TOTP RIP

Today sees the last ever edition of the long running Top Of The Pops. I can't remember the last time I watched it. During the 70s and 80s it was really the only way of seeing UK chart music on TV. The arrival of MTV and VH1, and more recently CD-UK and umpteen satellite music stations, has caused a drastic reduction in viewing figures. The BBC have finally decided to pull the plug. Probably quite rightly. In the old days, the DJ presenters were big stars and despite the mostly awful miming there were some great acts and performances.

The weekly showing of TOTP used to be an event. Kids got together at school the next day and talked about it before heading off to Woolies to pick up a cheap 7" single.

I say that there were great acts and performances, in reality though TOTP was 90% naff! For every appearance by The Stones, Bolan, Madness, U2 or Blur there were 10 times as many Goombay Dance Bands, Doolies or Boney M's. Truly awful stuff like Agadoo and Jive Bunny seemed to be on week after week. Good grief. Time though can thankfully heal some wounds.

Rick Dees - Disco Duck (1975)

Looking back now a wave of nostalgia hits. Even some of the old crap that was on brings back fond memories of youth. The Osmonds, Bay City Rollers, Alvin Stardust, Pans People, David Essex, Slade, The Wombles, Mud, Showaddywaddy and Racey! Those were the days!

Hopefully the BBC will maintain its TOTP archive and will continue to broadcast retrospectives like TOTP 2. It would be a shame if we were to never see the likes of Ray Stevens or Jilted John again. In the meantime, youtube is the keeper of the flame.