Renowned BBC Radio 1 DJ Annie Nightingale, the station’s first pioneering DJ, has died after a short illness. She died at her home surrounded by family early this morning. Variety reports. She was 83 years old.
Annie Nightingale joined BBC Radio 1 in 1970, making history as its first female DJ and becoming its longest-serving presenter. Recognized for championing emerging and underground music, she also received praise for her unwavering support of women in a predominantly male industry. She remained on air until late last year and continued her influence as co-host of the influential BBC television show, “The Old Gray Whistle Test.”
DJ Trevor Nelson, who began broadcasting in the 1980s and still presents BBC Radio 1Xtra, paid tribute to Nightingale on X (formerly Twitter). ‘Dear Annie, you were more than a pioneer for women in radio. You made me feel that music streaming is for life. Rave in peace,” she wrote.
Dear Annie, you were more than a pioneer for women in radio; you made me feel that music streaming is for life. Delirate in peace 💙
Annie Nightingale: legendary Radio 1 DJ dies aged 83 https://t.co/6x8lnMb63E
—Trevor Nelson (@DJTrevorNelson) January 12, 2024
BBC’s Annie Nightingale united generations of music fans
Born in Middlesex in 1940, Nightingale embarked on her career in television and news. She eventually landed the prestigious position of host of the popular 1960s musical television show, “That’s For Me.” In 1970, she joined Radio 1, with the invaluable support of Derek Taylor, the Beatles’ veteran press officer. Soon after, she landed a regular afternoon position. Her rise coincided with the burgeoning era of British radio. She was inspired by the legendary pirate radio stations that emerged in the mid-1960s.
In 2002, Nightingale was honored with an MBE for her notable contributions to broadcasting. Then, in 2010, she achieved a Guinness World Record for being the longest-serving broadcaster. The prestigious award was presented to her during a ceremony attended by Liam Gallagher, one of her favorite artists.
Over the years, Nightingale exuded style and captured attention in photographs alongside well-known figures such as Kate Moss. This was during a celebration to mark his 40th anniversary at Radio 1. Another confidant of his was Paul McCartney. The Beatles alum called her live to give a statement after John Lennon’s murder in 1980.
She is survived by two children, Alex and Lucy, whom she had with her first husband, Gordon Thomas. She later married actor Tony ‘Binky’ Baker, but the couple eventually divorced.
Categories: Biography
Source: vcmp.edu.vn