Inheritance Tracks: Recent Episodes
BBC Radio 4
The actor Adrian Lester has had hearts a flutter from Stratford-upon-Avon to London in his latest role as Cyrano De Bergerac.
The Birmingham born Hustle star's first experience of performing was in the choir at St Chad's Cathedral, before going onto win the Laurence-Olivier-Award for 'Best Actor in a Musical', for his performance in Stephen Sondheim's musical 'Company'.
So with singing in his blood we decided to ask what his Inheritance Tracks would be...
Producers: Ben Mitchell and Anna Bailey
Inherited: Redemption Song by Bob MarleyPassing on: Proud to be a Dread by Des'ree
TV personality, chef and restaurateur behind Mowgli Street Food restaurants on the tracks that have shaped her.
Inherited: ABBA - The Day Before You CamePass on: Leonard Cohen - Dance With Me to the End of Love
Producer: Lowri MorganResearcher: Jesse Edwards
The Singer-Songwriter on the tracks that have inspired her work and life.
Inherited: Tracks of My Tears by Smokey Robinson Pass on: Sara by Fleetwood Mac
Producer: Gareth Nelson-Davies
The best selling crime author on the tracks that have inspired him.
Inherited: Have Mercy on the Criminal by Elton John Pass on: He Stopped Loving Her Today by George Jones
The Inheritance Tracks are the choice of the much-loved broadcaster Lorraine Kelly as featured in BBC Radio 4's Saturday Live on 20 June 2026.
Inherited: Jupiter from The Planet Suite by Holst Pass on: Starman by David Bowie
Producer: Anna Bailey
(Picture credit: Nicky Johnston)
Nat Sciver-Brunt is the captain of England's Women Cricket Team and one of the world’s leading all-round cricketers
In June 2026, Nat is presently engaged in trying to lead the side to triumph in the ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2026.
With proven leadership at the highest level, she’s found the time to share with us her Inheritance Tracks.
Inherited: Robbie Williams - AngelsPass On: Extreme - More Than Words
The screenwriter and television producer Russell T Davies.
From being best known to being the show-runner for the reboot of Dr Who, he’s looked at life in London during the 1980s with the series It’s A Sin and his latest TV drama is set in contemporary Manchester.
His Inheritance Tracks are inspired by his family and a lost loved one.
Inherited: Oh What A Beautiful Morning by Howard KeelPass On: Americano by Lady GaGa
Producer: Anna Bailey
The journalist and broadcaster Katie Razzall is the BBC’s culture and media editor - and co-host of The Media Show.
She was formerly Newsnight’s UK editor and correspondent for Channel 4 News - but has long harboured a dream of being a WWII French resistance member.
Her Inheritance Tracks are incredibly moving…
Inherited: Petite Fleur by Sidney BechetPassing on: Long Time Coming by Delays
Producer: Ben Mitchell
Dame Prue Leith has written more than a dozen cookery books, seven novels, and her new memoir - "Being Old...and learning to love it!" - she explores the trials and taboos of growing older.
She's no stranger to a kitchen disco with her roles on the Great British Menu and Bake Off - but has always been too afraid to sing.
That is until an appearance on ITV's hit show, The Masked Singer.
Let's see if her Inheritance Tracks can cook up a storm.
Inherited: The Ugly Duckling by Danny KayePassing on: Oh, What A Beautiful Mornin' by Gordon MacRae(The Masked Singer, Bandicoot Productions, ITV)
Producer: Ben Mitchell
This week’s Inheritance Tracks come from stage and screen actor, Jason Watkins.
Jason has been in brilliant in TV productions as various as the Crown, W1A and the The Lost Honour of Christopher Jeffries for which he won a BAFTA.
Inherited: Al Bowlly - Love is the Sweetest ThingPass on: Human League – Together in Electric Dreams
Producer: Ribika Moktan
This week’s Inheritance Tracks come from Presenter and Journalist, Nick Robinson.
Nick is the BBC’s and ITV former political editor and he started as a presenter on Today (Radio 4) in November 2015.
Here are the two tracks most dear to him:
Inherited: The Carpet Crawlers by Genesis taken from the album The Lamb Lies Down on Broadway.Pass On: Beethoven's Fidelio quartet - Mir ist so wunderbarProducers: Lowri Morgan and Jesse Edwards.
The Inheritance Tracks featured on this week's Saturday Live with Adrian Chiles, come from the skincare entrepreneur Liz Earle whose eponymous beauty brand has been going strong for more than thirty years. Liz has no fewer than 35 books to her name and her latest, How to Age, is out now.
Inherited: These Boots Are Made for Walking by Nancy SinatraPassing on: One Love by David Guetta featuring Estelle
Producer: Anna Bailey
Our Inheritance Tracks this week come from the singer-songwriter Laura Mvula.
From hits such as Green Garden, to Sing To The Moon, and to live stage performances at the BBC Promos, Laura’s music is a mix of jazz, classical and Rhythm and Blues.
Growing up in Birmingham, Laura went on to study composition at the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire, before releasing her Mercury Prize-nominated debut album 'Sing to the Moon' in 2013. She has been nominated for the prestigious award three times
Inherited: Golden Brown by Omar Passing on: The World Is Yours by Nas Producer: Anna Bailey
From Shameless to X-Men, Atonement and His Dark Materials…James McAvoy seems to have mastered his craft in-front of the camera - so has decided to try his hand at calling the shots.
His directorial debut, California Schemin', sees two chaps from Dundee in Scotland pretend to be American rappers to land a record deal.
A story that sounds stranger than fiction - but is true.
So now seemed like the perfect time to hear about the music that inspires him.
Inherited: Maggie May by Rod StewartPassing on: Ally Bally Bee sung by Mary Anne Paterson
Producers: Anna Bailey and Ben Mitchell
Our Inheritance Tracks this week come from the actor Noah Wyle.
From ER to The Pitt, Noah’s career on screen echoes that of his mother who worked as a nurse.
But music was always a familial pastime.
Inherited: We Belong Together by Rickie Lee Jones Passing on: Peter and the Wolf composed by Sergei Prokofiev and performed by the New York Philharmonic
Producers: Anna Bailey and Ben Mitchell
This edition of Inheritance Tracks come from an actress with a strong claim for national treasure status – Lesley Joseph.
With a career spanning over sixty years, she has entertained us as on the small screen in the likes of Birds of a Feather and on stage as Mother Superior in the Sister Act musical.
Inherited: Marche Militaire composed by Franz Schubert and performed by the Philharmonic Wind Orchestra Passing on: What About Us by P!nk
Producers: Lowri Morgan and Ben Mitchell
Our inheritance tracks this week come from Lisa Kudrow, no less.
The Emmy Award-winning star from Friends returns to our screens in the latest series of The Comeback.
As Phoebe Buffay her attempts at music-making were famously harrowing – but her Inheritance Tracks, predictably enough, are a real joy.
Inherited: Downtown by Petula ClarkPassing on: Wonderful Baby by Don McLean
Producers: Ben Mitchell and Anna Bailey
Dr Sian Williams is a chartered counselling psychologist working in the NHS. Sian presented BBC Breakfast for over a decade, as well as Saturday Live between 2012 and 2014. Radio 4 listeners will know her from her series Life Changing which returns in April. Her book on living well with anxiety called ‘The Power of Anxiety: How to Ride the Worry Wave’ is out now.
Inherited: Calon Lan by Cerys Matthews and The Fron Male Voice Choir Pass on: Better Together by Jack Johnson Producer: Catherine Powell
Adam Fleming is a familiar voice and face to many across the BBC. He is now the presenter on the daily news podcast, Newscast and also hosts AntiSocial on BBC Radio 4.
Adam spends much of his time explaining the twists and turns of politics to the public. But, away from the world of breaking news, music has played its own part in his life.
Inherited: Jump by Girls AloudPassed on: Vivaldi, The Four Seasons: Spring 1, recomposed by Max Richter
Producer: Ben Mitchell
Mike Wozniak is a comedian and writer who is perhaps best known for Man Down and as co-host of Junior Taskmaster.
Along with his trusted trademark moustache he is returning to the comedy circuit with his new tour The Bench.
But it was a childhood of bad violin and faking it with a guitar that sparked his love of music.
Inherited: Minor Swing by Django Reinhardt and Quintette du Hot Club de FrancePassing on: Corpus Christi Carol by Jeff Buckley
Producer: Ben Mitchell
When the cricket loving comedian Andy Zaltzman is not dotting balls and crossing fours off the Test Match Special stats sheet he can be found hosting The News Quiz on Radio 4 and on stage with his new stand-up tour Zaltgeist.
But it was his father's love of blues that sparked his love of music...and bad trumpet playing.
Inherited: Got My Mojo Working by Muddy WatersPassing on: My Very Best by The Big Moon
Producer: Ben Mitchell
The Irish writer, Marian Keyes, has sold 35 million novels in 33 languages, and a new BBC series "The Walsh Sisters" is inspired by some of her most famous work.
From her debut novel over 30 years ago to last year's "My Favourite Mistake", she’s championed women's stories and never shied away from discussing her own life and addiction to alcohol.
Her Inheritance Tracks are both enjoyable and moving in equal measure.
Inherited: Only Our Rivers Run Free by Christy MoorePassing on: The Bottle by Gil Scott-Heron
Producers: Ben Mitchell and Jesse Edwards
Radio 1 DJ Matt Edmondson has two passions...music and games.
He is the creator of the much played game Obama Lama and co-founded the boardgame company Format Games.
Both music and games are important loves that he shares with his daughters…
Inherited: I Want It That Way by Backstreet BoysPassing on: Green Light by Lorde
Producer: Ben Mitchell
The Oscar winning actor Riz Ahmed, whose new film sees him star alongside Timothy Spall as the tragic Prince of Denmark in a modern retelling of Hamlet, is a passionate music aficionado.
His most critically acclaimed role perhaps came in the film a Sound of Metal where he played a drummer coming to terms with going deaf, a role which saw him become the first Muslim performer to be nominated for Best Actor at the Academy Awards.
But the music that runs deepest brings with it memories of his childhood and Pakistani heritage.
Inherited: Aap Jaisa Koi by Nazia HassanPassing on: Gabriel by Roy Davis Jr.
Producers: Ben Mitchell and Anna Bailey
Our inheritance tracks this week come from the musician and broadcaster Mika, who is back out on tour with his latest album Hyperlove.
Mika was born in Lebanon, and raised in Cyprus, Paris and London, all of which feed into his intriguing new album and makes for a fascinating edition of Inheritance Tracks.
Inherited: Smells Like Teen Spirit by NirvanaPassing on: Pata Pata by Miriam Makeba
Producer: Ben Mitchell
Claire Foy is an actor who’s enjoyed great success playing two queens, one of whom enjoyed a significantly longer reign than the other, as Anne Boleyn and Queen Elizabeth II.
Before going to see her in her new film, an adaptation of Helen Macdonald’s fabulous memoir, H is for Hawk - what better way to understand the woman behind the camera lens that hearing the music most important to her.
Inherited: When You Were Sweet 16 by Perry ComoPassing on: Blóðberg by Sigur Rós
Producers: Ben Mitchell and Anna Bailey
Mark Heap is one of the funniest actors on television - from Green Wing to Friday Night Dinner and his new series opposite Dawn French - Can You Keep a Secret.
Born in India to the son of a Methodist minister Mark's early life featured eclectic and majestic music.
Inherited: Were You There? by Tennessee Ernie Ford
Passing on: L'Ascension: IV Prière du Christ montant vers son père, composed by Olivier Messiaen, performed by Orchestre de l'Opéra National de Paris
Producer: Ben Mitchell
Justin Hawkins founded The Darkness, alongside his brother, bursting onto the scene in 2003 with their debut album Permission To Land.
He found fame for his massive five octave vocal range, and the "I Believe in a Thing Called Love" singer now hosts his own online series "Justin Hawkins Rides Again" where he shares his love and passion for music.
What then will he share as his Inheritance Tracks.
Inherited: There Are More Questions Than Answers by Johnny NashPassing on: Pancho and Lefty by Townes Van Zand
Producer: Ben Mitchell
Our Inheritance Tracks this week are the choice of an actor with an astonishing list of theatre, film and television credits to her name, and an array of awards and nominations to match.
Here are the Inheritance tracks of Emily Watson.
Inherited: Puccini's La Boheme sung by Luciano PavarottiPassing on: Ghost Town by The Specials
Producer: Anna Bailey
You will recognise the BAFTA nominated actor Paul Bettany best as the superhero Vision, the trudging Geoffrey Chaucer in A Knight’s Tale, or maybe as the long suffering surgeon opposite Russell Crow in Master and Commander…a role which saw him learn to play a period accurate cello.
But, his familial lineage is full of musical stars and Paul himself was even a busker on the London Underground for a time.
What then will he choose for his Inheritance Tracks.
Inherited: The Eton Rifles by The JamPassing on: Hollow Ponds by Damon Albarn
Producers: Anna Bailey and Ben Mitchell
Jacinda Ardern, became the Prime Minister of New Zealand in 2017 at the age of 37, she was the youngest female head of government in the world.
Since her resignation from the role, she has shared her learnings on how to integrate empathy into leadership, written an autobiography and is part of a new documentary film, 'Prime Minister', charting her time in office.
But what will she choose as her Inheritance Tracks?
Inherited: Under the Boardwalk by The DriftersPassing on: Hope by Fat Freddy's Drop
Producers: Anna Bailey and Ben Mitchell
The identical twins and broadcasting doctors, Chris and Xand van Tulleken, have been helping guide us through the world of medicine for years.
From mums and dads on Radio 4's "What's Up Docs?" to children on their hugely popular "Operation Ouch!"
What then will they prescribe us to listen to with their Inheritance Tracks.
