Absolute Radio to mark 20 years of Russ

Russ Williams is celebrating 20 years at One Golden Square this month, having been there since Virgin Radio launched in 1993.

The station, now known as Absolute Radio, will broadcast a number of special programmes around the anniversary date of April 30th, the date Virgin Radio launched on 1215 AM nationwide.

Russ was part of the popular duo Russ and Jono, he’s hosted drivetime and for 15 years he’s been mid-morning anchor. He was on-air on 7/7, when Diana died and when the planes hit the twin towers.

Over the years he has deputised for Tarrant on Capital breakfast, ‘Talked Sport’ for UTV and broadcast on Metro, Mercury and Southern Sound alongside his work as a TV and commercial voiceover.

Absolute Radio Breakfast Show host Christian O’Connell says: ‘Russ is ‘The Voice’. He possesses one of the most distinguishable and identifiable voices in broadcasting: A national treasure, a titan.’

Special programmes include a nightly revisit on Absolute Classic Rock to some of the documentaries and programmes which Russ has made over the years. These include special programmes with Gene Simmons, Roger Waters, Rolling Stones and Jon Bon Jovi.

Then on Sunday 5th May 6 till 8pm Christian interviews Russ on Absolute Radio about his two decades at Golden Square, whilst Russ picks some of his favourite songs and plays clips from some of his interviews.

Andrew Harrison, Chief Executive RadioCentre has said: ‘Russ continues to demonstrate his adaptability and creativity to connect in a very personal way with his listeners.’