When MTV launched on August 1, 1981, it didn’t just revolutionize music television—it introduced the world to a new kind of celebrity: the Video Jockey, or VJ. Five charismatic personalities became the faces of the channel, guiding viewers through music videos, interviews, and pop culture moments that defined a generation. Here’s a look at the original five and where life has taken them since their MTV heyday.
Martha Quinn
- Then: The fresh-faced NYU grad became an instant fan favorite with her upbeat energy and girl-next-door charm.
- Now: Quinn has built a successful radio career, hosting The Martha Quinn Show on iHeartRadio. She’s also a regular on SiriusXM’s ’80s on 8 and continues to celebrate the decade that made her famous.
Mark Goodman
- Then: A seasoned radio DJ, Goodman brought credibility and cool to MTV’s early broadcasts.
- Now: He’s still rocking the mic on SiriusXM, hosting ’80s on 8, Classic Rewind, and The Spectrum. He also co-hosts Debatable, a music talk show that dives deep into pop culture debates.
Alan Hunter
- Then: Known for his laid-back style and Southern charm, Hunter was the first VJ to appear on MTV.
- Now: He co-founded Hunter Films and the Sidewalk Film Festival in Birmingham, Alabama. Like his fellow VJs, he’s a staple on SiriusXM’s ’80s on 8 and continues to engage fans with nostalgic programming.
Nina Blackwood
- Then: With her raspy voice and rock ‘n’ roll edge, Blackwood was the rebel of the group.
- Now: She lives a quiet life in the countryside, surrounded by pets, and hosts syndicated radio shows like Absolutely ’80s. She’s also a regular on SiriusXM and remains a passionate advocate for classic rock.
J.J. Jackson
- Then: The most experienced of the crew, Jackson brought gravitas and deep music knowledge to MTV.
- Now: After leaving MTV in 1986, he returned to radio and hosted The Beatle Years until his passing in 2004. His legacy lives on as a pioneer who helped shape MTV’s early credibility.
When we had SiriusXM, I loved the 80s channels and hearing the old VJs.