The first teaser trailer for “Where Rock Lived“ has been released, offering a preview of a feature documentary focused on the influential New York radio station, 102.7 WNEW-FM. The film highlights the station’s role in defining Album-Oriented Rock (AOR) and establishing a personality-driven approach to radio during its peak years.
The 90-second teaser features appearances from Gene Simmons (KISS), Todd Rundgren, Jon Anderson (Yes), Joan Jett, Mike Love (The Beach Boys), Marky Ramone (The Ramones), and Carl Palmer (Emerson, Lake & Palmer). It also features interviews with notable WNEW-FM air talent such as Dennis Elsas, Richard Neer, and Mark Chernoff, along with key figures like Robin Sagon of WNEW-FM’s news department and Bob Meyrowitz of “King Biscuit Flower Hour.”
The documentary details how WNEW-FM’s DJs, including Rosko, Scott Muni, Alison Steele, Jonathan Schwartz, Vin Scelsa, and Pete Fornatale, played a significant role in shaping the careers of artists like The Doors, Led Zeppelin, Bruce Springsteen, Elton John, and Billy Joel. The station’s format went beyond playing singles, focusing instead on full albums and deeper cuts that built a loyal listener base.
The film also examines WNEW-FM’s presence during major cultural moments, including the Vietnam War, Woodstock, the Women’s Liberation Movement, and the Kent State shootings.
“WNEW-FM was a reflection of America’s young generation who came of age through its DJs, bands and music, celebrating a counterculture that impacted millions of disillusioned youth,” said Tony Monte, creator and executive producer of “Where Rock Lived.”
“In an era focused on PPM and centralized programming, we explore a time when relationships between the DJ, artist and listener was the most important algorithm. This film is not just nostalgia; it’s a case study in how the power of live, local, and personality-focused broadcasting can affect a nation.”
The logline for the film states: “Where Rock Lived tells the story of WNEW-FM, a radio station that gave voice to a generation. It shaped cultural identity and was a musical touchstone, amplifying the legendary artists and bands who defined America’s youth, soul and rebellion.”
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