The Old Grey Whistle Test

8.3TMDB3 votes1971 – Ended16 Seasons61 Episodes

8.3TMDB3 votes

The Old Grey Whistle Test is an influential BBC2 television music show that aired 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 created by BBC producer Rowan Ayers. According to presenter Bob Harris, the program derived its name from a Tin Pan Alley phrase from years prior. When they received the first pressing of a record, they would play it for people they called the old greys—doormen in grey suits. The songs they could remember and whistle after hearing them just once or twice had passed the old grey whistle test.