Three DJs replace legendary John Peel

LONDON - Three DJs will take over as hosts of the late John Peel's BBC radio show, continuing the veteran presenter's dedication to unsung artists, Radio 1 has said.

The station said it could never hope to replace Peel, who died of a heart attack aged 65 in October while on holiday in Peru.

Instead, the three DJs will keep Peel's legacy alive in the late-night weekday slot, renamed OneMusic, by seeking out those who make music for "music's sake rather than for commercial success," Radio 1 said in a statement.

The three DJs are Huw Stephens, Ras Kwame and Rob Da Bank, who has been hosting The John Peel Show since his death.

The new show will begin on February 1.

Stephens will host OneMusic on Tuesdays. He is currently one half of the Radio 1 Thursday night show Bethan and Huw in Wales, which promotes new music and breakthrough acts in Wales.

Kwame, whose show 100 per cent Homegrown on Radio 1's digital station 1Xtra features the best of UK black music, will host OneMusic on Wednesdays.

Rob Da Bank, who hosts electronic and dance music show The Blue Room, will take the reins on Thursdays.

All three will continue to host their current shows.

Radio 1 said OneMusic would feature both signed and unsigned artists with an emphasis on British talent as well as "seek out the most innovative music being made today".

"Supporting new music and seeking out the unusual was at the heart of what John was about. By having a series of DJs hosting a selection of shows under the OneMusic title, we will ensure that his legacy lives on," said Andy Parfitt, Radio 1 controller.

- REUTERS