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The Old Grey Whistle Test

Contributed by TH UK on May 4th, 2024. Artwork published in
circa 1971
.
The Old Grey Whistle Test 1
Source: www.chalkiedavies.com License: All Rights Reserved.

Banner and titles for UK music television show The Old Grey Whistle Test which ran from 1971 to 1988 on the BBC. According to presenter Bob Harris, the programme derived its name from a Tin Pan Alley phrase from years before.

The banner evolved between 1971 and 1975, including white and yellow versions, and initially using Pipeline in mixed case, before settling on the familiar typeface, which would be used until mid-1982. This design, using ITC Busorama in uppercase, is arguably the most enduring and recognisable.

More reading on Pink for your actual Pterodactyl.

Banner from December 1974, in
Source: pinkforyouractualpterodactyl.com License: All Rights Reserved.

Banner from December 1974, in Pipeline

Two versions of the title. The one on the left already uses , but with its alternate unicase forms for E and R, as well as with rounded terminals – apparently to resemble Pipeline.
Source: www.chalkiedavies.com License: All Rights Reserved.

Two versions of the title. The one on the left already uses ITC Busorama, but with its alternate unicase forms for E and R, as well as with rounded terminals – apparently to resemble Pipeline.

Title card with production credits from 1975, ft. Busorama with two forms for A
Photo: TH UK. License: All Rights Reserved.

Title card with production credits from 1975, ft. Busorama with two forms for A

The Old Grey Whistle Test 5
Source: twentytwowords.com Watal Asanuma/Shinko Music/Getty Images. License: All Rights Reserved.
Cover for a compilation album released in 1975 on Super Beeb Records. Sleeve design by Andrew Prewett, Starkicker illustration by Roger Ferrin. [More info on Discogs]
Source: www.6868.me.uk License: All Rights Reserved.

Cover for a compilation album released in 1975 on Super Beeb Records. Sleeve design by Andrew Prewett, Starkicker illustration by Roger Ferrin. [More info on Discogs]

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  • Pipeline
  • ITC Busorama

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