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.
TV series
The Old Grey Whistle Test
8.3/ 10· 3197160 min16 seasons · 558 episodes
Seasons and episodes
16 seasons · 558 episodes
16
Starring
Frequently asked questions
- Where can I watch The Old Grey Whistle Test?
- The Old Grey Whistle Test is not currently listed on a streaming service in the US. Use the country picker on the page to check other markets.
- How many seasons of The Old Grey Whistle Test are there?
- The Old Grey Whistle Test has 16 seasons and 558 episodes. Status: Ended.
- Will there be a new season of The Old Grey Whistle Test?
- The Old Grey Whistle Test has ended; no new episodes are scheduled. The final episode aired on April 22, 1987.
- Who stars in The Old Grey Whistle Test?
- The Old Grey Whistle Test stars Bob Harris, Annie Nightingale, Richard Williams, Loudon Wainwright III, Cat Stevens.
