The Old Grey Whistle Test (1971)
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The Old Grey Whistle Test is an influential BBC2 television music show that ran from 1971 to 1987. It took over the BBC2 late night slot from "Disco Two", which had been running since January 1970, while continuing to feature non-chart music. It was devised by BBC producer Rowan Ayers. According to presenter Bob Harris, the programme derived its name from a Tin Pan Alley phrase from years before. When they got the first pressing of a record they would play it to people they called the old greys—doormen in grey suits. The songs they could remember and whistle, having heard it just once or twice, had passed the old grey whistle test.
Read the The Old Grey Whistle Test feature →Top billed cast
Full cast & crew →
Bob Harris
Annie NightingaleRichard Williams
Loudon Wainwright III
Cat Stevens
Jean-Michel Jarre
Elton JohnSelfRalph McTell
StingSelf
Andy SummersSelf
Stewart CopelandSelf
Bonnie RaittselfMovie DNA
Frequently asked questions about The Old Grey Whistle Test
What is The Old Grey Whistle Test about?
The Old Grey Whistle Test is an influential BBC2 television music show that ran from 1971 to 1987. It took over the BBC2 late night slot from "Disco Two", which had been running since January 1970, while continuing to feature non-chart music. It was devised by BBC producer Rowan Ayers. According to presenter Bob Harris, the programme derived its name from a Tin Pan Alley phrase from years before. When they got the first pressing of a record they would play it to people they called the old greys—doormen in grey suits. The songs they could remember and whistle, having heard it just once or twice, had passed the old grey whistle test.
How long is The Old Grey Whistle Test?
The Old Grey Whistle Test has a runtime of 60 minutes.