Quebec’s music video channel, MusiquePlus, was a cultural phenomenon in the late 20th century. A launchpad for countless artists and a vibrant hub for music, entertainment, and social discourse, the channel left an indelible mark on Canadian culture.
Warp Speed Back to the Eighties:
After signing off in 2019, MusiquePlus is making a surprise one-night-only return with “MusiquePlus en Rappel” (French for “In Recall”). Airing September 3rd at 8 PM ET on Crave, Noovo, and Noovoo.ca, the special promises a nostalgic trip down memory lane for fans and a chance for a new generation to experience the channel’s magic.
Live from Montreal
A Night of Music and Memories: The prime-time event will be filmed live in Montreal with a standing-room-only audience, recreating the electric atmosphere of the channel’s heyday. Quebec TV personality Chloée Deblois will guide viewers through the program, featuring guest appearances and throwbacks to iconic MusiquePlus segments like “Artists of the Month.” But the night won’t just be about revisiting the past. Live performances by contemporary artists like pop singer Soran, R&B musician Naomi, and hip-hop artist Aswell will bridge the gap between eras, proving that the spirit of MusiquePlus – a vibrant celebration of music and culture – continues to inspire.
More Than Just Music Videos: A Cultural Legacy
Launched in 1986 as French Canada’s answer to MTV, MusiquePlus quickly became more than just a channel for music videos. It served as a launchpad for countless new artists, from international stars like Céline Dion to local legends like Les Colocs. Beyond music, the channel fostered a unique space where entertainment, politics, and social issues intersected. Co-founded by Pierre Marchand and Canadian media giant Moses Znaimer (who also established MuchMusic for English Canada), MusiquePlus became a cultural touchstone, reflecting and shaping Quebec’s identity.
The one-night-only return of MusiquePlus comes amidst a growing nostalgia for Canada’s bygone music video channels. Last fall, the MuchMusic documentary “299 Queen Street West” toured the country, highlighting the cultural significance of these platforms. “MusiquePlus en Rappel” taps into this sentiment, offering a chance to celebrate a time when music videos were more than just glorified karaoke, and music channels were vibrant hubs of artistic expression.
A Celebration of the Enduring Power of Music
While undoubtedly a nostalgic treat for long-time fans, “MusiquePlus en Rappel” is about more than simply reliving the past. The special serves as a testament to the enduring power of music and the artistry of music videos. It reminds us of a time when music channels were more than just algorithm-driven playlists, but curated platforms for discovery and cultural exchange. So, dust off your neon windbreakers, crank up the air guitar, and get ready to rewrite history (or at least relive a glorious chapter) with MusiquePlus en Rappel. This one-night-only event promises to be a night of pure, unadulterated nostalgia with a fresh dose of musical energy.
