by Jill Riley and Rachel Frances
June 09, 2022

Many Americans will be turning on their televisions tonight to find a nearly blanket coverage of the beginning of the Congressional public hearing, held in primetime and with primetime production values. The US House select committee, formed nearly a year ago to investigate the Jan. 6, 2021 Capitol riot, will reveal some of its findings. The committee has been investigating the circumstances behind the riot and those who influenced the more than 800 people criminally charged in an attempt to stop Congress from certifying President Joe Biden's win. The major broadcast networks ABC, NBC and CBS and cable news channels CNN and MSNB will be carrying the hearing. Tonight’s hearing will be the first of eight planned for June.
Television has offered an entirely new avenue to the information we consume. The impact it has had on our culture since its creation is undeniable. As media integrated over the years, the crossover of music and television became extremely prevalent. Many artists have outlined the power of television in their music. Some have even expressed harsh criticism.
Before we all prepare to turn on our screens tonight, let’s take a moment to explore the music that has defined the era of television. For today’s 9:30 Coffee Break, what songs do you want to hear that mention television in the lyrics?
Respond with your song ideas in the comments below.
Have an idea for a Coffee Break topic? Submit your idea for a future theme and browse past Coffee Breaks in our archive.
Songs Played:
The Disposable Heroes of Hiphoprisy – Television, the Drug of the Nation
Gil-Scott-Heron – The Revolution Will Not Be Televised
The Cramps – TV Set
David Bowie – TVC 15
The B-52s – Channel Z
Black Flag – TV Party
Wire – Ex Lion Tamer (Bonus Track!)
