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MTV's official launch on August 1, 1981, was accompanied by a sensational space-themed kickoff, showcasing a rocket launch that mirrored the network’s ambitions. The very first music video aired was "Video Killed the Radio Star," a moment that echoed the ethos of a cultural and musical revolution that was about to take place.
Although situated in a landscape dominated by traditional radio and with cable barely a staple in homes, MTV’s unique focus on music ignited a generation. Through innovative programming, it transformed the way rock stars interacted with their fans while influencing trends in fashion, style, and culture.