Top Of The Pops (July 3, 1976) - Melody Maker

Melody Maker – July 3, 1976

TOP OF THE POPS feature One-page article covering the BBC Television Centre recording of Top of the Pops

Article Highlights

The article questions whether Top of the Pops has become “just a boring plug show?” It details the filming day at the BBC Television Centre in London on a Wednesday, featuring performances and appearances by David Bowie, Rod Stewart, and others.

The piece discusses the production of the show, including the set, atmosphere, and the experience of being in the audience or studio. It covers technical aspects like cameras, lighting, and how the show is put together for broadcast. The writer reflects on the balance between genuine performance and promotional appearances on the long-running music programme.

• Rod Stewart – prominently featured, with comments on his performance and presence.

• David Bowie – appears in the context of the episode (noted in connection with music for Flipper dancing and general TOTP coverage).

• Producer Brian Whitehouse and other production staff are mentioned.

• Audience reactions, miming vs live elements, and the overall TV music show format are discussed.

All magazine scans, photographs, and original text excerpts referenced in this entry remain the property of their respective copyright holders. This Chronicle entry is a transformative, non-commercial archival summary created for historical documentation and educational reference. No ownership of the original material is claimed or implied.