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The Old Grey Whistle Test

1971·Show
558Episodes in16Seasons
82
GreatGoodWatch score

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The Old Grey Whistle Test fingerprint

A , series: .

Good for friends night · party vibe · background watch

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Episodes

7.8
7.2
8.5
8.3
7.6
9.4
8.3
9.6

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.
Iconic Music ShowArchival PerformancesBritish Television HistoryNostalgic ViewingLive Music DiscoveryArtist ShowcasesRelaxed AtmosphereCultural Time CapsuleMusic Education

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No sequels or prequels available

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Questions about The Old Grey Whistle Test

Quick answers from GoodWatch data.

Is The Old Grey Whistle Test worth watching?

82
GreatGoodWatch score

Yes, it's widely acclaimed, with a GoodWatch score of 82 (IMDb 8.2). Season 6 is the weak spot, with an IMDb average of 7.2 against 9.6 for the best season.

Which season of The Old Grey Whistle Test is best?

Season 15, with an IMDb average of 9.6. Season 6 is the weakest at 7.2. The highest-rated episode is Episode #15.30 (season 15, episode 30) at 9.6, and the lowest is Jackson Browne (season 6, episode 11) at 5.8.

How long does it take to watch The Old Grey Whistle Test?

558 h

About 558 hours: 558 episodes in 16 seasons of about 60 minutes each, aired from 1971 to 1987.

Can I half-watch The Old Grey Whistle Test?

Easy watchDemanding

Yes: it's easy to follow, with complexity at only 2 of 10, and the viewing guide calls it good for background watching.

Will I feel good after watching The Old Grey Whistle Test?

BleakHopeful

Yes, it's an uplifting series: the title analysis rates it 6 of 10 for hopefulness and 6 for wholesome.