“Broadcaster John Peel was the champion of British music for nearly 40 years on his late-night Radio 1 show. He led the way in promoting new acts, from David Bowie, through Joy Division to the White Stripes.” – BBC Obituary: John Peel
Today is a very sad day for Radio Broadcasting with the news that John Peel sadly passed away whilst on a working holiday in Peru.
For me, John Peel was one of the most influential people on my muscial tastes. I remember getting my first radio as a young child, and sneaking it up to my bed at night, and falling asleep listening to his late night show on Radio 1.
His standards and views never changed throughout his broadcasting career remaining as high and as strong in every show.
His air play of the Undertones Teenage Kicks propelled them to top of the Indy Charts and eventually in to the main stream charts. It still remains one of my favourite tracks of all time.
My thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends at this very sad time.
May you rest in peace, John Peel 1939 – 2004