hancock's home. The pair of British scriptwriters met in 1948 whilst recuperating from tuberculosis at the Milford sanatorium in Surrey, which provided the material for their sitcom 'Get Well Soon'. They are perhaps best known for their work with Hancock on radio and television between 1954 and 1961, along with long running sitcom 'Steptoe and Son'. Interviewed over lunch in 2005, Arena found out how they refined their jokes with Tony Hancock as the star.

Arena has lunch with comedy writers Ray Galton and Alan Simpson

Arena: Lunch With Galton and Simpson (2005)

Directed by Nigel Williams, Series Editor - Anthony Wall

METALLICA TO HEADLINE GLASTONBURY FESTIVAL

�鶹Լ�� Breakfast reports on Metallica announced as headline act for Glastonbury

US heavy metal veterans Metallica have been announced as the Saturday night headliners on Glastonbury's Pyramid Stage. This marks Metallica's debut appearance at Worthy Farm and it is the first time a heavy metal band have headlined the event.

In 1989, Arena's 'Heavy Metal' explored what its millions of fans worldwide saw as the true incarnation of rock n' roll. From its origins in the blues, Heavy Metal came to fruition in the UK in the Black Country during the 1970s. Arena interviewed an unbeatable line up from both sides of the pond, including Jimmy Page, Ozzy Osborne, Led Zepelin, Black Sabbath, Guns 'N' Roses and Metallica. Lars Ulrich, Metallica's drummer was dragged to his first gig by his father to see the band 'Deep Purple', sparking his love for the music and shaping his career thereafter.

Deep Purple perform Black Night in 1970 and Lars Ulrich from Metallica reflects on Deep Purple being the first band he ever saw, in the 1989 �鶹Լ�� Arena documentary, Heavy Metal.

To find out more on how the fans were so dedicated to 'HM' music, visit Arena's 'Behind the Film' webpage here

http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b006pn88/profiles/heavymetal

Arena: Heavy Metal (1989)

Directed by Helen Gallagher, Series Editor - Anthony Wall

ARENA NEWS WEEK: Bob Dylan lyrics, Death Row and Manchester United

2014-05-02T14:21:12+00:00

BOB DYLAN SONG LYRICS GO ON SALE

Radio 4's Today Programme reports on the auction of Bob Dylan lyrics

Bob Dylan's original hand written lyrics for ground-breaking song 'Like A Rolling Stone' are to be sold at auction in New York. The manuscript has been described as 'the most significant piece of rock material to appear at auction', written in pencil on small sheets of hotel stationery with corrections and doodles in the margins, including a rooster and a fedora hat.

You might think that nothing was left to chance on Dylan's most legendary rock recording, but in Arena's 2005 documentary 'Bob Dylan: No Direction �鶹Լ��', musician Al Kooper recalls how he came to improvise on the opening chords of 'Like A Rolling Stone'.

Musician Al Kooper recalls how he came to improvise on 'Like A Rolling Stone'

Arena: No Direction �鶹Լ�� (2005). Directed by Martin Scorsese

A Production of Spiftire Pictures, Grey Water Park Production, �鶹Լ�� Arena, Skelia Productions, Thirteen/WNET New York/PBS

US INMATE DIES AFTER 'BOTCHED' LEGAL INJECTION

Radio 4's Today Programme reports on botched lethal injection in Oklahoma

Clayton Locket, a US death row inmate in Oklahoma, died of a heart attack after a botched lethal injection from the state executioner. The problems surrounding Locket's execution are part of a wider debate over the legality of the 'three drug method' and whether this treatment violates the US constitutional vow 'against cruel and unusual punishment'.

Director James Marsh's film 'Death Row - The Last Supper', first broadcast in 1990 as part of Arena's 'Food Night', takes a look at the custom and practice of allowing inmates to chose their last meal on death row. The ritual of the last meal goes back to 18th century England, where prisoners would often have a farewell party before execution as a celebration of life and preparation of what lay ahead. Here in the Louisiana State Penitentiary, Arena looks at the choices inmates have made for their last meal and how some have used this decision to make a final statement on earth.

