John Peel

John Peel was a well known British broadcaster, best known for his work as a presenter on BBC Radio 1 and as a host of the popular television show Top of the Pops. Born in Heswall, Cheshire, England in 1939, Peel grew up in a musical family and developed a love for rock and roll in his teenage years.

In 1961, Peel began his career as a journalist, writing for several music magazines including the influential NME (New Musical Express). He also worked as a disc jockey, spinning records at local clubs and on pirate radio stations. In 1967, Peel was hired by the BBC to host a late-night show called "The Perfumed Garden," which showcased underground and psychedelic music.

Peel quickly became one of the most popular and influential DJs on the BBC, and in 1969 he was given his own show, "The John Peel Show". The show was known for its eclectic mix of music, and Peel was a champion of many different genres, including punk, reggae, electronic, and indie rock.

In addition to his work on the radio, Peel was also a regular host of Top of the Pops, the long-running BBC television show that showcased the week's top pop hits. He appeared on the show from 1968 until 1987, and his easy-going personality and enthusiasm for the music made him a favorite with viewers. He often co-presented with David 'Kid' Jensen and Janice Long. Peel had the longest gap between presenting editions of Top of the Pops. He presented his first edition in 1968, but didn't present the programme again until 1981. Peel famously made a joke about the situation, telling the audience that "it is consistency that counts viewers". Peel went on to regularly present the show from 1981 to 1987.

Throughout his career, Peel remained committed to supporting new and emerging artists, and he was known for his "Peel Sessions," in which he invited up-and-coming bands to record live in the BBC studios. Many of these sessions became legendary, and helped to launch the careers of bands like Joy Division, The Smiths, and Nirvana.

John Peel suddenly passed away in October 2004.

We remember John Peel with this little tribute video, one of our favourite TOTP presenters who sadly passed away in 2004.