Loved by listeners and the industry, Tony Blackburn will be recognised at this year’s ARIAS for his near 60 years in broadcasting and contribution to the popularity of soul music in the UK.
Tony began his journey to DJ stardom at a pirate station, first appearing on Radio Caroline in 1964. Just three years later, he was asked to launch BBC Radio 1 and hosted the Breakfast show which went onto become the most coveted in radio.
Countless artists recognise Tony as the DJ that brought soul music to the UK, and it was soul shows that Tony presented throughout his career at BBC London, Capital Gold, Jazz FM, Smooth Radio, Real Radio and more.
Moving to Radio 2 in 2010, Tony hosted Pick of the Pops, and later Sounds of the 60s – the show he still hosts now at 80 years old.
Previously recognised with Sony Golds for Breakfast and Lifetime Achievement, Tony is only the second recipient of The Pioneer Award, following the late Janice Long receiving the inaugural award posthumously last year.
The award is in the gift of the Trustees of The Radio Academy, and recognises a person, team, company, brand or programme that has blazed a trail in radio and audio, leading where others have followed, changing the way the medium is used.