On the “A” w/Souleo …
If you let the music lead, the television viewing audience will follow; without the need for sex tapes, physical fights or publicity stunts. At least that’s the hope of the executive team behind Revolt TV. The new music network launched in the fall of 2013 by Sean “Diddy” Combs and plans to avoid the reality TV craze that has all but consumed fellow music themed networks such as MTV and VH1. Their strategy is to emphasize programming that dissects the world of music with knowledgeable TV personalities, unlimited behind-the-beat access to rising and established recording artists and carefully curated music videos. The CEO tasked with overseeing the execution of this vision is Keith Clinkscales and he’s taking notes from the world of sports to win the game.
“Our job and mandate and passion is to serve people who are passionate about music,” said Clinkscales. “We don’t just present music. We get insight and analysis and access. You’ve gotta cover music with the same passion people cover sports.”
The newest additions to the Revolt team are the hosts of Clear Channel Power 105 hit morning show “The Breakfast Club” (DJ Envy, Angela Yee, and Charlamagne Tha God). Their provocative style of personal interviews with music stars represent the kind of programming that Clinkscales believes can go up against reality TV.
“We see music as enough of a content foundation where we don’t have to leave it. Once you do reality shows you have to stay on it ‘cause you’re driven by ratings and not music. But focusing on music, we can build ratings. We believe in music and are not leaving music.”
Creating a wider lane for black content creators in reality television
While Rochelle Brown and Sonia Armstead may not have their own network yet, they are two of television’s most accomplished producers. As the co-founders of Powerhouse Productions they provide lifestyle programming for networks including TV One, Food Network, Cooking Channel, BET and have collaborated with celebrities such as Patti LaBelle, Emeril Lagasse and G. Garvin. But it hasn’t been easy. One series, “Through the Fire with Chaka Khan” has failed to get picked up. The ladies continue to pitch it, but know that they are in a competitive market where sensationalized TV has a better chance of selling than a show starring a music icon having intimate and revealing talks with famous friends.
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