May/June 2005 Premieres Include
METAL ASYLUM and HIP HOP CONFIDENTIAL
Q4 2005/2006 Development Slate Includes FUSE VIDEO REMIX, LOVE SHUFFLE, MAD DASH TO THE MUSIC STASH and LOOSE LIPS
(New York, NY, April 25, 2005) – Fuse, the nation's only viewer-driven, all-music network, will continue the expansion and diversification of its interactive music programming with the premiere of two new series and the "green lighting" of four new shows for fast-track development. Maintaining its leadership position as the #1 network in P12-34 concentration for the third consecutive year so far in 2005, Fuse will premiere METAL ASYLUM in May 2005, HIP HOP CONFIDENTIAL in June 2005, followed by the anticipated Q4 2005 – 2006 premieres of FUSE VIDEO REMIX, LOVE SHUFFLE, MAD DASH TO THE MUSIC STASH and LOOSE LIPS.
The announcement comes on the heels of Fuse's recent doubling of original programming, which included the debuts of nine new series and the renewal of nine proven viewer-favorites. Since the January 2005 launch of Fuse's originals slate, the network has experienced 20%-50% ratings growth in all of its primary demographics, plus households. (Nielsen Media Research 12/27/04-3/27/05 vs. 9/27/04-12/26/04).
"Fuse has proven that its viewer-influenced, all-music programming formula is continuing to be embraced by both viewers and the advertising community, as seen by the quality of the audience it attracts and the advertisers who are using Fuse as a vital marketing tool to reach the P12-34 audience," comments Robert Weiss, Head of Entertainment for Fuse. "We share our viewers' two great passions – music and interactivity. With series like METAL ASYLUM and HIP HOP CONFIDENTIAL, we're staying true to our core music lovers and using technology to deepen the experience of music for a generation of tech-savvy young people."
New Shows Premiering in May and June 2005
METAL ASYLUM
VJ Juliya offers up videos for those who think classic headbangers like Judas Priest and Black Sabbath tell the whole metal story. It's a lesson even Iron Maiden would appreciate as seminal classics and Juliya-approved newcomers get equal time. Fans can send in their requests online and through text messaging, or hit www.fuse.tv for artist bios and discographies. PREMIERING MAY 9.
HIP HOP CONFIDENTIAL
VJ Marianela introduces both emerging hip-hop artists and multi-platinum favorites in this video flow show that dishes the dirt on today's hottest acts. From tour announcements and the celebrity clothing lines to couples on the skids and emerging industry feuds, Marianela tells all in between the hottest videos. Weekly newsletters will be e-mailed and texted to fans who can also vote for the people and topics they most want to hear about. PREMIERING JUNE 1
In Development for Q4 2005 – 2006
FUSE VIDEO REMIX
Fuse provides video footage and software online with which viewers can edit their own video remixes of today's biggest songs. The best remixes make it into the show, and viewers get to vote for the A-list directors of tomorrow. Interactive components include filmmaking tips provided by top-notch video directors, a mini how-to guide for aspiring auteurs and artist bites on the remixes of their videos.
LOOSE LIPS
Show off everything you know all about your favorite artists, especially their song lyrics, and walk away a winner on this addictive game show. From the story behind Hoobastank's name to the actual lyrics of "Bootylicious," every music fan will gain a little expertise, even the music fanatics who think they know everything. Viewers can go online to see full lyrics of hit songs, get daily trivia e-mailed or sent to their wireless phones, or play along with the web version.
LOVE SHUFFLE
Is your mp3 playlist a crystal ball of love? The compatibility of two single people may be determined by how much their mp3 playlists have in common. Contestants learn about each other's personalities by asking music-based questions in an effort to find the perfect date. Online, viewers can enter their playlists and link up with like-minded listeners, since their playlists serve as a user profile in our social networking community.
MAD DASH TO THE MUSIC STASH
Watching music videos pay off big for hardcore fans. Guided by clues embedded in the videos launch throngs of scavengering fans through the streets of New York City in search of rock memorabilia. Only the most dedicated of music lovers will be able to decipher the video and song lyric clues sent to their wireless devices and email in order to cash in on the rock stash.
Since re-branding in May 2003, Fuse has built an audience with the highest concentration of viewers age 12-34 in all day parts on cable. In the past year alone, the network has significantly increased household delivery in key day parts, with more than 40 new major advertisers on board in 2004.
About Fuse
Fuse, a network of Cablevision Systems Corporation, is the nation's only all-music, viewer-influenced television network, featuring music videos, exclusive artist interviews, live concerts and specials — all rooted in the music experience. Fuse reflects the rapidly changing interests and attitudes of its 12-34 year-old audience by uniting the media platforms that are at the center of their communication and entertainment – TV, online, and interactive games – and by incorporating their opinions and suggestions into its on-air and online programming. More information about Fuse is available at www.fuse.tv.
About Cablevision Systems Corporation
Cablevision Systems Corporation is one of the nation's leading entertainment, media and telecommunications companies. In addition to its broadband, cable, Internet, telephone and satellite television offerings, the company owns and operates Rainbow Media Holdings LLC and its networks; Madison Square Garden and its teams; and, Clearview Cinemas. In addition, Cablevision operates New York's famed Radio City Music Hall. Additional information about Cablevision Systems Corporation is available on the Web at www.cablevision.com.
Artwork is available for download at http://fuse.tv/press/press.html