BBC to launch new music show with 'the best UK and international artists'

The BBC is launching a new TV music show that will feature performances from some of the biggest artists in the UK and around the world.

The show will be broadcast more than 11 years after the BBC axed its flagship pop music programme, as a six-part music series aired this autumn.

The name of the programme and its place in the schedule have yet to be confirmed but it is understood it will be broadcast at peak times during the evening.

The new 30-minute show will feature sketches and interviews as well as live performances. It will be the first regular flagship music programme on BBC1 since Top of the Pops was cancelled in 2006.

Top of the Pops was first broadcast in 1964. Like the new BBC music show it was commissioned for six episodes before being given a permanent weekly slot.

The new show is being produced by Fulwell 73, whose five partners include James Corden. The BBC says that Corden will not present the programme, although it is yet to say who will.

Bob Shennan, director of BBC Radio and Music, said: “This series will be a fantastic opportunity to showcase the biggest and best UK and international bands and artists and we’re looking forward to working with one of the world’s most innovative and creative TV production companies.”