Club MTV

Club MTV was an iconic American television series broadcasted by MTV from 1985 to 1992. The dance music show was an integral part of MTV's unique programming during the 80s and early 90s and marked a significant shift in the station's music selection, blazing the trail for an entirely new era in dance music. The series was popular among dance music enthusiasts and generation X viewers, acting as MTV's platform for exposing dance music to the American public.

The show essentially acted as a television version of a nightclub experience, featuring live DJ mixes and dancers. It was hosted by Downtown Julie Brown, a British actress and television personality who became synonymous with the program. Her dynamic hosting was instrumental in popularizing the show, and she came to define the essence of Club MTV. Brown was known for her zany and colorful personality, coupled with her distinctive British accent and her trademark catchphrase, "Wubba Wubba Wubba," all elements that greatly enhanced the show's standing and iconic status.

Club MTV was aired from MTV's studio in New York City. In this setting, it boasted a glitzy, high-energy environment with a flashy set and numerous on-stage dancers that further contributed to its dance club aesthetic. The music would often be accompanied by visual effects such as lights and fog, meant to emulate the pulsating atmosphere of a vibrant nightclub.

Throughout its airing, Club MTV was distinguished for playing the latest high-energy dance tracks from various artists spanning several genres, including dance-pop, house, techno, and freestyle. It was not just about playing the songs. It was about exposing its vast audience to a broad range of music and artists. Many tunes played on Club MTV became popular hits thanks to the exposure, and several dance artists and dance genres skyrocketed in popularity due to their appearance and airplay on the show.

The program also popularized the culture of music video dance. It showcased elaborately choreographed dances to the tunes of the moment, performed by a select group of professional dancers. They played a crucial role in setting the tone of the series, providing the requisite energy and vibrancy that a dance show demanded. Dancing on Club MTV was not just about demonstrating technical prowess, but about showcasing individuality and style, often acting as trendsetters in fashion and dance.

Throughout its run, Club MTV also featured several guest appearances from top music artists of the era. This attracted a considerable viewership and made the series a hit among fans who loved seeing their favorite artists. This live performance aspect was unique and helped ensure the show's continued relevance and appeal, as it was in sync with MTV's core music-centric programming.

Club MTV also produced special episodes, including the yearly Spring Break edition, which became a signature event in MTV's programming. These special episodes offered extravagant entertainments shot on-location from various venues, often featuring long lineups of guest stars and musicians.

In 1989, MTV took the Club MTV concept on the road with the 'Club MTV Concert Tour.' Once again, some of the top names in pop music were showcased, simply emphasizing the clout and popularity of the Club MTV brand.

Overall, Club MTV was a trailblazer in its unique format of presenting dance music and club culture, making it accessible to millions who might never step foot inside a dance club. It opened the doorways to a genre of music and a sub-culture that was largely underground at the time and introduced it to the mainstream media. It helped to bridge the gap between the two worlds and significantly expanded the audience's taste in music and dance. The show has left an indelible mark on popular culture, making it a defining MTV classic. It was a staple of late 80s and early 90s television viewing, not just for its innovative concept but also for its vibrant atmosphere and the larger-than-life persona of Downtown Julie Brown. All these elements made Club MTV a part of cultural history and a cherished memory for music enthusiasts of the time.