The Midnight Special Legendary Performances 1979
The Midnight Special is an American late-night musical variety series that aired on NBC during the 1970s and early 1980s, created and produced by Burt Sugarman. It premiered as a special on August 19, 1972, then began its run as a regular series on February 2, 1973; its last episode was on May 1, 1981. The ninety-minute program followed the Friday night edition of The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson. The show typically featured guest hosts, except for a period from July 1975 through March 1976 when singer Helen Reddy served as the regular host. Wolfman Jack served as the announcer and frequent guest host. The program's theme song, a traditional folk song called "Midnight Special", was performed by Johnny Rivers.
Insights
Plot Summary
This compilation showcases some of the most iconic musical performances from the legendary NBC variety show 'The Midnight Special.' Featuring a diverse range of artists from the 1970s, it captures raw, energetic, and unforgettable live music moments. The special highlights the show's commitment to presenting a broad spectrum of genres and groundbreaking artists of its era.
Critical Reception
As a compilation from a beloved, long-running variety show, 'The Midnight Special Legendary Performances 1979' was generally well-received by fans and critics for its nostalgic value and the quality of the performances. It's often celebrated for preserving vital moments in music history.
What Reviewers Say
- A nostalgic trip back to one of television's premier music showcases.
- Features incredible live performances from iconic artists of the 70s.
- Captures the spirit and energy of a bygone era of television music programming.
Google audience: Information regarding specific Google user reviews for this particular compilation special is not readily available. However, general sentiment around 'The Midnight Special' as a program points to a strong appreciation for its diverse musical talent and unique format.
Awards & Accolades
None notable for this specific compilation; the original 'Midnight Special' series won multiple awards during its run, including Emmy nominations.
Fun Fact
The original 'Midnight Special' was groundbreaking for its time, often featuring artists performing live rather than lip-syncing, and providing a platform for a wide array of musical genres, from rock and soul to folk and disco.
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