Video Music Box is an American music television program. The series is the first to feature hip hop videos primarily. Created in 1983 by Ralph McDaniels, it was one of the most influential television shows to give urban artists mainstream exposure. It aired on the New York City-owned public television station WNYC-TV in from 1984 to 1996. In 1996, the program moved to WNYE-TV after WNYC-TV was sold by the city to a private company. Many artists from the Golden Age of Hip Hop made their debuts on Video Music Box. Although it is ostensibly a local show, its influence has been very widespread and has been considered a major factor in the growth of Hip hop music and culture. The show is hosted by Ralph McDaniels and Lionel "The Vid Kid" Martin.