Fred Armisen to Host CNN Exploration of Universal Music’s Archives

CNN and Universal Music Group (UMG) have tapped actor, writer and musician Fred Armisen to lead a documentary series exploring UMG’s vaults and its music archives.

The details:

• The CNN Original Series will premiere later this year.

• It will explore “pivotal moments in pop culture,” and the stories of “iconic artists and songwriters.”

• As per the media release, the series will dive deep into UMG’s archives, including those located within a secure vault 220 feet underground in Boyers, Pennsylvania.

• It will unearth original recordings, master tapes, rare photos and performances, alternative album art and music videos.

What they said:

• Will Tanous, EVP and Chief Administrative Officer at Universal Music Group, and Executive Producer: “This series was born from a desire to show fans what it’s like to mine the greatest underground musical archive in the world – giving them a sense of the hunt, the challenge, the thrill of this work – as well as direct access to the dedicated experts who preserve and champion these incredible musical legacies. Fred’s singular blend of humor, fandom, and musical talent make him the ideal storyteller to reveal the intimate era-defining moments and unheard gems that form the foundation of popular culture.”