On this day in 1981, MTV debuted just after midnight, with the broadcast of “Video Killed the Radio Star” by the Buggles. Following the format of Top 40 radio, video disc jockeys (or “veejays”) introduced videos and bantered about music news between clips. MTV struggled a bit after its initial splash. But, by expanding its programming to include rhythm and blues artists, the network really took off. Music television not only showcased the strengths of the music video format but proved that exposure on MTV could propel artists to superstardom.

Ultimately, MTV revolutionized the music industry. The channel has changed drastically over the years, but today we reflect on how it began. For today’s 9:30 Coffee Break, what songs with music videos that aired in the early days of MTV do you want to hear?

“Ladies and gentlemen, rock and roll.”

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:
A-ha – Take on Me
Weird Al Yankovic – Eat It
Run DMC – Walk This Way
Robert Palmer – Simply Irresistible
Janet Jackson – Rhythm Nation
Dire Straits – Money for Nothing
Nirvana – Smells Like Teen Spirit