Home / Series / BBC Documentaries / Aired Order / Season 2012 / Episode 168

Here Comes the Summer: The Undertones Story

In 1978 the Undertones released Teenage Kicks, one of the most perfect and enduring pop records of all time - an adolescent anthem that spoke to teenagers all over the globe. It was the first in a string of hits that created a timeless soundtrack to growing up, making the Undertones one of punk rock's most prolific and popular bands. Unlike the anarchic ragings of the Sex Pistols or the overt politics of the Clash, the Undertones sang of mummy's boys, girls - or the lack of them - and their irritating cousin Kevin. But their gems of pop music were revolutionary nonetheless - startlingly positive protest songs that demanded a life more ordinary. Because The Undertones came from Derry, epicentre of the violent troubles that tore Northern Ireland apart during the 1970s. Featuring interviews with band members, their friends, family, colleagues and contemporaries, alongside archive and music, this documentary is the remarkable, funny and moving story of one of Britain's favourite bands - the most improbable pop stars who emerged from one of the darkest, most violent places on the planet.

English
  • Originally Aired September 7, 2012
  • Runtime 60 minutes
  • Content Rating United States of America TV-PG
  • Production Code b01mhqnr
  • Network BBC
  • Created September 10, 2012 by
    Administrator admin
  • Modified September 10, 2012 by
    Administrator admin
Name Type Role
Chris Wilson Director