A history of the ritual of the 'last meal' granted to inmates on death row

Arena: Death Row - The Last Supper (1990)

Directed by James Marsh, Series Editor - Anthony Wall

MOYES SACKED AS MANCHESTER UNITED MANAGER

�鶹Լ�� News reports on the sacking of Manchester United manager David Moyes

This week saw David Moyes sacked as Manchester United manager after just nine months in charge. Following a 2-0 defeat at Moyes' old club Everton and a failure to qualify for the Champions League, the club's owners lost patience after a 'calamatous' first season.

Following in the footsteps of the great Alex Ferguson proved an impossible legacy for Moyes, but this is not the first time Manchester United have suffered such a fate. Sir Matt Busby, one of the greatest football managers in history, took his team to the European Cup Final in 1968 where Manchester United beat Benfica 4-1. Busby was a hero to his fans who often chanted they would have him as Prime Minister. Following his European victory and knighthood, Busby stepped down as manager and was replaced by former player and coach Wilf McGuiness. Arena interviewed McGuinness in the 1997 documentary 'The Football Men' and he discusses the difficulties he faced in taking over from a much loved legend.

Former Manchester United manager Sir Matt Busby choses his successor

Arena: The Football Men (1997)

Directed by Francis Hanly, Series Editor - Anthony Wall

ARENA NEWS WEEK: Pete Seeger, Tube strike and "Pips"

2014-02-07T14:51:44+00:00

OBITUARY: PETE SEEGER

�鶹Լ�� News reports on the death of legendary musician Pete Seeger

The American singer, song-writer and political activist, Pete Seeger, died on the 27th January at the age of 94. He was a leading figure in the revival of folk music in the 1940s and 50s and became a huge influence on a new generation of folk musicians such as Bob Dylan, Joan Baez, Judy Collins and Peter Paul and Mary.

Arena interviewed Pete seeger back in 1988 as he paid tribute to one of his greatest icons, Woody Guthrie. The pair formed the New York City based folk music group "Tha Almanac Singers", active between 1940 and 1943, along with Millard Lampell and Lee Hays. The group specialised in protest songs and Seeger and Guthrie were both active communists, singing together for the CIO unions in the 1940s. Here, Seeger talks about Guthrie's legendary anthem for the masses "This Land Is Your Land"

Pete Seeger sings and talks about Woody Guthrie's legendary anthem of the masses.

From Arena: Woody Guthrie (1988) Directed by Paul Lee, Series Editor - Anthony Wall

LONDON TUBE STRIKES

�鶹Լ�� London news reports on the 48 hour tube strike

Millions of people faced delays during the 48 hour strike by London underground workers who were protesting against job cuts and ticket office closures.

Ever wondered what the underground looks like from the drivers seat? Look no further than Arena's 2007 documentary 'Underground', a celebration of the world's oldest underground system. This film begins 150 years ago in a Victorian London of slums and gaslight and takes us on a mysterious adventure through tube history, with contributions from some of the Underground's very own staff.

The 2007 Arena film 'Underground' celebrates the worlds oldest underground system

From Arena: Underground (2007), Directed by Zimena Percival, Produced by Martin Rosenbaum, Series Editor - Anthony Wall

HAPPY BIRTHDAY 'PIPS'

Radio 4's Today Programme celebrates the 90th birthday of the 'pips', �鶹Լ�� Time Signal

This week marked 90 years since the Greenwich Time Signal, popularly known as the pips, the hourly markers broadcast across the �鶹Լ��. Their reliable monotony that precedes the news has come to be a familiar sound for all �鶹Լ�� listeners. The six beeps were designed by John Reith, former head of the �鶹Լ��, and Frank Watson Dyson, the Astronomer Royal. They were originally controlled by two mechanical clocks at the Royal Greenwich Observatory.

Arena's 'Radio Night' broadcast back in 1993 included a short film dedicated to the Time Signal. Nicknamed 'Mr Recorder' for his skill and revival of the recorder in the 20th century, Dr Carl Dolmetsch caused quite a stir when he discovered that the �鶹Լ�� pips had dropped a semitone from B flat to B natural. Following a media storm over the issue, the engineers were tracked down to explain where it all went wrong.

