NOT your average music channel, AKA not only plays the big UK and U.S hits but unlike any other station offers UK unsigned artists a platform to be seen and heard by the general public. AKA (previously Channel U), has helped to launch the careers of triple award winners and platinum selling artists - N-Dubz, number 1 artist - Tinchy Stryder, MOBO winner – Chipmunk, Mercury prize winner and number 1 artist – Dizzee Rascal to name but a few. AKA has been the first and only station to broadcast many of these artists videos allowing them to build up a fan base and bring them to the attention of record and labels and artist management who have ensured the launch of the artists into super stardom.

Many artists have expressed their loyalty to the channel in their lyrics; for example, in Lady Sovereign's 9 to 5, "channel who? oh channel U, the ones who made me huge, like Katie Price's boobs!". Other artists to comment on Channel U include Kano, DJ Ironik, Lethal Bizzle, Sway, Remi Nicole, Wong, Fredro Starr, and Dizzee Rascal.

The aim of the channel is to provide fresh and exclusive entertainment to the viewers and to allow viewers to voice their opinions on videos through the power of voting. Not only does this give the viewer control over their viewing, it also allows artists to see how people are reacting to their music. AKA (formerly Channel U) highlights to the public, the raw and unsigned talent we have in the UK, and it has been successful in this mission, as suggested by the production and popularity of such compilation CDs as Channel U: The Album.

AKA is not only renowned to be the first station to show up and coming UK artists, but it has also given many presenters a starting point for their successes. Before he joined MTV to host the British version of Pimp My Ride, Tim Westwood had a show on Channel AKA. Radio 1 D.J’s Ace & Vis begun their media journey by hosting The Illout Show and, now MTV host, Scottie B had his TV debut with The Channel U Christmas Special.

AKA have numerous play lists that provide the viewer with many different genres and styles of music. From Garage to Grime to Hip-Hop and R&B there is a play list to suit everybody. Not only do AKA offer multiple playlists but they also constantly update with new music genres as and when they are happening on the underground.

Current playlists include:

	Streetz Grime & Life
	Free Video Request Show
	UK Uncut
	UK Gold
	UK Tings
	Ultimate RnB
	Top 10 Hottest Now
	Up In Da Club
	XXX AKA
	Urban Classics
	Hottest 20 Street Bangers

Tune into AKA on SKY 370 and for all news and music online go to www.channelaka.tv you can also keep up with us on www.twitter.com/ channelaka and www.myspace.com/channelaka