Inherited: Sabre Dance composed by Aram KhachaturianXand - Passing on: Welcome to the Jungle by Guns N' RosesChris - Escape (The Piña Colada Song) by Rupert Holmes
Producer: Ben Mitchell
Jason Donovan first captured hearts our hearts in Neighbours, becoming a household name worldwide, before breaking into the charts and onto the West End stage.
What then will he choose as his Inheritance tracks?
Inherited: It's Still Rock and Roll to Me by Billy JoelPassing on: Life’s What You Make It by Talk Talk
Producers: Ben Mitchell and Lowri Morgan
Richard E. Grant is an the academy award nominated actor and Barbra Streisand obsessive.
Growing up in Southern Africa, he harboured a desire to become and actor having seen a resemblance of himself in Donald Sutherland......that is until he first saw Barbra in a cinema in Rome - and she changed his life.
Inherited: Who Will Buy performed by Barbra StreisandPassing on: Don't Rain on My Parade by Barbra Streisand
Producers: Anna Bailey and Ben Mitchell
Two wonderful broadcasters - the Snows, Peter and Dan.
Peter's peerless work on general election nights popularised the infamous swingometer, and Dan's infectious fascination with history has inspired countless others...and together they’ve enjoyed many an adventure.
What then will they choose as their shared Inheritance Tracks?
Peter: Remember the Alamo by Tex RitterDan: Finlandia composed by Jean Sibelius performed by Chineke! Orchestra
Producers: Lowri Morgan and Josie Hardy
Miranda Hart has kept us entertained for several decades, from her hit sitcom Miranda to Call the Midwife.
Her new book, "The Christmas Tree that Loved to Dance", tells the story of a Christmas tree that refuses to be discarded and forgotten.
In her Inheritance Tracks, Miranda reveals the song that kept her going during one of the lowest points of her life.
Inherited: Never Tear us Apart by INXSPassing on: That I Would be Good by Alanis Morissette
Producers: Anna Bailey and Ben Mitchell
Clare Balding is a broadcaster, author...and Faithful!
From her early career on Grandstand to hosting Olympic and Wimbledon coverage, Clare has been a fixture of our sporting screens for many years.
But in her debut fiction novel Clare is experiencing "Pastures New".
Sport is in her blood, and one of her choices goes back a long way - long before it became the sporting anthem it is today.
Inherited: Sweet Caroline by Neil DiamondPassing on: Vienna by Billy Joel
Producer: Ben Mitchell
Philippa Gregory is the bestselling historical fiction who, amongst other things, has been bringing the Tudor period back to life; through the eyes of the women oft forgotten by the textbooks.
In her latest book, The Boleyn Traitor, Philippa tells the story of how Jane Boleyn survived watching from the shadows of the Tudor court, using the only weapon she has; her voice.
If you’re listening to this in a half-snooze state...you won’t be for much longer, because Philippa's first choices are stirring stuff indeed.
Inherited: Coppélia, Act I, Mazurka performed by the Slovak Radio Symphony OrchestraPassing on: Swing Low Sweet Chariot performed by Ladysmith Black Mambazo ft. China Black
Producer: Ben Mitchell
You may know her best as the icons — Patsy Stone in Absolutely Fabulous, Purdey in The New Avengers, or Hester Frump in Wednesday...but away from the stage and screen, Joanna Lumley's life is surrounded by music.
Inherited: In the Mood by Glenn MillerPassing on: Pata Pata by Miriam Makeba
Producer: Ben Mitchell
Davina McCall is a hugely successful TV presenter who’s hosted some of the biggest shows with the biggest stars.
She’s also made her mark, as a broadcaster and writer, in the field of women’s health - all whilst battling a brain tumour.
Rarely has anyone talked about their Inheritance Tracks with such passion, eloquence, and sheer raw emotion.
Inherited: State of Independence by Donna SummerPassed on: You Can Do It by Caribou
Producers: Anna Bailey and Ben Mitchell
From Swansea to Barry Island Joanna Page has been a friendly face in millions of houses for almost two decades.
But by her own admission, despite her Welsh roots, music is not her forte...although it clear plays an important part in her life.
Inherited: Northern Sky by Nick DrakePassed on: Chic Mystique by Chic
Producer: Ben Mitchell
Mark Kermode is a brilliant Film critic, writer, broadcaster and co-host of podcasts Kermode and Mayo's Take - and Screenshot.
In his book, Surround Sound: The Stories of Movie Music, Mark and fellow author Jenny Nelson, discuss the power that music has on screen.
With that in mind, what music will he choose as the soundtrack to his life?
Inherited: 2002 Zarathustrevisited by Stan Kenton & His OrchestraPassed on: Top of the World by Shonen Knife
Producer: Ben Mitchell
The chances of writing a novel which sells more than 80 million copies are about as remote as a lad from Stockport making it to the NBA, but Dan Brown pulled it off with The Da Vinci Code.
That book, like his new novel, delves into literature, symbology, secret societies and so on. None of which were his first passion.
Dan Brown’s first passion was music - as he reveals in his Inheritance Tracks.
Inherited: Todo a Pulmón by Miguel RíosPassed on: Morning Mood by Edvard Grieg
Producer: Ben Mitchell
Oti Mabuse was the first professional dancer to win the Strictly Glitterball two years in a row with her partners Kelvin Fletcher and Bill Bailey.
But prior to her success on the Stricktly ballroom Oti had already become South African Latin American Champion no fewer than eight times.
Music remains massively important to her, both professionally and personally, as she tells us in her Inheritance Tracks.
Inherited: Modimo by Sowetto Gospel ChoirPass on: I was here by Beyoncé
Producers: Ben Mitchell and Catherine Powell
Broadcaster Janet Street-Porter with the ‘Mad Scene’ from Donizetti's Lucia di Lammermoor and ‘Enjoy Yourself’ by Prince Buster.
Ade Adepitan is the former professional wheelchair basketball player, and Paralympic bronze medallist, who's now one of our best loved TV presenters. Born in Nigeria and raised in East London, after contracting polio as a baby, Ade's journey has taken him from sport's stardom to broadcasting success. He is also one of our most recognisable and respected disability advocates.
He shared with us the tracks that shaped him and his son may well benefit from Ade's choices.
Inherited: One Drop by Bob Marley and the WailersPass on: Optimistic by Sounds of Blackness
Producer: Ribika Moktan and Lowri Morgan
Presenter Rick Edwards is familiar to many on the radio as the co-host of BBC Radio 5 Live’s Breakfast programme but for those with a proclivity for day-time TV you’ll know him as the host of the gameshow Impossible!
Rick’s career has been incredibly varied from hosting Channel 4’s 2012 Paralympics coverage to becoming the poster boy of mid-noughties teenage telly on T4. He even has a book on the science behind our much loved films.
He shares the music that has shaped his life.
Inherited: Sweet Child O Mine - Guns n' Roses Pass on: Witness - Roots Manuva
Producer: Lowri Morgan & Gareth Nelson-Davies
With Glastonbury in full swing this weekend from the Sommerset countryside and across the BBC on Sounds and iPlayer... who better than 6 Music’s Nick Grimshaw, to share his Inheritance Tracks.
Born and brought up in Oldham, the music scene of Manchester has always been his veins. Renowned for his infectious energy, wit and authenticity, Grimmy, rose to fame as the host of BBC Radio 1’s Breakfast Show and earlier this year he officially took up the reigns of the 6 Music breakfast show from Lauren Laverne.
His Inheritance Tracks are sure to be a musical education...
Inherited: Joy Division - She's Lost Control Pass On: David Bowie - Subterraneans
Producer: Jesse Edwards
After a short spell as a punk rocker, Limahl found fame with the band Kajagoogoo after responding to an advert in a music magazine in 1982, where the then named Art Noveau were looking for a new lead singer.
The following year he left the band – but quickly went onto find his own success as a solo artist with his hit “The Never Ending Story”.
His early ambitions, growing up in Wigan, were for a career as an actor and he even toured in production of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat.
What then will he choose as his Inheritance Tracks...
Inherited: Move Over Darling by Doris DayPassed on: Four Brothers by Manhattan Transfer
Producers: Catherine Powell and Anna Bailey
Fearne Cotton began her presenting career at the age of 15. Since then, she has become a familiar presence on both TV and radio, currently fronting the nostalgic celebration of pop culture, “Sound of the 90’s” on BBC Radio 2. She is also a passionate advocate for improving mental health, from her Happy Place podcast to her books, which encourage us all to live better lives. Now she has written her debut fictional novel "Scripted" about a woman with a chaotic family life trying to create a happily ever after....
Inherited: Fleetwood Mac "Dreams"Passed on:Ludovico Einaudi "Campfire Day Four"
Producer: Anna Bailey
The oft suited and booted Portsmouth-born comedian Suzi Ruffell went from aspiring actor to standout stand-up.
She’s had five sell-out runs at The Edinburgh Fringe, has appeared on all the big comedy TV and panel shows….and is a regular voice on radio and with her women’s football podcast ‘Big Kick Energy’.
Her debut memoir, Am I Having Fun Now? is a funny and hopeful exploration of her life, battle with anxiety, therapy and becoming a mother.
Inherited: You Can’t Hurry Love by The SupremesPassed on: Heart's Content by Brandi Carlile
Producer: Catherine Powell
The broadcaster and writer Georgia Mann has been making and presenting arts programmes at the BBC since 2008.
After studying English Literature at Cambridge University, she began her career as a local BBC radio reporter before entering the arts arena of broadcasting.
She has presented the BBC Proms and has said that she’s “committed to getting classical music out of its traditional locations and into the lives of those who might not have experienced it before”.
So with that in mind we wondered what her Inheritance Tracks would be…and, to start with, she’s taking us back to school.
Inherited: Pie Jesu by Gabriel Fauré
Pass on: Total Eclipse of the Heart by Bonnie Tyler
Producer: Gareth Nelson-Davies
The comedian and writer Ivo Graham was born in Tokyo. In his early years he attended school in Australia before moving to England because his family moved around due to his father’s work.
He went on to study French and Russian at Oxford University but in his first term he began his adventures as a stand-up comedian. He’s since gone onto to become an established name on the circuit.
Aside from live comedy, Ivo once said that “I’m a better writer than a performer. Everyone wants to feel like they’re a bit of a polymath, and I certainly feel that.”
So with that in mind we asked Ivo to share his Inheritance Track with us.
Presenter: Kiri Pritchard-McLeanProducer: Catherine Powell
The actor Rory Kinnear has won two Olivier Awards, played Bill Tanner (M’s chief of staff) in four Bond Movies and his wide acting range has also seen him play Frankenstein’s monster and a fictional British Prime Minister.
Born in London, educated at Oxford and the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art, if there is such a thing as an inherited performer’s gene, Rory got it.
Both his parents were actors…his father was Roy Kinnear and his mother is Carmel Cryan.
With that kind of lineage - what then will he have chosen as his Inheritance Tracks?
Inherited: Little Green Apples by Roger MillerPass on: I Will (Take You Forever) by Christopher Cross
Producers: Ben Mitchell and Minnie Harrop
Comedian, actor, screen-writer, voice-artist, podcaster - Jason Mantzoukas can do it all.
He’s gone from improvised stand-up to starring in films and shows including Parks and Recreation, Brooklyn Nine-Nine and The League.
Born into a family of Greek-Americans in the early 1970s, he studied religion at college, drummed in a marching band, riffed in jazz clubs and moved to Morrocco to immerse himself in local rhythms.
So, what will this self-confessed music obsessive select as his Inheritance Tracks....
Inherited: When Problems Arise by FishbonePassed on: Vocalise My Love by Florence Adooni
Producer: Ben Mitchell
The actor and presenter Nigel Havers was born in Middlesex in 1951 to a barrister father and an author mother.
His screen roles have been varied, from His portrayal of Lord Andrew Lindsay in the film Chariots of Fire in 1981 which earned him a BAFTA nomination, to Lewis Archer in Coronation Street for over a decade and a guest spot in Downton Abbey amongst other.
He was the face of Nescafe for many years, and is now seen presenting The Bidding Room on BBC television.
With such a varied life and career – what then will he choose for his Inheritance Tracks?
Inherited: I've Got You Under My Skin by Mel TorméPass on: Still Crazy After All These Years by Paul Simon
Producers: Ben Mitchell and Anna Bailey
This programme has been changed for music rights reasons.
The stand-up comedian and writer Sophie Duker has appeared in venues around the UK and she’s also been seen on TV, popping up on the likes of 'Taskmaster', ‘Live at the Apollo’ and 'Celebrity Mastermind'.
She has also hosted programmes for BBC Sounds including the ‘Obsessed’ strands – which accompany hit television shows – ‘I May Destroy You’ and ‘Everything I Know About Love.’
And there’s still a chance to see Sophie on her current stand up tour “But Daddy I Love Her” - including a date at London’s Bloomsbury Theatre in May 2025.
Born in London, her foray in comedy began during her time as an undergraduate studying French and English at university. Following her love of language and laughter – we wondered what her musical inspirations would be in this week’s Inheritance Tracks?
Inherited: Nelson Mandela by The Specials Pass on: Gansta by Kojey Radical
Producers: Ribika Moktan and Gareth Nelson-Davies
The BAFTA award winning actor Gina McKee, in a career spanning over three decades, has showcased her range in dramas, comedies and thrillers.
Born in Durham, she grew up the daughter of a coal miner, but has gone onto become perhaps best known for her work in The Lost Prince, Our Friends in the North, Brass Eye and Notting Hill.
Gina focuses on the craft rather than the fame and that’s so evident in her body of stage work…most recently in The Children’s Hour, Dear England and The Years.
