The Old Grey Whistle Test is an influential BBC2 television music show that ran from 1971 to 1987. It took over the BBC2 late night slot from "Disco Two", which had been running since January 1970, while continuing to feature non-chart music. It was devised by BBC producer Rowan Ayers. According to presenter Bob Harris, the programme derived its name from a Tin Pan Alley phrase from years before. When they got the first pressing of a record they would play it to people they called the old greys—doormen in grey suits. The songs they could remember and whistle, having heard it just once or twice, had passed the old grey whistle test.
The story of the British pop charts from their beginnings on the 50s through the heyday of the 70s and 80s to their re-emergence in a digital world.
A documentary exploring the career of the Bee Gees and their iconic songs. The film focuses on their chart-topping hits and the impact they had on the music industry. It delves into their journey as a musical trio, their distinct sound, and the challenges they faced as pop stars. The Nation's Favourite Bee Gees Song is a celebration of the Bee Gees' legacy and their contribution to pop music.
When Albums Ruled the World is a documentary that explores the pivotal role of albums in shaping music culture. It delves into the significance of album covers, the evolution of pop music and rock 'n' roll, and the cultural impact of vinyl records. With insightful narration and interviews, this film takes viewers on a journey through the history of albums and their lasting influence.
A countdown of the 20 greatest gigs of all-time as chosen by a panel of pundits, promoters and performers.
'Whispering' Bob Harris journeys to America's country music capital to reveal why Nashville became Music City USA. From the beginnings of the Grand Ole Opry on commercial radio, through the threatening onset of rock 'n' roll in the 1950s, right up to the modern mainstream hits of Music Row, this is the story of how music has shaped Nashville and why today it's a place of pilgrimage for musicians from all over the world.
In 1977, BBC music presenter Bob Harris was given exclusive and extensive access to the Queen. Conducting insightful interviews with all four band members as well as filming them at work in the studio as they were planning and rehearsing their forthcoming North American Tour, and then following them as they performed across the US, Bob captured a band attempting to replicate their huge domestic success on the global stage. To mark the 40th anniversary of the release of the News of the World album, the footage has now been carefully restored and revisited to compile this hour-long portrait of a group setting out to take the next step on their remarkable journey to becoming one of the biggest bands on the planet.
Hosted by Bob Harris, this live studio show features music, special guests and rare archive to mark 30 years since the legendary series was last broadcast. Featuring performances from Peter Frampton, Richard Thompson, and Albert Lee among others. Guests include Dave Stewart, Joan Armatrading, Ian Anderson, Chris Difford and Kiki Dee along with fans such as Danny Baker and Al Murray. A night of reminiscence, great music and fun.
Profile of singer-guitarist Glen Campbell, a story of success, disgrace and redemption.
Live performance specially recorded for Whistle Test from the Reggae Concert at the Edinburgh Festival in 1973, featuring The Cimarons, Winston Groovy, Dennis Alcapone, The Marvels, Nicky Thomas and The Pioneers.
The Nation's Favourite Queen Song is a documentary that explores the popularity and impact of Queen's music in the UK. It takes a closer look at the band's iconic songs, their rise to fame, and their lasting influence on British rock music.
Portrait of T.Rex frontman and pop icon Marc Bolan. The programme features interviews with many of his celebrity and non-celebrity friends and his long-time lover Gloria Jones, as well as rare private footage of stage performances of hits such as 'Ride a White Swan' and 'Get It On'.
Over its incredible 16-year run from 1971-1987 The Old Grey Whistle Test was THE destination in the U.K. to see cutting ed live performances by the hottest emerging acts in music. Until now! On Sept. 16 BBC Video is importing a DVD jam-packed with 28 vintage live performances from The Old Grey Whistle Test. Most have NEVER BEEN SEEN IN THE U.S. The first in a series of three Old Grey Whistle Test DVD compilations to be exported to the U.S. The Old Grey Whistle Test features performances by such legends as John Lennon Elton John Bob Marley Lynyrd Skynyrd Rory Gallagher The Police REM and U2 often at the start of their legendary careers! PLUS historic interviews with Mick Jagger John Lennon Keith Richards Robert Plant Bruce Springsteen and Elton John.
Blondie in Concert is a 1979 concert film featuring the iconic band Blondie. It captures the band's electrifying performance and showcases their talent and energy on stage. The film includes live performances of their hit songs such as 'Heart of Glass,' 'Call Me,' and 'One Way or Another.' It is a must-watch for fans of Blondie and lovers of great live music.
The Old Grey Whistle Test presents Rod's Christmas Concert featuring The Rod Stewart Group performing on stage at The Olympia, London. With a new introduction to the 1976 programme by Bob Harris, the performances include Maggie May, Sailing, Tonight's the Night and I Don't Want to Talk About It.
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