New documentary delves into forgotten era of Philadelphia’s rock music scene

Philadelphia’s impact on rock music during the 1980s is often overlooked, but an upcoming independent documentary aims to shed light on this crucial period in the city’s musical history. Titled “When We Rocked,” the documentary is based on a book released in August and will feature interviews with artists who influenced Philadelphia’s metal and hardcore sound between 1978 and 1992. The film also includes decades-old footage from over a dozen bands, offering a glimpse into the experiences of musicians trying to make a name for themselves during this transformative era.

The trailer for the documentary features insights from Michael Kelly, a professor of music at Montgomery County Community College, who emphasizes Philadelphia’s unique sound and identity. Director Matthew Scott Johnston and executive producer Mick Michaels, who co-authored the source material, interviewed prominent members of the city’s music scene to capture their stories and memories. Unearthed footage, photos, and recordings of live performances further enhance the documentary’s exploration of Philadelphia’s vibrant musical landscape.

For many musicians, Philadelphia represented a hub of creativity and opportunity. Chris Natalini of Blood Feast describes the city as a “hotbed of music” that held immense promise for aspiring artists. His thrasher metal band, formed in New Jersey in 1985, found a receptive audience in Philadelphia before disbanding in 1991. The documentary aims to celebrate the contributions of artists like Natalini while highlighting their impact on the city’s cultural fabric.

In addition to interviews and archival material, “When We Rocked” features a theme song written by Mick Michaels in collaboration with several artists showcased in the film. Reggie Wu, Jaron Gulino, Frankie Cross, and Mad T are among the musicians who contributed to the track, underscoring the collaborative spirit that defined Philadelphia’s music scene during this era. Michaels hopes that the documentary will amplify the voices of these artists and provide a platform for their stories to resonate with audiences.

While Philadelphia is often associated with icons like Frankie Avalon and Chubby Checker from the earlier rock ‘n’ roll era, Michaels believes that the city’s contributions to glam rock and heavy metal have been overlooked. Alongside co-author Antonio Aloia, Michaels spent years gathering anecdotes and insights from members of bands such as Roughhouse, Britny Fox, and Heavens Edge to document the evolution of rock music in Philadelphia. The documentary seeks to rectify this oversight by showcasing the city’s enduring influence on the broader musical landscape.

Ultimately, “When We Rocked” serves as a testament to Philadelphia’s rich musical heritage and the enduring legacy of its rock scene. Through interviews, archival footage, and original music, the documentary offers a comprehensive look at the city’s vibrant music community and the pivotal role it played in shaping the sounds of the 1980s. By amplifying the voices of artists and providing a platform for their stories, “When We Rocked” celebrates Philadelphia’s indelible mark on the world of rock music.