Inherited: I’ll Be There by The Four TopsPass on: Mae Velha by Cesaria Evora
Rachel Burden is a familiar voice on the BBC airwaves, she’s been a regular on BBC Radio 5 Live’s Breakfast programme, regularly brings us the news on the television, and hosts Cafe Hope - Radio 4’s virtual coffee shop where guests pop in for a brew and a chat to tell us what they're doing to make the world a better place.
Born in Buckinghamshire, she graduated from Trinity College Dublin and studied broadcast journalism at Cardiff University.
One of five children and a mother of four herself, music has always been something they’ve shared, what then has she chosen for her Inheritance Tracks...
Inherited: "Overture" from The Marriage of Figaro by Wolfgang Amadeus MozartPass on: "Days" by Kirsty MacColl
Producers: Catherine Powell and Ben Mitchell
Time for some radio gold...or silver?
Christina Trevanion is an internationally-recognised jewellery expert whose work as an auctioneer has led her to a sparkling role presenting TV antiques shows like Antiques Road Trip, Bargain Hunt and Flog It.
After studying Fine Art at University, Christina worked at Christies in London before setting up her own auction house in her home county of Shropshire.
So, let’s see what musical treasures she can offer us in today’s Inheritance Tracks...
Carrie Hope Fletcher is a true triple threat: a powerhouse performer, a bestselling writer and an inspiring voice off stage too.
She’s been in the spotlight since she was seven years old and has made her name as a West End star playing iconic roles…Éponine and Fantine in Les Misérables, Veronica Sawyer in the original West End production of Heathers: The Musical, and she originated the role of Cinderella in Andrew Lloyd Webber's Cinderella.
Beyond the theatre, Carrie’s a big social media personality and has a massive YouTube following and she’s also a bestselling author.
Her older brother Tom Fletcher is lead vocalist and guitarist of the band McFly but will any of their hits make it into her Inheritance Tracks?
Inherited: Sophia by Nerina PalloPassed on: Dancing in the Moonlight by Toploader
Producers: Ben Mitchell and Ribika Moktan
From playing Lane Price in Mad Men to King George VI in the Crown, and now Claudius in the Royal Shakespeare Company’s production of Hamlet, performing is in Jared Harris' blood.
His earliest memory is being in Hawaii while his late father – the actor Richard Harris – was filming a movie with Julie Andrews.
But as a child, he wanted to be an astronaut...which might explain his Inheritance Tracks.
Inherited: Fly Me to the Moon by Tony BennettPassed on: The Galaxy Song by Monty Python
Producers: Ben Mitchell and Jack Lee
The journalist and broadcaster Steph McGovern is one of the most recognisable faces and voices and is currently on the run from Bear Grylls in new Netflix show Celebrity Bear Hunt.
She grew up in Middlesbrough and went to a truly egalitarian school which believed that all children have skills, whatever their family’s background. A classic swot but also the class clown, she just wanted people to like her; ‘standard TV presenter syndrome’ - her words, not ours!
Steph began her career as an engineer before moving into financial journalism, becoming a business correspondent for BBC News, and has always been discreet about her private life...but we do know that she’s a former champion Irish dancer and still keeps her foot in.
Will there be a flavour of that dance heritage in her Inheritance Tracks?
Inherited: Starman by David BowiePass on: C'est La Vie by B*Witched
Producers: Ben Mitchell and Anna Bailey
Musician Olly Alexander was born in Harrogate, and discovered a love of acting at school, where tread the boards in Guys and Dolls and the bug had bitten.
His role as Ritchie in Russel T Davies' acclaimed Channel 4 drama It's a Sin, bringing to life the horrors of HIV/Aids in the Gay community in the 1980's, brought him serious attention and plaudits, earning him a Bafta TV nomination in the Best Supporting Actor category amongst others.
But it was as a musician where he originally made his mark as the vocalist for the band Years and Years, reaching number one in the UK album charts twice, and releasing a series of super catchy singles that made series dents in the mainstream charts.
He went solo in 2024 in a big way by representing the UK in the Eurovision Song Contest last year and his debut solo album is Polari, recently released to rave reviews.
Inherited: Both Sides Now by Joni MitchellPassed on: Honey by Robyn
Producers: Ben Mitchell and Catherine Powell
The acclaimed actor Jesse Eisenberg was born in New York, and raised in New Jersey, in a secular Jewish home, by his parents and two sisters.
His latest film A Real Pain, honours that heritage, and alongside Succession's Kieran Culkin they play Jewish American cousins who travel to former Nazi German-occupied Poland to honour their late grandmother.
The film is tipped to do well at this years Oscars and Baftas, but it was his big break playing Mark Zuckerburg in the 2010 film The Social Network that brought him his first taste of fame and accolades, a role he recently told The Today Programme he’s keen to distance himself from.
He’s gone onto use magic to perform an audacious heist, killed Bill Murray during a zombie apocalypse and even fought Superman.
And his Inheritance Tracks are a charmingly unique insight into the man behind the roles.
Inherited: Variations by Andrew Lloyd WebberPassed on: Étude Op. 25, No. 1 "Aeolian Harp" by Chopin
Producers: Anna Bailey and Minnie Harrop
For some of you, before Wicked's Elphaba and Glinda entered our consciousness...there was Felicity Jones in the TV series The Worst Witch...the double Oscar nominee's first starring role before spending a decade as Emma Carter in The Archers.
Born in Birmingham, down the road from Ambridge, it was in a galaxy far, far, away that she cemented her place in Hollywood in Rogue One: A Stars War Story
Her most recent role in The Brutalist has earned her a supporting actress BAFTA and Oscar nomination and she credits her drive to being raised by a working single mother.
As a mother herself now...her Inheritance Tracks have charmingly familial feel.
Inherited: Love and Affection by Joan ArmatradingPassed on: Pressure Drop by Toots and the Maytals
Producer: Ben Mitchell and Anna Bailey
Jonathan Joseph, DJ Spoony to his friends, is someone who spends his life selecting music – and has just taken over the late-night slot on Radio 2.
Born in Hackney in the early 1970s to British West Indian parents, he loved music from an early age and quickly moved from underground pirate radio stations in the 90's before bringing garage music to Radio 1.
At Christmas he revealed that he’d recently undergone emergency surgery for a bleed on the brain. He says music helped him recover.
So what then has he chosen as his Inheritance Tracks.
Inherited: Time is the Master by John HoltPass on: Gabriel by Roy Davis Jr.
Producers: Ben Mitchell and Catherine Powell
The double BAFTA Cymru winning Welsh actor Eve Myles was born to a Scottish father and a Welsh mother and grew up in Powys.
Choosing three films from the video shop on a Saturday and watching them on repeat all week is how young Eve fell in love with the possibilities and escapism of acting.
Her compelling role in Keeping Faith saw her not only having to learn Welsh, act alongside her real-life husband, but most importantly it inspired a trend for bright yellow waterproof coats.
Her latest drama, The Crow Girl, is executive produced by Slash, but there's no Guns N' Roses in her Inheritance Tracks then.
Inherited: Pearl's a Singer by Elkie BrooksPassed on: Faith's Song by Amy Wadge
Producers: Ben Mitchell and Catherine Powell
Professor Alice Roberts is an anatomist, broadcaster and author famous for making science accessible and captivating.
Initially she wanted to be a doctor and studied medicine and anatomy at Cardiff University and developed an interest in biological anthropology, looking at what ancient skeletons can tell us about human evolution…getting human remains to give up their secrets.
The clavicle is her favourite bone in the body...but what else can we learn about Alice Roberts from unearthing her Inheritance Tracks?
Inherited: A Whiter Shade Of Pale by Procol Harum Passed on: Girl from Mars by Ash
Producer: Ben Mitchell
(This episode is a repeat from 15th June 2019)
Russell Howard is a familiar face on television having hosted Russell Howard's Good News and The Russell Howard Hour, and has been a regular on Mock the Week. He is now of the UK’s most successful comedians, and there’s not a panel show worth its salt that he hasn’t been on over the years, each won benefitting from his unique perspective.
Born and raised in Somerset, he studied economics at university before starting to write for BBC Radio 1 and BBC Radio 4. And Russell Howard presents his brand-new stand-up special, Russell Howard Live at The London Palladium, as an exclusive global stream on the 15th of January at 8pm which will then be available On Demand.
We asked him for his inheritance tracks.
Inherited: Fast Car by Tracy Chapman Pass on: The Picture by Loudon Wainwright III
Producer: Ribika Moktan
Josh Widdicombe is a comedian who many will know from his hit parenting podcast with Rob Beckett – and as one of panellists on Channel 4’s The Last Leg.
Raised in a small village on Dartmoor, his love of all things Devon, Plymouth Argyle and the 90’s has informed much of his work – and his new tour is sure to be steeped to perfection.
Before becoming a comedian he worked as a bookseller, in a petrol station, and as a sports journalist. And much like Danny Dyer, he found out that he too was related to Royalty on ‘Who Do You Think You Are?’ and Elizabeth the first no less.
He’s set to hit the Strictly dancefloor this Christmas for their festive special – so make sure there’s some room around you to chachacha along to his Inheritance Tracks.
Inherited: All Things Must Pass by George HarrisonPassed on: Mis‐Shapes by Pulp
Producer: Ben Mitchell and Minnie Harrop
Alex James became famous as the bassist in Blur, indie rock icons who helped define the sound of English guitar music in the 1990’s.
Born in Bournemouth and now living in Oxfordshire with his wife and five children, Alex discovered a love of farming, and in particular, cheese, during a quiet period in Blur’s history. The cheese he produces is award winning, among them Blue Monday and Good Queen Maude.
His latest book is Over the Rainbow, recounting how Blur staged their comeback and surprised everyone, even themselves.
But will his Inheritance Tracks surprise us?
Inherited: Good King Wenceslas sung by the Choir of King’s College, CambridgePassed on: Rasputin by Boney M.
Producer: Ben Mitchell and Lowri Rhiannon-Morgan
After working at Pizza Hut in his twenties, Mackenzie Crook suddenly shot to fame playing the hapless paper salesman Gareth Keenan in the smash-hit BBC comedy “The Office”
Since then, he’s starred in blockbuster franchises including Pirates of the Caribbean and Game of Thrones, as well as Shakespeare, Dickens and his beloved Worzel Gummidge.
He also created, directed and starred in the charming comedy-drama Detectorists, playing one half of an eccentric metal-detecting duo, alongside Toby Jones, which prompted Mackenzie to take up the hobby and search for real-life treasure.
So – headphones on – let's start scanning – and see what we can uncover among Mackenzie Crook’s Inheritance Tracks...
Inherited: Big Yellow taxi by Joni Mitchell Passed on: River Man by Nick Drake
Producers: Ben Mitchell and Anna Bailey
Two-time World Champion heptathlete, British record holder and Olympic medallist Katarina Johnson-Thompson, known affectionately as KJT, first came to international prominence at the 2012 London Olympics, where she competed as a teenager.
She grew up in Liverpool with an English mother who was a dancer and a TV production assistant father from The Bahamas - and music was always part of her life...alongside a clear affinity for athletics.
So what then will she choose for her Inheritance Tracks?
Inherited: Little Ole Wine Drinker by Dean MartinPassed on: Proud Mary by Tina turner
Producers: Ben Mitchell and Minnie Harrop
Luke Evans says growing up in the South Wales valleys was tough at times. He was an only child in a family of Jehovah’s Witnesses, bullied at school both for his religion – and for being gay.
But, that quiet boy from the valleys who tried to blend into the background is now a huge international star. He shot to fame on the West End stage in the early 2000s – with roles in Rent, Miss Saigon and Les Mis. Since then, he’s acted in Hollywood blockbusters like Beauty and the Beast, Fast & Furious Six and The Hobbit.
Now in his mid-forties, Luke says he is happy, fulfilled and looking forward – so what songs has he chosen as his Inheritance Tracks.
Inherited: Saturday Night at the Movies by The DriftersPassed on: The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face by Roberta Flack
Producer: Ben Mitchell
Ellie Taylor is a comedian, actor, writer, award winning podcaster, host of Bake Off the Professionals and a reluctant mother - according to her book.
You’ll probably have caught her being clever and funny on any number of TV panel shows, here on Radio 4, and as Sassy Collins on Ted Lasso.
She’s about to take part in a celebrity Gladiators special and is going out on tour after four years.
We asked her to take a break from writing punchlines and share her Inheritance Tracks with us.
Inherited: Piano Man by Billy JoelPassed on: Sunflower Man by The Waifs
Producer: Ben Mitchell
Kate Humble has presented the majestic Animal Park from Longleat for more than two decades.
As a champion of the environment and rural affairs, she’s been the president of the Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust and founded Humble by Nature, a rural skills centre based at her farm here in Wales.
But when she’s not frolicking in the fields or mucking out meerkats Kate unwinds at home, often in the kitchen, creating recipes for her latest book.
I don’t know about you, but a bit of Beethoven always beats the boredom out of a bolognas...I wonder if Kate’s the same?
Inherited: Suzanne by Leonard CohenPassed on: Ain't got no / I got life by Nina Simone
Producer: Ben Mitchell
There’s so much more to the actor Peter Capaldi than his brilliant, edgy and original Twelfth Doctor in Doctor Who…his career stretches far beyond the Tardis.
He won a BAFTA, for playing the ferocious, foul-mouthed spin doctor Malcolm Tucker in The Thick of It, another BAFTA for the film spin off ‘In the Loop', and whilst we’re on awards…He’s also won an Oscar!
A punk in his younger days…he’s now writing and recording his own rock music…his debut solo album was released in 2021…so we’re fascinated to hear what he’s chosen as his Inheritance Tracks.
Inherited: That's Life by Frank SinatraPassed on: Waterloo Sunset by The Kinks
Producers: Ben Mitchell and Anna Bailey
In his regular column Adrian Chiles has written candidly about everything from wearing compression socks to struggling to bend down - even his favourite coat hanger. These musings are now collected in a single book.
