New Wave: Dare to Be Different

New Wave: Dare to Be Different is an engaging 2017 documentary film that dives into the heart of the 1980s music scene, exploring the groundbreaking impact of a unique radio station, WLIR 92.7. Directed by Ellen Goldfarb, the film stars Nancy Abramson, M. King Adkins, Ron Alexenburg among others, primarily as themselves, revealing firsthand accounts of how this radio station influenced an entire new wave of music and culture.

The central premise of the documentary follows the journey of a small independent radio station on Long Island, New York - WLIR 92.7. The station dared to defy contemporary American radio norms by introducing a significant portion of America to New Wave and Punk bands, thereby playing an instrumental role in fostering and popularizing these genres in the United States. This unique feat is documented through never-before-seen footage, access to private moments, along with intriguing interviews with key contributors and influencers of this era.

Entering the scene in the late '70s and early '80s, WLIR struggled in a market dominated by mainstream pop and rock stations only churning out widely recognized hits. But thanks to a daring and rebellious team led by Program Director Denis McNamara, the station soon became a beacon of new and eclectic music.

Nancy Abramson, M. King Adkins, and Ron Alexenburg resurface the '80s music scene through their firsthand accounts and immense contributions to the programming during this era. They share intriguing stories of their encounters with both recognized and obscure bands of that time, not just adding nuance to their personas and performances, but also to the overall music culture during that era.

New Wave: Dare to Be Different offers viewers a treasure trove of music legends discussing their entries into the industry and breaks they got through WLIR's support. Audiences will find exclusive testimonies and comments from famous figures like Debbie Harry of Blondie, Billy Idol, Joan Jett, and Nick Rhodes from Duran Duran; along with record executives Seymour Stein and Martin Mills, DJs such as Larry the Duck and Meg Griffin, and numerous fans to paint the captivating picture of the station's extraordinary influence on the music scene.

Despite the station's journey being filled with the challenges dominating that era, including FCC challenges and threats from corporate behemoths, the team managed to navigate their unique path with conviction and passion. The station, though forcibly shut down, notably left an indelible mark on the music industry, shaping the landscape of modern rock and pop by introducing U.S listeners to bands like The Cure, The Smiths, U2, The Police, Depeche Mode, and Talking Heads.

Music enthusiasts will appreciate Goldfarb's vivid storytelling that uncovers the explosive impact of one small radio station on a revolutionary music movement. Beyond music, the film also encapsulates the sense of rebellion and change that marked the 80s, extending its appeal to individuals interested in cultural and social history as well. The cinematic techniques employed, including interspersed archival footage and personal interviews backed by an unbeatable soundtrack of New Wave tracks, make for an engaging viewing experience, allowing audiences to dive headfirst into the formative years of their favorite bands.

In summary, New Wave: Dare to Be Different is a compelling journey into an overlooked chapter of music history – a testament to the pioneering spirit of WLIR 92.7 and the incredibly innovative and bold personalities who dared to be different and changed the course of music forever.