Alright Now

"Alright Now" was a short-lived rock music television series made by Tyne Tees Television for ITV in 1979-1980. Hosted by former Darts singer Den Hegarty, the series showcased both established and up-and-coming acts, with a focus on those from North East England; among them were Dire Straits and The Police, both enjoying their first chart successes. (In contrast, Lindisfarne were given an entire show to themselves.) The show was named for the song "All Right Now" by the band Free.

Hegarty was dismissed from the show for "outrageous" behaviour [http://www.tiswasonline.com/history.php?article_ref=series8] and later became the host of the children's show Tiswas, which also aired on Tyne Tees. However, the show was not renewed for a second season. In 1982, Tyne Tees produced the similar music show "The Tube" for the then-new Channel 4.

The show was notorious for an interview by guest host Billy Connolly of Led Zeppelin drummer John Bonham, in which Bonham responded to all Connolly's questions in monosyllables. [http://www.journallive.co.uk/north-east-news/todays-news/tm_objectid=17551622&method=full&siteid=50081&headline=top-of-the-shocks-name_page.html]

ee also

*"Revolver" (TV series)
*"Top of the Pops"
*"Old Grey Whistle Test"
*"Check it Out" (UK TV series)

External links

* [http://ftvdb.bfi.org.uk/sift/series/20481 BFI profile of Alright Now]
* [http://homepage.mac.com/blackmarketclash/Bands/Clash/recordings/1979/79-04-16_Allright%20Now%20TV/79-04-16_Allright%20Now.html Account of performance on the show by The Clash]