MTV

"Definition of a Music Video: A filmed or videotaped rendition of a recorded song, often portraying musicians performing the song or including visual images interpreting the lyrics."

MTV

Although the origins of music videos date back much further, they came into prominence in the 1980s when MTV based their format around the medium. The original purpose of MTV was to be "Music Television." The channel would play music videos 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, guided by on-air personalities known as VJs, or video jockeys. Over the years, MTV has enabled the public to view all types musical artists as well as their music videos. 

Expansion and Development

Throughout the 1980s, MTV expanded and introduced a range of new shows which effectively broadened the audience watching the channel. Some of these shows included; 

• "120 Minutes" - 1986, a show featuring alternative rock and other "underground" videos.
• "Headbangers Ball" - 1987, a popular after hours show featuring heavy metal music videos and news.
• "Yo! MTV Raps" - 1988, a hip-hop/rap orientated programme.
• "Dial MTV" - 1990, a daily top ten music video countdown show for which viewers could call the toll-free telephone number 1-800-DIAL-MTV to request a music video.

Throughout its history, MTV has also covered many global benefit concerts. For most of July 13 1985, MTV showed the Live Aid concert. Along with VH1, MTV broadcast the Live 8 concerts, a series of concerts set in the G8 states and South Africa. Nowadays, MTV and many other music stations feature (live) footage from music Festivals all over the country, some including; V Festival, Glastonbury, Leeds and more. 

                                                         

Online

MTV's website has been developed and updated allowing anybody to access information regarding latest music, videos, films and film events (award ceremonies), celebrity news and snap shots of today's most famous and idolised artists. The website even supplies games, downloads and competitions where a winner can receive free shopping trips, gadgets and tickets to concerts.

http://www.mtv.co.uk/