Luke Davies (or The Live Luke) has always been fascinated by Radio. In this series, he chats to some of his heroes of the airwaves about how they got into radio, the challenges they have taken and what advice would they give.
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Currently broadcasting from the Salford Rivera often on a Weeknight after midnight on BBC Radio 2, OJ Borg has had a stellar career on the radio. Whether it was on Galaxy, Kix 96.2 FM, XFM South Wales or Key 103. OJ has many stories to share in this weeks edition.
Why not listen to OJ sit down and reflect on the last three decades on the radio, with some fun stories about his time on air and how a specific programme on Leicester Sound inspired him to start a radio career.
Listen to OJ on BBC Radio 2.
And follow OJ on X: @OJBorgand on Instagram: @oj_borg.
Also listen to this aircheck of OJ on Radio 2 from Aircheck Downloads.
We would like to extend additional thanks to Robin Blamires and Radio Moments for additional content that was used in this weeks edition.
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He's launched the careers of so many singers and bands. He hung out with Wham! and Bananarama back in the days. He's presented on Capital, GLR and XFM. But there is one question.. Who is Gary Crowley?
Well this week Gary joins us for an edition to chat about his career on the radio. Have a listen to how Gary got the bug from radio and how he interviewed members of The Jam whilst he was still in School. How his first radio show was presenting In Concert for BBC Radio 1. What joining Capital Radio was like, the shows he presented and the gods he was around. Why he joined BBC GLR and what the launch of XFM was like and what its like to be back at the BBC with Radio London.
Currently you can catch Gary every Saturday afternoon on BBC Radio London.
Also why not listen to Gary launch XFM here on Aircheck Downloads.
Also listen to Gary here on Youtube, interviewing George and Andrew from Wham!
And follow Gary on X: @CrowleyonAirand on Instagram: @garycrowleyonair
We would like to extend additional thanks to Random Radio Joittings, Radio Rewind, Depeche Mode Wiki Live, Things we Lost in Tapes, FrutierThanThou and TheSoundMaster for additional content.
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For over 33 years Tich McCooey was one of the most recognised presenters on MFR (Moray Firth Radio) presenting almost every show on the station, including Lunchtimes and Breakfast. During his time he came close to presenting The Big Breakfast on Channel 4. And Even presented his show from London, which involved a alteration with Chris Evans on BBC Radio 1.
This week Tich joins Luke on Radio Greats to share many memories of his time on MFR, from getting the bug for Radio, how a demo lead to the Programme Controller offering him the Saturday Chart Show. Presenting Lunchtime and Breakfast, what MFR was like as a station and coming back to present the Tich Mix.
Discover more about Tich and listen to some cracking promos and jingles at Vintage MFR.
Read also about Tich's alteration with Chris Evans here at The Scotsman.
And listen to Tich on MFR Country here on Audioboom.
And MFR's thirtieth anniversay on Aircheck Downloads.
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If you grew up in Ireland during the 80's, then you will no doubt remember listening to Jim O'Neill on RTÉ 2fm. From a career that initially began in the music industry Jim was part of the launch team of 2FM in May 1979, before going onto present shows for stations that included Radio Nova, Century Radio, 98FM and Today FM.
In this weeks edition, Jim sits down with Luke at the formers home in County Wicklow to talk about his radio life. From getting the bug and being part of the launch team of RTÉ 2fm and Century Radio. Creating a character called The Thing, working with Chris Cary on Radio Nova and why he never fancied a career in the UK. Joining 98FM and returning to national radio with Today FM, before returning to local radio with East Coast FM.
Catch Jim every Sunday Mornings for Solid Gold Sunday on East Coast FM
Also listen to some of Jim's production work here on Soundcloud.
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Often dubbed as The Ugliest Man in Radio or The Mouth, Chris Ashley has spent half a century across the radio, working on stations in Australia, New Zealand, Spain and the UK. These have included being the first Breakfast presenter on Red Dragon in South Wales, hosting shows with Brian Clough and pulling stuntson Radio Trent and presenting Breakfast on Beacon Radio.
In this week's edition, Chris sits down with Luke and shares stories of his life on the radio. Some of these stories include listening to Bob Monkhouse on Radio Luxembourg, and listening to radio in Australia - before joining BBC Radio Brighton. Working on Radio Trent and presenting shows with Brian Clough and pulling stunts at the station. Becoming one of the launch presenters with Red Dragon Radio and banging Madonna records, which lead to a spot on LWT's The Six O'Clock Show. Going up to Wolverhampton and joining Beacon Radio, before moving over to the BBC and presenting shows that included winning a Sony Radio Award and also joining forces with John Challis.
Chris currently host's Breakfast on Celtica Radio and Saturday Breakfast on 45 Radio.
Listen to Chris present on Talk Radio from August 2001 right here on Youtube.
Also listen to Chris presenting on Beacon Radio here from 1987/1988 on Youtube.
And watch Chris' apperance on LWT's The Six O'Clock Show right here.
We would like to extend additional thanks to Bill Everett and Tim Cooper for content and help in this episode.
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If you grew up listening to BBC Radio 2 in the mid 90's then you will probably remember listening to Frank Renton present Listen to the Band, a show he presented for nearly 23 on the network.
But did you know long before he took over presenting duties, he was a musical conductor with the BBC Radio Orchestra and had been a bandmaster in the army. Well in this weeks edition, Frank sits down and shares his memories of how he got into radio and how he took over presenting duties on Radio 2. Also did you know his first presenting job was actually on BFBS?
Have a listen now!
Have a read of Frank's bio right here.
Also listen to Frank host Listen to the Bandfrom December 2017 right here on Youtube.
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He was part of the Pirate Revolution in Ireland, was controller of RTÉ 2fm and a career that's longer than the Beatles but shorter than Rolling Stones, but who is the real John Clarke?
Well he joins us on this weeks edition to talk about his radio career, which includes stories of getting the bug and working in Pirate Radio, before joining Chris Cary to work on Radio Nova and KISS FM, how after three tries to secure a place, he landed a job with RTÉ 2fm and how he got into trouble on his first show. How he became a producer with the Network and produced the 2fm Breakfast Show for 10 years. What the feeling was like when he became programme controller for the network and what the challenges were and his proudest moment. Right through to what current radio projects he has under his belt.
Why not listen to John on Kiss FM, by visiting his archive page at the Irish Pirate Radio Audio Archives.
Also listen to John present on Radio 2 from July 1986 here on Mixcloud.
And listen to John present shows on Hits Radio Ireland.
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Often dubbed the King of Hollywood on UK TV, Ross King has often been seen on our screens every morning covering news from America, but before he went Stateside, he was in our ears on the radio, hosting shows on stations that include Radio Clyde, Capital Radio and the old BBC Radio 5.
This week Ross joins Luke to share stories of his time in radio, from his early start in Hospital Radio in Glasgow and listening to Radio Clyde. How he gave up on his ambitions to become a footballer and began helping out on shows on Radio Clyde as the Saturday Boy. Getting that first show on the station and becoming one of the youngest radio presenters in the country. Being part of the playlist committee and how using the Swimming Pool during one show lead to Dead Air. Working with Richard Park, Tiger Tim and Paul Cooney. How he turned down a job at BBC Radio 1, feeling he wasn't ready. Moving down to London to join Capital Radio, before moving over to BBC Radio 5 on its launch and presenting sports show and being part of Radio 5's Olympic Coverage. Moving out to America, but continuing to associate himself with Radio presenting on Talkradio and even co-hosting a show with the Legend Rick Dees.
Find out more about Ross, by visiting his website rossking.com
Also follow Ross on Instagram and on X too.
And listen to Ross presenting Radio Clyde's Alright, All Night from October 1987 here. (courtesy of Old Radio Recordings on Mixcloud)
We would like to extend aditional thanks to Radio Moments, Aircheck Downloads and Andy Walmsley for the additional content that was used in this edition.
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If you grew up listening to BFBS or were familiar with the various stations, then you would have most likely remember listening to Richard Astbury - who worked for the Forces Network for over 40 years. During his time with the network, he hosted a variety of shows including Pop Around Europe and covered the Eurovision Song Contest for BFBS listeners. He introduced bands like ABBA on stage in Germany and interviewed people from Elton John to Prince Philip.
Why not have a listen to this weeks edition and hear Richard share memories of his career on BFBS and Riviera Radio.
Find out more about Richard by visiting his website right here.
Also listen to Richard host Pop Around Europe on Youtube.
And listen to Richard close down BFBS Malta on March 31 1979 here at The Shortwave Radio Archive.
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Jonathan Gold has spent over three decades in the radio industry and has worked in almost every field in the radio industry, from tech-oping, producing, presenting and running several stations across the country. Some of those stations include MFM, SGR Radio, The Bay, Juice FM and Pennine FM.
In this weeks edition, Jono sits down with Luke and shares stories about his life and career on the radio. These include getting the bug and being inspired by listening to the test transmissions on Viking Radio, before landing work with Hospital Radio. Joining Radio Aire and Magic as a tech op, before presenting shows with the RSL - Energy Radio in Wakefield. Getting his first radio show on MFM, before moving around the country and why he never applied for Capital. Moving into a creative role as a producer with GWR and joining Juice FM in Liverpool. Presenting the last show on Pennine FM and then moving over to Ireland to join Red FM in Cork, before heading up to Northern Ireland and the Radio life he has led since moving back to the UK.
Why not check out more about Jono by visiting his website here.
Also why not give Jono a follow on Instagram @jonathan_goldfm.
And listen to some of Jono's airchecks and shows on Soundcloud.
We would like to extend additional thanks to Aircheck Downloads and Radio Jingles Online for the use of additional content that was used in this edition.
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Having spent four decades on radio across Scotland - Ally Bally joined Radio Tay from its launch back in 1980, and then worked his way from the production offices right through into the presentation team, hosting a variety of shows including Breakfast, Mid Mornings and Tay Talk-In.
In this weeks edition of Radio Greats, Ally sits down with Luke to reflect on his 40 year stint with the station, from how he got the bug for radio, before he left his career as a manager at B&Q to join Radio Tay as part of the sales team. What the feeling was like when he was offered his first programme and then taking over Breakfast from Mark Goodier. Presenting shows for the station and one of his memorable moments hosting Tay Talk-In. Taking over as manager of the North Scottish stations and why after 40 years with a station he had been with since it launched, it was time to move on.
Listen to these old Radio Tay Jingles on Youtube (courtesy of djbigpete - Ally's name Jingle is around 1:21 minutes)
Also listen to Ally on Tay Talk-In from August 2011 on Youtube(courtesey of Fraser Macpherson)
The Opening of Radio Tay can be found on the Lost Dundee Facebookpage
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From producing shows, to creating the sound of stations, to remixing and presenting Alternative sounds Eddy Temple-Morris is definitely someone who should be regarded as a Radio Great. Having started out in the music industry, his radio career began on BBC Radio Hereford and Worcester, before he went down to London and began a established career with Radio 1, XFM and Virgin Radio.
In this weeks edition, Eddy sits down with Luke to share his stories of the radio industry. From growing up in a political household, to writing songs and playing music, before he landed his first radio job on BBC Radio Hereford and Worcester. How he applied for the role of Senior producer with BBC Radio 1 and how he was responsible for changing the station sound and selecting songs for the Playlist. How he was inspired by Z100 to create the Radio 1 sound and how he piloted for a show with the network. How after a career on MTV, he joined XFM and established The Remix. Introducing us to the likes of Kasabian and others. What the real reason was behind his departure from XFM and what it was like to join the new Virgin Radio.
