Black Sabbath, Queen, The Stone Roses, Oasis, Coldplay, Simple Minds, and Robert Plant are just a few of the iconic bands and musicians that have defined rock music over the years. But what binds these legendary artists together? This fascinating documentary unveils the remarkable journey of two Welsh brothers who transformed their humble dairy farm into one of the most renowned recording studios in history, captivating listeners with decades of unforgettable rock music. It's within these walls that Queen recorded the timeless classic "Bohemian Rhapsody," which achieved renewed fame as a part of the Hollywood blockbuster of the same name. Yet, the compelling story of Rockfield has remained largely untold until now.
Fifty years ago, nestled in the scenic Welsh countryside, brothers Kingsley Ward and Charles Ward began their lives in the family dairy farming business. Despite their agricultural roots, they harbored a passionate dream to create music. Thus, they constructed a modest studio in the attic of their farmhouse, sparking a new venture while continuing to manage their dairy operations. Notably, Kingsley's new wife Ann left her position at a local bank to handle the studio's finances, and the brothers soon began inviting various musicians into their home. With equipment taking precedence over livestock and artists settling into the warm confines of Nan's spare room, they inadvertently founded the world's first independent residential recording studio.
The word about Rockfield's unique atmosphere spread rapidly, resulting in an impressive list of artists gracing its legendary studios. From the heavy riffs of Black Sabbath and the experimental sounds of Hawkwind to the pop anthems of Simple Minds and the eclectic tunes from Iggy Pop and Robert Plant, the studio has welcomed a diverse array of musical talents. The wave of creativity continued with the likes of Oasis, The Stone Roses, The Charlatans, the Manic Street Preachers, and Coldplay—all contributing to the chaotic yet exhilarating experience that is Rockfield.
In this documentary, audiences are treated to extraordinary tales from these famed musicians, who share their remarkable experiences at Rockfield—filled with triumphs, challenges, and the magical moments that birthed some of the greatest songs of our time, from “Wonderwall” to “Yellow.” The narrative is innovatively presented through a combination of archival footage, animation, and intimate interviews, creating a compelling tapestry of rock and roll history intertwined with the struggle of a family-run business striving to adapt to the ever-evolving landscape of music.
Incredibly, Kingsley Ward and Ann Ward, now in their 80s, continue to oversee the iconic studio alongside their daughter Lisa Ward, affirming their commitment to maintaining Rockfield's legacy. Directed by Hannah Berryman and produced by Catryn Ramasut of the acclaimed Welsh production company ie ie Productions, "Rockfield: The Studio on the Farm" is a remarkable documentary that captures the essence of a family's dream and resilience against all odds in the pursuit of music.