He admits that his "orgy of oversharing" isn't for everyone, yet insists even life's most mundane details can hold deeper meaning.
So, what meaning will we uncover in his musical tastes?
Inherited Track: Reuben's Blues by Stan KentonPass On: Stop This World by Mose Allison
Producer: Ben Mitchell
This week’s Inheritance Tracks come from the funny and startlingly honest double act and married couple Chris and Rosie Ramsey. They struck gold when they turned their bickering and banter into the wildly successful podcast… Sh*gged, Married, Annoyed…
They take the quotidian absurdities of marriage, parenthood…life in general …and transform it all into comedy gold…nothing seems to be off limits!
They’ve hosted their own BBC 2 chat show…Chris is a touring stand-up comedian…and they’ve both individually competed on Strictly.
Chris and Rosie live just outside the town where they grew up, South Shields, and are now bringing up their family there
We wanted to know about the song or piece of music they’ll pass on to them…
Rosie - Inherited: Wake up Boo! by The Boo RadleysChris - Inherited: Real gone Kid by Deacon BluePass on: I'm Alive by Celine Dion
Producer: Ben Mitchell
The best-selling crime-writer Sir Ian Rankin began his life surrounded by food. His dad ran a grocery store in Fife, his mum worked in a school canteen, and Ian's early writing saw him reviewing wine.
He says he never intended to turn to crime, so to speak, but it was his creation of the hard-drinking and stubborn Edinburgh detective Inspector John Rebus which changed his writing style – and his life.
Beginning with Knots and Crosses in 1987, there have now been 25 Rebus novels - as well as the tv dramas and stage plays – mainly dealing with Scotland’s dark and dangerous underworld.
What then will he reveal as his Inheritenace Tracks?
Inherited: Seven Drunken Nights by The DublinersPass on: Another Man's Rain by Jackie Leven
Producers: Ben Mitchell and Noa Dowling
Comedian, actor, Pointless presenter and debut author Alexander Armstrong, grew up in rural Northumberland where his musical ability and joy at being able to entertain began at a young age.
He went to both school and Trinity College Cambridge on music scholarships and after a Footlights’ writing stint, he went on to become one half of the BAFTA-winning comedy duo Armstrong & Miller
If you’re wondering where his passion for classical music began...his Inheritance Tracks will provide the answer.
Inherited: Minuetto Allegretto by the WomblesPassed on: It Must Be Love by Madness
Producers: Ben Mitchell and Noa Dowling
Celia Imrie has worked in television, theatre and films over the past five decades.
She’s taken roles at the Royal Shakespeare Company and in big budget films such as The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel, Calendar Girls and Mamma Mia! to name but a few.
Celia will be starring in the film adaptation of Richard Osman's The Thursday Murder Club. The story follows a group of friends in a retirement home who gather to solve murders but find themselves caught in a real case.
So with that in mind, we wanted to solve the mystery of what are Celia’s Inheritance Tracks.
Inherited Track: You Know What I Mean by Jeff Beck.Pass On: Merveille by Jean Louis Albert.
Producer: Noa Dowling
The two-time Sunday Times bestselling author and journalist Candice Brathwaite grew up in Brixton, south London.
Candice first became known for her conversations about the often over-looked experience of Black mothers in the UK which became the subject of her raw, searing and witty 2020 book, 'I am Not Your Mother'. She followed that with 'Sista Sista' essays which were equally forceful on the issues of diversity, identity and representation. Her latest book 'Manifesto' is out now.
We asked Candice to share with us the tracks that have inspired her.
Inherited: Never, Never, Never by John Holt Pass on: Spring 1, Vivaldi re-composed Four Seasons by Max Richter
Producer: Lowri Morgan
Leigh Francis’ creation Keith Lemon came to our attention with Bo Selecta in the early noughties, and he hasn’t been off our screens much since, with various sketch and panel shows becoming hits, most notably Celebrity Juice and the revamped Through the Keyhole.
Surreal and silly, his is a brand of comedy that has mass appeal, and his new book 'Leigh, Myself and I' charts how "a little boy called Leigh became a naughty bear".
What then will his Inheritance Tracks be?
Inherited: Stand and Deliver by Adam and the AntsPassed on: New Sensation by INXS
Producer: Ben Mitchell
Tim Minchin is the multi-talented Australian musician, comedian, actor, writer, director, who helped bring Matilda from book to stage with his hit musical lyrics.
In his new book "You Don't Have To Have A Dream" he shares his thoughts and advice on life, art, success, kindness, love - but it was his dream to be a musician that drove young Tim from an early age.
It was his tongue-in-cheek songs and poetry that helped find him fame here in the UK and off the back of his success rebranding Dhal he has turned Groundhog Day into a musical and even trod the boards himself as Judas in Jesus Christ Superstar.
With a CV like that – what then will he choose as his Inheritance Tracks.
Inherited: What a Wonderful World by Louis Armstrong Passed on: Lullaby of Birdland by Ella Fitzgerald
Producer: Ben Mitchell
Nicola Adams was one of the stand-out stars of the London Games in 2012 when she became the first woman to win an Olympic boxing gold medal.
And then she won gold again in Rio four years later.
Born into a tough life in Leeds in the early 1980s, Nicola immediately loved enjoyed the discipline she found in boxing at the age of 12.
If her punches have unnerved her opponents in the ring, her charm and winning smile have perhaps been even more disarming.
Her Inheritance Tracks will have you heading straight to the gym.
Inherited: Hustlin' by Rick RossPass on: Sure Thing by Miguel
Producer: Ben Mitchell
Carrie and David Grant are the BAFTA award-winning power couple, broadcasters and vocal coaches to the stars.
If, like me, you remember the early noughties reality song contest Fame Academy, they were the expert vocal coaches that helped the likes of Lemar find their voice.
Their TV and music career has spanned over 35 years winning them a MOBO award and has seen them write a revealing memoir 'A Very Modern Family' which charts their parenting experiences in a neuro diverse family.
What then will these musical aficionados choose as their shared Inheritance Tracks.
Inherited, Carrie: Moon River by Andy WilliamsInherited, David: Concrete Jungle by Bob Marley and The WailersPassed on: The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face by Roberta Flack
Producer: Ben Mitchell
Since graduating from Durham University, Ed Gamble has become one of the UK’s most successful stand-up comedians. He’s been a Taskmaster champion, a Pointless host and one of the Hunted on Channel 4.
And his “Off Menu” series with James Acaster is one of the most listened-to podcasts in the UK – where guests choose their ideal meal.
But Ed's own love of food hasn’t always been easy. He has Type One Diabetes...and has spoken, and written, movingly about his complicated relationship with eating and weight.
In an interview a couple of years ago he said: I can’t tell day-to- day whether I’m arrogant or I hate myself, but I think somewhere in-between is absolutely ideal for a comedian.
Inherited: Lady Grinning Soul by David BowiePass on: Black Sabbath by Black Sabbath
Producer: Ben Mitchell
Adam Kay was born in Brighton to Jewish parents, his father was a doctor and he too went into medicine gynaecology and obstetrics.
After a traumatic experience in the operating theatre, Adam left medicine and wrote his first memoir…This is Going to Hurt. It covered his time as a trainee doctor and became not only a bestseller, but was adapted by him, into the TV series of the same name, starring Ben Whishaw as Adam. He won a BAFTA for his writing.
His most recent memoir, Undoctored, was much, much more personal.
Radically honest in fact - from revealing his previous marriage to a woman before finding love with his now husband, to talking about abuse and having an eating disorder.
He’s also written fact and fiction books for children. explaining some of the more astonishing, and often revolting stories from the world of science and medicine.
Inherited: Franz Schubert's Impromptu Op.90 performed by Llŷr WilliamsPassed on: I Never Do Anything Twice by Stephen Sondheim
Producer: Ben Mitchell
Rachel Stevens shot to fame as part of the iconic group S Club 7 aged just 19, catapulting her to fame, bringing with it all the glamour, glitz and BRIT Awards.
But it was in 1993 when she first caught the attention of talent agents by winning a modelling contest sponsored by UK teen magazine Just 17, beating 5,000 other competitors.
After a stint studying a business diploma at the London College of Fashion and briefly working in PR – she finally decided to pursue her musical dream.
In her memoir Finding my Voice, Rachel talks about the highs and lows of her life and career, from managing lifelong anxiety to dealing with the loss of friend and S Club bandmate Paul Cattermole.
Inherited: That's What Friends Are For by Dionne Warwick ft. Elton John, Stevie Wonder, Gladys KnightPassed on: I Wanna Dance With Somebody by Whitney Houston
Producer: Ben Mitchell
The comedian and professional quizzer Paul Sinha, grew up with a surgeon father and a midwife mother. He also became a doctor.
His calling however was comedy and although for a while he was a full-time doctor and a part time comedian making people laugh proved irresistible. He became a household name in 2011, when he joined ITV’s show The Chase as one of the Chasers.
Knowing his encyclopaedic knowledge about so many things, we asked him to share with us the tracks that matter most to him.
Inherited: Uptown Top Ranking by Althea & DonnaPass on: Being Boring by the Pet Shop Boys
Producer: Ben Mitchell
Danny Robins has created all kinds of shows for TV and radio – often embracing the spookier side of life and death. From the BAFTA-nominated Young Dracula on BBC One to The Cold Swedish Winter on BBC Radio 4. For Danny’s new series of the hit podcast – Uncanny – he’s criss-crossing America with a team of paranormal believers and sceptics as they investigate matters that seem to defy logical explanation. With all that in mind, we were fascinated to know Danny would choose as his Inheritance Tracks.
Inherited: Ride On by Christy MoorePass On:Nightrain by Guns ‘n’Roses
Producer: Ben Mitchell
10 years ago Marlon James published 'A Brief History of Seven Killings' his bestselling novel which would go onto be awarded the Booker Prize.
Born in Jamaica in 1970 his parents shared with him their passion for poetry and Shakespeare – but Marlon preferred to be in his room reading comics like X-Men...the mutant group who went onto inspire him to write his 'Black Leopard, Red Wolf' trilogy.
For those who haven’t already read it, A Brief History of Seven Killings' is broken up into 5 sections, each named after a different piece of music, and music continues to play a prominent role in his writing life.
In his acceptance speech for the Booker Prize back in 2015 he heralded the likes of Bob Marley for championing Carribean voices saying he was: “The first to recognise that the voice coming out our mouths was a legitimate voice for fiction and for poetry”.
With all that in mind we were fascinated to know what Marlon James’s Inheritance Tracks would be.
Inherited: 54/46 Was My Number by Toots and the MaytalsPassed on: Equinox by John Coltrane
Producer: Ben Mitchell
Actor Kiell Smith-Bynoe is perhaps best known for playing the non-clairvoyant husband Mike in the BBC One series, Ghosts.
Kiell grew up in East London and his future as a thespian was set in stone when at the age of five he began acting in nativity plays.
He studied acting at East 15 Acting School, and he honed his skills by making musical skits in the early years of YouTube, and can now be seen on stage in 'The Government Inspector' and on our screens as the new host of The Great British Sewing Bee.
Thankfully, his career in acting worked out, as in his own words, “My plan B was to be a grime MC”.
So with that in mind we asked Kiell to share his Inheritance Track with us.
Inherited: Never Too Much by Luther VandrosPassed on: Do You Mind by Kyla
Producers: Eirian Jones and Ben Mitchell
Reece Shearsmith rose to fame with the darkly comic League of Gentleman.
Since then his fascination with the macabre has led to starring roles on TV and stage, as well as to an enduring writing and acting partnership with Steve Pemberton.
He is currently on our screens with his latest and last series of the genius Inside No9 - and these are his Inheritance tracks.
Inherited: White Christmas by Darlene LovePassing on: Tonight we Fly by The Divine Comedy
Producers: Catherine Powell and Ben Mitchell
Hilary and Michael are an entertainment power-couple.
Having worked as a leading theatrical agent and producer for many years, with clients including Nigel Havers, Judi Dench and Colin Firth – it was at a glitzy party that Michael first set his eyes on the then actress Hilary Gish
Hilary says of that night...“I was looking for an agent, he was looking for a wife.”
They’ve gone on to have three children together, including the actor and comedian Jack Whitehall, and in recent years they’ve turned their family life into an entertainment empire.
As well as starring in their own Netflix series, hosted TV and theatre chat shows, and co-authored books...their podcast, The Wittering Whitehalls, has added yet another string to the brand Whitehall bow.
So, we invited Michael and Hilary to share their Inheritance Tracks with us...
Michael Inherited: Symphony No.3, the 2nd movement, composed by Sergei RachmaninoffHilary Inherited: Let's Dance by David BowiePassing on: Blue in Green by Miles Davis
Producer: Ben Mitchell
Jamie Laing found fame in the second series of Made in Chelsea in 2011, and has gone on to rebrand himself several times.
First as a veritable Willy Wonka, as the great great grandson of biscuit mogul Sir Alexander Grant, it is perhaps no surprise that he has created his own line of incredibly successful sweets.
These days he is just as at home in the audio studio as he is on the factory floor, having just been named the new co-host of BBC Radio 1’s Going Home programme, and has been a mainstay in the podcast charts for many years; from NewlyWeds, alongside his wife, to his new interview show Great Company.
What then will he choose as his Inheritance Tracks...
Inherited: Man! I Feel Like A Woman! by Shania TwainPassing on: MMMBop by Hanson
Producers: Ribika Moktan and Ben Mitchell
Star of TV and radio, Vernon Kay comes from a Northern working-class family. His first job, at 14, was putting stickers on boxes of bananas at a ripening factory…and he also worked as caretaker, deep cleaning schools before his break came as a model.
TV came next with stints on T4 and All-Star Family Fortunes and has recently taken over the mid-morning show on Radio 2.