Why not check out Eddy on his own website at eddytm.com
And why not follow Eddy on Instagram @eddytemplemorris
Also check out Jameshymanon Mixcloud who has archived many of Eddy's XFM show The Remix
Also why not listen to this Aircheck from one of Eddy's XFM Shows from Aircheck Downloads (Broadcast Date April 4 2000)
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Steve Jenner is someone who had a dream, he always wanted to work in radio and never let that dream fade away. After many years of Sally licences and RSL's, in 2003 he made that dream happen when he and his brother launched High Peak Radio. Since then he went onto co-write a successful book Broadcast Brothers on the Radio and has gone onto present shows for Radio Caroline and Rockin' 247.
In this week's edition, Steve sits down and chats with Luke about his journey through radio. How he got the bug for the industry and how he missed the chance to present shows on Radio Trent. How he joined pirate stations around the East Midlands and the feeling of having your licence rejected felt like. What the launch of High Peak Radio was like and the launch of Ashbourne Radio and how he achieved the dream of presenting shows in America.
Discover more about Steve, by visiting his LV18 page.
And why not buy a copy of Broadcast Brothers: On the Radio of Amazon.
And check out Steve on Rockin 247
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She turned down a job at Leicester Sound to go to University in Nottingham, but from then on Amy Voce went onto achieve a successful career in radio across the Midlands with Century 106, Heart 106 and GEM alongside her partner in crime Sam Pinkham. Winning awards and hosting the successful Sam and Amy Breakfast Show for 11 years across the East Midlands.
In this weeks edition, Amy sits down with Luke to share stories about her radio career, which involved getting the bug for the industry and starting work with Leicester Sound before moving to Nottingham for University and joining Century 106. How the Sam and Amy partnership was formed and what the feeling was like taking over breakfast. Winning awards for their Breakfast show when they were at GEM and doing cover shows for BBC Radio 2 and Magic 105.4. What going national was like when they took over Breakfast on Virgin Radio, before going their separate ways and hosting solo shows and what life is like now away from the mic.
You can listen to Sam and Amy's announce they are leaving GEM here on Audioboom(courtesy of Radio Moments)
And listen to this Sam and Amy aircheck from one of their cover shows on Radio 2 here on Aircheck Downloads
Also have a listen to a collection of Amy's airchecks from Virgin Radio on Aircheck Downloads
Don't forget to check out and follow Amy on Instagram at @amy_voce
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If you regularly watch and listen to BBC News, then today's guest needs no introduction. Peter Bowes is currently the BBC's North American Correspondent and has reported on many high profile events, but prior to his career state side, he enjoyed a career on the radio, presenting shows and reading the news for Radio Tees and Piccadilly, before heading down to London to join the BBC and reading the news on Radio 1's Newsbeat.
In this weeks edition, Peter sits down with Luke to share his journey through the radio. How he developed a bug from listening to BBC Radio 2 and gaining work experience at Metro Radio. How one of of his first reports was actually on Radio 1's Studio B15 reporting on Pirate radio. Joining Radio Tees and describing what the atmosphere was like reporting on picket lines, reporting stories and presenting shows. Moving down to Piccadilly Radio, before getting the call to join the BBC, first with Radio 4, before moving over to Newsbeat on Radio 1. Reading the news on several shows and getting the dream of teasing the Golden Hour on Simon Bates' Mid Morning Show. How the opportunity to read the news on Steve Wright's Breakfast Show came about and what working with Steve was like, before moving out to America to report on various stories.
Check out Peter's about me page here.
And why not listen to Peter talk to Steve Wright on BBC Radio 2 here.
And Don't forget to follow Peter on both Instagramand on X.
We would like to extend addition thank you's to Peter, John Foster and the team at Aircheck Downloads for the use of content that was used in this week's episode.
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Just after he turned 20, Simon Davies became the new host of BRMB's Breakfast Show, succeeding the legend Les Ross. It was seen as a bold move by the station at the time, but what is his radio story?
Well on this weeks edition - Simon sits down with Luke to chat about the 13 year career he had in radio, with aspirations of becoming a TV Cameraman he then settled on a career in radio, joining Marcher Sound and presenting and tech-oping shows which included Scott Shannon's Calling America. There is also the story of how he turned down a show on Radio Tees to take over hosting Breakfast on BRMB, how and why the Breakfast show didn't work out, moving to Drivetime and Evening on the station, before leaving in 1995 to join Radio City in Liverpool and why after 13 years in the industry, he decided to hang up his headphones in full time radio.
Since leaving Radio - Simon now runs a Web Design Business called Roodee Web Design which you can find out more here.
Also check out these Airchecks of Simon at Aircheck Downloads.
And listen to these cracking Simon Davies BRMB Jingles on Soundcloud.
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Often cited as Mr Lancashire. John Gillmore, better known as Gilly has been one of the counties most recognised faces and voices of the radio industry. From a four decade career which has included stations such as Red Rose, The Bay and BBC Radio Lancashire.
This week Gilly sits down with Luke to share stories about his radio journey, from getting the bug and listening to the launch of BBC Radio Merseyside, to creating adverts for various radio stations and reading out announcements in his job at the local Co-Op. Getting his first gig on Red Rose Radio and hosting shows with the station. Joining the AM Red Rose Gold from its launch and working with some of the finest voices in Radio including Jon Culshaw, John Myers and Bob Stewart. Moving over to the rival station The Bay in 1998, before joining BBC Radio Lancashire in 2005, where he hosted shows for nearly 18 years.
Check out Gilly on Facebookand follow Gilly on X: @Gillylancs
Read this article about Gilly from Lancashire Life
Also listen to Gilly's final show on BBC Radio Lancashire on Aircheck Downloads
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As Downtown Radio celebrate five decades of broadcasting across Northern Ireland, in this weeks episode of Radio Greats - it is the turn of Owen Larkin, who has spent four decades working across stations in both Northern and the Republic of Ireland. From a career on Pirate stations, Local and National Radio, from Stations including Century Radio, LMFM, Citybeat and Classic Hits 4FM.
In this weeks episode, Owen sits down with Luke to share stories of his four decade career, from working on the pirates. Stories include working on stations that include North East Radio, Kiss FM and ERI Cork. Working with some big names, describing studios and falling asleep on air. How he joined Ireland's first National Station Century Radio and worked with some of the biggest names in Broadcasting, leaving to join LMFM before finding work on CityBeat in Belfast and being part of the launch team of Classic Hits 4FM. To finally ending up on Downtown Radio - just in time for the stations 50th Birthday.
Why not listen to Owen on Downtown Radioevery weekday between 1 and 4PM.
Also check out some brilliant archives of Owen on the Archives of The Irish Pirate Radio Audio Archive.
Listen also to some archives of Owen presenting shows for KISS FM.
And watch Owen chat to Shane Filan and Louis Walsh on Citybeat here on Youtube.
And listen to Owen present Early Breakfast on Century Radio from September 1989 on Aircheck Downloads.
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From starting her career helping out and assisting presenters on Invicta Radio to winning awards and presenting shows across America - Caroline Feraday radio career has taken her full circle, from working on stations including Capital Radio, BBC Radio 5 Live, BBC Radio London and KCLU-FM, where she has won countless awards.
In this weeks edition, Caroline sits down with Luke to share her radio journey, from an emotional time at school and becoming fascinated with the radio, to a journey that began at both BBC Radio Kent and Invicta. Joining Capital Radio in London, initially as the Flying Eye Presenter, before landing her own show and becoming the stations youngest DJ. Moving into speech radio with BBC Radio 5 Live, before leaving to go to LBC. Returning to BBC Local Radio, before moving out to the USA and presenting shows for KCLU-FM and winning countless awards.
You can find out more about Caroline, by visiting her website.
Also follow Caroline on Instagram @caroline_feraday.
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Probably one of the South's most recognised radio names, Alex Dyke is probably best known for hosting the successful phone in show on Isle of Wight Radio for over 18 years, but he has also presented shows on stations including Radio Luxembourg, The Gold AM, BBC Radio Solent and Wave 105.
In this weeks edition, Alex sits down with Luke to chat about his radio career. Some of the stories include listening to Fluff Freeman countdown the charts on Radio 1 and Djing at the local youth club, getting talked down by the careers officer, before starting out with work on Radio Victory and Radio Solent. Working as head of commercials for Radio Luxembourg, producing demo's for the sales team and presenting shows from London. Joining the Gold AM whilst trying out for Radio 1 and Capital Radio and loving every minute of it. Moving over to Isle of Wight Radio and presenting the mid morning phone in show for over 18 years, giving opinions and challenging callers. Interviewing Simon Dee and what producing his show. Joining BBC Radio Solent after presenting a stint out in America, presenting the late show across the whole of The BBC South Network and presenting podcasts. Presenting shows for Wave 105, before moving into the world of freelance.
Check out Alex's Facebook page here
And follow Alex on X here @ALEXDYKE1
Check out Alex at Aircheck Downloads
And also check out Alex's youtube page Alex Dyke: My Life On VHS
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Often cited as one of the North East's most influential people. Graham Robb has been a successful entrepreneur and political campaigner for over three decades. However prior to his success in business and politics, Graham was a successful radio presenter in the North East of England - hosting shows on Radio Tees, BBC Radio Cleveland and Century Radio.
In this weeks edition, Graham sits down with Luke to talk about his career in radio, from getting the bug and listening to Radio Tees from the launch and becoming enthused by the world of radio. How he joined the station at 16 and was one of the countries youngest radio presenters. How he overcame a dilemma with his driving test and a backup show. Presenting the late show on the station and how an interview with then Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher lead to him embarking on a political journey. How he joined BBC Radio Cleveland, and presented shows on the network - before joining the launch team of Century, before leaving the world of radio behind to focus on his business and political career.
Check out Graham's business here Recognition PR
Also check out this interview Graham gave to The Northern Echo
We would like to extend a thank you to John Foster and the Team at Aircheck Downloads for the use of content that was featured in this episode. This episode is also dedicated to Stu White, who has been an avid follower of the series since it began.
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Often dubbed as "one of the most familiar faces and voices in Irish broadcasting", Dave Fanning has enjoyed a stellar career for over the past four decades. Having cut his teeth on Pirate Radio, he went onto achieve a career hosting shows on RTÉ 2fm, Virgin 1215 and RTÉ Gold.
In this episode, Dave tells Luke about his life from getting the bug for Radio and tuning into stations such as Radio Luxembourg, Radio Caroline and BBC Radio 1. How writing for a Magazine lead to a presenting job on Pirate Radio in Ireland and presenting shows for Radio Dublin and Big D. How during his time with the Pirates, he discovered a little unknown band called U2. Joining RTÉ Radio 2 from its launch in May 1979 and hosting the The Fanning Sessions. Introducing Ireland to bands like The Cranberries. How he made a condition with Richard Branson about joining Virgin 1215 and how he was not tempted by a career in the UK. Presenting shows for RTÉ Radio 1 and moving over to RTÉ Gold.
Listen to Dave every weekday evening on RTÉ Gold
Also check out some of the Fanning Sessions on Mixcloud including this interview with Phil Chevron.
And follow Dave on Instagramand on X.
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If you grew up loving local radio in the 1980's and 1990's and were crazy for radio jingles then you may be familiar with the legendary sound of Alfasound. But a lot of those sounds were created by one man who is an encyclopaedia of radio - and that man is Steve England.
In this episode, Steve sits down with Luke to share stories of growing up in an entertainment family. Listening to the pirates at his home in Kent and going out to work for Radio Caroline and Radio Atlantis. Returning to the UK and joining Piccadilly Radio, and working in production and getting a first taste of jingle producing - the dream and delight of going out to America to visit and see how JAM Jingles were created. Starting up Alfasound, before producing jingles under his name in 2000. What starting a community radio station was like and how he returned to the airwaves with Boom Radio.
You can find out more about Steve by visiting his official website here.
Also you can find Steve presenting Friday evenings on Boom Radio.
Discover more about Steve, including several recordings and a biography here on the Pirate Radio Hall of Fame.
