The programme consisted mainly of archive clips of news and current affairs, whose original soundtracks were crossfaded with music hits of the time.
For instance, the programme on 1960 featured the Sharpeville massacre, the Soviets shooting down two US spy planes, the advent of stiletto heels and the election of John F. Kennedy to the White House, set to music by Adam Faith, Duane Eddy and the Rebels, Cliff Richard and the Shadows, The Everly Brothers and Roy Orbison.
The theme tune to the early series was a medley of riffs from various popular songs, including for example "(I Can't Get No) Satisfaction" by The Rolling Stones and "Layla" by Derek and the Dominos.
Other programmes with similar formats are: As part of his 1987 Christmas Special, Lenny Henry performed a spoof version of the show.
He lampooned various artists including Mungo Jerry, Tina Turner and Michael Jackson.