MusiquePlus

MusiquePlus
Name	MusiquePlus
Country	Canada
Language	French
Launched	1986
Owner	Groupe V Média (former), Bell Media (current)
Headquarters	Montreal, Quebec
Sister channels	MusiMax, Vrak, Canal Vie, TVA Sports

MusiquePlus MusiquePlus was a Canadian French-language specialty television channel based in Montreal that focused on music video programming, entertainment news, and youth-oriented series. Launched during the expansion of specialty channels in the 1980s, it paralleled English-language counterparts such as MTV (Music Television) and MuchMusic, while interacting with Quebec media institutions like Radio-Canada and private broadcasters including TVA. Over decades it engaged with record labels such as Sony Music Entertainment, Universal Music Group, and Warner Music Group and intersected with cultural events like the Montreal International Jazz Festival and the Vancouver Folk Music Festival.

History

The channel began amid regulatory developments involving the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission and the proliferation of specialty channels exemplified by launches from Rogers Communications and Shaw Communications. Early operations featured partnerships with entities such as Aldo Group-sponsored events and cross-promotions with publications like La Presse and Le Devoir. During the 1990s the channel negotiated licensing and distribution with cable operators including Videotron and Cogeco while competing for market share with channels like The Box (US), MuchMusic, and MTV2. Strategic shifts in the 2000s reflected trends seen at VH1 and BET, prompting rebrands and programming overhauls influenced by executives from firms such as Corus Entertainment and CHUM Limited. Corporate transactions involved media conglomerates like Astral Media and later Bell Media, with regulatory oversight by the Competition Bureau (Canada) in consolidation discussions. Its history intersects with performers and events including Céline Dion, Arcade Fire, Simple Plan, Arcade Fire, Roxane Bruneau, Patrick Watson, and festivals like Osheaga.

Programming and Formats

Programming evolved from continuous music video blocks to mixed formats incorporating variety shows, countdowns, live performances, and curated specialty blocks modeled after formats at Top of the Pops and TRL. The channel aired interviews and sessions with artists such as Arcade Fire, Simple Plan, Karkwa, Coeur de pirate, and Marie-Mai, alongside coverage of award ceremonies like the Juno Awards, ADISQ Gala, and Grammys. Formats included themed nights highlighting genres linked to labels like Sub Pop and Nettwerk, and syndicated series comparable to Later... with Jools Holland and SNL segments. Music news and video premieres mirrored practices at Rolling Stone-affiliated broadcasts and engaged with digital platforms such as YouTube and streaming services like Spotify and Apple Music.

Notable Personalities and Hosts

On-air talent and hosts developed profiles similar to presenters from MuchMusic and MTV, and included VJs, producers, and journalists who later moved to outlets like Ici Radio-Canada Télé, CBC Television, RDI, and private networks such as TVA Nouvelles. Collaborations featured interviews conducted with international artists including Madonna, David Bowie, U2, Kanye West, and Beyoncé, and domestic Quebec figures like Jean Leloup, Galaxie, Ariane Moffatt, and Isabelle Boulay. Behind the scenes, producers and directors had ties to production houses like Quebecor Media subsidiaries and participated in crossovers with programs on Canal D and Historia.

Audience and Cultural Impact

The channel played a role in Quebec’s francophone popular culture alongside institutions like Festival d'été de Québec and influenced the careers of artists promoted by labels including Motown and EMI. It contributed to youth culture in Montreal and other Quebec cities such as Quebec City, Sherbrooke, and Trois-Rivières, shaping trends in fashion tied to brands like Aldo and sponsors such as Tim Hortons. Its cultural footprint is comparable to the influence of channels like MTV, festivals like Coeur de Pirate appearances, and media events such as the Gala de l'ADISQ in launching artists onto international stages alongside names like Arcade Fire and Céline Dion.

Distribution and Availability

Distribution relied on carriage agreements with major Canadian distributors including Bell Canada, Rogers Cable, Shaw Communications, and Videotron, and later on satellite platforms operated by Bell Satellite TV and Shaw Direct. The channel adjusted to digital migration trends exemplified by Netflix (service), Crave, and evolving broadband strategies led by providers such as TekSavvy and Vidéotron's Helix. Availability also encompassed Montreal-area terrestrial promotions and tie-ins with live venues like Metropolis (Montreal) and the Olympic Stadium (Montreal) for events and televised concerts.

Corporate Ownership and Operations

Ownership changed hands within the Canadian media consolidation landscape involving companies such as Astral Media, Cogeco, Groupe V Média, and Bell Media, with financial and strategic considerations reflected in mergers and acquisitions comparable to deals involving Corus Entertainment and Postmedia Network. Operations involved advertising sales, branded content, and partnerships with agencies like Sid Lee and record promoters from Universal Music Canada and Sony Music Canada. Regulatory compliance required interaction with bodies including the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission and the Competition Bureau (Canada), and corporate governance often included boards with executives from conglomerates such as Quebecor Media and Groupe TVA.

Category:Television channels in Canada