“It’s Only Rock ‘n’ Roll” is a saying that goes a little deeper for this ’70s-inspired rock band. The book adaptation of Daisy Jones and The Six, written by Taylor Jenkins Reid, debuted on Amazon Prime Video on March 3rd, 2023. The series’ corresponding album was released simultaneously on music streaming services, CDs, and records. The original series was released in four installments with the final two episodes available on March 24th. 

The show follows a semi-successful band from Pittsburgh and a troubled yet talented girl from California as their love for music sends them down a path filled with romance, chaos, and rock ‘n’ roll. 

After an unexplained breakup at the height of the band’s music career, the band members and people close to them sit down 20 years later to disclose all the crazy and heartbreaking memories. The series is set up with both docu-style interviews in the 1990s to an undisclosed source—or so we are set to believe—and memories and stories from the band’s peak in the 1970s. Episodes one through three set up the lives of passionate singers Daisy Jones and Billy Dunne in the late 1960s.

Daisy Jones, played by Riley Keough, is a wealthy, neglected teen with a one-of-a-kind voice and undeniable songwriting skills, but she spends her days and nights partying and heading down a dark path. Billy Dunne, portrayed by Sam Claflin from Pittsburgh’s Hazelwood neighborhood, is a music enthusiast who wrangles his brother, Graham Dunne (Will Harrison), and friends, Warren Rhodes (Sebastian Chacon), Karen Sirko (Suki Waterhouse), and Eddie Roundtree (Josh Whitehouse), into starting a band. Camila Alvarez, played by Camila Morrone, Billy Dunne’s girlfriend, tags along with the band as they make their way to California—where it all begins and ends. 

After a cross-country trek to Los Angeles, the Pittsburgh band—currently known as the Dunne Brothers—attempt to jump-start their careers. Things don’t go as planned and the band is left playing in desolate nightclubs. After months of struggling, a chance encounter with record producer Teddy Price, who is played by Tom Wright, entirely changes the band’s outlook. The band renames themselves The Six and it feels as though every piece is falling into place, or so they think. Photographer Camila, who left her life in Pittsburgh, she discovers she is pregnant; subsequently, her fate is sealed. In a split-second decision, Billy and Camila decide to get married before The Six leaves on tour. Billy fills his time on tour with booze, drugs, and infidelity, yet Camila is left in California–alone. The tour gets canceled and the fate of the band is up in the air once Billy is checked into rehab.

At the same time, Daisy is coming into her own, finally fighting back against the men who took advantage of her and her music. She begins to write her own album with the help of Teddy Price but struggles to stay concentrated. 

Thanks to the meddling of Teddy, a now-sober Billy and an unhinged Daisy must work together if they ever hope to reach their full potential. 

From their first encounter, it is unsure where the relationship between Billy and Daisy will go, but due to the fantastically written flashbacks, it is fairly obvious.

The 70s scenes are the bulk of the series, but without the emotional sit-down 20 years into the future, the complicated and twisted story could not have been told properly. The first episode opens with the band’s first appearances—in a 90s documentary—since their abrupt breakup 20 years prior. All the actors and actresses remain the same, but their appearances are slightly altered. The biggest difference between the book and the series so far is the time jump, as it was 40 years in the book. 

One of the most notable parts of the series is the hair and makeup and how it is utilized on each character. 

In the 20-year time jump each character gets a “makeover.” Daisy Jones still has the same fiery red hair, but she appears more put together and her makeup is softer — it is clear the makeup department is channeling Daisy’s inner rock ‘n’ roll. Her appearance signifies her sobriety. Another aspect notable for Daisy’s character in the 70s’ is her downfall during the tour. Hair and makeup slowly integrate harsher, smudged makeup and frizzy hair to hint at Daisy’s spiraling addiction. 

Since the 70s scenes are all memories or events told by the bandmates in the 90s, the setup of the series is a crucial part of explaining the band’s story with as few gaps as possible. 

Back in the 70s, Billy and Daisy meet for the first time and it is less than loving, but viewers can feel the sparks in the air. Hardhead Billy is furious to discover Daisy made changes to his song Honeycomb. After hours of arguing, the two agree to sing both versions, something that never happened since Billy realized Daisy’s true talent and beauty. In the studio, the newly formed music group, Daisy Jones and the Six, records the hit “Look At Us Now (Honeycomb).”

While the series is notable for its acting and fashion, it should be remembered for its dedication to the music. The cast attended band camp for two years and learned to sing every song. The Aurora album was originally a work of fiction from Reid’s novel but comes to life in the hit series. So far the band has over 2.13 million Spotify listeners. Released on March 2, 2023, the album consists of 11 songs. The release of the recorded album sets the bar high for any future book-to-TV adaptations. 

A success in the real and fictional worlds, the series depicts the writing and recording of Daisy Jones and The Six’s hit album. From “Regret Me” to “Let Me Down Easy,” each song helps to unfold the story of the mesmerizing band.

The album is a beautiful ode to the 70s. The songs are just as powerful as the dialogue. Look At Us Now is especially moving and significant to the romance of Billy and Daisy. Plus, the song has a beautiful, real solo by Graham. 

In addition to releasing a sensational album, the music and band pay homage to some of the greatest 1970’s artists. 

Many fans, old and new, see a comparison between Daisy Jones and The Six and Fleetwood Mac, especially the passionate performance of “Silver Springs” between Stevie Nicks and Lindsey Buckingham in 1997. 

With a beautifully done album and wonderful hair and makeup, the series is topped off by an accurate and iconic wardrobe. Denise Wingate, head of costume design, ensured each outfit was simple yet meaningful. Each of the three women have a unique style that highlights their journey. Karen’s style sets herself apart from the typical free and angelic fashion of the 70s, yet she always has a bit of sparkle to ensure she doesn’t blend in with the stage. Camila’s wardrobe is crafted to show her evolution. She starts out wearing more conservative outfits, but once she and the band make the move to California, she begins taking on a West Coast style with maxi skirts and florals. In the final few episodes, with the love triangle between Daisy, Billy, and Camila reaching its tipping point, Camila’s fashion is key to understanding her emotions. She begins to dress more maturely and allurinlyg with larger sunglasses and sparkly, low-cut dresses. Daisy’s outfits are all about her free spirit. Her outfits are often simple and leave a lot to be questioned but are also necessary to unfold her complex personality. Through a vast and expensive wardrobe, the final touches and effects are curated for the hectic and emotional Daisy Jones and The Six series. 

This series is set not only to be a great success for Amazon Prime but also a revolution for younger generations. It is clear the series is already making an impact on how teens dress, with the series and clothing store Free People deputing a collab, modeled by Daisy Jones herself. The curated collection is filled with everything from cowboy boots and thick, metal jewelry to flowy, boho dresses and classic Levi’s. The series once again proves how the modern world idealizes the past, though it does call into question whether we forget the problems from bygone eras. From the Vietnam War to the Kent State massacre, the 70s weren’t all bell bottoms and rock ‘n’ roll. 

The series hits the nail on the head for fashion and makeup but leaves a lot to be desired in the way of historical accuracy, though it is still a needed breath of fresh air from the harshness of the modern world.