MTV launched on August 1, 1981 as a music channel based in New York that aimed to play music videos. MTV had a profound effect on the music industry and popular culture by popularizing music videos. The first video played was "Video Killed the Radio Star" by The Buggles. MTV progressed to include more genres over time and celebrated its 20th anniversary in 2001. The MTV Video Music Awards were established in 1984 to celebrate the best music videos each year and have become a respected awards ceremony that brings together iconic artists.