THE great and the good of Radio 1 have paid tribute to legendary DJ Annie Nightingale.
The broadcaster sadly passed away at her home in London at the age of 83 following a short illness.
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Now, presenters from across the radio industry – including some of the biggest stars of BBC Radio 1 – have taken to social media to pay tribute to an icon.
BBC Radio Wales presenter Huw Stephens stated: “Annie Nightingale. Thanks for everything. RIP.”
Trevor Nelson from Radio 1Xtra and Radio 2 gushed: “Dear Annie , you were more than just a trailblazer for women on radio, you made me feel like music broadcasting is for life. Rave in peace 💙.”
Fellow Radio 2 personality Jo Whiley wrote: “The coolest woman who ever graced the airwaves. She blazed a trail for us all and never compromised. Her passion for music never diminished. Annie – My utmost respect and thanks for it all. Much love Jo 🖤.”
Dance Party Friday star Danny Howard posted: “Very sad to hear the news of Annie Nightingale passing 💔 An all time radio great and an inspiration to many! I was in awe of her knowledge and passion for music, the way she talked about it and the stories she had! Such a kind soul and will be missed. Thank you Annie R.I.P 🕊️😢.”
“If you’re a young person, make your life exciting now. Make this decade the thing that you’re excited about. Come on! Use it now! Don’t look back. I don’t look back.’ – RIP Annie Nightingale,” added Zane Lowe.
Stone Roses singer Rowetta also took to X – formerly known as Twitter – as she remembered the star.
She said: “Rest In Peace you absolute 👑 Annie Nightingale.
Always so lovely to me, from the first time we met in 1990.
Beautiful legend! 🙌🏽❤️.”
Annie was best known for her trailblazing stint as the first female DJ on Radio One in 1970.
As part of the job, she launched the careers of dozens of unknown artists.
Her family confirmed that the radio star passed away yesterday at her London home after a “short illness”.
They said: “Annie was a pioneer, trailblazer and an inspiration to many.
“Her impulse to share that enthusiasm with audiences remained undimmed after six decades of broadcasting on BBC TV and radio globally.
“Never underestimate the role model she became. Breaking down doors by refusing to bow down to sexual prejudice and male fear gave encouragement to generations of young women who, like Annie, only wanted to tell you about an amazing tune they had just heard.
“Watching Annie do this on television in the 1970s, most famously as a presenter on the BBC music show The Old Grey Whistle Test or hearing her play the latest breakbeat techno on Radio One is testimony to someone who never stopped believing in the magic of rock ‘n’ roll.”
The family also added that a celebration of Annie’s life will take place at a memorial service in the spring.
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