Also listen to these amazing Piccadilly jingles from Radio Jingles Online.
And listen to these jingles and airchecks from Aircheck Downloads: Both Steve Englandand Alfasound.
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Having begun her career with The Paper Dolls, Susie Mathis fell into the world of radio by pure accident. Having started off as one of Phil Wood's Angels. She went onto achieve a career on Piccadilly Radio, becoming one of the first females to host a Daily programme on Independent radio and also one of the first females to be in recipient of a Sony Radio Award.
In this weeks edition, Susie sits down with Luke to share her radio memories, how she fell into the industry and how she took to it like a pro. How she always stood up for Manchester and got heavily involved in charity activities. How she moved over to BBC Radio Manchester, and presented shows on Radio 2 and had a stint on Top of the Pops. Presenting shows on Lite AM and returning to radio to host a Saturday Breakfast Show on Boom Radio.
You can find out more about Susie by visiting her website
Also you can listen to Susie every Saturday morning on Boom Radio
Also listen to Susie present her Boom Radio show on Aircheck Downloads
And follow Susie on Instagram
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He is one of Ireland's most established and well recognised personalities, having presented Dempsey's Den on RTÉ and created the famous Zig and Zag. This weeks guest is none other than Ian Dempsey.
As Ireland celebrates 100 years of the radio, Ian sits down with Luke to share his stories of radio in the Emerald Isles. From listening to Radio Luxembourg and BBC Radio 1, to working in Pirate radio. Joining RTÉ Radio 2, and becoming the stations youngest voice. Presenting a variety of shows before taking over the Breakfast Show for nearly 10 years. Moving over to Today FM, and presenting Breakfast for 27 years, interviewing celebrities and bringing on successful features including Gift Grub. And what it is like to have the Number 1 show on a commercial radio station in Ireland.
You can listen to Ian every Weekday Morning on Today FM
Also check out Ian's page on the Irish Pirate Radio Archives
And have a listen to some of Ian's Airchecks at Radio 2 on Aircheck Downloads
Also don't forget to follow Ian on Instagram.
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55 Years ago this week, a young energetic hospital radio presenter walked into a BBC Studio in Rochester and began his first ever show on BBC Radio Medway. His name is Colin Slade, and from then on he went onto achieve a career on radio stations across the country including Radio Hallam, Fortune 1458, Gemini AM and Radio Exe.
In this weeks edition, Colin sits down with Luke to share stories of those 55 years - from joining Radio Medway and interviewing the likes of Chicory Tip, Queen and David Frost and how he was turned down multiple times for both Radio 1 and 2. How he met Keith Skues and Johnny Moran and joined the launch team of Radio Hallam. Interviewing some high profile people, including Dame Edna and lending equipment to Def Leopard. Working on stations across Yorkshire and Manchester, before moving down to Devon to join Gemini AM, being part of the launch team on Exeter FM, before returning to Radio Exe after a period in politics.
You can listen to Colin every Sunday Evening on Radio Exe
Also listen to the opening of Radio Hallam on Radio Moments
Listen to Colin present on Fortune 1458
And hear this Aircheck from 1997 on Gemini AM on Aircheck Downloads
Also listening to Colin celebrate 50 years of his radio life here: https://www.mixcloud.com/andy-walmsley2/colin-slade-50-years-on-the-radio/
We would also like to extend additional thanks to both Paul Bromley and Dave Nightingale for supplying content that was used in this edition of Radio Greats.
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His voice is so recognisable at both Breakfast and at Night time, but in a career that has spanned over four decades, Nigel Williams is no stranger to radio, having enjoyed a career on stations including County Sounds, Radio City, Chiltern, Virgin 1215 and London's Heart 106.2, he now hosts Breakfast on Jazz FM.
In this weeks edition, Nigel sits down with Luke to talk about his radio career. From getting the bug for radio and being inspired by Capital Radio. Joining the launch team for County Sound and seeing the rise of some of the eighties biggest acts. Moving up to Liverpool to join Radio City, how giving a tour lead to a job at Chiltern. Taking on his first management role with The Superstation, joining Virgin 1215 and becoming a Rock presenter. How he moved over to Heart 106.2 and became a fixture with the Late Night Show for nearly a decade, before going freelance and how he got the Breakfast job on Jazz FM.
You can find out more about Nigel by visiting his website here: https://www.njwilliams.com/
Also follow Nigel on Instagram: @jazzfmnigel
And on X: @lovenigel
Also check out Nigel Williams at Aircheck Downloads
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Whether you know him as Le Président or Boscoe or even Michael Joseph Pasternak. For the last six decades, Emperor Rosko has brought spontaneous energy to radio station across the globe. From beginning his life in the United States - he went onto achieve a career on stations from Radio Caroline, Radio Luxembourg, Radio Monte-Carlo and achieved National stardom on BBC Radio 1.
In the first episode of this final series, Rosko sits down with Luke to talk about his life on the radio, from developing the bug whilst his Dad was producing films, to joining radio station in the American forces. Before acquiring his licence to work on radio stations, broadcasting in French on Radio Monte Carlo and Radio Luxembourg and getting fired for playing Dancing in the Street during the Student riots. Joining Radio Caroline and how Derek Chinnery recommended him for Radio 1. Becoming a national name with the station and why after nearly 10 years he decided to head back to the states.
You can find out more about Rosko by visiting his website here: https://www.emperorrosko.net/
Also you can hear airchecks and shows of Rosko on both Radio Rewind, a site dedicated to Radio 1 material: https://www.radiorewind.co.uk/radio1/rosko_page.htm
And the Pirate Radio Hall of Fame: https://www.offshoreradio.co.uk/djsq2r.htm
Plus a collection of Airchecks at Aircheck Downloads: https://aircheckdownloads.com/audio-search?term=rosko&sort_bef_combine=relevance_DESC
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Diana Luke hailed from Canada and started her radio journey as a Guest on Radio Hallam, before she landed a gig as the Late Night Host on Viking FM, from there she forged a career on stations that included The Superstation, Jazz FM, BBC GLR and Boom Radio.
In the last in this series of Radio Greats, Diana sits down with Luke to share stories of how her love for Radio began and how a round table discussion on Hallam lead to a career on Viking FM. How she dealt with being a late night presenter on the station and dealing with a stalker. Moving down south to join The Superstation and what it was like to launch Jazz FM. Working for BBC GLR before working for VIVA, BBC Local Radio and Real Radio and how David Lloyd invited her to join Boom Radio.
You can find out more about Diana by visiting her website here https://www.dianaluke.org/
Also Listen to Diana on Boom Radio every weeknight Monday-Thursday here https://www.boomradiouk.com/diana-luke/
Thank you to Aircheck Downloads and Andy Warmsley for the use of content.
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For nearly four decades, Steve Randall has worked on stations around the country - from a career on stations that included Metro Radio, TFM, Fox FM, Power FM, Ocean FM, The Breeze and Spire FM, he now hosts the podcast series Radio Creators.
In this weeks edition of Radio Greats - Steve sits down with Luke to share stories about his life on the radio, from getting the bug for radio and volunteering at Radio Cherwell, before sending demos off to every station in the country. How he joined Metro Radio after initially turning it down, enjoying nearly a decade in the North of England on both Metro and TFM. Turning down a job at Invicta, before moving South to join Fox FM and then later to Power FM. Working in Radio Management on Andover Sound and The Breeze, before leaving for Jack FM. Working on Spire FM before it became GHR Salisbury and how the idea of Radio Creators came about.
You can listen to Radio Creators right here https://radiocreators.com/
And Follow Steve on X here @steverandallUK
Thank you to Steve and Aircheck Downloads for the use of Content.
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For five decades - Steve Jones has enjoyed a National portfolio in both television and radio. Having Presented the successful "Pyramid Game" on ITV, he has enjoyed a radio career from BBC Radio 1 and 2, Radio Clyde, LBC and Talksport.
In this weeks edition of Radio Greats, Steve sits down with Luke to talk about his five decade career on the radio, from a career in music, before landing a job at BBC Radio 1. How he got rejected from Capital, but went onto be a launch presenter for Radio Clyde, and how he worked with the likes of Richard Park and Donald Dewar, moving down to London to join Radio 2 and fronting Early Breakfast and covering the 1980 Eurovision Song Contest, before embarking on a TV career with The Pyramid Game and joining LBC and Talksport.
A Big Thanks to Andy Walmsley, Robin Carmody, Fred Bunzl, Radio Rewind and Aircheck Downloads for the use of content.
You can watch Steve in preparation for Radio Clyde's launch here https://movingimage.nls.uk/film/T0158/74958728?fbclid=IwY2xjawL0qhNleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETBPZVVtWFhKY3FSZERERm5yAR4JZM6bSk8BToukcBzz0kwhBuw5puiYmalvNWlQbCC2C-r9JspAd_sb8lc-GQ_aem_DAD-9p_PLl5g0enqn--SnA
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Howard Pressman has been one of South Yorkshire most recognisable presenters for nearly four decades in the world of Radio, having presented shows on Hallam FM, Magic AM and a near 20 year career on BBC Radio Sheffield. More recently he has been presenting Sunday Mornings on Radio Essentials Sheffield.
In this weeks edition, Howard reflects back on his four decade career from getting the bug at a young age, before getting the job on Radio Hallam and presenting shows including Breakfast and Drivetime, briefly moving up to York to join Minster FM, before returning back to Sheffield to present Breakfast on Magic AM. Leaving commercial radio and entering the BBC with Radio Sheffield. How it felt after nearly 20 years to leave the station and what was going through is mind during that last link, before taking a year off and joining Radio Essentials Sheffield.
Howard currently presents Sunday Mornings on Radio Essentials Sheffield and South Yorkshire where you can listen to him here https://www.radioessentials.co.uk/on-air/howie-on-the-radio/
Listen to Howard's final link from Radio Sheffield on Aircheck Downloads right here https://www.aircheckdownloads.com/uk-airchecks/bbc-radio-sheffield/2020s/howard-pressman-nov-3rd-2023-132
Thank you also to aircheck downloads for the use of content.
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You may have heard his voice on commercials and introducing television programmes - but before he began his career as a Television Announcer and voice artist, Graham Bannerman began his career in radio, having presented shows on stations that included Radio Orwell in Ipswich and Essex Radio. He also achieved National recognition, presenting show for BBC Radio 1 for a six month period.
In this weeks edition of Radio Greats, Graham sits down with Luke to share his Radio journey - which involves listening to Radio Luxembourg and Noel Edmonds on Radio 1, to joining Radio Orwell and working his way from the production side into presenting. How he got the gig on Radio 1, and presented the first show from Egdon House, before moving onto a career on Essex Radio and voice imaging and setting up his own company.
You can check out Graham's website here https://grahambannerman.com/
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After winning a contest to be a Radio DJ on BRMB back in 1993, Toni McDonald has gone onto achieve a career in radio across the Midlands and the South of England in both presentation and production - working for stations including Southern FM, Heart 107, Severn Sound and BBC Local Radio.
In this weeks edition, Toni sits down with Luke to share stories from her three decade journey in the radio world, from getting work at BRMB, to working in research for both Capital and Chrysilis, presenting shows on Southern and and Severn Sound and how she went from Broadcast Assistant to presenting shows across the BBC in Staffordshire, Shropshire and Hereford and Worcester.
Big Thanks to Toni and Aircheck Downloads for the use of content.
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Having enjoyed half a century in Radio across Ireland and the UK, Declan Meehan has earned the title of a Radio Great, from a career in both Pirate Radio, National Radio and Local Radio he has worked on some flagship stations including RTE 2FM, Capital Radio and East Coast FM, where he has hosted the Mid-Morning show for 31 years.