Last November Vernon ran an Ultra Marathon for Radio 2’s BBC Children in Need fundraiser, 115 miles in just four days, and he raised over £6 million!!!
Married to fellow presenter Tess Daly, they have two daughters...so what’s the music he’ll choose to pass on to them?
Inherited: Allentown by Billy JoelPassing on: You Got The Love by Candi Staton
Producer: Ben Mitchell
Marcus Brigstocke and Rachel Parris are a funny couple. Quite literally!
The comedians have been regulars on comedy quiz panels, with Parris one of the hosts on the Mash Report, and Brigstocke appearing on many programmes here on Radio 4, including the popular I’ve Never Seen Star Wars amongst countless other shows.
They're new podcast ‘How was it for you?’, offers a peek into the joyful mess that ensues when two comedians live together.
So we were fascinated to see what there joint inheritance tracks would be.
Inherited: Marcus - A Forrest by The Cure Rachel - Building Steam with a Grain of Salt by DJ ShadowPassed on:Together - Buona Sera by Louis Prima
Producer: Eirian Jones and Ben Mitchell
The Michelin starred chef and restaurateur Angela Hartnett likes crisps, prefers cheese to dessert, and her favourite pasta is spaghetti in a tomato sauce. Simple tastes for someone who’s famous for giving people fine dining experiences.
A protegee of Gordon Ramsay, Angela cheffed in some of the best restaurants in the world before opening her own Murano in Mayfair.
She’s famous and in demand for her TV appearances and hosts the excellent and entertaining podcast Dish along with Nick Grimshaw.
Whilst growing up, she inherited the values of wholesome food and the importance of the family meal from her Italian grandmother. So we askes her to share the music that she’s inherited with us.
Inherited: Simply the Best by Tina TurnerPassed on: Nessun Dorma by Giacomo Puccini, performed by Luciano Pavarotti
Producers: Ben Mitchell and Catherine Powell
The comedian, podcaster and self described Vibe-Magnet John Robins is an Edinburgh Comedy Award winner whose dry stand up has taken him on several sold out tours, a BBC 5 Live programme with Elis James, and the latest series of Taskmaster.
He openly talks about all aspects of his life, from the ridiculous to the sublime, and has been praised for the way he has discussed the way he has dealt with mental health and his sobriety.
A lover of games and music - what then will he chose for his Inheritance Tracks.
Inherited: Enlightenment by Van MorrisonPassed on: The Wild Kindness (feat. Cassie Berman) by Bill Callahan & Bonnie "Prince" Billy
Producer: Ben Mitchell
Born in Paris, Liz Bonnin grew up in Ireland where she studied biochemistry at Trinity College Dublin.
She joined an all-girl pop band rather than doing a PhD at Oxford and then came TV, initially on entertainment shows before her real calling pulled her back for a Masters in wild animal biology.
When Liz returned to our tv screens it was as a science presenter; Tomorrow’s World, Bang Goes the Theory, Blue Planet Live....
She’s taken viewers from the Galapagos...to the Jurassic Coast and even Arctic...but where will her Inheritance Tracks lead us today?
Inherited: Amélia by MalavoiPassed on: I'm Every Woman by Chakka Khan
Producer: Ben Mitchell
Broadcaster Lauren Laverne has, arguably, two of the best jobs in radio - 6 Music’s Breakfast Show and Radio 4’s Desert Island Discs.
Her career in entertainment began though as the lead singer and a guitarist in the band Kenickie and her love of performing and sharing music see's her takes Desert Island Discs to the London Palladium for a series of special live shows.
As someone who encourages people to share the music that shaped their lives we were fascinated to hear her Inheritance Tracks.
Inherited: Now Westlin Winds by Dick GaughanPassed on: Hit or Miss by Odetta
Producer: Ben Mitchell
Natalie Cassidy has grown up in front of the nation. She was only ten years old when she joined the cast of Eastenders.
Over the last 30 years, her character - Sonia - has become one of the most popular residents of Albert Square, as she’s dealt with a teenage pregnancy, a cancer scare and bereavements.
Natalie had to have music lessons when her character famously took up the trumpet on Eastenders, so let’s see if that has influenced her choices as she selects her Inheritance Tracks.
Natalie is the co-host of the podcast, 'Off The Telly' which is available now.
Producer: Lowri Morgan
Strictly Come Dancing's longest serving professional dancer Karen Hauer was born in Valencia, Venezula where she lived until the age of eight before moving with her family to the Bronx in New York.
Dance allowed Karen to express herself and at the age of nine she won a scholarship to the Martha Graham School of Contempoary Dance. On the show she has danced with the likes of Will Young and Eddie Kadi.
Music gives Karen inspiration for her dance routines and will be touring the UK with the 'Strictly Come Dancing the Professionals Tour' from May 2024.
Inherited: Don't Speak by No Doubt Pass on: Your Song by Elton John
Producer: Lowri Morgan
Alex Horne is the comedian and creator of the BAFTA winning Channel 4’s hit comedy game-show, Taskmaster.
On the show Alex is the Taskmaster’s assistant and this week, we’ve given him the task of assisting us with choosing our Inheritance Tracks.
He is a musician himself and he will be will be on tour around the country with ‘The Horne Section’ and their brand-new show from March 2024.
Inherited: In The Army Now by Status Quo.Passed on: Bang Bang by David Sanborn
Producer: Ribika Moktan
Tommy Tiernan is a stand-up comedian, actor, writer and extraordinary talk show host, extraordinary because on The Tommy Tiernan Show on RTE he doesn’t know who his guest is until they walk on, there’s no script or preparation, so the conversation can go anywhere, and it does!
As a comedian, he’s won the big award and even though his sense of humour has on occasions been controversial, he maintains there’s never malice intended.
Tommy also has a podcast and is famous for playing Da Gerry in Derry Girls
Although he was born in Ireland he had a peripatetic early life as you’ll hear in his Inheritance Tracks...
Inherited: Amhrán na bhFiann, the national anthem of the Republic of Ireland.Passed on: Maka Hannya Haramitta
Producer: Glyn Tansley
Adam Hills is a seriously funny man, and most well known as host of Channel 4’s hugely successful The Last Leg on Friday nights.
Born in Sydney without a right foot, he turned his disability to his advantage and often referred to it in his comedy. His first stand up show was in 1997, and he became a hit at the Melbourne International comedy festival and the Edinburgh Fringe.
Some alternative commentating on the 2012 London Summer Paralympics led to Channel 4 giving him his own series, which has now broadcast its 300th episode.
Inherited: Crying by Roy OrbisonPassed on: One Day Like This by Elbow
Producers: Ben Mitchell and Lowri Morgan
The Grand Tour presenter and lover of high-speed adventures Richard Hammond, was born in Birmingham, the eldest of three boys, and describes himself growing up as ‘a little fella’ in a close-knit family.
His first broadcasting experience, and love, was not TV but local radio and as bass guitar player we wondered what his Inheritance Tracks might be.
Inherited: Call Me The Breeze by J.J. CalePassed on: Memphis Soul Stew by King Curtis
Producer: Ben Mitchell and Lowri Morgan
Millions of cricket fans all over the world have grown up with Jonathan Agnew’s voice as he’s expertly guided us through the highs and lows of the best sport ever invented.
He’s joined Test Match Special in 1991 after a very successful career as a fast bowler for Leicestershire and a slightly less successful career as a fast bowler for England – which he often jokes about on air.
He’s a keen flyer (he has a pilot’s licence), a keen dog owner (he has two) and also a lover of music. But what music? Let’s find out...
Inherited: You're a Lady by Peter SkellernPass on: I Wish I Knew How It Would Feel to Be Free by Nina Simone
Producer: Ben Mitchell
Iain Stirling started doing stand-up while studying law at University in Edinburgh and quickly drew the attention of the comedy world. Soon after, his popularity grew, and now sells out venues all over the country.
In 2015 he became the voice of ITV2's dating show Love Island.
He also clearly loves music so we asked him to share with us the song that have changed his life.
Inherited: Africa, TotoPassed on: The Modern Leper, Frightened Rabbit
Producer: Ben Mitchell
The London born ceramic artist Keith Brymer-Jones, who regularly wells up when he’s moved by beauty and effort on The Great Pottery Throw Down, was eleven years old when he made his first pottery object.
After a brief stint in the punk band The Wigs, he got an apprenticeship at Harefield Pottery in London and learned to make modern ceramics.
We asked him to turn his hand to this week's Inheritance Tracks...
Inherited: Fantasy by Earth, Wind and FirePassed on: I Feel Love by Donna Summer
Producer: Ben Mitchell
Owain Wyn Evans has been working in broadcasting since he was 18. He's an accomplished television and radio presenter and shot to superstardom during the pandemic in 2020 as the drumming weather presenter playing along to the BBC News Theme.
He became a viral sensation and in 2021 he raised an extraordinary £3million for Children in Need by drumming non-stop for 24 hours.
This week he took a break from warming up for Zoe Ball on Radio 2’s Early Breakfast Show to reflect on his inheritance tracks...
Inherited: The Masquerade by the CarpentersPassed on: This Hell by Reena Sawayama
Producer: Ben Mitchell
When he’s not working on his own gin brand, or his latest book, or guest editing the Today programme former petrol head James May is perhaps best known as the thinking man’s car guy from Top Gear and Grand Tour.
His trademark wry humour and self-deprecation make him an interesting TV presenter, no matter what he turns his attention to and he’s an excellent travel guide on the various James May Our Man In... series.
Born in Bristol, one of four children, he spent his teenage years in South Yorkshire and as someone who studied music at university and who’s apparently a rather accomplished musician.
We asked James what his Inheritance Tracks might be.
Inherited: Dream Darling Dream by McGuinness Flint Passed On: Summertime by DJ Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince
Producer: Ribika Moktan
Opera singer Wynne Evans was indelibly etched into the UK’s collective TV watching consciousness when he played Gio Compario - the moustachioed opera singer in those famous comparison site adverts.
Born in South-West Wales, Wynne is a professionally trained opera star and his operatic roles have seen him onstage at major opera houses here in the UK and across the globe, with his debut album ‘A Song in My Heart’ went to Number 1 in the classical charts.
This year, he won Celebrity MasterChef with a starter of Carmarthen-Japanese Tuna Tartare and a main course of Welsh lamb on samphire.
We asked Wynne to share his equally delicious Inheritance Tracks with us...
Inherited: Be My Love by Mario LanzaPassed on: Laudate Dominum - Vesperae Solennes de Confessore by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
Producer: Ben Mitchell
Writer, comedian and broadcaster Sandi Toksvig was born in Denmark to a Danish father and English mother and was brought up in Europe, Africa and the United States.
She’s done it all; politics, children's books, theatre plays, the great British Bake Off, and taken part in pretty much every panel show worth its salt, including of course hosting QI, the much loved and quite interesting panel show she’s hosted on television since 2016.
She was one of the members of the first all female comedy groups at Cambridge’s Footlights whilst gaining a first class degree, and in 2015 she co founded the Women's Equality Party. President of the Writers Guild of Great Britain, her writing credits take in radio, television and the stage.
Inherited: Secret Love by The Oscar Peterson TrioPassed on: Don't Rain on my Parade by Barbara Streisand
Producer: Ben Mitchell
Kelvin Fletcher is best known for his portrayal of Andy Sugden in Emmerdale, a role he played for twenty years, and for which he won Best Actor at the British Soap awards for his portrayal.
When he was just six years old he went to Oldham Theatre Workshop where, before getting his big break in 1996.
He’s a father of four and a keen motor racer, and documented his buying of a 120 acre farm in the Peak District in a BBC documentary and in 2019 he won Strictly Come Dancing with his dancing partner Oti Mabuse.
Inherited: Do I Love You (Indeed I Do) by Frank WilsonPassed on: Three Little Birds by Bob Marley and the Wailers
Producer: Ben Mitchell
Before Lucy Worsley became a fixture on our TV screens as a trusted architectural and social historian she wanted to be either a spy, a witch or a nun.
But her father was a geologist and he wanted Lucy to be a scientist, so when she switched from the sciences to the humanities he was unimpressed and told her she’d never earn a living with a history degree!
It was a visit to Mompesson House, a National Trust property in Salisbury, when she was 18 that made her realise that keeping a historical place going was an actual job and one that spoke to her - she’s now Chief Curator at Historic Royal Palaces with an office in Hampton Court Palace.
So who, what and when will her Inheritance Tracks come from?
Inherited: Mozart Piano Sonata No. 16 in C Major played by Maria João PiresPassed on: Magnificat and Nunc dimittis: The Seventh Service sung by The Choir of HM Chapel Royal
Producer: Ben Mitchell
This edition of Inheritance Tracks are chosen by Jonathan Ranganathan – better known, of course, by his middle name, Romesh.
The comedian, presenter and DJ was born in West Sussex in the late 1970s to Sri Lankan parents.
When he was 11, a friend left a cassette-tape at his house – labelled Public Enemy. Romesh listened – and that day, his love of hip-hop music began.
But not just hip-hop. Music has been a huge part of his family’s story...across the generations.
Inherited: Love Come Down by Evelyn "Champagne" KingPassed on: Juicy by The Notorious B.I.G
Producers: Ben Mitchell and Ribika Moktan
If farmer, TV presenter and writer Adam Henson was a stick of rock the word Cotswolds would be sweetly written through him.
He’s loved by millions of Countryfile viewers and probably a lot of lambs, Gloucestershire Old Spot pigs, Highland cattle and horses too.
And he knows a thing or two about how food gets from farm to fork being an ambassador for British farming.
But will his Inheritance Tracks be pastorales, reflecting the bucolic nature of his life?
