At 7am one September morning in 1967, Tony Blackburn, aged 24, inaugurated Radio 1 with the iconic words, “And good morning, everyone… welcome to the exciting new sound of Radio 1.” This marked the station’s inception.
Nearly six decades later, Tony remains a prominent figure at the BBC, hosting the highly sought-after Sounds of the 60s program on BBC Sounds, which is a hit among listeners.
With upcoming appearances at Radio 2 in the Park in Chelmsford and his ongoing successful live tour for Sounds of the 60s, Tony Blackburn, now 82, reflects on his unexpected longevity in the industry with humor and gratitude.
In addition to his radio success, Tony’s presence on television, notably as a presenter on BBC1’s Morning Live show, has further solidified his status as a versatile media personality.
Tony’s candid approach to aging provides engaging content for his shows, as he humorously incorporates personal experiences like wearing a hearing aid to combat tinnitus, offering a unique and relatable perspective to his audience.
Despite his triumph on I’m a Celebrity in 2002, Tony expresses a lack of interest in revisiting the show, citing the increased challenges and changes since his participation.
Reflecting on a health scare two years ago that saw him hospitalized for two months due to sepsis and pneumonia, Tony acknowledges the gravity of his situation and the support he received from his family during his recovery.
Having started his career on pirate radio before making his mark on mainstream platforms like Radio 1 and Radio 2, Tony’s journey in broadcasting has been both fulfilling and enduring.
Tony’s close bond with his audience is evident as he anticipates meeting fans at events, appreciating their loyalty and support throughout his career.
Reminiscing about departed colleagues at Radio 2, Tony fondly recalls his friendships with renowned DJs like Johnnie Walker and Steve Wright, highlighting the camaraderie and mutual respect shared within the industry.
As he prepares for upcoming events, Tony remains enthusiastic about his DJ set and interacting with fellow presenters, showcasing his enduring passion for radio and performance.
Acknowledging his admiration for Jeremy Vine’s cycling pursuits, Tony appreciates Vine’s dedication to his interests and the lighthearted conversations they share whenever they meet.
Tony’s love for Coronation Street, which he has followed since its inception, reflects his genuine interest in the show and his connection to its characters, underlining his passion for storytelling and entertainment.
Despite his vast experiences and successes, Tony Blackburn humbly admits that his work remains his primary hobby and source of fulfillment, emphasizing his unwavering dedication to his craft.