Try 30 days of free premium.

The Story of 1991

As the 1990s start to get going, this is the year in which indie kids, ravers, alternative comedians and even a certain grunge band from Seattle hit the charts. Against the background of recession and a war in the Middle East, a new and sassy breed of artists debut on Top of the Pops. Seal goes solo, James and The Wonder Stuff cross over, and Vic Reeves becomes a sort of pop star.

As pop and the mainstream go younger, Britain's longest-running pop show finally succumbs to a makeover and moves from Television Centre to Elstree in an attempt to start over. Meanwhile, Bryan Adams remains at number one for 16 weeks – a bit too long for a chart show and for the competition! Then Nirvana come to Elstree, group of the year The KLF team up with country legend Tammy Wynette, and a sudden death determines the Christmas number one. It proves to be a fascinating year, not only in the TOTP studio but also in pop fashion and the state of the nation.

Contributors include Seal, Tim Booth from James, Oceanic, Mr C from The Shamen, Rozalla, Miles Hunt from The Wonder Stuff, Vic Reeves and broadcaster Andrew Collins.

Try 30 days of free premium.

Cast Appearances

View full appearance list »

Episode Discussion

No comments yet. Be the first!

Login to leave a comment on this episode.
Try 30 days of free premium.