AOR and The Tube

The Old Grey Whistle Test (BBC 1971-85) provided a showcase for progressive rock acts, heavy metal bands and stadium rockers more interested in albums than singles (hence AOR - Album Oriented Rock). The show had various hosts (most notably "whispering" Bob Harris) but all sported in-depth music knowledge and mostly treated the subject with due seriousness. C4's The Tube (1982-87) on the other hand, was a flippant and irreverent live jamboree that featured an eclectic mix of artists and youthful, hip hosts. Made by Tyne Tees TV, its Friday night slot and live performances recalled the earlier Ready, Steady, Go!