In this documentary many of the UK’s finest broadcasters plus friends from the world of entertainment and music celebrate national treasure Tony Blackburn on the occasion of his 80th birthday.
It is presented by fellow Radio 2 presenter Dermot O’Leary who guides listeners through Tony’s life and career through an in-depth conversation, surprising him with heartfelt messages.
It is also available on BBC Sounds from Sunday 22 January.
Tony Blackburn says: “When I started out on the pirate ships I had no idea quite what my future would bring, but I can’t think what else I would have done to be honest! It’s been quite a ride so as I celebrate my 80th birthday it will be great to look back and share some of my incredible experiences.”
Dermot O’Leary says: “Tony is genuinely a broadcasting great – he was a pioneer of pirate radio and the very first voice heard on Radio 1 when it launched in 1967. I can’t quite believe I can also say we’re now colleagues at Radio 2. I’m beyond honoured to be sitting down with him to mark his 80th birthday and find out all I can about the radio legend that is Mr Tony Blackburn!”
Listeners hear from his former bandmate and creator of Year Of The Cat, Al Stewart, school friend and former BBC Chief Political Correspondent and Strictly star John Sergeant, close friend Noel Edmonds, soul singer Jaki Graham, and Gyles Brandreth. Marty Wilde MBE remembers Tony’s unique family connection with his family as Tony’s father, Dr Kenneth Blackburn, delivered his daughter and future star, Kim Wilde.
Sir Cliff Richard, Frank Allen (from The Searchers) and Johnnie Walker remind us of his role on the ground-breaking pirate radio stations, Radio Caroline and Big L – Radio London. Radio pioneers Johnny Beerling and Tim Blackmore describe his unique importance at the beginning of British national pop radio on pirate radio, The Light Programme and launching BBC Radio 1, while Gary Davies appreciated his warm welcome to Top Of The Pops.
Ant & Dec send their best wishes, alongside Christine Hamilton and Chris Moyles who give their insights as to why Tony was crowned the first ever King Of The Jungle. Pete Waterman reveals how Tony changed his life and gave Rick Astley his biggest hit to date.
Fellow broadcasting colleagues Greg James, Sara Cox, Zoe Ball, Trevor Nelson, Simon Bates, Rob Brydon, Jon Culshaw, Pete Paphides and Nick Grimshaw chat about why Tony has always been, and indeed continues to be, such an inspiration to them.
BBC Sounds will also feature Tony Blackburn: Your Soul Mate Playlist to accompany this programme.
Presenter: Dermot O’Leary
Producer: Mark Simpson for BBC Audio
Publicity contact: KA