Rodigan joins Radio 1Xtra for reggae show

BBC Radio 2 and former Kiss presenter David Rodigan is joining BBC 1Xtra to host a weekly show focusing on new and classic reggae.

David resigned from Kiss in November after his show was moved forward an hour to the midnight hour, and what he described as “continued marginalisation” of the reggae genre by the Bauer station.

He tweeted the news on Tuesday morning: “I am absolutely delighted to be joining BBC @1Xtra focusing on new cutting edge reggae and classic cuts every Sunday from 7-9pm.

Speaking about his new Radio 1Xtra series, David said: “I am absolutely delighted to be joining BBC Radio 1Xtra where I can share my passion for both new cutting edge reggae and classic cuts, reflecting a genre of music which continues to play a paramount role in urban bass culture music.”

Ben Cooper, Controller BBC Radio 1 and BBC Radio 1Xtra, said: “David Rodigan is a legend in broadcasting and it will be great to listen to him on Sunday evenings on BBC Radio 1Xtra. It’s fantastic to welcome someone with his unrivalled knowledge and passion for reggae to the BBC.”

And within an hour he also announced he is returning to BBC Radio 2 for a new “13 part summer season of cool rock steady, ska and reggae.. stardust from Jamaica.”

David was with Kiss for 22 years and was awarded an MBE in the 2012 New Year Honours for services to broadcasting. He was inducted into the Radio Academy Hall of Fame in 2005.

I am absolutely delighted to be joining BBC @1Xtra focusing on new cutting edge reggae and classic cuts every Sunday from 7-9pm. 

— David Rodigan (@DavidRodigan) January 8, 2013

I am honoured to be returning to @BBCRadio2 for a new 13 part summer season of cool rock steady, ska and reggae..stardust from Jamaica.

— David Rodigan (@DavidRodigan) January 8, 2013