91: Bob Harris - Radio 1, 2, BBC local radio, Luxy and BFBS

Radio Moments - Conversations

This is the story of the man who grew up simply wanting to be on the radio and emerged as one of the most musically influential and respected presenters in UK radio.

In this hour of ‘Radio Moments Conversations’, Bob Harris tells of his time as an unlikely police cadet before his ambition to work in radio took him – alone – to London. He shares how he befriended John Peel and became his fill-in, and then moved to a more permanent BBC Radio 1 programme - and fronting the Old Grey Whistle Test.

As his first spell of Radio 1 ended, spells at Radio Luxembourg, Radio 210, BBC Radio Oxford and BFBS followed, before the death of his idol Roger Scott created an opportunity back at Radio 1 – some 16 years after his earlier departure.

As Radio 1 implemented its famous ‘90s ‘rejuvenation’, Bob was moved on again – and he tells here of the meeting where the deed was done - before he turned up on GLR in a programme which he was to regard as one of his favourites. Noticed by Radio 2, Bob returned to the BBC where has remained since, hosting a range of programmes including his renowned Country Show.

Speaking as he relished his return on-air after his illness, this is the Bob Harris story - in his own words.
Hear the whole ‘Radio Moments Conversations’ series here – and sign up for the regular podcast for this ongoing series. Music by Larry Bryant.