Stop the Music (American game show)

Stop the Music was an American television game show that aired on ABC from 1949 to 1956. It was a pioneer in interactive television, allowing viewers to participate from home by calling in when they heard a designated song played on the show.

Format

The show revolved around viewers identifying a "mystery tune" being played. The host would interrupt the music at a random point, and viewers had a short window to call in and correctly name the song. If a caller successfully identified the song, they won a prize. The prizes ranged from small gifts to larger items such as furniture or even a car. The show also featured studio contestants who competed in similar musical challenges.

Host and Production

The show was hosted by Bert Parks. He became synonymous with the show's lively and engaging atmosphere. The show was produced by Louis G. Cowan Productions.

Significance

Stop the Music is significant for its early adoption of interactive television. It demonstrated the potential for engaging a home audience and incorporating them directly into the broadcast. This format, while rudimentary by modern standards, laid the groundwork for future interactive television programming and audience participation strategies. The show's popularity also highlighted the public's enthusiasm for musical game shows, paving the way for other successful programs in the genre.

Controversy

The show faced some controversy due to allegations of fixing contests. Competitors claimed that some winners were predetermined, damaging the show's reputation and contributing to its eventual cancellation.

Later Versions

A short-lived revival of Stop the Music appeared in syndication in 1989, hosted by Mark Thompson. It retained the basic format of the original but failed to capture the same level of popularity.