Channel AKA The Relaunch 9am Friday 11th April

After a decade of broadcasting, Channel AKA is heading into a new era in 2014 with a rebrand and new launches. Expect to see more grime, more UK rap, more hip-hop and more randb brought to you through a new advanced on-screen look, new programme features, a brand new website and the launch of the Channel AKA app, which allows viewers to select the music.

Channel AKA has and always will be the first place on TV underground talent turns to for support and to get noticed. Creditted with helping the breakthrough of acts such as Tinie Tempah, Tinchy Stryder, N Dubz, Wretch 32, Ghetts and Chipmunk. It’s fearless attitude means the channel always provides a platform for up and coming artists.

“I’m forever underground and I like to keep my music underground. Channel AKA is the only place I like to put my music because it’s a UK wide outlet for everyone to get – but it still feels exclusive.” – JME, Independent Grime Artist 

The AKA team are committed to their unique position in supporting both independent and unsigned British talent whilst remaining one of the market leaders in urban music television. As well as unsigned talent, it’s always been important for the AKA playlist team to support artists from major labels and international acts.

"A channel like AKA is vital for independent artists and major record labels alike. It gives new UK urban talent chance to independently develop and be seen, and it’s a key platform for us to place our own developing artists." Darcus Beese, President of Island Records UK.

Going forward, AKA have secured new content deals with web sites Link Up TV and GRM Daily, bringing ‘Behind Bars’ and ‘Daily Duppy’ to television screens for the first time.

The new AKA app and website will enable viewers to watch the channel online, as well as select videos free of charge from their smart phone.

“Channel AKA is in great shape as there’s been so much exciting music coming through in this last year. In a broadly flat music tv market, AKA saw a 13% growth* in 2013 with the key 16-34 target, an audience who are famously supposed to be watching much less television! We couldn’t be in a better position with 1.7 million viewers** and with our rebrand it’s only going to get stronger” – Simon Sadler, COO Channel AKA. 

Channel AKA will be re-launching on Friday 11th April at 9am. It broadcasts on Sky channel 385, as well as online via channelaka.com/watch.

* Official BARB audience figures.  16-34 impacts 2013 v 2012.

** Official BARB audience figures.  16-34 quarterly reach.

Twitter: @ChannelAKA385

Instagram: @channelaka385

Facebook: /ChannelAKAOfficial

Website: www.channelaka.com