Get Real

Brent Hansen, NZ-born MTV Europe chief executive, criticises the current obsession with ready-made pop stars epitomised by hit reality Television show, American/Australian Idol: “These programs make good TV but from a musical point of view, they do not have any value … I totally believe they have devalued us, taken us back to light entertainment and voyeurism.” Despite this Hansen remains an industry optimist: “I think it will come right as long as there is confidence from the labels right through from the indies to the majors in signing new talent … [It is vital that] people don’t lose their nerve and that the industry continues to be an art and not a science. It is not just about quick burns and quick returns.”