Category: Radio
1; Radio
4; World
Service
Date: 26.10.2004
Printable version
It has been
confirmed that Â鶹Éç radio broadcaster John Peel died from a heart attack
last night whilst on holiday in Peru.
Ìý
He leaves behind his wife Sheila and four children.
Ìý
Radio 1 Controller Andy Parfitt said: "John Peel
was a broadcasting legend. I am deeply saddened by his death as are
all who work at Radio 1.
Ìý
"John's influence has towered over the development
of popular music for nearly four decades and his contribution to modern
music and music culture is immeasurable.
Ìý
"Hopeful bands all over the
world sent their demo tapes to John knowing that he really cared. His
commitment and passion for new music only grew stronger over the years.
Ìý
"In fact, when I last saw him he was engaged in
a lively debate with his fellow DJs over the state of new music today.
He will be hugely missed."
Ìý
Â鶹Éç Director of Radio & Music Jenny Abramsky added:
"John Peel was a unique broadcaster whose influence on Radio 1
could be felt from its very first days.
Ìý
"He nurtured musicians and listeners alike introducing
them to new sounds.
Ìý
"His open minded approach to music was mirrored
by his equally generous approach to his audience when he went to Radio
4 to present Home Truths.
Ìý
"He had a remarkable rapport
with all his listeners. Everyone at Â鶹Éç Radio is devastated by the news.
Ìý
"John is simply irreplaceable. Our hearts go out
to Sheila and his children."
Ìý
Mark Thompson, Â鶹Éç Director-General, said: "We
are all very shocked and saddened by the news of John's death.
Ìý
"He was one of the giants of radio and will be
missed, not just by everyone at the Â鶹Éç, but by millions of listeners
of all ages."
Ìý
John Peel also presented a weekly Â鶹Éç World Service music programme.
Ìý
Richard Sambrook, Director, World Service & Global News, said: "For
millions of listeners around the world John Peel was the voice of modern
music.
Ìý
"His ability to appeal to different generations and across different
cultures was unique. He will be hugely missed."
Ìý
Nigel Chapman, Director, World Service, said: "Â鶹Éç World Service
listeners will be shocked and saddened at the news of John Peel's sudden
death.
Ìý
"He was a very popular, pioneering presenter who broadened the
horizons of generations of global listeners.
Ìý
"He was a tireless enthusiast for new music in all its forms and
his passion and warmth touched the lives of millions around the world.
Ìý
"A great advocate of the World Service, he played a key role in
our recent 70th Anniversary celebrations. His innovative and iconic
style will be greatly missed."
Ìý
Phil Harding, Director, English Networks and News, World
Service, said: "John's devoted listeners all over the world will
be immensely saddened by his death.
Ìý
"Via the World Service his eclectic good taste
and passion for new music of all forms was transmitted to millions of
listeners world wide.
Ìý
"John was not only one of the most influential
figures on the British music scene he was also a giant across the world."
Ìý
Radio 2's Janice Long, a former Radio 1 DJ, said: "John
was incredibly passionate about everything he did - not just music,
but his family too.
Ìý
"He enjoyed an incredible career, touching many
people's lives - everyone has heard of John Peel.
Ìý
"A maverick in the radio industry, he will be a
great loss."
Ìý
Radio 1 tribute programmes
Ìý
Steve Lamacq will pay tribute to John Peel tonight (Tuesday
26 October) from 11.00pm to 1.00am.
Ìý
Tomorrow (Wednesday 27 October) Mary Anne Hobbs will
continue the tribute from 11.00pm to 1.00am.
Ìý
On Thursday 28 October, also from 11.00pm to 1.00am,
Steve Lamacq will look back at John's life and talk to people he has
influenced over the years.
