John Peel

John Peel was an English disc jockey and radio presenter known for being one of the first to play psychedelic and progressive rock on British radio.

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Birth Name :

John Ravenscroft

Profession :

Radio Personality

Birthday :

August 30, 1939

Star Sign :

Virgo

Death Date:

October 25, 2004

Age :

65

Birthplace :

Heswall, England

John Robert Parker Ravenscroft, better known as John Peel, was a prominent English disc jockey and radio presenter. He held the distinction of being the longest-serving DJ among the original BBC Radio 1 lineup, with a broadcasting career that spanned from 1967 until his passing in 2004. Peel made a significant impact on the British music industry, primarily through his radio shows on BBC Radio 1, including his renowned Friday night program, “The John Peel Sessions.” This show featured up-and-coming artists and music trends, and Peel played a vital role in the early growth of influential bands such as Joy Division, The Smiths, and Nirvana. A passionate Liverpool FC supporter, Peel often included football discussions in his radio broadcasts. Notably, he was among the first broadcasters to introduce psychedelic rock and progressive rock records to British radio listeners.