Inherited: Too Much Pressure by The SpecialsPassed on: Pencil Full of Lead by Paolo Nutini
Producers: Ben Mitchell and Ribika Moktan
The actor, writer, comedian and Radio 4 treasure, Miles Jupp has been delighting audiences for decades; from Balamory to The News Quiz and Rev.
Miles recently shared the news that he’d suffered a brain seizure - requiring complex neurosurgery.
Happily, he’s has made a good recovery, and he's about to go on tour...no doubt with his favourite music playing in the car as he criss-crosses the country.
Inherited: Just an Old Fashioned Girl by Eartha Kit Passing on: Wherever You Roam by The Proclaimers
Producers: Ben Mitchell and Ribika Moktan
Derren Brown amazes audiences with his extraordinary illusions and showmanship, as a mentalist and magic creator.
He captivates with his charm and is also disarmingly forthright and emotionally eloquent which is evident in his writing, podcast Bootcamp and painting.
Born in London and brought up in Purley, which he describes as the epitome of middle-class suburbia, Derren studied law and German at Bristol University which is where his Inheritance Tracks begin...
Inherited: The Prelude to the 1st Cello Suite by J S BachPassed on: Debussy's Brier played by Vikingur Olafsson
Producer: Ben Mitchell and Ribika Moktan
From the moment he became a cub scout in Sussex in the 1970s, Tim Peake wanted to have adventures.
He joined the army...became an Apache helicopter pilot...and then set his sights even higher...A LOT higher.
As an astronaut, he became the first Brit to walk in space during a voyage to the International Space Station.
But what kind of music did he listen to while he was up there?
Inherited: It Must be Love by Labi SiffrePassed on: Sweet Child O' Mine by Guns N' Roses
Producer: Ben Mitchell
The Reverend Kate Bottley is a not your run of the mill vicar...
...since rising to fame on Channel 4’s Gogglebox she’s gone on to become a writer and broadcaster on the likes of Songs of Praise, and you can hear her every Sunday with Jason Mohammad (formerly of this parish) on Radio 2’s Good Morning Sunday.
Kate’s latest book, Have a Little Faith, isn’t out to convert, quite the opposite, it’s a guidebook on how to navigate life’s ups and downs, be kind, and face your own challenges armed with hope...and plenty of lasagne.
So, with all that in mind, I’m praying for a miraculous set of Inheritance Tracks.
Inherited: Jailhouse Rock by Elvis PresleyPass on: Come Healing by Leonard Cohen
Simon Farnaby is famed for his parts in Ghosts, Horrible Histories and Detectorists, but it's his starring role in that iconic sketch from the Diamond Jubilee, seen over 30 million times on YouTube, in which he served the late Queen tea with Paddington Bear.
Indeed, he was one of the writers of Paddington 2 – and his latest screenplay, Wonka, is actually a musical origin story of Roald Dahl’s eccentric chocolatier.
But Simon's Inheritance Tracks are not necessarily the golden ticket he'd have hoped for.
Inherited: Little Town by Cliff RichardPassed on: Rattlesnakes by Lloyd Cole and the Commotions
Producers: Ben Mitchell and Ribika Moktan
She’s cycled to the South Pole, ran the Namibia ultra-marathon, kayaked the entire length of the River Amazon, solo, yet competing on Strictly made TV presenter and adventurer, Helen Skelton feel most vulnerable.
Helen began her presenting career at Newsround and has been a household name since 2008, when she became a Blue Peter presenter and graduated to Countryfile.
Her new memoir In My Stride charts her life from being raised on a dairy farm outside Cumbria to becoming a household name on Blue Peter and Countryfile.
What then, will she choose for her Inheritance Tracks?
Inherited: One Way or Another by BlondiePassing on: Hanging on the Telephone by Blondie
Producers: Ben Mitchell and Ribika Moktan
Chef Tom Kerridge is more than just a Michelin-starred foodie – he's a TV presenter, author and entrepreneur. Married to sculptor Beth Cullen-Kerridge, Tom’s new book ‘Pub Kitchen: The Ultimate Modern British Food Bible’ was recently published and we asked him to serve up his Inheritance Tracks.
Inherited: English Rose by The JamPassed on: Proof by I Am Kloot
As featured on BBC Radio 4's Saturday Live on 07/10/2023. Presented by Olly Mann and Nikki Bedi.
Producer: Ben Mitchell/Gareth Nelson-Davies
Casual, fun, yet competent and assuring Alan Fletcher's character, Dr Karl Kennedy, along with his on-screen wife Susan, was a genuine tea-time idol to a generation.
What you might not know is that the actor is a country music aficionado, part of a burgeoning Australian Americana scene, and at the age of 65, he's just released his first solo album.
As Neighbours returns to our screens we asked him to share his inheritance tracks.
Inherited: Going up the Country by Canned HeatPassed on: If We Were Vampires by Jason Isbell
Producer: Ben Mitchell
The actor, comedian and writer Mawaan Rizwan, recently told the NME, “In every job I do, I want to smash the box that people put me in”.
Born in Pakistan, Mawaan’s family moved to the UK when he was three, he grew up in East London, with a mother who’d been a child star in Pakistan so if the performance gene were a thing, he very much has it it.
As an actor he’s played roles in Simon Amstell’s Benjamin and Carnage, he wrote for the hit Netflix series Sex Education, and you can see his new surreal BBC Three series Juice on iPlayer.
What then, will his Inheritance Tracks be?
Inherited: Mera Laung Gawacha by Musarrat NazirPass on: Paper Planes by MIA
Producer: Ben Mitchell
If you type ‘right wing comedian’ into a search engine the top answer will be Geoff Norcott.
Amazingly...the second, third and fourth results would also be the comedian and podcaster.
He's certainly cornered his niche making us laugh on Live At The Apollo, Have I Got News For You, and his own stand-up special for Radio 4 Geoff-erendum.
But, ironically, it seems Geoff doesn't necessarily skew right, when it comes to at least one of his musical heroes – as we discovered, when we asked him to share his Inheritance Tracks.
Inherited: Itchycoo Park by Small FacesPass on: Zoo Station by U2
Producer: Ben Mitchell
Born in Billericay, Richard Osman got his first taste for broadcasting on BBC Radio Sussex, when he was still at school. He read Politics and Sociology at Cambridge and then worked behind the scenes in TV before creating and co-presenting the BBC quiz show, Pointless. His own show, Richard Osman’s House of Games followed, another huge success, and along the way he’s managed to become an international best-selling crime fiction author! It all began with The Thursday Murder Club in 2020 and with the fourth book in the wildly popular series on the horizon we asked him to put down that feather quill and share his Inheritance Tracks with us.Inherited: Life on Mars by David BowiePass on: Boring People by Pet Shop BoysProducer: Ben Mitchell
Johnny Flynn - actor, poet, musician - he can do pretty much anything. On stage and screen, he’s played Albert Einstein, Richard Burton and David Bowie - and in the studio he’s recorded albums of classic folk as well as the title track for The Detectorists.Johnny took a break from playing a political broadcaster in his new show The Lovers to tell us about the musicians who have inspired him throughout his life.Inherited: Joe Hill by Paul RobesonPassing on: Close My Eyes by Arthur RussellProducer: Ben Mitchell
Comedian, writer and actor Rose Matafeo grew up in New Zealand, the daughter of a Samoan father and a mother with Scottish/Croatian heritage. In 2018 she won the prestigious ‘Best Show’ at The Edinburgh Fringe for ‘Horndog' - only the second woman, and the first person of colour, to win it. As an actor, she was brilliant in the New Zealand movie Baby Done and she’s soon to be back on our screens in season three of her hit BBC series Starstruck.
We asked her to take a break from writing her new stand-up show and share her Inheritance Tracks with us.
Inherited: Ramblin' Rose by Nat King Cole Passed on: Where am I going? by Barbra Streisand
Producer: Ben Mitchell
You’ll no doubt have seen the comedian Lou Sanders on pretty much every tv comedy show; from Live at the Apollo, to 8 out of 10 Cats and she was even champion on Taskmaster.
Her memoir "What's that Lady Doing?" charts a life of mistakes with funny look at what happens when we work through our issues and come out the other side.
The songs she has chosen to cherish from her past and to pass on to the next generation might surprise you…in fact, they seem to have surprised her!
Inherited: Dido Bendigo by The Watersons Passing On: Mr. Tambourine Man by Bob Dylan
Producer: Ben Mitchell
The BBC’s News Analysis Editor, Ros Atkins, knew he wanted to be a journalist when he was ten years old.
He grew up in Cornwall and the Caribbean and read history at Cambridge.
He’s now a trusted broadcaster and a man synonymous with news and, he became a bit of a social media sensation with his explainer videos.
As he was once dabbled as a drum’n’bass DJ so we wondered what his Inheritance Tracks might be.
Inherited: The Köln Concert by Keith Jarrett Passed on: Suite - Judy Blue Eyes by Crosby, Stills and Nash
Producers: Ben Mitchell and Jesse Edwards
Award-winning author, illustrator and screen-writer Alice Oseman created the hugely popular “Heartstopper” series about two teenage boys, Nick and Charlie, falling in love at a British school. The story has been a sensation going from online-comic to printed book to blockbuster Netflix show.
Inherited: Everywhere by Fleetwood Mac Pass On: Dance with me by Beabadoobe
Producer: Ben Mitchell
Actor and musician Minnie Driver's breakout film roles include Circle of Friends, Grosse Pointe Blank and the hugely successful 1997 movie, Good Will Hunting, for which she was Oscar nominated.
You may have recently seen her in the movies Cinderella or Chevalier - and on TV in the US sitcom Speechless or in Rose Matafeo’s Starstruck here on the BBC.
Minnie’s side-hustles are equally successful, she’s a podcaster, essayist and memoirist with her ‘tell most memoir’ Managing Expectations; which is a collection of essays about her life.
She lives in California and is a passionate surfer and a doting mother to her teenage son Henry
We asked mellifluous Minnie to share her Inheritance Tracks with us...
Inherited: Save Your Love for Me by Nancy Wilson and Cannonball Adderley Passing on: Have You Ever Seen The Rain? by Creedence Clearwater Revival
Producers: Ben Mitchell and Catherine Powell
Annie MacManus, known professionally as Annie Mac, is the DJ turned author whose new book ‘The Mess We're In’ is a story about how music can break you down and build you back up again.
Annie presented shows on BBC Radio 1 for seventeen years and, as well as writing, performs at music festivals all over the world and at some of the biggest clubs.
Inherited: A Rainy Night in Soho by The Pogues Pass On: No one knows me life the piano by Sampha
Producer: Ben Mitchell
After the indie rock band, The Audience, disbanded in the late 90’s, their lead singer began her solo career.
Sophie Ellis-Bextor had early solo hits like Murder on the Dancefloor and Groovejet (If This Ain't Love). Sophie has now released her seventh studio album, Hana.
BBC Radio 4's Saturday Live asked Sophie to share her Inheritance Tracks with us.
Inherited: Comfortably Numb by Pink Flloyd Passing on: Harmony Hall by Vampire Weekend.
Producers: Lowri Rhiannon Morgan and Leni Hatcher.
Actor, writer and stand-up comedian Guz Khan was born in Birmingham and raised in Coventry.
The former humanities teacher quit his job to pursue a career in comedy after his social media videos gained a following.
He went on to create the hit BBC television series Man Like Mobeen, and the fourth series is currently streaming via the BBC iPlayer.
Inherited: Tumhein Dillagi Bhool Jani Paray Gi by Ustad Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan Passing on: Do For Love by Tupac Shakur
Producer: Gareth Nelson-Davies and Ribika Moktan
On her Instagram profile, actor Tanya Moodie describes herself as Buddhist, actor, Willow’s mum, Mini Bull terrier mum.
Born in Canada to Jamaican parents Tanya came to England at the age of 17 and got a place at RADA.
She’s since worked with the RSC and The National Theatre and on TV is known for her award-winning work on the BBC series Motherland and for the RTE show The Clinic
Inherited: Duppy Gunman by Ernie Smith Passing on: Freeman in Paris by Joni Mitchell
Producer: Ben Mitchell and Ribika Moktan
You might know Ben Bailey Smith better as Doc Brown, an actor, comedian, rapper and screen writer. Ben was born to a Jamaican mother and English father in Willesden, north west London, his older sister is the celebrated writer Zadie Smith.
He started rapping when he was 15, competing in Rap Battles in the early 2000’s, and became a successful stand up comedian. His acting talents have appeared in huge tv series like Channel 4’s Inbetweeners and Derek, to BBC’s Doctor Who, The Split and Damilola, Our Loved Boy to name but a handful. Often his comedy, music and acting talents overlap; he’s very good at all of these things so why wouldn’t he often combine them.
In his podcast Shrink the Box, Ben and psychotherapist Sasha Bates analyse fictional tv characters like Omar from the Wire and Ross from Friends, trying to figure out why they are as they are.
