Music Video Killed the Radio Star: MTV Board of Directors

In the 1970s, music videos on television, in which video clips accompanied songs to increase publicity, were a rare and unappreciated art. Businessman Robert W. Pittman, however, discovered an overlooked and potentially profitable audience for a new music program that could utilize music videos: teenagers. Thus, on August 1, 1981, Music Television, or MTV, was born. MTV quickly grew, amassing more listeners as time passed. Furthermore, MTV popularized the idea of the music video and spread the music video to a mainstream audience. However, launching, managing, and directing a TV network, especially one as popular as MTV, takes work. There are many details of running a TV network that are unavoidable, from finding the right talent, including your target audience, diversifying featured artists, and learning to adapt to an ever-changing music scene. Delegates will operate as MTV board members, producers, directors, celebrities, and even viewers, to build MTV up and ensure its success. Additionally, delegates will need to learn how to tackle emerging issues and address controversies. Above all, delegates are expected to channel their inner rockstar and employ their musical and lyrical passions in to debate.