New documentary set to tell the story of how XFM changed the game for indie music on radio

26 August 2022, 10:49 | Written by The Line of Best Fit

(News)

(Blur) (Oasis)

A new feature-length documentary will tell the story of the early 90s struggles and influence of pioneering radio station XFM - now Radio X - which gave rise to a new generation of DJs including the likes of Ricky Gervais & Stephen Merchant.

Titled after the first-ever song to play on their airwaves, Kick Out the Jams follows the development of XFM from its rebellious pirate radio roots in the early 90’s, through to its official FM radio launch in 1997 as a major platform for launching alternative talent into the mainstream.

The documentary, directed by Ray Burdis (The Wee Man) and produced by Brian Anderson (Britain’s Gangland) and Ian Jefferies (Faces of the Underworld). deep-dives into the struggles and influence of the station which gave rise to the likes of Ricky Gervais and Stephen Merchant, whose global hits The Office and The Ricky Gervais Show were originally developed while working at the radio station.

XFM also unlocks its musical vault, including rare footage and unseen photos of Oasis and Blur, allowing an intimate look into the station at the centre of the Britpop craze of the 90s. Watch the trailer below

The documentary hits digital platforms on 2 September with a special Q&A screening on 31 August at Picturehouse Central