Inherited: Looks is Deceiving by The Gladiators Passing on: Doo Wop (That Thing) by Lauryn Hill
Producer: Ben Mitchell
Producer: Ben Mitchell
The frontman of one of the biggest music acts of the 90’s, Supergrass, Gaz was born in Oxford to a food scientist father and an English teaching mother. The family moved to San Francisco for a few of Gaz’s formative years, before returning to Oxford and at 13, he met 15-year-old Danny Goffey on the school playing field and that was the beginning of musical history.Supergrass released six studio albums in their 17 years and famously turned down an offer from Stephen Spielberg for the band to do a Monkees style TV series.The band broke up in 2010 and although they reformed, and played Glastonbury last year, Gaz has been making critically acclaimed solo records and has just released his fourth album Turn the Car Around.Inherited: My Father’s Name Is Dad by FirePassing on: Land by Patti SmithProducer: Ben Mitchell
Sadiq Khan was born in 1970 in Tooting, south London. He became a solicitor in the early 90’s specializing in Human rights issues, and an MP in 2005. He was first elected as London Mayor in 2016, becoming the third mayor of the city and its first Muslim mayor. In his new book 'Breathe: Tackling the Climate Emergency' he describes his reaction to being diagnosed with adult-onset asthma.He reveals the music that was the soundtrack to the mad house he grew up in - and the inspirational song that politicised him.Inherited: Our House by Madness Passing on: Pride (In the Name of Love) by U2Producer: Ben Mitchell
Alex George was an A & E doctor in London when he entered the nation’s consciousness by appearing on the fourth series of Love Island. Although he initially returned to work on the ward, the media clamour for his talent eventually lured him away. Using his medical expertise, he hosted a podcast, made appearances on many of the nation’s favourite TV shows and then, in 2020, his youngest brother took his own life. Alex then launched a campaign requesting the UK Government prioritise mental health amongst children and adolescents and he’s been focusing on Youth Mental Health ever since, writing two books and using his huge social media following to affect change. He describes how he remembers his mother singing and dancing to Elton John, and reveals how the power of listening Ben Howard helped him through grief.Inherited: Your Song by Elton JohnPassing on: Keep Your Head Up by Ben HowardProducers: Ben Mitchell and Ribika Moktan
Mathew Baynton is an actor, writer, comedian and musician – who shot to fame as part of the troop who brought us the historical and hysterical sketch show Horrible Histories on CBBC. Since then, along with his fellow co-stars, he has gone on to create, write and star in the critically acclaimed BBC series – Ghosts. He describes how he finds inspiration in both the light and shade of Leonard Cohen's songs, and takes great solace in Big Thief's lyrics when thinking of his children.MusicInherited - Everybody Knows by Leonard CohenPass on - Change by Big ThiefProducer: Ben Mitchell
Douglas Stuart’s debut novel Shuggie Bain won him The Booker Prize in 2020. It centres around an alcoholic single mother and her gay son navigating life on a Glasgow estate and it reflects Douglas’ own troubled upbringing. After near homelessness he earned a place at The Royal College of Art…and went on to land in the epicentre of New York fashion, working for huge brands.In this edition of the podcast Douglas discusses how the music of Nick Drake helped spark romance between him and his now husband, and why Bobby Hebb's "Sunny" keeps the spirit of his late brother alive.MusicInherited - Pink Moon by Nick Drake Pass on - Sunny by Bobby HebbProducers: Ben Mitchell and Catherine Powell
Alex Jones, is a broadcaster and host of The One Show and Reunion Hotel.Music:Inherited: Tiny Dancer by Elton JohnPass on: I'm Yours by Jason MrazProducers: Ben Mitchell and Lowri Rhiannon Morgan
As well as being a consummate journalist, newsreader and broadcaster, Sophie does ‘beyond the limits’ running…the Marathon des Sables for example…for pleasure?!In this edition of Inheritance Tracks he reveals the stories behind the music that continues to inspire him; from the highlands of Scotland to a powerful song gifted to his peers and contemporary gay men.Music:Inherited: Wild Mountain Thyme - Judy CollinsPass on: Heading for Home by Peggy SeegerProducers: Ben Mitchell and Ribika Moktan
As well as being a consummate journalist, newsreader and broadcaster, Sophie does ‘beyond the limits’ running…the Marathon des Sables for example…for pleasure?! In this edition of Inheritance Tracks she reveals the very personal stories behind the music that continues to inspire her and evoke such fond and beautiful memories; from her Grandfather's peerless piano performances to the raucously fun jazz nights with the Raworth house band.Music:Inherited: Franz Schubert - ImpromptuPass on: Frank Sinatra - Fly me to the moonProducers:Ben Mitchell and Ribika MoktanProducers: Ben Mitchell and Ribika Moktan
For Elizabeth Day, nothing succeeds like failure as her award-winning podcast How To Fail With Elizabeth Day proves - and getting in the way of defeat once again is her new book Friendaholic: Confessions of a Friendship Addict.In this edition of Inheritance Tracks she reveals how a warm down track in a spin class helped her through a tough time in her life and how the story behind one Abba classic struck a chord during her childhood living in Northern Ireland through The Troubles.
Look over yonder wall by Paul Butterfield Blues Band and Broken Down Angel by Nazareth.
Look What They've Done to My Song, Ma - Melanie & Starman - David Bowie. Photo:Gavin Bond
Sweet Soul Music - Arthur Conley & Music for 18 Musicians - Steve Reich photo Suki Dhanda
Brandenburg Concerto No. 5 by Bach and Con Alma by Dizzy Gillespie (Photo: Simon Fowler)
Janie Jones - The Clash and Sha-La-La (Make Me Happy) - Al Green. Pic:Paul Marc Mitchell.
Stardust by Nat King Cole and Star of the County Down by Van Morrison and the Chieftains
Chura Liya Hai Tumne Jo Dil Ko by Asha Bhosle & Mohammed Rafi and To Zion by Lauryn Hill
O Thou That Tellest from Messiah and As With Rosy Steps the Morn from Theodora by Handel
Many A New Day from Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Oklahoma & Three Little Birds by Bob Marley
Willow Weep for Me by Ella Fitzgerald and Vivaldi's Spring III recomposed by Max Richter
You Are My Heart's Delight by Richard Tauber and Bonde by Ali Farka Toure with Ry Cooder
Hit me with your rhythm stick, Ian Dury and the Blockheads, Sat in your lap by Kate Bush
MacCrimmon’s Lament - Jeannie Robertson & Cecilia Bartoli - Agitata Da Due Venti, Vivaldi
You’ll Never Walk Alone performed by Shirley Jones and Optimistic by Sounds of Blackness
Some Enchanted Evening from South Pacific and Farewell to Stromness, Peter Maxwell Davies
I Heard it Through the Grapevine-Marvin Gaye and Don’t Worry, Be Happy by Bobby McFerrin.
Sweetheart Contract by Magazine, Brotherhood of Man by Oscar Peterson with Terry Clarke
What Are You Doing New Years Eve/ Nancy Wilson & When Will I See You Again/Three Degrees
Besame Mucho, Steve Lawrence and Eydie Gorme and The Way You Look Tonight, Fred Astaire
Dance Of The Blessed Spirits by C.W. Gluck and On the Nature of Daylight by Max Richter
JS Bach, Partita no. 1 in B flat major and Hong Kong Garden by Siouxsie and the Banshees
Myfanwy by Cor Meibion Dolgellau A'r Cylch & Dance Me to the End of Love by Leonard Cohen
Former politician Ed Balls chooses 'Dopo notte, atra e funesta' from Handel's Ariodante and 'We Shall Overcome' by Pete Seeger.
Don't you Want Me - the Human League and It's Quiet Uptown from the Hamilton soundtrack.
Streisand/Garland Happy days are here again/Get Happy and Nicky Mulvey Fever to the Form
Mr Soft's Cockney Rebel, Birgit Nilsson singing Liebestod from Wagner’s Tristan & Isolde
Henry Belafonte singing Mary’s Boy Child and Take the A Train performed by Duke Ellington
The jazz saxophonist chooses Snake Hip Swing by Ken Snake Hips Johnson and Pf Fat by Steve Williamson Feat. Black Thought (the Roots)
Be My Life's Companion by Mills Brothers; I Want a Little Sugar in my Bowl by Nina Simone
Three Little Birds by Bob Marley; Elgar's Cello Concerto performed by Jacqueline Du Pre.
Spirit in the Sky by Norman Greenbaum and A Pretty Girl is Like a Melody by Sonny Lester
Sphärenklänge by Josef Strauss and What a Wonderful World performed by Louis Armstrong.
She's leaving home by The Beatles and Are You Lonesome Tonight performed by Elvis Presley
Kelly Macdonald chooses: You are My Sunshine by Jimmie Davis and I Love You by Woodkid.
The writer and presenter, Danny Wallace, shares his Inheritance Tracks - Sunshine on Leith by The Proclaimers, and Live Forever by Oasis
Every Time We Say Goodbye by Cole Porter sung by Ella Fitzgerald and Being Boring by the Pet Shop Boys.
Fantasia on Greensleeves by Ralph Vaughn Williams & A Denying by Shirley & Dolly Collins
The actor and comedian Doon MacKichan shares her Inheritance Tracks - Parigi o Cara Ah Gran Dio, from La Traviata, performed by Luciano Pavarotti and Joan Sutherland and What Is and What Should Never Be by Led Zeppelin.
Zefiro Torna by Monterverdi sung by Nadia Boulanger Credo from Beethoven’s Missa Solemnis Op123
George RR Martin chooses The Wayward Wind by Gogi Grant and Ripple by The Grateful Dead.
Susan Hill chooses: The Sea Interludes from Benjamin Britten’s Peter Grimes; and Mozart’s Oboe concerto 3rd movement played by Nicholas Daniel.
Hen Wlad fy Nhadau by James James and Eli Jenkin's Prayer by Dylan Thomas and AHD Troyte
Paul chooses The Yellow Rose of Texas, Mitch Miller and These Arms of Mine, Otis Redding.
Jodie Kidd chooses: Money for Nothing, Dire Straits and No Woman No Cry, by Bob Marley.
Poem by Fibich performed by Alistair and Narcissus by Joyce Grenfell and Norman Wisdom.
Brother Can You Spare A Dime, Ronnie Lane's Slim Chance and We’ll Meet Again, Johnny Cash
Former designer and sculptor Nicole Farhi chooses Kol Nidrei sung by Cantor Yitz Meir Helfgot and Casta Diva sung by Maria Callas from the opera Norma by Bellini.
Dave Gorman chooses: When You're in Love with a Beautiful Woman, performed by Dr. Hook; and Reasons to Be Cheerful, by Ian Dury and The Blockheads.
Midnight Train to Georgia sung by Gladys Knight & the Pips & Oblivion by Astor Piazzolla
Simon chooses: I Whistle a Happy Tune from The King and I & Lullabye, sung by Billy Joel.
I’m Always on a Mountain When I Fall, performed by Merle Haggard and Fix You by Coldplay.
Richard chooses Mama Used to Say, Junior; & Don't You Worry 'bout A Thing, Stevie Wonder
I Recall a Gypsy Woman, Don Williams; Who Knows Where the Time Goes?, Fairport Convention
Fashion designer Zandra Rhodes shares her Inheritance Tracks. She chooses Boléro by Ravel and The Pearl Fishers’ Duet by Bizet.
Countryfile's Adam Henson chooses Golden Brown by The Stranglers and Life on Mars by David Bowie
Radio 2's Ken Bruce chooses I’ve Got You Under My Skin by Frank Sinatra and Joe Brown performing I’ll See You In My Dreams from the Concert for George.
The East End actor shares a song he inherited and one he would like to pass on. His choices are Nat King Cole's Smile and Dean Martin's version of West Ham anthem I'm Forever Blowing Bubbles.
Comedian, writer and actress Helen Lederer chooses Que Sera, Sera by Doris Day and All I Want by Joni Mitchell.
The singer Kiki Dee shares her Inheritance Tracks: Some of Your Lovin sung by Dusty Springfield and Calling All Angels performed by Jane Siberry.
Kim choses 'Anyone who had a heart' performed by Cilla Black and 'Everything put together falls apart' by Paul Simon
Author, broadcaster and former MP Gyles Brandreth chooses Maurice Chevalier & Hermione Gingold singing I Remember It Well from the film Gigi and Simon Smith and His Amazing Dancing Bear by Scooter and Fozzie Bear from The Muppets.
Designer Orla Kiely chooses her Inheritance Tracks - Night and Day by Cole Porter and 7 seconds by Youssou N'Dour and Neneh Cherry.
Robert Winston is Professor of Science and Society, and Emeritus Professor of Fertility Studies at Imperial College London. He chooses the second movement from Beethoven's Seventh Symphony, performed by the London Symphony Orchestra and conducted by Edouard van Remoortel and the opening of J S Bach's Christmas Oratorio, recorded by the Choir of Trinity College Cambridge and the Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment, conducted by Stephen Layton.
Chris Difford, co-founder, guitarist, vocalist and lyricist from Squeeze chooses Happy Jack by The Who and You've Got A Friend by Carole King.
Judy Murray chooses The Jeely Piece Song by The Singing Kettle and Girl by Sharon Martin.
Poet and novelist Ben Okri shares his Inheritance Tracks. He choses (Sittin' on The) Dock of the Bay by Otis Reading and 'Pastorale' from Scenes from Nigeria by Samuel Akpabot, performed by Marcus Eley with Lucerne DeSa.
Jo Wood, former wife of Ronnie Wood, chooses Patter Patte by Miriam Makeba, and Stray Cat Blues by The Rolling Stones.
Opera singer Willard White chooses Smile by Nat King Cole and Bach's The Well-Tempered Clavier, Book 1: Prelude No. 1 In C Major, BWV 846.
DJ Simon Mayo chooses The Nightmare Song 'Love unrequited robs me of my rest' from Iolanthe by Gilbert and Sullivan and Graceland by Paul Simon.
Poet Imtiaz Dharker chooses Babu Samjho Ishare from Chalti Ka Naam Gaadi sung by Kishore Kumar and Heroes by David Bowie.
Bruce Dickinson of Iron Maiden chooses Child in Time by Deep Purple and Fire by The Crazy World of Arthur Brown.
Actor Stephen McGann chooses (I've Got a Gal in) Kalamazoo by Glenn Miller and Within You and Without You by The Beatles.
Television presenter Gail Porter chooses Wish You Were Here by Pink Floyd and When Doves Cry by Prince.
Actor Samuel West chooses Dory Previn's Play It Again Sam and Matt Bianco's Get Out Of Your Lazy Bed.
Robert chooses Beethoven's Opus 131 and Still Crazy After All These Years by Paul Simon.
