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Nightmare before Christmas

Radio presenters have a duty to advance new music, argues Vic Galloway, by resisting bland commercial playlists

John Peel was my hero. Not very punk to have heroes, I grant you, but that’s the way it is. I was dumbfounded when I heard of his death. For over 20 years I’ve been aware of that voice, that warmth, that dedication and love of music. He was the DJ that millions have looked up to for years. With no compromise and no concessions to fashion or fads, he paved the way for musicians, freethinkers and potential broadcasters, generation after generation. There will never be another John Peel. And with his passing comes the unsteady feeling that there will be a void that won’t, or can’t, be filled. Life goes on, but what will it be like post-Peel?

The Role of New Music DJs

Bizarrely, in this age of multi-media and endless distraction, the radio still plays a huge part in our cultural lives; ratings figures show that radio's audience is growing. But what is the role of a new music DJ now? As the BBC remains at the cutting edge of radio programming, due to its public broadcast remit, John Peel was in fact one of the only presenters allowed an absolute free reign with his running orders. He decided who he played and why. It’s no secret that playlists exist throughout daytime and specialist radio but Peel paid no mind to these and did his own thing. Was that because he was stubborn, problematic and uncontrollable, or perhaps that his legendary status ensured that nobody would challenge him? It also makes you think that if a man, who never compromised his programming and music tastes in four decades, is being honoured to the extent that Peel is, then surely more DJs should be given carte blanche.

The Importance of Radio in Discovering New Music

As the most direct medium, radio is still the most important method of discovering new music. A play (or a playlist position) on daytime radio is still the best way to influence the record-buying public’s tastes, opinions, and wallets. Specialist programming is less immediate in its influence but feeds the mainstream. Alternative programming is responsible for breaking new bands time after time, and that desire to bring forth new music lives on. However, as the world becomes more homogenized and the creep of globalization continues apace, you wonder how much freedom the DJs and producers will continue to exercise.

John Peel's Legacy

Peel had an extraordinary life, experiencing everything from the dawn of rock'n'roll to the present day. He introduced us to a myriad of new bands and artists and was responsible for many being signed, by way of a play of a demo or an invitation to record a session. His influence was immense, helping to launch the careers of countless musicians. Between the internet, MTV, and all the new ways in which to experience music, it’s difficult to see what radio's future influence will be. However, if the right people with the right enthusiasms are employed, new music DJs will continue to popularize ideas outside the mainstream.

The Role of Hotels in Supporting Emerging Artists

While the radio still holds significant influence in the music industry, other players have emerged as important contributors to the discovery and promotion of new music. Hotels, in particular, have been increasingly involved in supporting emerging artists. Many hotels have started curating playlists featuring local and independent musicians, providing exposure to lesser-known talents. They have also begun hosting live music events, creating opportunities for artists to showcase their skills in front of new audiences.

Furthermore, some hotels have started offering artist residencies, allowing musicians to stay and create within their premises. These residencies not only provide artists with a unique working environment but also serve as a platform for collaborations and the development of new music. By offering such opportunities, hotels are playing a crucial role in nurturing creativity and contributing to the growth of the music industry.

The involvement of hotels in supporting new music is a testament to the importance of collaboration between various industries. By bridging the gap between hospitality and the arts, hotels are able to provide a valuable platform for musicians to expand their reach and gain recognition.

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