With at least two new television networks set to launch this year, it looks there will be loads of must-see programming for multicultural audiences. Bounce TV, a channel aimed at African Americans, has announced its entry into niche-network television and now comes Karmaloop TV, an off-shoot of the popular online urban fashion retailer. Earlier this week, Deadline.com reported that Pharrell Williams, the poly-hyphenate musician and entrepreneur, has been named creative director of the new television channel which is set to premiere in the latter part of 2011.
Karmaloop TV, which is partly funded by Insight Venture Partners and has an equity and representation deal with United Talent Agency, is headed by Katie McEnroe, former president of AMC network. Karmaloop entered the online fray with its Web video site KarmaloopTV in 2008. The company's channel is the 18th most viewed on YouTube. The forthcoming Karmaloop TV network, much like its website, will focus on the 18-34 demographic, specifically those who are into the latest technology, and urban culture trends, thus making Williams' appointment to creative director a natural choice.

In a press statement, Karmaloop CEO Greg Selkoe said, "Pharrell is, without a doubt, one of the most influential cultural creative and business minds in America today." Selkoe also said with Williams' position, Karmaloop is in a prime position to "excite cutting-edge youth culture about TV, just as MTV once did in the 1980s."

Williams, who has equity stake in the venture, added to Selkoe's sentiments on KarmaloopTV.com in a video announcement of his new position. "These kids tell us that we've changed their lives," said Williams. "And we want to continue to do it, by bringing programming that's effective...not only changing their mentality, but lifts their mentality. "