In this weeks edition of Radio Greats, Declan sits down with Luke to share his radio journey, from getting the bug listening to Radio Caroline, BBC Light Programme and Radio Luxembourg - to joining the Pirates with stations including Radio Vanessa and Big D, to joining the national broadcaster RTÉ and being part of the launch of RTÉ Radio 2 and how Breakfast was not all how it was. Returning to the Pirates with Sunshine and Radio Nova, before moving to the UK to join Capital Radio. Turning down a return to RTÉ to join the rival Century Radio and how he's stayed on East Coast FM for the last 31 years.
Big Thanks to Radio Jingles, RTÉ Archives, Aircheck Downloads and the Irish Pirate Radio Audio Archives for the use of content in this episode.
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Steve Power has recently celebrated four decades in the radio business, in both presentation and management, from a career that has included Devonair, Southern Sound, Chiltern, Power FM, Wave 105 and Nation Radio.
This time, Steve sits down with Luke to share his radio journey over the last four decades - from developing the bug for radio, joining Devonair and how he had a dream to work for either Capital or Radio 1. Managing presenters on Chiltern, Southern and Power FM. Joining Wave and presenting a variety of shows for 25 year and returning to frontline broadcasting with Nation Radio.
Thanks to Aircheck Downloads and Radio Retro UK for use of content.
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A pioneer and expert in Audio of the wireless. Paul Bromley has enjoyed four decades in the radio business, presenting shows on Pennine FM, Viking FM, Signal, Ridings FM and Dearne FM.
In this weeks edition of Radio Greats, Paul sits down with Luke to share stories about Radio, Trains and Astronomy. From getting the Radio bug from listening to Pennine and Radio Aire, before joining Hospital Radio - where he learned his crafts, before joining Pennine FM to help out, before getting his first show on New Years Day 1990, becoming the last voice on Pennine before it became Pulse, joining Viking Radio and working with Simon Logan. Moving into GWR and presenting shows for Signal, before launching Ridings FM and Dearne FM, where he ended his tenure as PD, before moving into Train Driving and bouncing back into Radio with LDC presenting the 80's experience.
Big Thanks to Paul and Aircheck Downloads for the use of content.
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From Radio in the USA, to presenting on the longwave in the UK on 252. MaryEllen O'Brien was one of the founding presenters of Atlantic 252, but before that had enjoyed a decade long career working on stations across the United States, which include WBLM in Portland and 93 Rock in California.
In this weeks edition of Radio Greats, MaryEllen shares stories about growing up and taking in American Radio, before getting a licence to join WBLM in Boston - becoming one of the few Woman Daytime presenters on the airwaves, moving to California and joining 93 Rock, before a chance to join Atlantic 252 came up. What working on Atlantic felt like and why when she was at the top of her game, it was time to move back to America.
Thank you to Aircheck Downloads and MaryEllen for use of content.
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Liam Quigley has enjoyed the best part of four decades in the radio business, having worked in Pirate Radio and both Irish and UK radio, including launching stations such as Radio Nova, Century Radio and Heart 106.2.
In the first of two parts, Liam sits down with Luke to share his stories about growing up in Ireland, and how the radio convinced him to give up his dreams of becoming an actor and what pirate radio was really like in Ireland. Moving over to the UK to work for Instore Radio with Virgin Radio and becoming a launch presenter with Radio Nova, to presenting shows for Viking in Hull and what the launch of the first National commercial station in Ireland was really like.
Big Thanks to Aircheck Downloads, The Irish Pirate Radio Audio Archives, RTE Archives and Liam for use of content.
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Liam Quigley has enjoyed the best part of four decades in the radio business, having worked in Pirate Radio and both Irish and UK radio, including launching stations such as Radio Nova, Century Radio and Heart 106.2.
In the second of two parts - Liam continues to share his radio journey with Luke, sharing stories of moving over to 98FM, before getting a call to come to London to launch Heart 106.2, returning back to Dublin for the launch of Lite 102 and taking on Breakfast. How RTE 2FM was not the dream he hoped for and becoming a full time voice artist.
Big Thanks to Aircheck Downloads, The Pirate Radio Audio Archives, Radio Jingles Online, RTE Archives and Liam for the use of content.
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Julian Wharam has enjoyed four decades on radio stations across the country. These have included stints on Radio Aire, Red Dragon, BRMB, Heart Radio, Real Radio and Radio Wyvern.
In this weeks edition of Radio Greats, Julian sits down with Luke to share stories of the stations he worked on and the people he worked with. This includes invaluable advice from Carl Kingston, working with Bruno Brookes and presenting shows for Radio Aire, to how a chat with Mark Franklin at a Cranberries gig led to a job at Red Dragon, where he achieved many great highlights - including presenting a feature that has never been re-created. Presenting shows for BRMB, Real Radio and Heart and how a chance of moving to Worcester led to a re-entry into the radio world.
Big Thanks to Aircheck Downloads and Julian for the use of content.
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A familiar voice on radio across the Midlands - Mike Wyer has enjoyed four decades in the radio world. Having started out in Pirate radio, he went onto a career on stations that included WABC, Saga Radio East Midlands, BBC Hereford and Worcestershire - before coming out of early retirement to join Boom Radio.
In this weeks edition of Radio Greats, Mike sits down with Luke, to share his stories of the radio world - from getting the bug at a young age, to starting his career in Hospital radio, before entering the world of Pirate radio at Sunshine Radio. Joining WABC and later Classic Gold. Rubbing shoulders with some greats of the wireless, joining Saga Radio in the East Midlands, how BBC Local Radio was a culture shock and joining Boom Radio as the voice of the What's on Guide.
Big Thanks to Aircheck Downloads, Radio Archives and Pirate Archives for the use of content in this episode.
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The man behind the creation of jingles of many heritage ILR Stations, kicks off the new series of Radio Greats. But who is the real Muff Murfin? The man behind the sounds of many stations.
Well in this episode of Radio Greats, Muff sits down with Luke to reflect on his life and career in the music industry, how he got into creating radio jingles and how he would pitch jingles to potential stations. How a Capital jingle lead to him creating the theme music to Gladiators before moving on to run stations including Kix 96, The Bear, Mansfield and Sunshine. And relaunching Wyvern and BRMB and bringing back some old friends of the airwaves.
Big Thanks to Aircheck Downloads and Radio Rewind for use of content.
PRS: Your Song, Elton John
PRS: Maggie May, Rod Stewart
For the past 55 years Les Ross has been one of Birmingham's most recognised radio presenters, presenting Breakfast on BRMB for over 26 years, as well as a career on BBC Radio Birmingham, Radio Tees, XTRA AM and Boom Radio.
In the last episode of the season - Les sits down with Luke to reflect on the past 55 Years, from getting the bug for Radio - to winning a DJ event. How he an advert in the paper lead to him joining BBC Radio Birmingham - before launching Radio Tees in Stockton. Returning to Birmingham and spending 26 years on BRMB and XTRA AM, before embarking on a career over to Saga Radio, Boom Radio and the brand new BRMB.
Big Thanks to Aircheck Downloads, Radio Moments, Jeff Featherstone and Professor1036 for the use of content and Thank you to Paul Ellery and Producer Paul for arranging the interview with Les at The BRMB Studios.
For the past 20 years, Vicki Blight has used her skills on the radio to the fullest - launching stations such as Heart 106 in Nottingham and Virgin Radio Pride, becoming a talk jock on Century 106 and BBC Radio Wales and presenting at National Level on BBC Radio 1.
In this weeks edition, Vicki sits down with Luke to reflect on her 20 year career and how she built contacts within the industry - from getting her big break on Red Dragon, before moving to Nottingham to join Century 106 and becoming a launch presenter on Heart 106. To becoming a National name on BBC Radio 1, before moving over to Absolute Radio. Returning back to Wales to join BBC Radio Wales and diving into Sports broadcasting. Launching Virgin Radio Pride and what it is like to take on the role of Producer on the Early Breakfast Show for BBC Radio 2.
Thank you to Aircheck Downloads and Vicki for the use of content.
Regarded as the country and the worlds most recognised Voice Over Artists, Peter Dickson has entertained the country for over five decades with his voice being recognisable on programmes including The X Factor, Britain's Got Talent and All Star Family Fortune, but prior to that he enjoyed a successful career on the radio, presenting shows for BBC Radio 2, Melody FM and Star 106.6
This time round Peter sits down with Luke to share stories about his five decade career - from reading the news and announcing on BBC Radio Ulster, to getting an attachment for BBC Radio 2. Watching some of his heroes broadcast to the nation and presenting Nightride and Nightcap for the Network. How meeting Steve Wright in the BBC Canteen lead to joining his afternoon show with the character Mr Mad. Launching Melody FM and Star 106.6 and how The Name Voice Over Man was born from Steve Wright's Radio 1 Breakfast Show.
Big Thank you to Andy Walmsey, Radio Moments, Paul Jenner, Radio Rewind and Aircheck Downloads for the use of content and Alan Dedicoat for arranging the interview.
Having began his radio journey with Forces Radio, Stuart Freeman has gone onto forge an international career in the radio world, working for Swansea Sound, 2CR and Radio Essex in his native UK, but in recent years has enjoyed a 30 year career on Austrian Radio stations that include Blue Danube and FM4.
In this weeks edition, Stuart sits down with Luke and shares stories of the past 50 years in the business, from getting the bug - listening to the last day of Caroline. Landing the job on Swansea Sound, how a chance at 2CR lead to him presenting shows for Blue Danube and how a holiday in Austria lead to him staying there full time.
Big Thanks to Mark Sandler, Andy Walmsley and Paul Easton for the use of content.
Willie Morgan began his career as a record plugger - which lead to him making contacts with many radio professionals in the industry. From this he secured positions working as a presenter for stations that included Coast AM, SuperGold, Oasis FM, Radio 106 and ever national work with BBC Radio 2.
This time round Willie sits down Luke to share stories of his five decade career across the radio industry from plugging records, to landing a show on Super Gold presenting the Elvis Hour from the launch day in June 1990, running the SuperGold Network - presenting shows for Manx, Radio 106 and Wave 105 and presenting a documentary of Frankie Vaughan for BBC Radio 2.
Big Thanks to Willie and Aircheck Downloads for use of content.
Helen Mayhew has enjoyed a career in the radio business for over 4 decades as both a presenter and producer. She has worked for stations that have included BBC Radio Devon, BBC Radio Kent, BBC Radio 2, Classic FM and of course Jazz FM which she joined as a launch presenter in 1990.
This time round, Helen joins Luke to share stories of her four decade journey in radio, from Pirate radio, to the Sony Radio Award, the launch day of Jazz FM and moving over to National radio.
Big Thanks to Richard Latto and Pat Marsh for the use of content and Darren Altman for arranging the interview.
As one of the countries most recognised impressionists and entertainers, Mike Osman fell into radio by pure accident after he impressed Richard Park at a Black Tie Function in London.
This time on Radio Greats, Mike sits down with Luke to look back on his three decade career from getting the bug for radio and becoming a radio fanatic overnight, with a presenting career that includes Capital Gold, BBC Radio Solent, Smooth Radio and Great British Radio.
Big Thanks to aircheck downloads for the use of content.
Alan Dedicoat has been one of the most recognised voices in the United Kingdom for 45 years, having cemented himself as "The Voice of Balls", "The Voice of Strictly" and the work he has done for BBC Radio 2.
In this weeks Radio Greats, Dedley sits down with Luke to share stories of the past 45 years, from getting the bug for Radio. Starting out on BBC Radio Birmingham, launching BBC Radio Devon to getting an attachment with Radio 2 as an Announcer that lead to him presenting programmes including "Nightride", reading the news and being part of the team of "Wake up to Wogan", before leaving in 2015 to enter the world of Freelance.
Big Thanks to Richard Latto and Andy Walmsley for the use of content.
