Draft:RAwTIMe

rAw TiMe was a public-access television show that aired in Austin, Texas, from 1990 until the early 2000s. Created and hosted by David Prewitt, the show became a beloved fixture of the local music scene, offering a mix of alternative, punk, industrial, and underground music videos. Unlike mainstream music television, rAw TiMe focused on independent and lesser-known artists, giving them a platform to reach a dedicated audience in the pre-YouTube era.

Origins and Format

The show was initially conceived as a way to showcase music videos that were not receiving airplay on major networks like MTV. In the early days of rAw TiMe, Prewitt worked with a small team to curate a diverse selection of videos, often featuring local and unsigned bands alongside established alternative acts. The show gained a reputation for its raw and unfiltered presentation, eschewing corporate polish in favor of a DIY aesthetic.

One of rAw TiMe's most distinctive features was its interactive format. Viewers could call in during live broadcasts, engaging directly with the hosts. This led to a mix of genuine music discussions, humorous exchanges, and at times, confrontational or bizarre interactions. The call-in segments became a defining aspect of the show, with some callers becoming recurring figures.

Notable Hosts and Personalities

Over the years, rAw TiMe featured a rotating cast of co-hosts who brought their own unique energy to the show. Some of the most memorable personalities included:

• Tinarina – A fan-favorite known for her sarcastic humor and ability to handle unruly callers with quick-witted responses. She became one of the most recognizable faces of rAw TiMe, especially during the show's peak years.
• Siren Summer – Another popular co-host who added a gothic and alternative flair to the show.
• Trans Am – Known for his energetic and eccentric presence on-screen.
• Sarah Key – A later-era host who helped maintain the show's edgy and offbeat appeal.

The interactions between the hosts and the callers were often unpredictable, with some calls turning into comedic or confrontational moments. This unfiltered dynamic made rAw TiMe stand out from other public-access programs.

Cultural Impact and Influence

rAw TiMe played a significant role in Austin’s alternative music scene. Many local bands saw their first television exposure through the show, helping to build underground followings. The program also introduced viewers to national and international acts that were otherwise overlooked by mainstream media.

In 1994, rAw TiMe was recognized for its impact when it tied with CapZeyeZ for the Austin Chronicle’s “Best Public Access TV Show” award. This acknowledgment solidified its reputation as one of the most beloved and influential public-access programs in the city’s history.

Beyond music, rAw TiMe reflected the countercultural spirit of Austin in the 1990s. It captured the era’s DIY ethos, where independent media thrived outside of major corporate influence. The show’s offbeat humor, irreverent style, and willingness to embrace controversy made it a cult favorite among viewers who appreciated its authenticity.

Challenges and Decline

Despite its popularity, rAw TiMe faced several challenges throughout its run. Public-access television in Austin, like in many other cities, struggled with funding and shifting regulations. As the internet began to dominate music distribution and video-sharing platforms like YouTube emerged in the early 2000s, the demand for traditional public-access programming declined.

The show eventually went off the air, but its legacy continued. Many clips of rAw TiMe resurfaced online in the 2010s, reigniting interest in its unique brand of music television. Social media users shared some of the most iconic call-in moments, celebrating the show’s unscripted and chaotic energy.

Legacy and Online Resurgence

Even though rAw TiMe is no longer on the air, its influence can still be felt in Austin’s alternative media landscape. Some of the show’s former hosts and contributors remain involved in music and media production. Fans continue to reminisce about rAw TiMe as a defining part of Austin’s music culture.

Online communities dedicated to public-access television and nostalgia for the 1990s have embraced rAw TiMe as a prime example of what made local television special. The show’s willingness to take risks, showcase underground artists, and engage directly with its audience set it apart from anything on mainstream TV at the time.

In an era where music discovery is often dictated by algorithms and corporate playlists, rAw TiMe stands as a reminder of a time when television could be unpredictable, unfiltered, and truly independent.

Conclusion

rAw TiMe was more than just a public-access TV show—it was a cultural touchstone for Austin’s music scene. Through its eclectic mix of music videos, interactive call-ins, and memorable hosts, it left an indelible mark on viewers who tuned in every week. While the show may be gone, its influence lives on through archived footage, social media, and the ongoing appreciation of those who experienced it firsthand.

For those looking to relive the rAw TiMe experience, clips can still be found on platforms like YouTube, where fans continue to celebrate one of Austin’s most legendary underground television programs.