The Return of an Iconic Musical Era
Could Australia’s legendary music show Countdown make a comeback on the ABC? The thought stirs nostalgia among fans and industry veterans alike. Known as the “Bible” of Australian music television in the ’70s and ’80s, Countdown was more than a show—it was a cultural phenomenon that shaped the country’s music scene and brought global acts into the living rooms of millions.
A Trip Down Memory Lane
Daryl Braithwaite, former frontman of Sherbet, reminisces about the show’s transformative power. “You’d perform on Countdown on a Sunday, and by the time you toured regional Australia, everyone was talking about it,” he said. Sherbet, a band that performed on the show more than any other act, owes much of its success to its Countdown appearances.
Katy Steele of Little Birdy, who wasn’t old enough to experience the original era, will join other artists in celebrating the show’s 50th anniversary special. Reflecting on its impact, she said, “Countdown brought global artists to Australian eyeballs for the first time.” For Steele, it’s a connection to an era when music and TV intertwined to create unforgettable moments.
The Unparalleled Impact of Countdown
From Kate Bush’s ethereal Wuthering Heights performance to AC/DC’s explosive Jailbreak, Countdown offered a stage for artists to mesmerize the nation. The show’s reach and influence were immense, peaking at 3 million viewers in a country of just 15 million people. Its absence leaves a void in the Australian music scene.
Cathie Scott, ABC’s executive producer, highlights the enduring relevance of Countdown. “The 50 Years special will spotlight what made the show a cultural phenomenon,” she said. Despite some episodes being lost, efforts to recover them continue. The archive remains a treasure trove of Australian music history.
The Challenge of Revival in the Digital Age
Talk of reviving Countdown sparks both excitement and skepticism. Today’s fragmented media landscape differs vastly from the unified audience of Countdown’s heyday. “Television doesn’t have the same appeal to younger demographics,” Braithwaite admits. Yet, others see potential. Steele points to the UK’s Later… with Jools Holland as proof that music television can still thrive.
“Why doesn’t Australia have a platform like that?” Steele asks. “We’re missing that format. It should be a priority.” For Michael Ross of Electric Fields, Countdown’s progressive legacy is crucial. The show wasn’t just about music; it was a medium for social education, showcasing themes of inclusivity and activism.
Celebrating 50 Years of Countdown
The 50th-anniversary special, hosted by Myf Warhurst and Tony Armstrong, promises a blend of nostalgia and surprises. Artists like Katy Steele and Michael Ross will perform iconic songs, honoring the show’s rich history. While Ian “Molly” Meldrum, the show’s iconic host, has retired from TV appearances, his influence remains a cornerstone of the celebration.
A Timeless Legacy
Whether Countdown will return remains uncertain, but its impact endures. As Braithwaite puts it, “Countdown was more than a show—it was a guide, a connection, and a celebration of music.” In an era of infinite streaming options, the unity and excitement it brought to Australian households are unmatched. Perhaps, with the right vision, it could inspire a new generation.
Countdown 50 Years On airs November 16 at 7.30 PM on ABC TV and ABC iview.
