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Stayin’ Alive

By the end of the 1970s, disco seemed untouchable. But it was about to face a violent backlash that almost destroyed it.

At the end of the 1970s, the founding principles of disco – queerness, diversity and feminism – were coming under increasing attack from a predominantly white, straight, rock-loving audience.

By the summer of 1978, disco appeared untouchable, but mass marketing and rampant commercialism were beginning to turn the tide. A glut of bad disco singles and the perceived elitism of clubs like Studio 54 fuelled a surge in anti-disco feeling. This is the story of how disco died - and where it went.

23 days left to watch

58 minutes

Last on

Fri 21 Jun 2024 23:35

Credits

Role Contributor
Director Shianne Brown
Series Producer Catherine Abbott
Executive Producer Alexander Leith

Broadcasts