FEATURE:
Change of the Guard
IN THIS PHOTO: BBC Radio 6 Music’s new Head, Samantha Moy/PHOTO CREDIT: International Radio Faces
A New Chapter for BBC Radio 6 Music
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THIS will be a brief article…
IMAGE CREDIT: BBC
but, as I am a huge BBC Radio 6 Music fan, I wanted to talk about a big change that has happened. When we listen to a radio station, we think about the broadcasters and the artists played, but how often do we think about those behind the scenes?! I think the success of stations like BBC Radio 6 Music relies as much on those away from the microphone as it does the on-air talent. The brilliant Paul Rodgers is the Senior Head of Commissioning at BBC Radio 6 Music, and he has helped take the station to new heights. I will talk about the importance of BBC Radio 6 Music in a bit but, this week, Samantha Moy was appointed Head at the station. This Music Week article explains more:
“Samantha Moy has been named as the new head of station for BBC Radio 6 Music.
Moy has been 6 Music’s head of content commissioning since 2018, having previously worked as the station’s network editor.
Paul Rodgers, currently senior head of commissioning for 6 Music, is leaving the BBC this summer.
Lorna Clarke, BBC controller of pop, said: “Using her wide range of experience in broadcast production, Sam will continue to evolve this exciting radio station that means so much to music lovers. ”
Moy said: “I’m privileged and honoured to be appointed to lead BBC Radio 6 Music – a radio station made for and made by music lovers. The relationship with our audience has gone from strength to strength, as our brilliant presenters, supported by our talented production teams, have provided the perfect combination of music, conversation and connection during these challenging times. I’m proud to lead this fantastically creative and inspiring team, who I know feel as passionately about 6 Music as I do.”
IN THIS PHOTO: Lauren Laverne/PHOTO CREDIT: BBC
Moy started her career in radio at Kiss in London, joining independent production company Somethin’ Else to produce programmes for Radio 1, Radio 2 and the BBC World Service. She joined BBC Radio 1 in 2002 where she produced the Evening Session, Jo Whiley and the Live Lounge, The Chris Moyles Show, Greg James and Annie Mac amongst others. Moy was also an event producer at the BBC Electric Proms in 2008-9, broadcast on BBC TV and radio.
She joined 6 Music and latterly Radio 2 as executive producer, overseeing shows like Steve Lamacq, Steve Wright in the Afternoon and projects including The Peel Lecture with Charlotte Church and the Sound of Style season in collaboration with BBC 4.
In her current role, Moy’s commissions have included Stay Home Rave Safe Saturday series, The Wu-Tang Clan Radio Show, the Rose D’or and New York Festival Radio award winning Amazing Grace and the Independent Venue Week Tour. She also leads on the annual 6 Music Festival, which was held in Camden earlier this year.
Moy is a mentor for the Sandy Chalmers Women in Radio scheme and has taken part in the Women in Music series at the Southbank Centre and at the BPI.
6 Music currently has a record 2.56m weekly listeners on air.
Moy will start her new role on August 17. The 6 Music position is one of five new head of station roles responsible for the BBC’s pop music networks”.
IN THIS PHOTO: Huey Morgan/PHOTO CREDIT: BBC
I think Moy’s appointment/promotion is a great move, and she will bring a lot of new impetus and strength to a station that continues to grow and inspire. I am excited to see how BBC Radio 6 Music evolves and moves as we head through 2020 and beyond. It is a challenging time to come into a new role, and I think Moy will have to make a lot of important decisions as we slowly ease out of lockdown and think about returning to near-normal. I think Moy will ensure that BBC Radio 6 Music continues its incredible trajectory regarding new listeners, and I will be interested to see whether new blood is brought into the station. Regardless of any speculation regarding alterations, I know Moy will do a phenomenal job and help bring BBC Radio 6 Music to new ears. The station has been a beacon for many of us as we continue with lockdown and cannot enjoy life as we once did. I have listened to the station more than ever during the past few months, and I have discovered strength and solace listening to an always-reliable fountain of uplift. I listen to Chris Hawkins from about 6 a.m., and I keep it tuned to Lauren Laverne, Mary Anne Hobbs/Shaun Keaveny, and Steve Lamacq; I tune in at the weekend and make sure I catch Radcliffe and Maconie in the mornings.
IN THIS PHOTO: Mark Radcliffe (front) and Stuart Maconie/PHOTO CREDIT: BBC
As BBC Radio 6 Music continues to accumulate listeners and expand, many wonder whether it is an alternative station that strays away from the predictable mainstream. I think, even though BBC Radio 6 Music has built and grown in popularity, it maintains its blend of originality and the rare; in that the music played is different to other stations, and the broadcasters have kept their individual shows constant. I think a radio station can be underground and alternative and have an army of listeners. I know Samantha Moy will help get the listener figures to (new) record highs, whilst bringing in some great ideas – in addition to incredible strong leadership. It is an exciting time for BBC Radio 6 Music because I feel this pandemic has brought a lot of new listeners their way. It is hard to say what the secret ingredient is, but the musical depth and versatility is incredible – the station was accused of being too guitar-based in the early years. From presenters like Tom Robinson backing the best new artists around, to Craig Charles providing an enormously energised and brilliant show, there is so much to enjoy. All the broadcasters at the station put their everything into the shows, and the dedication and passion is addictive. I have loved listening to BBC Radio 6 Music and hearing listener emails and correspondences read out; seeing how vital the station is and what it means to them. With rising listening figures, a new Head, and a loyal family of listeners, BBC Radio 6 Music keeps getting…
IN THIS PHOTO: Mary Ann Hobbs/PHOTO CREDIT: BBC
BETTER and better.