The Old Grey Whistle Test

[SunnyBar]

What are the origins of the title of the 1970s BBC music show The Old Grey Whistle Test?

[Luigitoo]

The title derives its name from the notion that if the grey-haired doorman whistles your tune, then it's a hit.

[rekstout]

I have always understood it to be that if the BBC security guard could whistle the tune that it was suitable for airplay - if the tune were too loud/fast and could not be whistled that it was too "modern" to play.