Twenty Thousand Hertz

It’s Not TV: Behind HBO’s legendary sounds

Nov 17, 2021
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ANECDOTE

Childhood HBO Memories

  • The host recalls watching HBO at motels during vacations as a kid, feeling it was a magical, exclusive channel.
  • His parents caught him watching Terminator 2, illustrating HBO’s edgy content appeal to kids.
INSIGHT

HBO’s Subscription Model Innovation

  • HBO pioneered pay television by charging subscriptions instead of relying on advertising.
  • This model enabled commercial-free movies and sports from home, defining HBO's original mission.
ANECDOTE

Ferdinand's Improvised HBO Theme

  • Ferdinand J. Smith composed HBO's epic movie theme by singing parts directly to the orchestra.
  • He improvised extra music on the spot to match the animation's length, creating the iconic ending.
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