Having begun his Radio career in New Zealand. David Symonds has had a reputation of being a presenter who has been with stations since Day 1 of their inception. Having been part of the launch team that includes - BBC Radio 1, Capital Radio, Radio Victory, Capital Gold and Boom Radio, he has founded stations in Cyprus and France.
In this weeks Radio Greats, David sits down with Luke to share stories of his six decade career and working for many of the biggest stations across the country. From presenting on the BBC Light Programme, to the famous "Naked" Stunt on BBC Radio 2, what it was like to build a team for Radio Victory and running stations in Cyprus and France.
Big Thanks to Aircheck Downloads, Andy Walmsley and Radio Moments for use of content.
Carol Dooley has spent the last four decades in radio around the world, from Pirate Radio to National Radio and Running stations in her native Ireland and America, she has recently been inducted into the IMRO Radio Awards Hall of Fame.
This time round Carol sits down with Luke to reflect on her four decade career on the wireless, from starting out on Pirate Radio in Ireland, before moving to the UK to start a career at Radio City, before becoming the Travel and Weather presenter on the BBC Radio 1 Breakfast Show, presenting on County Sounds. Moving back to Ireland to launch Rock 104. Moving to America and returning to her Native Ireland to run Radio Nova and present on Sunshine 106.8
Thanks to Aircheck Downloads and Carol for the use of content.
Howard Pearce has spent the last five decades in Radio, working for many local and National stations across the country. These have included Radio Victory, Radio 210, Radio Luxembourg, Radio 2 and Virgin 1215 AM.
In this weeks edition of Radio Greats, Howard sits down with Luke to share stories of his past five decades - which include getting the bug for radio. Joining Victory from its launch and presenting for Radio 210, how recording a demo at the Villa Louvingy in Luxembourg landed him trouble but also got him a job on Radio Luxembourg. Hosting a Syndicated show on ILR and presenting on BBC Radio 2, to spending most of the 90's on Virgin 1215 AM. Presenting on Thames Radio and Smooth and how old friends brought him back onto the radio with UDJ and Sunshine Radio Online.
Thank you to Aircheck Downloads, Radio Moments and Howard for use of content.
For nearly five decades Steve Dewitt has been the voice of Swansea. Having spent his life and career on Swansea Sound, hosting various shows before moving to BBC Radio Wales.
In this weeks Radio Greats episode, Steve sits down with Luke to share his tales of the last five decades from doing odd jobs at Swansea Sound for the Programme Controller, to getting his own show. How he introduced a young Rob Brydon to the world of Radio, before moving over to BBC Radio Wales and how he nearly became a national voice during the Millennium Bug, returning back to Swansea Sound and becoming the last local "English" voice for Greatest Hits Radio South Wales and returning back to radio for the launch of SA Radio Live.
Thanks to Steve, Aircheck Downloads, Radio Jingles Online and Shaun Tilley for the use of content.
Neil Long has enjoyed a career on the Radio lasting three decades, that have included stints on Capital Radio, Radio Essex and Radio Jackie.
In this edition of Radio Greats, Neil sits down with Luke to talk about his love for the wireless, including how through a coincidence of meeting Mick Brown lead to him landing a job on Capital Radio and being one of the last voices from Euston Tower. Moving to Essex to take on Breakfast on Radio Essex, before moving back to London to join the launch team of Radio Jackie.
Thank you to Aircheck Downloads for the use of airchecks and thank you to Martin Mumford and Andy Walmsley for Addition Information on Kingston FM.
David Tighe has enjoyed a career of over 40 Years in the Radio Business, presenting shows for CNFM, Severn Sound, Horizon, Chiltern and TFM and also a career running station across the world, including a stint with Bauer Northern Ireland.
In this weeks edition, David sits down with Luke to share the stories of his life and career on Radio, from being part of the launch team of CNFM - to how it was a dream to work on the HOT FM and presenting Breakfast. Getting his first management job at TFM, before moving to Ireland to begin a career on Irish Radio and how different it is compared to UK Radio, before running his own business and returning to Radio to run Bauer Northern Ireland.
Thanks to David and Aircheck Downloads for the use of content.
*This episode was recorded before the sad passing of Paul Chantler, who is referenced in this podcast - as a result all audio recorded took place before his death on March 31 2024.
Paul Coia was the first voice heard on Channel 4 back in November 1982, and hosted various programmes for Television, but before his television career took off - he began his career on the local station Radio Clyde.
In this week's edition of Radio Greats, Paul sits down with Luke to share his broadcasting tales, from getting the bug for radio, how DJ-ing at a party for Clyde led to an overnight show. Presenting for Radio 2, LBC and Radio Berkshire and what its like to go from Music Jock to Talk Jock.
Thanks to Paul, Radio Rewind and Aircheck Downloads for use of content
Rich Clarke has been in our ears for the last three decades, presenting shows for CFM, Wyvern, Trent and Key 103. Reaching National Level with Capital and The Vodafone Big Top 40, and returning to Local radio with Heart South.
In this week edition, Rich sits down with Luke and shares his stories of the wireless. From setting up a uni stations, to creating features on CFM. Becoming deputy PD for Wyvern and Trent, working with Lucy Horobin and Kat Shoob and how a brutal feedback session with Richard Park - lead to a gig on Capital.
Thanks to aircheck downloads for the use of content.
Steve Madden began his career as a Teacher, before joining the BBC on a Graduate Training scheme. From then on he went onto present shows for Radio 2, BBC Local Radio in Cambridge, Norfolk and Berkshire and work for BFBS and Victory Online.
In this weeks edition of Radio Greats, Steve sits down with Luke to share his stories of the wireless, from listening to John Peel and Roger Scott, to working on BBC World Service and Parkinson. Joining Radio 2 and spending 15 years presenting "Nightride", moving into BBC Local Radio and working alongside many big names and how a close friend encouraged him to re-enter the industry.
Thanks to Aircheck Downloads and Steve for the use of audio.
Glenn Pinder is one of Yorkshire's most recognised voices of the Wireless. Having Presented shows for Radio Aire and Magic 828 and worked with some of the biggest names in Radio.
Today he sits down with Luke to chat about the past three decades of radio, from landing a gig at Radio Aire and presenting programmes from Burley Road, moving over to Magic 828 and why after almost two decades at Burley Road he left to move into Independent Production.
Big Thanks to Aircheck Downloads and Paul Bromley for the use of audio.
Martin Buchanan has been a well known voice on British Radio and TV for the past four decades, working on Radio Luxembourg, Capital Gold, BBC World Service, Magic 105.4 and BBC Radio Kent.
Speaking in this weeks edition of Radio Greats, he chats to Luke about his life on the wireless, and also about TV - from work at Radio 210, to being on Musicbox, presenting shows for Luxembourg and sitting in for David Hamilton on Capital Gold. Presenting for BBC Radio Kent and Sunshine Online and working on Documentaries for the wireless.
Big Thanks to Aircheck Downloads for the use of audio.
Rachael Hopper has been retired from the radio business since 2010, but before then she enjoyed a 20 year career as a presenter and producer on the GWR Network, Radio 1, Capital and Heart Radio.
In this edition of Radio Greats, Rachael sits down with Luke to share her career of the wireless. From working with her Mum at BBC Radio Cumbria, to losing out to Margaretha Taylor on a Radio contest for BRMB. Presenting Breakfast on RAM FM in Derby and Evenings on Mercia and how Geri Halliwell stole her hairstyle. Producing Dave Pearce and Pete Tong at Radio 1, before presenting on Capital Radio. Working for Heart and how after becoming a Mother, she left the radio business.
Big Thanks to Aircheck Downloads for the use of content.
Phil Kennedy has spent over 40 years on the radio and has worked on some of the biggest stations including BBC Radio 1, Virgin Radio and LBC. But has also enjoyed a career on Local Radio from Radio City, Red Dragon, 210FM and BBC Local Radio in London and Berkshire.
Today he chats to Luke about how he got the bug for Radio. How a gig at Radio Topshop lead to him working for BBC Radio 1, and covering for Steve Wright and interviewing Ken Bruce. How he made the move to Radio City and Red Dragon, before working on The Superstation. Working on BBC GLR and Virgin Radio, before embarking on a 20 year career on BBC Radio Berkshire and how an interview with Nick Heyward - lead to him creating his own podcast.
Thanks to Aircheck Downloads for the use of content.
Tony Fisher has enjoyed nearly four decades on the wireless, in both presentation and management. Some of the stations have included Pennine, BBC Radio Leeds, Century, Galaxy, Wyvern and BBC Radio Hereford and Worcester.
In this edition of Radio Greats, Tony shares with Luke his journey from gaining a YTS placement on Pennine and working with Paul Burnett, moving to BBC Radio Leeds and taking a new discipline, getting his first management position with Minster in York. Launching Century 105 in Newcastle, how he became a Dance Music DJ with Kiss and Galaxy, before working on Invicta, Wyvern and BBC Local Radio.
Thanks to Aircheck Downloads and Paul Bromley for use of airchecks.
Billy Butler has enjoyed a career spanning six decades on radio and television. For Over 45 years he presented shows on BBC Radio Merseyside and 7 years on Radio City. He also hosted a Friday Night Show on BBC Radio 2 during 1988 until 1990.
In this edition of Radio Greats, Billy sits down with Luke to look back on his broadcasting career and share stories of radio and television, working on Chucklevision, working alongside Wally Scott and meeting Brian Epstein and other great stories.
Randall Lee Rose grew up in America and was taken in by American Radio growing up, before he moved to the UK to forge a career on stations such as Radio Caroline and Capital Gold.
In this edition of Radio Greats, Randall sits down with Luke to share the stories of his career on the Radio in the UK, from getting the bug, working on Radio Caroline - being part of the original line-up of Capital Gold and covering Kenny Everett. Working alongside Richard Park and how the move to Country 1035 was one of his biggest regrets. Freelancing on Virgin and Mercury before presenting on Big L and returning to Gold Radio as the voice of the station.
Thanks to Aircheck Downloads for use of content.
Neale James has enjoyed a 35 Years career on the radio from working across Local and National Radio, including a three year stint at BBC Radio 1.
In this edition of Radio Greats, Neale sits down with Luke to look back on his career, from working under his real name of James Bartholomew at BBC Radio Cambridgeshire, to working at Chiltern in the Home Counties, before enjoying a three year career on BBC Radio 1, including hosting the first independent Radio show "Rockline". Working for the GWR Group and taking on Breakfast with 210. Going into management with an old Radio 1 colleague, before hanging up his headphones to become a Wedding Photographer.
Thanks to Aircheck Downloads, Radio Rewind and Barry Denton for the use of audio.
For 23 Years, Roger Scott was one of the countries most recognised voice on the Radio, presenting Drivetime for Capital Radio for 15 of those years and Saturday Sequence and Scott on Sunday for BBC Radio 1. As a Radio DJ he introduced us to the likes of Bruce Springsteen and features such as The Three O' Clock Thrill and Crusin.
In this special programme to mark what would have been his 80 Birthday, Naomi Cutler looks back on the life of The DJ's DJ, speaking to many well known names in the industry who worked alongside and asks the question, why is Roger Scott still a huge influence?
Interviews: Nicky Horne, Johnny Beerling, Sue Cook, Paul McKenna, Mick Brown, Paul Rowley, Jan Ravens and Paul Robinson.
Written and Produced by Luke Davies
Narrated by Naomi Cutler
Thank you to Jamie Scott for use of content and support.
Recorded at Radio Platfform, Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff
PRS:
Incense and Peppermints (J. Carter/T. Gilbert MCA Inc.)
There She Goes (Lee Mavers EMI Records/Universal)
Dead Already (Thomas Newman Dreamworks Record)
Gary King has enjoyed 40 years on the wireless and has worked on almost every single station in the entire country, and has reached National level with Radio Luxembourg, BBC Radio 1 and Smooth Radio.
