Times piece on new shows

[Jan Buxton]

 Three DJs to fill Peel's shoes
      By Adam Sherwin, Media Reporter

 IT WILL take three presenters to replace John Peel, Radio 1 said 
yesterday as it unveiled a late-night alternative music slot to succeed 
the broadcaster.



      After months of discussion, Radio 1 executives concluded that the 
breadth of Peel's musical taste was so great that no single DJ could 
take over.

      Rob Da Bank, the "chill-out" DJ who took over the show after Peel's 
death from a heart attack last October, will continue to host the 
two-hour Thursday programme, but Tuesday night has been awarded to Huw 
Stephens, the copresenter of Radio 1's Bethan and Huw in Wales 
programme, who is closer to the "underground" rock scene.

      Ras Kwame, a presenter on 1Xtra, the BBC's digital black music 
station, will take over on Wednesdays. Kwame gave a first hearing to 
talents on the British hip-hop and urban scene, including Lady Sovereign 
and Kano, artists tipped to break into mainstream.

      Instead of the messy eclectism of Peel, the three shows will come 
under the Radio 1 branding of One Music. The BBC promised that One Music 
would "keep Peel's legacy alive" by "championing a diverse, 
unpredictable and non-commercial mix of new music".

      A One Music website will give aspiring artists advice on all 
aspects of the industry, from how to record a demo tape to what to be 
aware of when signing a record contract.

      Radio 1 said that the three young DJs were chosen for their 
in-depth musical know-ledge across a variety of genres. A production 
team will ensure that the three shows represent a balance of music 
through the week but the DJs are expected to focus on their own 
passions.

      One Music will begin on February 1 and the "Peel Sessions", where 
new artists are invited to record tracks at the BBC for exclusive 
airing, will continue.

      Although Peel was famed for launching bands to stardom, One Music 
will not be judged on creating hit artists. A spokesman said: "It will 
seek out those making music for music's sake rather than for commercial 
success."

      Andy Parfitt, the Controller of Radio 1, said: "As a DJ, John Peel 
was unique. We have spent a long time debating how best to continue John's 
work and believe that, by having a series of DJs hosting a selection of 
shows, we will ensure that his legacy lives on."

      Stephens said: "I grew up listening to John so it is a massive 
honour to be able to carry on the work that he did championing new 
music. No one will be able to fill John's shoes but we can make sure his 
inspiration keeps us hunting out the next musical gem."