What Music Channels Are Available on YouTube TV
YouTube TV includes music-focused channels, but the selection depends on your location and which channel package you have. The main music channels available are MTV, VH1, CMT (Country Music Television), and BET, which all carry music videos, live performances, and music-related shows. Some regional music channels like Palladia (rock and alternative music) and The Pulse (pop music) may also be included, though availability varies.
Beyond dedicated music channels, YouTube TV gives you access to music content scattered across other networks. Channels like E!, Bravo, and Fuse air music specials and award shows. Sports networks sometimes broadcast music festivals and live concerts. The exact channels you see depend on whether you have the base package or a premium add-on like Paramount+ or Max, which may include additional music programming.
Key Takeaways
- MTV, VH1, CMT, and BET are the primary music-focused channels on YouTube TV, though what they air has shifted from music videos to reality shows and other programming.
- Music content on YouTube TV is spread across multiple channels rather than concentrated in one place, so you may need to browse or search to find what you want.
- Your YouTube TV package level and your location determine which music channels appear in your channel list.
- YouTube TV's search and library features let you save music specials, award shows, and concerts to watch later.
How Music Programming Has Changed on Traditional Channels
MTV and VH1 no longer air music videos as their primary content the way they did decades ago. MTV now focuses on reality shows, dating programs, and lifestyle content, with music videos appearing only during specific time slots or on-demand. VH1 similarly emphasizes reality television and nostalgia programming. This shift means that if you are looking for continuous music video playback, YouTube TV's traditional channels may disappoint you.
CMT and BET still dedicate more airtime to music than MTV or VH1, particularly country music on CMT and hip-hop and R&B on BET. However, both channels also air talk shows, award shows, and other entertainment programming. If you want to watch music videos specifically, you will have better luck searching YouTube TV's on-demand library for music specials, award shows like the Grammys or CMT Awards, or live concert recordings.
Finding Music Content in YouTube TV's Search and Library
The fastest way to locate music programming is to use YouTube TV's search function. Type in the artist name, show title, or event name (like "Grammy Awards" or "Coachella") and YouTube TV will show you what is available to watch now or record for later. You can also browse by genre or category if your YouTube TV interface offers that option, though the layout varies depending on whether you are using the web app, mobile app, or TV app.
Save music specials and concerts to your library so you do not have to search for them again. When you find a concert recording or award show, click the heart or save icon to add it to your library. This is especially useful for live events that air once and then move to on-demand, since you can watch them whenever you want without hunting through the channel guide.
Live Music Events and Award Shows on YouTube TV
YouTube TV carries major music award shows and live music events throughout the year. The Grammy Awards, CMT Music Awards, Billboard Music Awards, and MTV Video Music Awards all air on YouTube TV. These events are usually broadcast live on their respective networks (CBS, CMT, NBC, MTV) and then available on-demand afterward. Check your channel guide a few days before a major award show to confirm it is included in your package.
Concert specials and live music performances appear on various channels depending on the artist and network. PBS often airs concert documentaries and live performances. Showtime and premium movie channels sometimes broadcast concert films. Searching for the artist or concert name in YouTube TV is more reliable than browsing channels, since these programs do not air on a predictable schedule.
Music Streaming vs. Music Channels on YouTube TV
YouTube TV is a live television service, not a music streaming platform like Spotify or Apple Music. The difference matters: YouTube TV shows you what airs on television channels at scheduled times, while music streaming services let you play any song on demand. If you want to listen to specific songs or build playlists, you need a separate music streaming service.
YouTube TV is useful if you want to watch music videos, concerts, and award shows as they air or on-demand, but it is not a replacement for a music streaming subscription. Many people use both: YouTube TV for live events and music television, and a streaming service for everyday listening. YouTube TV does not include YouTube Music (Google's streaming service) as part of the standard package, though you can subscribe to YouTube Music separately if you want on-demand music playback.
Checking Your Specific Channel Lineup
The easiest way to see exactly which music channels are in your YouTube TV package is to open the YouTube TV app or website and look at your channel guide. Scroll through the channel list or search for "MTV," "VH1," "CMT," or "BET" to confirm they appear. If a channel does not show up, it is not included in your current package.
YouTube TV occasionally adds or removes channels, and availability can differ by region. If you are looking for a specific music channel and cannot find it, check YouTube TV's help center or contact their support team to confirm whether it is available in your area. Some channels may be available only as part of a premium add-on package, which you can purchase separately if you want access.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I watch music videos on YouTube TV?
Yes, but not continuously like older MTV. MTV and VH1 air music videos during certain hours, and you can search YouTube TV's library for music video compilations, award shows, and concert recordings. For unlimited on-demand music videos, you would need YouTube Music or another streaming service.
Does YouTube TV include YouTube Music?
No. YouTube TV and YouTube Music are separate services. YouTube TV is for live television channels, while YouTube Music is a streaming service for playing songs on demand. You can subscribe to YouTube Music separately if you want it.
Are live concerts available on YouTube TV?
Yes. Concert specials, festival broadcasts, and live performances air on various channels throughout the year. Search YouTube TV for the artist or event name to find what is available. Many concerts are also available on-demand after they air live.
What if a music channel is not showing up in my channel list?
It may not be included in your package or available in your region. Check YouTube TV's channel guide to confirm. Some music channels are only available with premium add-ons, which you can purchase separately.
Can I record music award shows on YouTube TV?
Yes. You can record any program that airs on YouTube TV, including award shows and music specials. Set up a recording through the YouTube TV app or website, and the show will be saved to your library for 9 months.