Music, Pop Culture Channel Set for U.K. Launch

LONDON: This September, Vintage TV will roll out on Sky and Freesat in the U.K., targeting viewers over 50 with programming about the music, culture, fashion and trends of the 1940s through the 1980s.

Vintage TV is set for a September 1 debut, reaching more than 10 million homes and a over-50 audience base of 21 million, according to the channel. About 40 percent of the schedule will be originals, including revivals of cult classics, a pub quiz, a variation on the theme of Antiques Roadshow and an entertainment series. The channel is also acquiring footage from the likes of ITN, BBC, Channel 4, Eagle Rock and DCD Rights. Music docs and chat shows will also be on the roster.

The channel was founded by David Pick, a former EMI exec. He serves as chief executive and is financing the channel together with a group of investors coordinated by Communications Equity Associates (CEA). The team also includes Paul Gambaccini as principal presenter, fronting some of Vintage TV’s commissions. Clare Bramley takes up the role of business development director, Phil Swern is program and music consultant and Teresa Watts is head of production and programming.

“Vintage TV is essentially a unique celebration of everything which has defined and shaped popular music since its genesis in the 1940s, as well as a reflection of how music is enjoyed today," said Pick. “In addition to its mix of original programming and classic concert footage, we have commissioned talented young directors to create videos for music which graced the charts prior to 1976, when music videos did not exist. We’ll be delivering a stream of vintage musical content which isn’t available elsewhere on TV. We will also draw on the wisdom and expertise of a wide range of experienced presenters and pundits to infuse yet more life into that music, allowing it to be appreciated by an even wider audience and thus treasured, as it should be, forever."