The BBC has commissioned a documentary about The Real Thing, one of Britain’s most enduring soul and funk acts.
The band formed in Toxteth in 1972 and released international hits including You To Me Are Everything, Can’t Get By Without You, and Can You Feel the Force.
The 90 minute film, which is directed by Simon Sheridan tells the story of their success, but also their personal tragedy, drug addition and racial prejudice.
“Our journey as the Real Thing has been full of ups and downs, but Dave and I have enjoyed reminiscing about the past 45 years,” said Chris Amoo of The Real Thing.
“And thanks to producer and director Simon Sheridan and the BBC, we are really excited that the viewers can get to look back and celebrate our career with us.”
Everything – The Real Thing Story is narrated by Game of Thrones’ Jacob Anderson. It features interviews with David Essex OBE, Kim Wilde, Billy Ocean, Trevor Nelson MBE and members of the band.
It’s one of a series of new and archive programmes commissioned by Jan Younghusband, Head of Commissioning, BBC Music television:
“We are thrilled with the reception of BBC Music programmes so far this year, including imagine… This House Is Full Of Music with the Kanneh-Mason Family, The Glastonbury Experience in June, One World: Together At Home on BBC One back in April, and Later…with Jools Holland in May,” she said.
“Delivering great music for our audience remains incredibly important to us – despite the current restrictions – and so we’re also delighted to bring such a wide range of quality programming to viewers over the summer and beyond.”