The iconic MTV network is shutting down several channels in the U.K., prompting many to lament the demise of the last of its music-only channels after 44 years.

MTV was launched in 1981 and revolutionized the music industry by airing music videos 24 hours a day and later developing the MTV Video Music Awards. It has since lost viewership and relevance, and the U.S. all-music channels closed in 2011.

'Music videos were being commoditized, and they went for the logical choice: maximum money with a global brand.'

On Friday MTV said it was shutting down five channels: MTV Music, MTV 80s, MTV 90s, Club MTV, and MTV Live.

MTV in the U.S. had phased out music videos over many years after the rise in popularity of reality television shows. MTV HD will continue broadcasting some reality TV

See Full Page