Geoffrey Downes
Video Killed the Radio Star
Works Info
Composer:Geoffrey DownesGenre:VocalCompose Date:1977Average_duration:4:39"Video Killed the Radio Star" is a song composed by Geoffrey Downes, Trevor Horn, and Bruce Woolley. It was first released on September 7, 1979, by the British new wave band The Buggles. The song was later covered by several artists, including Erasure, The Presidents of the United States of America, and Robbie Williams. The song's premiere was on the British television program "The Old Grey Whistle Test" in 1979. The music video for the song was also one of the first music videos ever made, and it premiered on MTV on August 1, 1981. The video features the band performing the song in a futuristic studio, with various images and graphics appearing on screens behind them. "Video Killed the Radio Star" has a distinctive sound that combines elements of new wave, synth-pop, and rock. The song is characterized by its catchy melody, upbeat tempo, and electronic instrumentation, including synthesizers and drum machines. The lyrics of the song are about the impact of television and music videos on the music industry, and how they have replaced traditional radio as the primary means of promoting and distributing music. The song is divided into three movements, each with its own distinct melody and lyrics. The first movement is the introduction, which features a simple synth melody and the iconic opening line, "I heard you on the wireless back in '52." The second movement is the verse, which features a more complex melody and lyrics that describe the rise of television and the decline of radio. The third movement is the chorus, which features the memorable hook, "Video killed the radio star," and a more upbeat tempo. Overall, "Video Killed the Radio Star" is a classic example of the new wave genre, and it remains a popular and influential song to this day. Its catchy melody, electronic instrumentation, and thought-provoking lyrics have made it a favorite of music fans and critics alike, and it continues to be a staple of radio and television playlists around the world.More....
