Without a doubt, Tony Blackburn is a true legend in radio broadcasting. He was the first DJ to be heard on BBC Radio 1 when it was launched on 30 September 1967, and presented the breakfast show until 1973. The first words spoken on BBC Radio 1 were "...And good morning everyone! Welcome to the exciting new sound of Radio 1". Tony's cheery style and corny jokes ensured his household reputation and made him an extremely popular figure with the listeners, although he made no bones about his dislike of heavy and progressive rock. His fellow Radio 1 DJ John Peel would often derisively refer to him as "Timmy Bannockburn".
In the early 1970's, Tony was associated mainly with bubblegum and mainstream pop, but he later championed soul music. It was largely due to Tony that "I'm Still Waiting" by Diana Ross, which was initially just an album track, was released as a single in the UK in 1971 and reached number one. In the 1970's and 1980's Tony was a regular host of BBC One's Top of the Pops and he also made regular appearances on Noel's House Party TV Show.
After Tony was crowned 'King Of the Jungle' as the winner in ITV's I'm A Celebrity - Get Me Out Of Here' in 2002 - he enjoyed a resurgence of popularity - also picking up a new fan base amongst the many younger listeners !
Some of his radio highlights include when Tony worked for Capital Gold in the 1990s alongside Paul Burnett, Mike Read and Kenny Everett. Over the past few years, Tony presented his own breakfast show on the national Classic Gold Radio Network.
Tony is very proud to be working as part of our KCFM 99.8 team of presenters - on a radio station that promotes fun, great local radio content, sport, news and very importantly - a non-repetitive music policy. We play only the best!
Join Tony every Friday, from 10am to 1pm - for The Tony Blackburn Show - sponsored by our friends at P & O Ferries - 'Your holiday starts as soon as you get on board!"
Birthday: 29th January 1943
Birthplace: Guildford, Surrey
Favourite Artist: Marvin Gaye
Favourite Song: 'Love is the Answer' by England Dan and John Ford Coley
Favourite Film: 'Network' with Peter Finch
Most embarrassing moment: Recording an interview with singer Eartha Kit and I was so tired I fell asleep during it
Biggest fashion mistake: Wearing High Heeled boots in the 70's
Worst hairstyle: I've always had the same one, I never really, never got it right !
First record I bought: 'Cool Water' by Frankie Lane
How I spend my weekends: Broadcasting - which I love doing !
My perfect night out: A good meal at an Italian restaurant - with my wife Debbie and my daughter Victoria
My hobbies: I don't really have any hobbies as I'm really only interested in Radio and TV, but I love being at home with my family.
Most annoying habit: I don't have one - I'm perfect!!