In this last of the encore series of Radio Greats, Gary joins Luke to share stories of his 40 year career, from getting the bug and how a chance of leaving Radio Topshop saw him join Radio Luxembourg. Launching Atlantic 252 before reaching National Level with Radio 1. Working for Key 103, Virgin Radio and Heart Radio, landing the dream with Capital Radio and current work with Smooth Radio.
Thanks to Aircheck Downloads for use of content.
You may have remembered hearing Wendy Lloyd’s voice on programmes such as The Great British Menu and commercials on television, but before all that she enjoyed 18 years on Radio stations.
In this weeks edition of Radio Greats, Wendy joins Luke to share the stories of her 18 years in the Industry, from Work Experience at BBC Radio Cambridgeshire, Being Part of the Launch team of BBC GLR, being one of the last voices on Radio Luxembourg. Joining the launch team of Virgin Radio and why Radio 1 wasn’t the dream it was meant to be. Hosting the funeral of Princess Diana on Talk Radio and hosting her own Podcast series "Open to Criticism”.
Big Thanks to Aircheck Downloads, John Foster and Wendy for the use of content. And thank you to Enda Caldwell for arranging the interview.
During the 80's and 90's Sybil Ruscoe was best known for hosting programmes on Radio 1 and Radio 5 Live. Including a successful stint as part of the Radio 1 Breakfast Show Team during 1988 and 1989 and later fronting Newbeat between 1990 and 1993.
In this weeks edition of Radio Greats, Sybil looks back on her career from working in Newspapers, before a chance came to join the New Radio Wyvern in Worcestershire, being part of the launch team for BBC Radio Shropshire, getting the call to join Newsbeat on Radio 1 and later joining the Team of Radio 1 Breakfast with Simon Mayo and Rod McKenzie, leaving to front News 90-93, joining the launch of Radio 5 Live and also working for Radio 4 on Farming Today and The Archers.
Massive Thanks to Aircheck Downloads, Radio Rewind, Andy Walmsley and Sybil for the use of audio.
Steve Priestley has enjoyed over 30 years on the Radio from a career across the country. He has presented shows for Fox FM, BRMB, Magic 105.4 FM and The Breeze Network.
In this weeks edition of Radio Greats, Steve sits down with Luke to chat about his 30 year career on the Radio, how it was his dream to work for Capital, being part of the launch team of Fox FM in Oxfordshire, how a meeting with Richard Park lead him to present shows for BRMB and how he got the chance to work at Euston Tower with the Network Charts. Making it to London for Magic 105.4 and presenting over the 7/7 Bombings, moving up North for The Bauer City 1 Network and returning South to present on Breeze, before returning back to The North to take on Afternoons on Greatest Hits Radio Yorkshire.
Big Thanks to Aircheck Downloads, for use of content.
Simon Ross has enjoyed the best part of 37 Years on Radio stations around the country, from some of the successes from Rock in Preston, Capital in London and now currently Breakfast on Greatest Hits Radio.
In this weeks edition Radio Greats, Rossie sits down with Luke to share some of the highlights from his 37 years career on the wireless from moving to London from Northern Ireland and working as a Chef before working for In Store Radio. Presenting on Rock FM, before getting the call from Richard Park to join Capital Radio, moving to Radio Aire in Leeds and then taking over Breakfast on Radio City, before launching Greatest Hits Radio in 2019.
Big Thanks to Aircheck Downloads for use of content.
For the past 38 Years, Mark Forrest has enjoyed a career on stations across the country from Radio Tees, Metro Radio, Virgin Radio, Classic FM, BBC Local Radio and Scala Radio.
In this edition of Radio Greats, Mark looks back on his career from getting the bug and listening to the Radio whilst studying for his A-Levels, to starting his career on Radio Tees before getting mentored by Giles Squires on Metro Radio and enjoying a Decade across the North East of Radio. Moving down to London in 1995 to join Virgin Radio and Interviewing amongst those Johnny Depp. Working for Century and Heart, before spending a decade on Classic FM and handing over to Simon Bates, to taking over a network evening show on BBC Local Radio and how a call at the BBC lead to him join Scala Radio.
Thank you to Aircheck Downloads, Radio Jingles Online and Radio Moments for use of content.
Paul McKenna is better known worldwide as Hypnotist and Self Help Author, but before he started out on Stage and TV, he was a renowned Radio presenter, working for Instore, Pirate, Local and National Radio - including a brief stint on Radio 1.
In the final edition of Radio Greats, Paul sits down with Luke to look back on his 10 Year career on the wireless, from developing the Radio Bug, to starting out on Radio Topshop. Spending 5 weeks on Radio Caroline and making demos for Radio 1, before landing the Breakfast Show on Chiltern in The Three Counties. Working for Capital Radio and how after 5 Months on Radio 1, he decided it was time to move into TV.
Big Thanks to Aircheck Downloads, Radio Rewind and Offshore Radio for use of airchecks and David Bovington for arranging the interview.
For over 50 Years, Graham Dene has been one of the countries most recognised voices, having hosted Breakfast on Capital Radio and presented programmes for Virgin, Magic and now Boom Radio.
In this weeks edition, Graham sits down with Luke to look back on his 50 Year career, from getting the bug - becoming the New Kids on the Block with Capital Radio, working with the likes of Kenny Everett and Michael Aspel. Becoming Friends with Princess Diana, moving over to Virgin and Magic Radio, presenting shows for the BBC Local Radio and how a conversation with David Lloyd lead to the creation of Boom Radio.
Thanks to Aircheck Downloads, Simon Luckin, David Lloyd and JREGO for use of audio.
For 24 Years, Janey Lee Grace was part of the successful team behind Steve Wright in the Afternoon, having previously presented shows for BBC GLR and Virgin Radio.
This time round, Janey sits down with Luke to chat about the past three decades on the wireless, from starting out on a Radio course, to hosting a Gospel show for GLR - how getting into the charts with Cola Boy, saw her leave the mic for Top of The Pops. Returning to work on Radio with Virgin and how she landed the job at BBC Radio 2.
Big Thanks to Aircheck Downloads, Radio Jingles, Rob Farrell, Andy Walmsley and Noel Tyrrel for use of content.
For the last 37 Years, Simon Grundy has presented shows for BBC Radio Lincolnshire, Lincs FM, CFM and currently Breakfast on Sun FM, which he has done for 25 Years.
This week Simon sits down to chat to Luke about he developed the bug for Radio, how it was listening to Terry Wogan which got him inspired. What launching a station like Lincs FM was like and how David LLoyd had to find a UHER to listen to his demo. Moving to Carlisle to host Breakfast on CFM and what the last 25 years have been like on Sun FM.
Thanks to Aircheck Downloads for use of content.
Philip Chryssikos has been one of the countries most recognisable News Voices on ILR for the last 30 Years, having spent most of that career working under the Capital Group.
In this weeks edition Philip chats to Luke about how he always wanted to work for Capital and how he never let his dream die away, but also how he was part of the launch team with Star FM, how he would change personas from News reading to Radio presenting and what it was like to achieve that dream before he was 30.
Big Thanks to Philip and Aircheck Downloads for use of content.
Dave Sherwood has enjoyed thirty years in the Radio, from Presenting and Management - he has worked for Rock FM, Power FM, Heart 100.7, Century and Sun FM.
In this weeks edition of Radio Greats, Dave sits down with Luke to reflect on his 30 year career, from a three hour chat with Fluff Freeman at Capital, to getting a gig with Radio Topshop, how he thought a call from Richard Park was a prank call and working in management with The Pulse and Wireless Network. Plus stories along the way of some amazing presenters he's worked with.
Big Thanks to Aircheck Downloads for use of content.
Charlie Jordan has spent the best part of three decades working on Radio Stations across the country, including stints for Capital, BBC Radio 1 and Smooth Radio.
In this weeks edition of Radio Greats, Charlie looks back on the 30 Years of Radio, from getting her first gig on Buzz FM, before making the move to London to work on Capital Radio, working for BRMB and presenting shows for the National Radio 1. And How Buying a Cream Egg lead her to present drive on Smooth Radio West Midlands.
Big Thanks to Aircheck Downloads for the use of content.
John Foster has spent the last three decades on the Wireless, working for stations that include TFM, Great Yorkshire Gold, BBC Radio Tees and even presenting National on Radio 5 Live
This week John sits down with Luke to chat about the past three decades in Radio, how it was a clock radio that saw him develop the Radio Bug, how Radio Tees was the station he wanted to work for. Starting his career on Radio Cleveland, before getting his first gig on TFM. How Great Yorkshire Radio was the station that he had the best time on. Taking on his first management stint with Sun FM, how presenting Breakfast for TFM was a dream come true and what is was like to go from a music jock to a journalist jock with BBC Radio Tees.
Big thanks to John and Aircheck Downloads for use of the airchecks.
Steve Colman has enjoyed nearly 50 Years on Radio stations across the country from working on Local and National Radio's that have included Viking FM, Metro, Great Yorkshire Gold, Magic and Smooth.
In this edition of Radio Greats, Steve shares his story of how he got the Radio Bug - from starting out on the Legendry UBN Radio, before making the move to instore Radio and Pirate Radio, followed by a stint in Austria on Blue Danube and even making it to National with BBC Radio 2. What the launch of Viking was like and time at Metro Radio, to working for Great Yorkshire Gold, Classic Gold, Magic and returning to Breakfast Radio on Smooth Radio North East.
Thanks to Aircheck Downloads, John Foster, Andy Walmsley and Bob Le Roi for the use of airchecks.
Paul Coyte has enjoyed 37 Years in the radio industry, starting from Hospital Radio - he worked his way into Instore Radio, before embarking on a career on commercial radio which included Virgin Radio and Gold.
In this weeks edition of Radio Greats, Paul looks back on his career from cutting his teeth in Virgin Megastores, presenting Breakfast for Hereward FM and how he often ended up in the bosses office. The launch of Virgin and how upset he was of not being part of it, to getting the gig and interviewing Celebrities and Pop Stars, to presenting for Gold and interviewing and working with the Greats of Radio and presenting his passion for Sport on Talk Sport and GBNews.
Big Thanks to Paul and Aircheck Downloads for the use of the content
For 20 Years, Russ Kane was part of the successful team behind The Capital Radio Breakfast Show, Flying 1000 Feet across London in the Flying Eye. Today Russ has become an advocate for Mental Health and co-owns a station called Mens Radio.
In this weeks edition of Radio Greats, Russ sits down with Luke to look back on his Radio journey, from accidently getting the Flying Eye Job, to working alongside Graham Dene and Chris Tarrant, stories of the Party in the Park and pulling in 4 million listeners a day. To becoming a Champion of Mental Health causes and why he had to create Mens Radio.
Big Thanks to Aircheck Downloads and David Cunningham for use of airchecks
Harriet Scott has worked in the Radio Business for the last three decades and has hosted shows for Viking, 210FM, BRMB, Virgin, Heart and Magic.
In this edition of Radio Greats, Harriet chats with Luke to share her Radio journey, from getting the radio bug, how it was Al Dupree who gave her the foot in the door at Viking, where she hosted Breakfast, Saturday Evenings and Drivetime. How it was her aim to move to London and how Steve Wright Persuaded her to host Breakfast on 210FM. Presenting shows for BRMB, Virgin and Heart, how it was a learning curve at BBC Local Radio and becoming Breakfast Host on Magic Radio.
Big Thanks to Aircheck Downloads, 210Thames Valley, Ben Atkinson and Brian Clearly for use of airchecks.
For over 40 Years, John Simons has worked in both Radio Presentation and Radio Management. Presenting Shows for stations that include Radio Tees and Radio Nottingham, to forming the successful partnership with John Meyers and launching some of the most successful stations in the country.
