With the success of the Bat Out of Hell album, Meat Loaf earned the kind of international status that few artists achieve. His larger-than-life persona and performances have been fueled by a passion for theatre and storytelling. And it’s showcased in Meat Loaf: In and Out of Hell which premieres this Sunday, May 23 at 9 p.m. ET/PT on REELZ. Best Classic Bands are pleased to share two exclusive clips from the program.
The candid profile reveals his music through his own testimony and from the accounts of those closest to him. Meat Loaf’s life story is one of epic proportions – he survived a childhood of domestic violence only to face years of record company rejection before eventually finding global fame. Along the way he experienced bankruptcy, health scares, bust-ups and one of the greatest comebacks of all time. It’s all explored in the film, which features behind-the-scenes footage of his Las Vegas residency, plus plans for a new album featuring songs by Jim Steinman.
The first clip features singer Ellen Foley, who famously sang the female parts on Bat Out of Hell, and Karla DeVito, who subbed for her on the tour. It also includes Bob Kulick, the tour’s guitarist.
The film also revisits Meat Loaf’s early years and includes insights from his high school friends, who reveal how the performer really got his famous moniker.
In Los Angeles, Meat Loaf sang in itinerant rock bands, but a recording contract still eluded him. His big break came when he was offered a part in a production of the musical, Hair. That was the beginning of an enduring love affair with theater that was reflected in his music persona.
The now legendary Bat Out of Hell album, a masterwork of storytelling that Meat Loaf and composer Jim Steinman worked on for years, was initially rejected by every record company it was submitted to, yet went on to spend a staggering 485 weeks on the charts.
Watch Meat Loaf talk about the constant rejection he received and the insult from legendary label executive Clive Davis
When Bat Out of Hell II was finally released 16 years later, it defied industry expectations, with “I’d Do Anything for Love“ reaching number one in 28 countries. It is considered one of the greatest comebacks in music history.
Watch REELZ on Directv 238, Dish Network 299, Verizon FiOS 692, AT&T U-verse 1799 and in HD on cable systems and streaming services nationwide. Find REELZ on your local cable or satellite provider at reelz.com.
Related: Steinman died in 2021
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