Fred Armisen has been tapped for a new series collaboration between CNN and Universal Music Group, The Hollywood Reporter can exclusively reveal, with the comedian set to give viewers a behind-the-scenes look at UMG’s extensive archives.
UMG is the world’s largest music company, and the record company’s catalog includes some of the most iconic songs and albums of all time, from older classics like the catalogs of Blue Note and A&M Records, to the Beatles and the Beach Boys. The series, which doesn’t have a title, will give a rare look at UMG’s archives housed at the famed Iron Mountain facility in Pennsylvania.
A press release for the upcoming show promises to “unearth priceless artifacts, encompassing original recordings, master tapes, rare photos and performances, alternative album art and music videos, many of which have not been seen or heard publicly before.”
The series, produced by UMG’s Polygram Entertainment, TIME Studios and Known Originals, is set to premiere later this year through CNN Originals’ programming slate, CNN and UMG said.
“This series opens the doors to one of the most extraordinary music archives in the world, and Fred Armisen is the perfect guide,” Amy Entelis, executive vice president of talent, CNN Originals and creative development for CNN Worldwide, said in a statement. “His deep connection to music and natural sense of wonder allow viewers a chance to experience music history up close, discovering the unexpected stories behind some of the most iconic sounds ever created.”
As UMG EVP and Chief Administrative Officer Will Tanous added: “This series was born from a desire to show fans what it’s like to mine the greatest underground musical archive in the world – giving them a sense of the hunt, the challenge, the thrill of this work – as well as direct access to the dedicated experts who preserve and champion these incredible musical legacies. “Fred’s singular blend of humor, fandom, and musical talent make him the ideal storyteller to reveal the intimate era-defining moments and unheard gems that form the foundation of popular culture.”
Armisen and Tanous both serve as executive producers, along with UMG’s David Blackman. Also executive producing are Amy Entelis, Lyle Gamm and Katie Hinman for CNN Original Series, Jeff Smith for Time Studios and Doug Pray. Nicole Avant and Brad Roth serve as producers on the project, while UMG executives Bruce Resnikoff and Madeline Post serve as co-producers. Ted Skillman serves as show runner and executive producer.
Fred Armisen to Host CNN Series Exploring Universal MusicS Archives (Exclusive)
The Exciting New CNN Show Unveiling Music History
Fred Armisen, the multi-talented comedian and actor known for his work on Saturday Night Live and Portlandia, is set to host an exclusive CNN series that dives deep into the vast and iconic archives of Universal Music. This groundbreaking series will offer music enthusiasts and general audiences a fascinating journey thru decades of timeless music moments, rare footage, and behind-the-scenes stories from one of the world’s most influential music companies.
What to Expect From the Series
- Exclusive Archive Access: Viewers will get unprecedented access to Universal Music’s hidden vaults, including rare recordings, vintage performances, and historic interviews.
- fred Armisen’s Unique Style: Bringing his sharp wit and musical sensibilities, Armisen will not only guide viewers through the archives but also add humor and insightful commentary, making the show both educational and entertaining.
- Legendary Artists & Stories: The series will showcase iconic artists from various genres-rock, pop, jazz, and more-highlighting their impact on music history and culture.
- Behind-the-Scenes Insights: Audiences can expect compelling stories from music industry insiders, producers, and artists that illuminate the making of unforgettable albums and live shows.
Why This Series Matters in Today’s Music Landscape
In an era dominated by streaming and digital music consumption,revisiting physical archives and historical footage offers valuable outlook about how music evolved over decades. This CNN series will:
- Preserve and honor musical heritage.
- Introduce younger generations to influential past artists.
- Highlight the importance of record labels like Universal Music in shaping artists’ legacies.
- Celebrate the fusion of music and cultural history in a visually compelling format.
Fred Armisen’s Musical Roots and Hosting Credentials
Fred Armisen is uniquely qualified to helm this series due to his background as a trained musician and longtime music enthusiast. his experience includes:
- playing drums and guitar in multiple bands.
- Curating music projects and collaborating with famous musicians.
- Being a music columnist and podcast host.
- Bringing authenticity and genuine passion to the exploration of music’s deeper stories.
Table: Fred Armisen’s music Credentials at a Glance
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Musical Skills | Drums, Guitar, Vocals |
| Notable bands | Trenchmouth, ThunderAnt |
| Music Roles | Composer, Performer, Podcast Host |
| Hosting Experience | Television, Live Music Events, Podcasts |
impact on CNN and music Documentary Space
This series marks CNN’s further investment in music documentary programming, filling a niche for in-depth explorations of the industry’s most treasured archives. The collaboration with Universal Music offers unmatched content value and exclusivity.
Benefits for Viewers
- Discover rare musical gems and unheard history.
- Gain a new gratitude for classic and contemporary artists.
- Enjoy a fresh presentation style blending humor with musicology.
- Access exclusive archival material only available on CNN.
Practical Viewing Tips for Music Fans
- Set Reminders: Given the exclusivity, ensure to tune in at series premiere times to avoid missing episodes.
- Engage on social Media: Follow CNN and Fred Armisen for behind-the-scenes clips and interactive content.
- Explore Universal’s Catalog: Use streaming platforms to listen to featured artists and deepen the viewing experience.
- Invite Fellow Music Lovers: Watch the series with friends or family for engaging discussions about music history.
Firsthand Experience: What Fans Are Saying
Early teasers and previews have generated excitement across music and television fan communities. Commentators praise the series for its rare content and Armisen’s authentic hosting style, calling it “a must-watch for any music aficionado.”
Sample fan Reactions
- “Fred Armisen brings the perfect blend of humor and heart to this journey through music’s legendary vaults.”
- “CNN’s partnership with Universal Music brings forward archival treasures we never thought we’d see again.”
- “This series renews my love for classic music and introduces me to stories behind the scenes I never knew.”
FAQs About the Series
When will the Fred Armisen CNN series premiere?
The series is scheduled to premiere on CNN in the coming months, with an official date to be announced.
How long is each episode?
Each episode will run approximately 45-60 minutes,featuring deep dives into specific archival themes.
Will the series be available for streaming?
CNN plans to offer the series on its streaming platforms, making it accessible to a wider audience post-broadcast.
Can viewers suggest archive topics or artists?
Yes, CNN encourages audience engagement through social media to feature fan-favorite artists and stories in future episodes.
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