In this weeks edition Simo chats to Luke to reflect on the last 40 Years of how he went from Presenter to Manager, how the Meyers/Simo Partnership Formed, what it was like to Launch Stations like Century, Real and Smooth and leaving the Management behind to become a Radio Consultant.
Big Thanks to Aircheck Downloads for the use of content.
Phil Upton has spent the last 35 Years in Radio across the West Midlands and has been dubbed by many as Mr. Birmingham
This time, Phil joins Luke to share his stories about being on the wireless for over three decades. From DJ-ing at Nightclubs, to getting an offer by Phil Riley to join BRMB, Working for Heart and Galaxy, why returning to BRMB was a mistake and making the move to BBC Local Radio to from Breakfast on CWR.
Big Thanks to Aircheck Downloads for use of content.
Keith Martin first entered Radio in 2004, after 25 years of spinning the discs at nightclubs.
In this weeks Radio Greats, Keith sits down with Luke to share how he developed the Radio Bug, how his wife encouraged him to continue submitting radio demos to stations. How Magic gave him his chance to present a weekend show. Working alongside Tony Blackburn, Mike Read and DLT, how he interviewed some of Motown Greats, continuing with the BC2 Network and taking over Steppin Out on Pride Radio.
Big Thanks to Aircheck Download for use of content.
Tom Price cut his teeth in acting and comedy, he starred in the cult series "Torchwood" and the film "The Boat That Rocked". But did you know Radio was his first love.
In this weeks edition he joins Luke to share his career on the radio, how he developed the bug from listening to Derek Jameson on Radio 2, getting a gig with BBC Radio Wales and how to perform comedy on the Wireless. How working for Magic has become a dream come true, with presenting weekend breakfast and interviewing Jim Carrey and George Ezra.
Big Thanks to Aircheck Downloads, Andy Walmsey, BBC Sounds, and Tom for the use of content
Kick Starting a New Series - Clare Ashford has spent three decades in radio across the country, working for Capital, Chiltern, Virgin and BBC Radio Shropshire.
This time she sits down with Luke to reflect on the past three decades, from making demos and sending them to Radio 1, GLR and Capital. How she started from the backrooms too presenting overnights on Capital, spending 5 years at Euston Towers, to working for Chiltern, Liberty and Virgin and moving to The BBC in 2005 and working for Radio Shropshire and what the lockdown was like as a Broadcaster.
Big Thanks to Aircheck Downloads for use of content.
Lynn Parsons has spent over 35 Years on the Wireless working for some of the most high profile stations from Capital, Radio 1, Radio 2, Smooth Radio and Magic.
In the last edition of this series, Lynn sits down with Luke to share with him how she developed the bug for Radio. How a Bet on TV-AM led her to a meeting with Richard Park, who opened the door for her to present on Capital. How She accepted the job at Radio 1 and became the Queen of Overnights, how leaving R1 was not a hard decision. Working for Radio 2, being offered shows for Smooth Radio and how every Adventure has lead to Better Things.
Thanks to Aircheck Downloads and Andy Walmsley for use of content.
For the past three decades Paul Gough, better known as Goffy has been one of the North East's most recognised and acclaimed Broadcasters. Working on Stations from Century, Metro, TFM and BBC Radio Tees.
This time on Radio Greats, Goffy sits down with Luke to reflect on the 30 Years of the Wireless, from listening to Radio Tees as a child, to working with the legend John Myers and being part of the launch team for Century 100-102. How Myers became a huge influence on him, working alongside Alan Robson on Metro and presenting shows for TFM. How a Moment in his life led him to develop a feature that would eventually become the foundations for BBC's Make a Difference and presenting shows on BBC Radio Tees.
Thanks to Paul Gough, Stevie Gee and Aircheck Downloads for use of content. Thank you to Stuart White for organising and arranging the interview.
Steve Jordan has been one of the most recognised voices on Radio across Yorkshire and The Midlands for nearly three decades, having worked on stations from Lincs FM, Viking, Century East Midlands, KCFM and BBC Radio Derby.
In this edition, hear Steve share his story of how it was listening to Mike Read on Radio 1 that saw him develop the bug for radio, how David Lloyd made his career come true on Lincs FM and being taken aback when he was asked to host Breakfast. How it was a dream come true to present shows for Viking, how leaving Century for Leicester was his biggest regret and how Tony Blackburn became his regular cover for KCFM.
Thanks to aircheck downloads for the use of content.
Martin Emery has been one of the North of England's most recognised voices for the past three decades, as a presenter of shows for Imagine FM, Tower FM and the Wireless Network he also enjoyed a career as a Sound Producer for several high profile stations.
This time Martin joins Luke to reflect on the 30 Years of Experience he has achieved in the Broadcasting Industry, from getting the radio bug, beginning work with BBC GMR, presenting shows for LITE AM and turning down a job on Piccadilly Radio. Moving across Manchester to work on Imagine and Tower and how it compared the big beast of Key 103. How he managed to produce a High Profile documentary for Radio 1 and landing the Gig as one of the DJ's on Peter Kay's Car Share.
Neil Francis has spent nearly 40 years in the radio business and worked on some of the countries most recognised stations, including Capital FM and Virgin Radio and has interviewed the likes of Al Pacino and every day people.
This time on Radio Greats, Neil reflects on his four decade career on the wireless, from how it was listening to Greg Edward that saw him develop the bug, how an unfortunate experience on Radio Caroline nearly put him off radio, finding success on Chiltern and Invictia and interviewing Celebrities at The Oscars. Getting to Capital in the 2000's, before moving to Virgin and how working for Solar Radio is almost where it all began.
Big Thanks to Aircheck Downloads, Neil and offshore radio for the use of content.
Bob Lawrence has spent over 40 Years in the Radio Business, both in front and behind the mic and working on all aspects from Hospital, Pirate and Commercial.
This time Bob shares with Luke his radio journey, from how he developed the bug for the Wireless. How His Brother introduced him to Radio, how working for Radio Caroline was a dream and then working for stations in the Midlands including BRMB and Beacon and how the move to Beacon was like a Football club move and joining UDJ and the behind the scenes drama.
Big Thanks to Aircheck Downloads for use of content.
Dan Wood has enjoyed nearly 20 Years of Broadcasting on stations up and down the country from Viking in Hull, Aire in Leeds, The One Network and GEM in the Midlands.
This time on Radio Greats, he joins Luke to reflect on the past 20 years of fun on the Wireless, from getting the bug from listening to Pete Tong on BBC Radio 1, to developing skills in Student Radio. Working for Viking in Hull and Radio Aire in Leeds, to moving to become a National voice with the One Network. What it was like to work on TFM, the station he grew up listening too and the fun he enjoyed working on GEM in the Midlands.
Thanks to Dan and Aircheck Downloads for the use of content.
Eamonn Kelly has spent the past 30 Years working on Radio stations in The UK, from Broadland, Invicta, Capital Gold and Smooth Radio.
This time he chats with Luke to share the 30 Years of Experience he has achieved from Pirate Radio in Ireland, to moving to the UK and working on various stations. How Bob Harris had left a legacy on Broadland, how it was aim to work on Capital or Radio 1 and how Richard Park made that happen. Working with his heroes on Capital Gold and how he got the gig with Smooth Radio.
Big Thanks to Aircheck Downloads for use of content.
Enda Caldwell began his life on Pirate Radio in Ireland, before making the big break over onto Atlantic 252, before embarking on career on stations all over the world from Today FM, Radio Luxembourg, Radio Rivera, XFM and many more.
This time he sits down with Luke to discuss how he developed the Radio bug, what the Pirate revival was like, being the final voice on Atlantic 252 and being Roger Moore's favourite presenter on Rivera Radio.
Thanks to Aircheck Downloads for use of content.
Graham Mack has enjoyed 30 Years of Experience in Radio Presenting and Management in both Australia and the UK, working on stations from 2CR, BRMB, Century, TFM and BOB FM.
This time on Radio Greats he reflects to Luke about the 30 Years on work on Radio, from listening to Piccadilly and Radio City, to emigrating to Australia to achieve his dream on stations out there. Arriving back and working for 2CR, how Clive Dickens got him on BRMB, to working for Century and TFM and reuniting Russ and Jono for Fix Radio.
Thanks to Graham and Aircheck Downloads for use of content/
Des Paul has enjoyed the past 26 Years in the Radio Industry, working as a Presenter, Controller and manager for some of the stations most recognised stations.
Reflecting on his 26 Years, Des chats to Luke about how American Radio inspired him to choose a career behind the mic, working for Power in Southampton and how nervous his first show was. Presenting for Capital Radio and how Richard Park was like the Alex Ferguson of Radio, becoming Head of Music for Choice FM, and after almost a decade a way from the mic, what its like to be back with Greatest Hits Radio and Magic Soul.
Thanks to Aircheck Downloads for the use of content.
Ian Brannan has been one of the countries most recognised voice over artists, but has also enjoyed 26 years in Radio, working for a variety of stations.
This time, he sits down with Luke to reflect on his 26 years on the wireless, from starting out in Hospital Radio, cutting his teeth in traffic and travel, working for Radio Leeds and Sun FM, being part of the launch team of Real Radio Yorkshire and hosting Breakfast in South Wales. What the Buy out was also like in 2012 and working for Smooth in the North East and London.
Big Thanks to Aircheck Downloads for use of content.
Spence MacDonald has worked in Radio for the past 35 Years on stations around the country, including Key 103, Century and Heart North Wales.
In this edition he joins Luke to chat about how he got the Radio Bug, starting out on lates with Marcher, presenting the final show on Piccadilly before it split frequencies, producing Mark Goodier's Radio 1 show and even covering for Claire Sturgess on the Weekend. Presenting Breakfast for Key 103, forming the MacDonald and Maguire Partnership on Century, returning to North Wales with Heart and coming out of retirement to front Breakfast on Happy Radio.
Big Thanks to Aircheck Downloads and Spence for use of Airchecks.
Russ Williams has been one of the countries most recognised voices on the Radio for the past 36 years, working on stations from Southern Sound, Metro, Capital, Virgin, Absolute and Smooth.
This time he sits down with Luke to reflect on the past 36 Years from getting the radio bug, working on Capital Radio and sharing an office with Kenny Everett, Moving to Virgin and the famous partnership with Jono Coleman and what the transition from Virgin to Absolute was like, rekindling with Richard Park at Smooth and what tricks Nation have up their sleeve for the future.
Big Thanks to Aircheck Downloads, for the use of Content.
For 37 Years, Steve Hyland has been one of the most recognised voices on ILR Stations and also a familiar face on Shopping Channels in the UK.
This time he sits down with Luke to reflect on the past three decades in the business, from getting the gig at Mercury, to the famous Nicola Bryant Jingle, what the transition from radio to television was like, working for Smooth and Coast 96 and returning recently to the airwaves on All Oldies Radio.
Big thanks to Steve and Aircheck Downloads for the use of audio content.
Both Simon Jagger and Chris Woods have been household names in Radio for over 30 years, having started in Hospital Radio, they have enjoyed a career on Sunset 102, Northant 96, Real Radio Wales and Heart South Wales.
In this weeks edition they join Luke to talk about how The Jagger and Woody Partnership was formed, working for Sunset 102 and how the station collapsed quite quickly, being offered Breakfast on Northant 96 and how an encounter with Earl Spencer lead to an autograph and moving to Wales and becoming household names on Real Radio and Heart.
Big Thanks to Stacey Harris and Aircheck Downloads for use of content.
Phil Fothergill has entertained the nation on the Radio for over half a century, from starting out as a Tech Op on BBC Radio Brighton, he was part of the launch team with Wales' first Local Radio station Swansea Sound and was also part of the launch of Chiltern, CNFM and All Oldies Radio.
This time round Phil sits down with Luke to reflect on his 50 year broadcasting career, from an encounter with Kenny Everett at Radio Brighton, to presenting the Breakfast Show on Swansea Sound for 4 years and how Paul McKenna was his proudest achievement at Chiltern.
