Dave Kendall, Former Creator/Host of MTV's Alternative Music Show '120 Minutes,' Has Died

Dave Kendall's passing at 68 marks the end of an era, not just for MTV's iconic 120 Minutes, but for the alternative rock nation he helped shape and define. For the countless fans he introduced to Nirvana, Pearl Jam, and Radiohead, his loss is a reminder that the music we love is always tied to the people who brought it to us. Kendall's influence was immense, but it was the authenticity he brought to 120 Minutes that has left an indelible mark on the music industry.

Matt Pinfield, a fellow former MTV host, paid tribute to his friend and colleague in a heartfelt post on Instagram, describing Kendall as "one of the true believers." That's a title few can claim, especially during the late 1980s and early 1990s when alternative music was still on the fringes of mainstream culture. Kendall was there every week on 120 Minutes, introducing audiences to bands that would go on to define an era. He didn't just host a show; he gave a home to music that deserved to be heard.

Kendall's impact on music extends far beyond his time on 120 Minutes. As a writer, producer, and presenter, he worked on various projects that showcased his passion for alternative music. After leaving MTV, he hosted and co-produced the nationally syndicated talk show Music Scoupe and anchored the Woodstock 94 pay-per-view. These ventures, combined with his extensive work in radio and his creation of an early video streaming site (alterworld), demonstrate a commitment to music that went beyond his time on 120 Minutes.

Kendall's passing comes at a time when the music industry is grappling with the loss of other iconic figures. While we mourn the loss of these trailblazers, we must also acknowledge the impact they had on the music we love. The alternative rock nation he helped shape continues to thrive, with new generations discovering the music he introduced to the world. As we reflect on Kendall's legacy, we're reminded that the music we love is always a product of the people who brought it to us.

The news of Kendall's passing will undoubtedly spark conversations about the evolution of MTV and its impact on music. As the network continues to adapt to changing times, we're reminded that the legacy of 120 Minutes and the people who worked on it will always be a part of music history. With its revival in 2011-2012, the show proved that the music it spawned remains relevant, even in the age of streaming.

As the music industry continues to shift, it's essential to acknowledge the pioneers who paved the way for the alternative rock nation. Kendall's passing serves as a reminder that the music we love is always tied to the people who brought it to us. While we mourn the loss of this true believer, we must also celebrate the impact he had on the music industry and the memories he created for fans around the world.

In the coming months, we can expect a resurgence of interest in the alternative rock nation, with fans revisiting the music that Kendall introduced to the world. As we reflect on his legacy, we're reminded that the music we love is always a product of the people who brought it to us.