Actor John Gordon Sinclair chooses I Love You Because by Jim Reeves and the title track from Aladdin Sane by David Bowie.
Broadcaster Mariella Frostrup chooses Hey, That's No Way To Say Goodbye by Leonard Cohen and Have I Told You Lately? by Van Morrison.
Cricket commentator Henry Blofeld chooses Tit Willow from the Mikado and Bring in the Clowns by Barbra Streisand.
Broadcaster Jeremy Vine chooses Old Comrades by The Band of HM Royal Marines and Elvis Costello's Lipstick Vogue.
Composer Debbie Wiseman chooses I'd Like to Teach the World to Sing by The New Seekers and Chopin's Nocturne in E Flat Major, Opus 9 No 2.
Novelist Joanna Trollope chooses La Mer by Charles Trenet and Mythical Kings and Iguanas by Dory Previn.
Singer and Actor, Martine McCutcheon choses 'Vultures' by John Mayer & 'Silver Springs' by Fleetwood Mac
Singer and broadcaster Suzi Quatro chooses 'God Bless The Child' by Billie Holliday and 'Try A Little Tenderness' by Otis Reading.
DJ Tony Blackburn chooses 'Reet Petite' by Jackie Wilson and 'I'm Still Waiting' by Diana Ross.
Actress Josette Simon chooses 'Hit The Road Jack' by Ray Charles and 'You're The Best Thing That Ever Happened To Me' by Gladys Knight and the Pips.
Singer Feargal Sharkey chooses 'Brown Eyed Handsome Man' performed by Buddy Holly and 'Aceperience' by Hardfloor.
Singer and songwriter Sharleen Spiteri chooses 'Rock the Casbah' by The Clash and 'These Boots Are Made For Walking' by Nancy Sinatra.
Singer and activist Mavis Staples chooses 'Will the Circle Be Unbroken' by The Staple Singers and 'What's Going On by Marvin Gaye.
TV presenter and 2016 Strictly winner Ore Oduba chooses Pride by U2 and One Last Time by Ariana Grande.
Actor David Jason chooses The Darktown Poker Club by Phil Harris and Holding Back the Years by Simply Red.
The singer Seal chose Smile by Nat King Cole and God Give Me Strength by Elvis Costello & Burt Bacharach.
Presenter, reality TV star and life coach, Jeff Brazier, chooses Crosstown Traffic by Jimi Hendrix and Searching by Roy Ayers.
The musician, Benny Andersson, formerly of Abba chooses Rattvikarnas Ganglat by Dalarnas Spelmansforbund Mon oeur S'ouvre A Ta Voix (Samson Et Dalila) by Maria Callas.
TV presenter Nick Knowles chooses Tea for the Tillerman by Cat Stevens and Synchronicity II by The Police.
Comedian Shazia Mirza chooses Verdi's The Chorus of the Hebrew Slaves from the opera Nabucco and Heroes by David Bowie.
Musician Nitin Sawhney chose 'So What' by Miles Davis and 'Mustt Mustt' by Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan (the Massive Attack remix).
Broadcaster and theatre critic, Libby Purves, chooses Vaughan Williams Fantasia on a Theme by Thomas Tallis and Noel Coward's There are
Bad Times Just Around the Corner.
The Parting Glass, The Voice Squad; The Scatterlings of Africa, by Johnny Clegg & Juluka.
Guitar legend Wilko Johnson chose 'Cathy's Clown' by the Everly Brothers and 'Highway 61 Revisited' by Bob Dylan
Actress Miranda Richardson chose 'The Ying Tong Song' by The Goons and 'A Meeting By The River' by Ry Cooder and Vishwa Mohan Bhatt.
TV presenter Anthea Turner chose 'A Windmill In Old Amsterdam' by Freddie and the Dreamers and 'Fields Of Gold' by Sting.
Actor Brendan Gleeson chose 'Teddy Bears' Picnic' and 'Sweet Thames Flow Softly' by Planxty.
Comedian Robert Webb chose 'Dance In The Old Fashioned Way' by Charles Aznavour and the Jeff Buckley version of Leonard Cohen's 'Hallelujah'.
Anoushka Shankar chooses Tana Mana and Shanti Mantra - both by her father Ravi Shankar.
Singer Elkie Brooks chose 'Warm And Tender Love' by Percy Sledge and 'Yesterdays' by Billie Holiday.
Poet John Cooper Clarke chose 'The Spaniard Who Blighted My Life' by Bing Crosby & Al Jolson and 'What's So Funny About Peace, Love And Understanding?' by Nick Lowe.
Norfolk-based broadcasting legend Alan Partridge chooses Who Put The Bomp by Barry Mann and the theme from Grandstand by Keith Mansfield.
Actress and singer Ute Lemper chooses 'Where Have All The Flowers Gone?' by Marlene Dietrich, and 'The Rose' by Bette Midler.
Singer Engelbert Humperdinck chose 'Harbour Lights' by The Platters and 'The Living Years' by Mike And The Mechanics.
Garden designer Dan Pearson chose 'All I Want' by Joni Mitchell and 'The Magic' by Joan As Policewoman
Novelist and screenwriter Anthony Horowitz chooses 'Live and Let Die' by Paul McCartney & Wings and 'Cabaret' by Liza Minnelli from the musical of the same name.
Bianca Jagger chooses 'Casta Diva' from the opera Norma sung by Maria Callas and 'Blowin' In The Wind' by Bob Dylan.
Actor and musician Martin Kemp chooses Long Distance Love performed by Little Feat and Jumpin' Jack Flash by The Rolling Stones.
DJ and producer Jazzie B chose 'Miss Black America' by Curtis Mayfield and 'Music Is My Sanctuary' by Gary Bartz
Actor Dennis Quaid chose 'Into The Mystic' by Van Morrison and 'Life Is Like A Mountain Railway' by Anonymous.
Esther Rantzen chooses 'Don't Put Your Daughter On The Stage Mrs Worthington' by Noel Coward and 'With A Little Help From My Friends' performed by Wet Wet Wet
Former hostage Terry Waite choses Nimrod from Enigma Variations by Elgar and Peace, the soprano solo from The Peacemakers by Karl Jenkins.
Crime writer Donna Leon chose 'Da Tempeste' by Joyce DiDonato and 'Myself I Shall Adore' by Cecilia Bartoli.
The comedian Russell Kane chooses Can't Get Enough of Your Love by Barry White and The Waves by Einaudi.
DJ David Rodigan chose 'You Don't Have To Say You Love Me' by Dusty Springfield and 'Feeling Soul' by Bob Andy.
Ian Hislop chooses 'A Swingin' Safari' performed by Bert Kaempfert & his Orchestra and 'Life Could Not Better Be' by Danny Kaye.
Singer Toyah Willcox chose 'Bridge Over Troubled Water' by Simon and Garfunkel and 'Human Behaviour' by Bjork
Film director Gurinder Chadha chose 'O Janewalo Jayo Na' from the 1957 film 'Mother India', performed by Lata Mangeshkar and 'Something Inside So Strong' by Labi Siffre.
Hypnotist and author, Paul McKenna, chooses 'Dancing Queen' by ABBA and 'Us and Them' by Pink Floyd.
Singer Marti Webb chose 'As Long As He Needs Me' from the musical Oliver and 'Tell Me On A Sunday' the title track from the musical of the same name.
Journalist and presenter Bill Turnbull chooses 'Three Little Maids' from the Mikado by Gilbert and Sullivan and 'Che Gelida Manina' sung by Vittorio Grigolo from Puccini's La Boheme.
Television presenter Michaela Strachan chose 'Asimbonang' uMandela thina' by Johnny Clegg and 'Earth Song' by Michael Jackson/
McFly singer Tom Fletcher chose 'Kids Wanna Rock' by Bryan Adams and 'I Get Around' by the Beach Boys.
Tom Chaplin, singer/songwriter and lead singer with the band Keane, chooses 'Bridge Over Troubled Water' by Simon & Garfunkel and 'Charmed Life' by The Divine Comedy.
Comedian and TV presenter Alan Carr chose 'Chain of Fools' by Aretha Franklin and 'Sign of the Times' by Prince.
Bill Bailey chooses Magic Moments by Perry Como and Once in a Lifetime by Talking Heads.
Maureen Lipman chooses 'When You Wish Upon A Star' performed by Barbara Cook and 'Frank Mills' from the musical Hair.
Phil Collins shares his Inheritance Tracks. He has chosen All My Loving by The Beatles and The Times They Are A Changin' by Bob Dylan.
Comedian and actor Alan Davies chooses Topol singing 'If I Were A Rich Man' and 'St Swithin's Day' by Billy Bragg.
Guitarist Johnny Marr chooses 'Walk Right Back' by the Everly Brothers and 'Slow Emotion Replay' by The The.
TV presenter Matt Baker chooses 'Brothers in Arms' by Dire Straits and 'Chitty Chitty Bang Bang' by the Sherman Brothers.
Alexandra Shulman, editor of British Vogue, chooses Ladies who Lunch by Elaine Stritch and Blowin' in the Wind performed by Stevie Wonder.
Venezuelan pianist Gabriela Montero chooses the Schumann Fantasie performed by Clifford Curzon and Quintet Opus 18 by Mieczyslaw Weinberg, performed by the Borodin Quartet
Former politician and diplomat Paddy Ashdown chooses 'The Parting Glass' by The Dubliners and 'Beim Schlafengehen' by Richard Strauss.
Adventurer, writer and broadcaster Ben Fogle chooses 'Flash Bang Wallop' sung by Tommy Steele and 'It's Tricky' by Run DMC.
DJ Trevor Nelson chooses 'I Want You Back' performed by the Jackson 5 and 'As' by Stevie Wonder.
Irish singer/songwriter Enya chooses Claude Debussy's Nocturnes: Nuages and her own Orinoco Flow.
Designer Wayne Hemingway choose 'You've Got a Friend' by Carole King and 'Black Man' by Stevie Wonder.
Football player, manager and pundit, Ruud Gullit chooses 'Let's Get It On' by Marvin Gaye and 'Happy' by Pharrell Williams.
Comedian, actor, writer, musician, television presenter and director Ade Edmondson chose 'The Song of the Weather' by Flanders & Swann and 'Jazz, Delicious Hot, Disgusting Cold' by The Bonzo Dog Doo-Dah Band.
Ex head of the British Army Lord Richard Dannatt chose 'High on a Hill' by The Band And Bugles Of The Light Division and 'Highland Cathedral' by the pipes and military band of the Royal Scots Dragoon Guard.
Geneticist Steve Jones chose Rachie by Caradog Roberts and Richard Wagner's Twilight Of The Gods: Siegfried's Funeral March.
Singer Billy Ocean chooses 'No Woman, No Cry' by Bob Marley and 'A Change Is Gonna Come' by Sam Cooke.
TV weather presenter Sian Lloyd chooses 'Can Walter' by Meic Stevens and 'Something Inside So Strong' by Labi Siffre.
Playwright David Hare chose 'Oh What a Lovely War' from the Joan Littlewood stage show and 'Simple Twist of Fate' by Bob Dylan, sung by Diana Krall.
Olympic gold medallist Amy Williams chose Pachelbel's Canon in D Major and I Gotta Feeling by the Black Eyed Peas
Hair stylist Nicky Clarke chose Starman by David Bowie and Beautiful Boy by John Lennon
Actress Juliet Stevenson chose 'Que Sera, Sera' by Doris Day and 'Space Oddity' by David Bowie
Singer Pixie Lott chooses 'Love Come Down' performed by Evelyn Champagne King and 'Something Inside So Strong' by Labi Siffre.
Actor, singer, dancer and presenter John Barrowman chose After The Lovin' by Englebert Humperdinck and Goodbye My Friend by Linda Ronstadt
Actress, singer, presenter and judge on Britain's Got Talent, Amanda Holden chose Meat Loaf's 'Dead Ringer for Love' and Dolly Parton's '9 to 5'.
Singer Katherine Jenkins chooses We Are Family by Sister Sledge and Intermezzo from Cavalleria Rusticana performed by The Philharmonia Orchestra.
Ceramics designer Emma Bridgewater chose 'Le Premier Bonheur du Jour' by Francoise Hardy and 'Gulf Coast Highway' by Emmylou Harris & Willie Nelson.
The BBC 6 Music breakfast presenter shares his Inheritance Tracks: The Isley brothers, This Old Heart of Mine and Purple Rain by Prince.
The film director, Peter Greenaway, shares his Inheritance Tracks: An Elephant Never Forgets, performed by Henry Hall and the BBC Dance Orchestra; and Concerto in A minor for Bassoon, composed by Antonio Vivaldi and performed by Academy of St. Martin-in-the-Fields and Neville Marriner.
Thriller writer Frederick Forsyth chooses 'Ol' Man River' sung by Paul Robeson and 'Fallen Soldier' sung by Melissa.
Sherlock and Mr Selfridge actor Amanda Abbington chooses 'Dear Prudence' by The Beatles and 'Furious' by Joan as Police Woman.
Theo Paphitis shares his Inheritance Tracks: Nobody Does it Better, sung by Carly Simon; and Over the Rainbow, performed by Eva Cassidy.
Singer Will Young chose 'Taxman' by The Beatles and 'Love and Affection' by Joan Armatrading.
Actress Rachael Stirling chose Bob Dylan's 'Lay Lady Lay' and Ella Fitzgerald's 'Too Darn Hot'.
The Archers actor David Troughton chose Elgar's variations on an original theme, opus 36, the enigma Nimrod and 'It must be Love' by Labi Siffre.
Singer Tony Christie chose 'Come Back To Me' performed by Sammy Davis Jnr, featuring Buddy Rich, live at The Sands and 'The Folks Who Live on the Hill' by Peggy Lee.