My Journey with MTV: From Enthusiast to Dissenter
When I was just 16 years old, my friends and I would gather at their homes to watch MTV. It was a time before cable was available everywhere, so we had to make do with what we had.
Initial Impressions
My first impression of MTV was overwhelmingly positive. I thought it was an incredible innovation, much like the ice cream on a stick that had just been invented. It was a groundbreaking concept that really captivated me. Back in the country, where I grew up, we had to wait until 1985 to get cable. Even then, our fraternity house became the epicenter of television watching, as I spent hours flipping through the channels, but MTV was always the main draw.
How MTV Impacted My Early TV Viewing Habits
The influx of music videos had a profound effect on my early television watching habits. I remember being mesmerized by the visual aspects of the videos. Although I initially thought that music videos might distract from the pure essence of the music, I eventually came to appreciate them for their creative and artistic value. I didn't see them as a mere imposition, but rather as a part of the music itself. This mindset is reflected in my attitude towards YouTube today. Although I can still find just about any piece of music I want, I can choose to ignore the videos if I prefer. It's a personal choice that has stood the test of time.
Evolution of MTV
Over the years, MTV has certainly evolved. From its heyday as a music video channel, it has transformed into a hub for reality television and contemporary music. The Headbangers Ball series, which I loved, has given way to reality shows and what I consider bland music videos. It's a stark contrast to the original concept of the channel, which was supposed to be focused on music.
Current Feelings Towards MTV
Talking about my feelings towards MTV in 2019, I can say with certainty that I detest the channel. I find it utterly disappointing, and the channel's evolution towards reality TV has made it an unsatisfactory view. The focus is no longer on the music; instead, it's a constant onslaught of generic music videos and reality shows. I find it incredibly boring and lacking in variety.
Reflections on the Channel
Reflecting on my experiences with MTV, I can say that I felt a strong sense of connection when I first started watching. There's a certain nostalgia associated with the channel, especially during the early 90s when I would spend hours watching the music videos. Headbangers Ball was a highlight, and I remember how it captivated me. However, as the channel has evolved, it has lost some of its appeal. The current lineup of shows and music video content is not reflective of the original vision that made MTV so exciting. I remain a fan of music videos, but I can no longer stomach the channel's current content.
These are my personal opinions, and everyone is free to form their own views. My affinity for music videos and disappointment with the current state of MTV may be extreme, but it's a reflection of my evolving opinion over the last few decades.
Conclusion
MTV started as a game-changer in the world of television, offering a new and exciting way to experience music. However, as the years have passed, it has shifted its focus in a way that I find disappointing. It's a sad commentary on how far we've come, but at least I have YouTube to satisfy my appetite for music videos. MTV, like many things, has its moments of brilliance, but it has certainly taken a turn for the worse in recent years.