So with a new season of TMS upon us I get a TON of questions and comments and just not enough time to respond to every single one. And then if I do and it’s brief people think I’m rude. Some times you can not win LOL. Many times it is the same questions over and over, or guest requests when people just don’t get the process. I thank you all for watching and your support. So once again here are answers to frequently asked questions, hope this helps:
Why is the show shot in LA?
That is where 95% of the music world lives, easier to get guests.
Why doesn’t the show go on the road?
Costs money we don’t have. The show is on VH1 CLASSIC, not VH1. HUGE difference in budgets!
Why are there no band performances?
See above. Music costs money.
Why isn’t this band on TMS?
Probably the most non stop thing I see on this site and the comments area and on Twitter is on guests and guest requests. I appreciate the passion but so many have no clue of the process, that VH1 has ultimate say, and that the show is mostly a classic based program, although we certainly mix in newer bands when we can. What blows my mind is when people write to say “have Eddie Van Halen on”. You think it’s that easy? You think we haven’t tried EVERY season! Some guys are just reclusive and will not do interviews, especially on a show that REALLY knows their history. Most would rather go somewhere to plug something quick from a host or news anchor that only knows whats on the latest bio sheet. We ask EVH EVERY season, as do we ask EVERY major artist that has not been on. They have to want to do the show! You guys bug them for us if you want. Another obstacle; bands tour! We shoot 8 shows in 4 days coming up. Bands are on tour more than ever. They aren’t going to cancel dates to do a TV show. Also an amazing amount of requests for bands that have been on. I generally don’t acknowledge guest requests because it’s so endless and crazy and I do NOT 100% control it, although I have a say. I appreciate all the passion and we have had a TON of major guests on, but it’s not as easy as saying; “have _____ on”.
Why are some guests repeated?
Name a talk show on radio or TV that doesn’t welcome guests back on? Especially one that has as few new shows a year as us. By the way, the new season is over 50% first time guests.
Why don’t you do more new shows than 8?
I’d do it every day! The network has the budgets. All comes down to $$$.
Why isn’t VH1 Classic in HD?
I wish it was! Can not answer that. Up to the network.
Will the show come out on DVD?
Again, VH1 owns the show, up to them, but there are some talks now.
Why isn’t the show available online or seen in my country?
Wish it was EVERYWHERE. Have no control over distribution, all up to where VH1 has deals and internet laws.
How can I be in the audience?
Our audience space is very limited. Tickets are handled by a casting agency. I have nothing to do with it and no knowledge of how it works. But hope to see you if you got in.
I’m sure I missed stuff but that’s it for now and hope that answers some questions. Appreciate all the support and thanks for watching. Season 12 premieres June 1st on VH1 Classic. Spread the word, your support keeps this alive!
44 Responses
Eddie, thanks in advance for having the mighty mighty KIX band on this upcoming season! And on the same show as BOC!!!! That’s one for the archives.
Can’t wait for the new shows…..
Love the show and I wish it was available in Sweden but atleast you can find most of the shows online. I’d love to see Texas Hippie Coalition or Europe as guests. But the, by far, most interesting guest (though very unlikely) would be the enigmatic Vinnie Vincent.
Everyone wants Vinnie as a guest!
Eddie, hey man i thought i knew a lot about metal bands but you have me beat. i understand the financial issue you run into, but you would think after 12 seasons and a growing fan base VH1 invest a little more and move you guys. I also understand the band issue of getting guest on the show. The thing that irritates me and probably alot of others is radio stations refuse to play outside the box. Get tired of hearing the same groups and the same songs. i get the top 10 need but when you play the same songs by Sabbath or Floyd, Priest, Zepplin etc. Come on these bands have ton to choose from. Then there are bands that get no air play. Babylon AD, Kix, Blue Murder, i can go on and on but you know them all. Anyway I record all episodes past and present. Although would like to see the first 5 seasons. Sorry I missed. i have 800 cds….not to mention previous cassettes and albums lol. well later. Keep it up TMS rules…
Not sure what you are asking for but obscure bands are NOT of interest to TV. Obscure means less people know them which doesn’t exactly work for TV which is ratings driven….
It might help to let fans know what VH-1 says when you ask about these things instead of just saying “It’s up to them.” That way, when we approach them, we know what we are dealing with.
99% of the time it’s money