I've been continuing my research and finding out that, importantly, no idea is new. Programmes are re-made and produced once a winning formula is found, ie. more recently, the 'reality talent show'. During the 80's, there were a few music shows, some similar to the type of show I was thinking of, targeting the same audiences. Some were very popular, until presenters left or the format changed or the scheduling was not great.
One of the music shows we are left with at the moment is Later with Jools Holland. Unlike most other music shows I've come across, it does have an intimate live audience and a more 'live' feel and a polished look, and has become increasingly popular around the world. The show features 4-5 bands with a couple of interviews and a 'jamming' session, showcasing an unusual layout.
Jools Holland also presented The Tube (Ch4 1982-1987), an innovative live pop music programme which showcased many emerging 80s bands, and provided them with a turning-point for their careers. Featured in the show were 3-4 live performances and a magazine section with interviews, fashion items and comedy appearances. The main presenters were supported by a number of co-presenters.
A youth-oriented show on ITV at the before The Tube was Check It Out (1979-1982). It presented a mix of rock music performances and segments based around dealing with social issues. Anything can happen...
Another show I researched was Popworld (Ch4 2001-2007) with the young Simon Amstell and Miquita Oliver. The show was aimed at a young audience with features including: pop news, trivia, gossip, interviews and music videos, as well as musical performances from the most recent top artists. It was also a platform for unsigned bands. The show gained popularity through a cult following, helped by Simon's sense of humour when interviewing bands.
I would choose to combine some of these elements to produce a show that is contemporary and fresh. To include the studio audience in an intimate setting, have an interesting studio layout with a stage and interview area, with a mix of a group of presenters, possibly including: singers, radio DJs, record producers, critic/music journalists, venue workers- sound dept. Presenters that have something interesting to say about music, for people passionate about the subject and to act as a boost for unsigned acts. Topgear is a car-show with a live studio audience, with presenters that know their subject and can make the format entertaining for any viewer, even if they're not a car fanatic. They frequently take the opportunity to involve the studio audience and the viewers at home; they ask the audience members to give their opinions. More importantly, it 'feels' live; anything can happen, and this gives the show it's much needed 'edge', it would be a very different show if that element wasn't there.
It's really important to look back at what has been done and to, as you suggest, take what's best and improve and update the rest! Some good ideas here - particularly the 'edge' you speak of - that feeling that anything might happen and that you're getting an exclusive or seeing the next big thing in music.
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