MTV launched

The ‘M’ Stands for ‘Music’ (But Not So Much Anymore)The whole entire world of everything (music related) was transformed beyond all recognition on this day in 1981 when, at exactly 12.01 am, the words "Ladies and gentlemen, rock and roll” were heard and MTV was launched. Though it became a global game-changer, these early days (and years) were fairly humble. The channel could only be seen in certain parts of New Jersey and there was often a blank screen while MTV employees swapped over the VHS videos that were about to be broadcast.

But it soon caught the imagination and grew into the television staple we know and love today.Famously, it was The Buggles ‘Video Killed the Radio Star’ that kicked off proceedings, quickly followed by Pat Benatar. In fact, there were quite a few downright bizarre and obscure videos during the channel’s early days, as not all that many bands were making promotional films in the early 80s. So, on that first day, you could enjoy classics such as "I Wanna Be a Lifeguard” by Blotto, "Little Suzi's on the Up” by PH.D. and "Sign of the Gypsy Queen” by April Wine. What a line up! No wonder they’ve done so well.