Key Takeaways
- Dave Kendall, the host of MTV's influential 120 Minutes, has died at age 68.
- Kendall helped introduce alternative rock to millions through his show from 1988 to 1991.
- He continued working in media and entertainment until his final years.
Dave Kendall, the British VJ who played a pivotal role in bringing alternative music to mainstream audiences as the host of MTV’s 120 Minutes from 1988 to 1991, has passed away at the age of 68. The news was shared by fellow former MTV host Matt Pinfield on Instagram.
Pinfield described Kendall as a true believer in alternative music, noting that he introduced people to bands that would go on to define an era. 'Long before alternative music found its way into the mainstream, he was there every week on 120 Minutes,' wrote Pinfield, adding, 'He didn’t just host a show; he gave a home to music that deserved to be heard.'
Kendall began his career as a journalist and editor, writing for American and British newspapers and magazines including Melody Maker, Spin, and the New York Post. After relocating from England to New York, he was hired by MTV to create 120 Minutes, which ran from 1985 to 1999 with Kendall hosting until 1991.
During his tenure on 120 Minutes, Kendall helped promote a variety of alternative acts that went on to achieve great fame. He is credited with premiering the video for Nirvana’s “Smells Like Teen Spirit” in September 1991. The show continued with Pinfield as host from 1995 to 1999 and enjoyed a brief revival in 2011-2012 before being canceled by MTV2 in 2003.
Following his time on 120 Minutes, Kendall went on to host and co-produce the nationally syndicated talk show Music Scoupe. He also hosted the internationally simulcast concert Soccer Rocks the Globe in 1994 and anchored the Woodstock '94 pay-per-view event. In addition, he worked extensively in radio, writing and hosting local and nationally syndicated shows.
Kendall moved to Bangkok in 2011 to host and produce the travel show Destination Thailand. He continued his work in media and entertainment until his final years, editing and writing stories for the Bangkok Post from 2017 onwards.
In recognition of his contributions to music and television, Kendall's legacy remains a testament to his dedication to promoting alternative music and connecting with fans through authentic engagement.
'Dave was one of the true believers. Long before alternative music found its way into the mainstream, he was there every week on 120 Minutes, introducing people to bands that would go on to define an era.'
Matt Pinfield, Former MTV Host
