Rip It Up: The Story of Scottish Pop

This was the first major exhibition dedicated to Scottish pop music. It explored the musical culture of the nation over more than half a century, from influential indie pioneers to global superstars.

From the days of the dancehalls to the emergence of pop in an explosion of colour in the 60s, through the 70s and New Wave, Rip It Up featured global stars and independent local heroes from pop's early days right up to today’s outstanding newcomers.

Featured artists and bands included Lonnie Donegan, Gerry Rafferty, the Sensational Alex Harvey Band, Lulu, The Rezillos, Midge Ure, Simple Minds, The Skids, Big Country, Garbage, Franz Ferdinand, Young Fathers, and many more. The exhibition was brought to life through original stage outfits and instruments, many loaned by the artists themselves, plus memorabilia, props, film and, of course, music.

Throughout the exhibition, a programme of musical events allowed you to participate in and experience Scottish pop music first hand through live performances, talks and discussions hosted at the National Museum of Scotland, as well as other associated events taking place across Edinburgh.

A three-part BBC TV series along with digital and radio content brought another dimension to the story through the voices of those who made the music, those who witnessed it from behind the scenes, and the fans who lived for it.