Freesat have today launched four new music channels.

These channels were recently only available as part of the Sky TV subscription package. In the last few weeks, these channels became “free to air”, requiring no subscription, fueling speculation that they would join freesat.

(as mentioned in this post )

The new channels are all music channels:

Kiss – freesat channel 518

The Box – freesat channel 519

Smash Hits – freesat channel 521

Kerrang! – freesat channel 524

Kerrang! is a British music television channel launched in 2001, known for its focus on rock, punk, and alternative music. It offers a mix of music videos, live performances, and exclusive interviews with artists from these genres. The channel is renowned for its energetic and edgy programming, reflecting its commitment to rock culture. Kerrang! also features music news, special events, and themed shows that cater to its dedicated fan base. Over the years, it has become a prominent platform for discovering new music and celebrating iconic rock bands, maintaining a strong influence in the music television landscape.

Smash Hits, the music channel launched by EMAP in 2006, was known for its vibrant focus on contemporary pop and chart music. Designed to appeal to a young audience, the channel featured a dynamic mix of music videos, celebrity interviews, and entertainment news. It built on the legacy of the Smash Hits magazine, renowned for its coverage of popular music and youth culture. Despite its initial popularity, the channel struggled to maintain viewership amidst evolving media consumption trends. In 2008, Smash Hits was rebranded as 4Music, shifting its focus to a broader range of music genres and entertainment content.

The Box was a British music television channel launched in 1985, known for its focus on contemporary pop music. It provided a platform for viewers to watch a wide range of music videos, from the latest chart hits to popular classics. The channel was notable for its interactive approach, allowing viewers to request their favorite videos via telephone. The Box became known for its high-energy programming and dedication to showcasing new and emerging artists.

KISS, launched in 1998 by Emap, was a UK music television channel that focused on playing contemporary pop and dance music. It became popular for its energetic programming and wide range of music videos, featuring hits from mainstream and emerging artists. KISS was known for its youthful, vibrant approach, catering to a young audience with a mix of music, celebrity news, and entertainment. The channel was part of a broader brand that included KISS radio stations.