Big Thanks to Aircheck Downloads, Karl Burtonshaw, Radio Memories and Paul Rowley for the use of audio.
Tim Smith has worked on Hospital, Pirate, Instore and Commercial Radio for the last four decades, including stints on Radio Luxembourg and Capital Radio. This time on Radio Greats, he sits down with Luke to discuss his life on the wireless, from work on Mercury and Luxembourg, how Mark Goodier recommended him for a gig on Metro in Newcastle and how four years in the North East brought Happy Memories, to fulfilling his dream to work on Capital Radio and why after 27 years away from the Mic, Lockdown has given him a reason to return to the Radio.
Big Thanks to Aircheck Downloads for use of content.
Elisa Hilton has been one of Yorkshire's most recognised Broadcasters in the world of Radio. In this weeks edition, Elisa sits down with Luke to chat about how she got into the radio industry, how she always wanted to work for Rock FM, but stayed in Yorkshire with Radio Aire, how Hirsty rescued her and got her a position with Pulse. Moving to Real Radio, and her brief stint with Overnights and returning to where it all started in Minster.
Big Thanks to the guys at Aircheck Downloads for use of content.
Paul Griffiths, better known as Griffo has been one of the most recognised broadcaster across Yorkshire for the best part of 20 years, but began his journey back in 1992 in North Wales. On this weeks edition, Griffo sits down with Luke to chat about the past three decades in the industry, how he got the radio bug, how Marcher was a who's who of Demi Gods and how his Media teacher got him a work place there, which lead to him getting paid work and hosting every single show on the station, to moving to Viking in Yorkshire and how the audience cared about the station, to work with Aire and Pulse and current work with BBC Radio Leeds.
Kick Starting a New Series, Adrian John woke the Nation up during the Eighties on BBC Radio 1. As a man who is passionate of Radio, Adrian sits down with Luke to discuss how he developed the Radio Bug, how the gig at Radio 1 happened, the move to commercial radio and how a child's call on his Radio Kent show, made him switch careers from Radio to Psychotherapy.
Danny Pietroni has worked on stations up and down the country since 1989. In the last episode of this series, Danny sits down with Luke to chat about his 32 years on the Wireless, from starting out on In-Store Radio, to getting a gig with Chiltern and Rock FM. Working on The Super Station and Key 103, Heart and Magic and to current work on Smooth Radio.
Big thanks to the team at Aircheck Downloads for use of content.
Terry Underhill has been on our Radio's for the best part of 40 years working on stations across the country and has somewhat of a habit of being part of Launch Teams. In this edition, Terry sits down with Luke to discuss his career on the wireless, spanning from presenting and management. What it was like to be part of Marcher Sound, launching Real Radio in both Wales and Yorkshire. Heading up UTV and after 9 years away from the Mic, working for Greatest Hits South Wales.
Big Thanks to Aircheck Downloads and Radio Memories for use of audio.
Ray Rose has worked in the radio business since 1985, being a voice across the North of England and Wales on stations from Marcher, Sunset and Magic. In this weeks edition of Radio Greats. Ray chats to his former colleague Luke about how he got the Radio Bug, how Terry Underhill and Mike Shaft have saved his career, the truth about Sunset 102 and how the transition period from Magic to City 2 was an unfortunate one.
Special Thank you too Aircheck Downloads for use of content.
Paul Jordan began his career on the Radio in the early eighties with Radio City, before progressing over to BBC Radio 1 in the Summer of 1985. He later went onto successfully manage Rock FM in Preston and currently presents for Sandgrounder Radio.
In a rare moment, Paul joins Luke to chat about the last 40 years in the business, from how he got the Radio Bug and how he ditched his Law career for a spot on Radio City, how working for Radio 1 was the dream, but also backfired quickly. Helping run Rock FM in Preston and the story behind Kev Seed's "political interview" with Tony Blair and how Sandgrounder Radio has given him the chance to present his dream show.
Massive thank you to Aircheck Downloads and Ian Arnold for the use of content and also Claire Simmo for arranging the Interview.
Dave Brookes has spent the past 28 years working in radio across South Wales. Having started out in Traffic and Travel, before moving over to Touch Radio in Cardiff and cementing his place on Real Radio. In this weeks edition, Dave joins Luke to reflect on his 28 years in the business, how the traffic job lead to a presenting gig, how 1999 was the worst year for him, launching Real Radio and what it's like to be Simon Mayo's warm up guy on Greatest Hits South Wales.
Big Thanks to Aircheck Downloads and Chris Moore for use of content.
Darren Proctor has worked in the radio industry for nearly 30 years. Having won a DJ Contest in the 90's which opened the door to working at Signal Radio. In this edition of Radio Greats, Darren chats to Luke about how he was bitten by the radio bug, how he got the big break on the airwaves, how he found his place on Key 103, covering the Pepsi Charts for Doctor Fox, moving to Century and working on the City 2 Network and how Mid Morning was one of his favourite slots to host.
Big thanks to Aircheck Downloads for the use of Content
Mark Powell spent 25 years in the wonderful world of Radio, working on stations throughout Wales and England from Galaxy, Red Dragon, TFM, Swansea Sound and Nation. In this weeks edition Mark shares with Luke how he was bitten by the radio bug, how it was a choice between Galaxy and Red Dragon to start his career on, the famous Naked Stunt on TFM, how working on Swansea Sound wasn't what it turned out to be and why after 25 years he decided to hang up his headphones for good.
David Franics has spent the past three decades working in the Radio Industry. From starting off with work experience at just 16 in 1990, he was offered the dream to work for the station he always wanted to work on when Richard Park offered him a weekend job!
In this edition of Radio Greats, David chats to Luke about how he got into the radio business, working on stations from Capital, Chiltern, Red Dragon, BRMB, GEM and City 2 to name a few. How Clive Warren gave him Snoop sessions, how he found his stint at Red Dragon in Cardiff. How shy he was to work with Adrian John at Capital Gold in Kent and how his dream came true to work with Rachel New on Free Breakfast.
Special Thanks to Aircheck Downloads and Paul Easton for content
Paul Robinson has enjoyed a 40 year stint on Radio, from being a local voice on Radio Tees and Mercia Sound, to running The Chiltern Radio Groups and managing Radio 1 and working for BBC Radio. In this edition of Radio Greats, Paul shares with Luke how he was bitten by the Radio Bug, how a short stint on Metro led to work on Radio Tees, How the Radio Management Love Affair began, Running The Chiltern Group and how the name Galaxy was born and what working at BBC Radio was like during the massive changes and what the biggest task was.
Big thanks to Aircheck Downloads and Radio Rewind for use of audio.
Back in the 1980s and 1990's, Mick Brown was one of the most recognised Radio DJ's on Capital Radio, having started out as a copywriter and producer before making it to spinning the discs. This time round, The Live Luke chats to him about the 30 years he worked on Capital, from, Producing for Kenny Everett, to being one half of The Pat and Mick Show to recording hits with Stock Aitken and Waterman and how their performance on Top of The Pops was like entering Enemy territory and why leaving Capital wasn't upsetting as he thought it would be.
Big Thanks to Aircheck downloads.
For the past 25 years Claire Simmo has been one of the most recognised voices on the radio across the North of England, having been a familiar voice on stations such as Radio City and Real Radio. On this weeks edition, she sits down with The Live Luke to chat about her experience on the radio, why it was Paul Jordan who got her interested in the business, how she had never used the desk before her first solo show and why Greatest Hits Radio was not her cup of tea!
Special thanks to Aircheck Downloads for use of Audio
Gary Wilkinson has enjoyed a career spanning over 25 years, from working on stations across the country and using his known aliases such as Pizza Man and Nick Jordan, in this weeks edition of Radio Greats, he sits down with Luke to chat about the stations he has worked on. From Atlantic 252, Galaxy, Magic, Metro and Sun Radio, why he changed his name so often on the radio and why Radio 1 never appealed to him.
Special Thanks to Aircheck Downloads for supplying Airchecks from programming!
Rick Houghton, has worked in radio since 1989, becoming one of the countries youngest Radio DJ's when he joined Plymouth Sound. He later went onto work for stations across the country including Rock FM, Radio City and Key 103, as-well as a stint in the Middle East with Channel 4 Radio. On this edition, he chats to Luke about the past 30 years in radio, how working on Radio City brought many happy memories, how he turned down working at Juice to work in the Middle East, what the transition of Greatest Hits Radio was like and now returning to being a local voice with InDemand Radio in Liverpool.
Special Thanks to Aircheck Downloads for supplying Airchecks from programming!
Rob Charles is no stranger to his audience, with four decades of experience behind him. This time he joins Luke on Radio Greats, to chat about he developed the Radio bug, becoming one of the pirates on the revived Radio Caroline and working on Voice of Peace, to work across the North of England from KFM, Rock Radio, Century and Magic and how he got the gig on Car Share and how he worked with Peter Kay, but never met him!
Special Thanks to Aircheck Downloads for supplying Airchecks from programming!
This week on Radio Greats, Luke chats to his Broadcasting colleague Chris Moore, who began his career back in the Eighties on CBC when he won a Radio contest to be a DJ on CBC for a day. From then on he, Chris went to host shows for Red Dragon and Real Radio and had the most listened to show in all of Wales. In this extended edition, he chat's to Luke about getting the radio bug, working for Red Dragon for 11 years, what the run up to Real was like and also how Radio has continued to run in the family.
Special Thanks to Chris Moore, for supplying Airchecks of past programmes for the podcast!
In this weeks edition of Radio Greats, Luke catches up with Polly James from Radio X, who sits down with him and shares her story of entering the Radio industry. Polly shares the tale of how Kiss FM turned her down, and how Bridge and Nation gave her, her big break - working on Absolute Radio and co-presenting the BT Live Event in London. Spending 6 years on Capital South Wales and co-hosting the flagship Breakfast Show, and now in her dream job at Radio X.
A Giant of Broadcasting. Tony Prince began his broadcasting career on The Pirate station, the legendary Radio Caroline before embarking on a 16 year career on Radio Luxembourg. In this weeks edition of Radio Greats, he chats to Luke about how The Radio Bug bit him and how Radio 1 turned him down. Plus he shares with us the story of how he got to know Elvis Presley and what the night of Elvis' death was like for him personally.
For the past 28 years Sean Goldsmith has been on the radio up and down the country. Starting out on Leicester Sound in 1993, he would later embark on a journey that would keep on going to stations from Trent, to Peak and to Virgin from Greatest Hits. In this edition of Radio Greats, he chats with Luke about how the Radio Bug bit him, how twice he almost gave it up, before being brought back to the limelight and why City 2 was the best time of his life on the radio.
Special Thanks to Aircheck Downloads for supplying Airchecks from programming!
Tony Dibbin is no stranger to the airwaves. He was the youngest Radio DJ in Wales, and also the youngest programme controller too. On this weeks edition of Radio Greats, he sits down with Luke and reflects on his 25 years on the wireless, from how at the age of 15 he joined The Wave in Swansea, before progressing to Ireland to work on Atlantic 252. Tony also talks about his tenure at Gold Radio, the responsibilities of programme managing and also what makes a successful Breakfast Show on the radio!
Special Thanks to Tony Dibbin and Aircheck Downloads for supplying Airchecks from programming!
Jenni Costello was the youngest signing to Mercia Sound when she joined the station just before her 19th Birthday. From there on she did a stint on BBC Radio 1, becoming the stations youngest signing, the breakfast show on Trent FM, Drivetime on Radio 210 and weekends on GEM. In the first edition of Series 3 of Radio Greats, she sits down with Luke to discuss her three decades on the wireless.
Special Thanks to Jenni Costello and Aircheck Downloads for supplying Airchecks from programming!