This probably no longer counts as ‘news’ but more accurately what Ricky Gervais once termed ‘olds’.
The BBC has announced plans to shut down the digital radio station 6 Music. Beside the facts that 6 Music: consistently provides the best music programming of any radio/TV station; for the large part is presented by individuals whose passion and dedication for music shines through; serves as a national launching pad for new and unsigned acts; and is the home to comedy heroes Adam and Joe, the station epitomises quality, niche broadcasting, something the BBC Director-General Mark Thompson apparently wants the corporation to focus on.
With the British general election looming, there’s more than a wiff of political manouevering surrounding this announcement. And hopefully, if pressure is maintained, the Beeb will backtrack in the knowledge that they’ve demonstrated to politicians the backlash that may surround potential govenment cuts to public service broadcasting and the amazing 6 Music will be saved.
There is however, no way of knowing about the scheming behind the scenes. For now, if you haven’t already, register your dissatisfaction with the BBC Strategy Review through the BBC Trust consultation here.
Below is a video by Noah and the Whale covering Tom Petty’s ‘Last DJ’, made in reaction against the announcement. No photography here but I did shoot the footage of Noah!
Last Dj by Tom Petty cover for BBC6 from charlie fink on Vimeo.