Short film about the �鶹Լ�� Time Signal for Arena's 1994 'Radio Night'

From Arena: Radio Night (1993), Directed by Fisher Dilke, Series Editor - Anthony Wall

RONNIE BIGGS, MIKHAIL KALASHNIKOV AND PHIL EVERLY

2014-01-24T16:01:55+00:00

The famous train robber, the inventor of the AK-47 and one part of legendary pop duo 'The Everly Brothers'...an unlikely trio of characters, but what do they have in common? Over the last few weeks, Ronnie Biggs, Mikhail Kalashnikov and Phil Everly passed away and Arena has found rare glimpses of all three characters in its archives.

�鶹Լ�� News: December 2013 - January 2014

Ronnie Biggs: 8 August 1929 - 18th December 2013

British criminal Ronnie Biggs who took part in the 1963 Great Train Robbery, died aged 84. He was part of the gang which escaped with £2.6 million from the Glasgow to London mail train on 8 August 1963. After escaping from Wandsworth prison in 1965, he became famous for 'going on the run' around the world. Firstly to Europe, then Australia and finally to Brazil, where he sought refuge from 1970 to 2001 before returning to the UK. Where the police couldn't touch him, Arena caught Ronnie attending Rio's Mardi Gras in 1988 during a special live broadcast of the Mardi Gras celebrations. With his robbing days behind him, Ronnie talked about his new found skill, the Samba, and we see a live jam session with some of New Orleans finest Rhythm and Blues talent. The set features The Neville Brothers, Allen Toussaint, The Dirty Dozen, The Dixie Cups, The Golden Eagles and The Mardi Gras Mambo.

Famous criminal Ronnie Biggs interviewed during Mardi Gras celebrations in Rio

Arena: All On A Mardi Gras Day (1988). Directed by Mary Dickinson, Series Editor - Anthony Wall

Mikhail Kalashnikov: 10 November 1919 - 23rd December 2013

In 1947, Mikhail Kalashnikov developed the AK-47. His automatic rifle became one of the most familiar weapons on the planet, employed by the armies of dozens of countries and becoming the symbol of revolution around the world. More than 70 million Kalashnikovs have been made in over 15 different countries, yet Mikhail has never received a penny, once complaining he would have been financially better off designing a lawnmower. Arena filmed Mikhail in Russia for the 1994 film 'Kalashnikov'. Armed with one of his own creations, he stalks a Moose in the Russian wilderness and is confronted with the question "What do you say to the families of people killed by your gun?"

Creator of the AK-47, Mikhail Kalashnikov, stalks a Moose in the Russian wilderness

Arena: Kalashnikov (1994), Directed by Paul Gruebel-Lee, Series Editor - Anthony Wall

Phil Everly: January 19 1939 - January 3rd 2014

Legendary musician Phil Everly, one half of the Everly Brothers died aged 74 in California. Phil and his older brother Don were the children of Midwestern country music singers and performed on the family radio show while growing up. Between 1957 and 1962, the brothers had 19 top 40 hits, many have crowned them as one of the most important vocal duo's in rock music history. First broadcast in 1984 as part of their reunion after ten bitter years apart, Arena traced their fabulous career, their split and triumphant reunion. Most of all Don and Phil wanted to revisit their roots in the coal mining area of Kentucky where their father Ike, a miner, had been a local guitar star.

Phil and Don Everly revisit their roots in coaliminig area of Kentucky

Arena: The Everly Brothers - Songs of Innocence and Experience (1984). Produced by Alan Yentob, Directed by Anthony Wall.

AN ASTRONAUT'S GUIDE TO LIFE ON EARTH

2013-10-29T17:19:19+00:00

Commander Chris Hadfield discusses his new book, An Astronaut's Guide to Life.

Canadian astronaut Chris Hadfield has just released his memoir detailing the wonders of space travel. Speaking on Radio 4's Today Programme, Hadfield discusses his new book and his experiences on the International Space Station, where he famously filmed a version of Bowie's 'Space Oddity', which went viral on youtube.

Chris Hadfield follows in a long tradition of astronauts and cosmonauts who have taken thier favourite music into space. In a 1993 documentary The Last Soviet Citizen, Arena told the story of Soviet Space culture across three decades. During their time on the MIR space station the cosmonauts would listen to classical, big band and Russian folk music whilst floating in space.

Russian Cosmonauts discuss their musical experiences whilst living on the Space Station

Arena: The Last Soviet Citizen (1993). Directed by Leslie Woodhead, Series Editor - Anthony Wall