Rebel Radio: Gaps in the Dial podcast cover art

Rebel Radio: Gaps in the Dial podcast

Rebel Radio: Gaps in the Dial podcast

By: Barbican Centre
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About this listen

DJ and radio producer Tayo Popoola presents this six part podcast series delving into the history and influence of pirate radio.


Gaps in the Dial is a podcast series that will look at the history of Pirate Radio in the UK. It can’t be a definitive guide, and it won’t try to be. What it will do is address some of the important milestones in pirate radio history, examine some of the recurring themes about subcultures, community and enterprise, painting a picture of the new UK that emerged after the Conservatives came to power in 1979. Gaps in the Dial will take individuals, specific radio stations, and specific moments in time that are representative of a wider story.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Barbican Centre Music Social Sciences
Episodes
  • EP 1: Invicta - “Soul Over London”

    EP 1: Invicta - “Soul Over London”
    Jun 13 2025

    The story of the UK's first soul music pirate station.


    Just as stations like Radio Caroline and Radio Jackie helped drive the rise of pop music culture, Radio Invicta supported the burgeoning soul music movement. In this episode, we hear about the radio landscape that Invicta launched into. We hear from presenter and DJ Gilles Peterson, who began his radio career as a teenager on Invicta; broadcaster Jez Nelson, who listened as a fan before launching his own career on Horizon; and DJ and presenter Tony Monson.


    Produced, presented and written by Tayo Popoola

    Additional production by Richard Attley

    A Furious Styles Production

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
    Show More Show Less
    32 mins
  • EP 2: Dread Broadcasting Corporation - “Tune In If You’re Rankin”

    EP 2: Dread Broadcasting Corporation - “Tune In If You’re Rankin”
    Jun 13 2025

    The story of London’s first Black-owned radio station.


    Broadcasting from West London, DBC brought the sound of reggae sound system culture to the airwaves and the spirit of carnival to the radio. DBC was also one of the first stations to understand the importance of branding, with its iconic T-shirts and badges.

    In this episode, we hear from Mike Williams, who ran the station alongside founder Lepke. We also speak to author, historian, and former DBC DJ Lloyd Bradley; chef and TV presenter Andi Oliver; and Pyers Easton, who built the transmitter for DBC and many other pirate radio stations in London.


    Produced, presented and written by Tayo Popoola

    Additional production by Richard Attley

    A Furious Styles Production

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
    Show More Show Less
    33 mins
  • EP 3: LWR - Art, Authority, And A Changing London

    EP 3: LWR - Art, Authority, And A Changing London
    Jun 13 2025

    A look at one of London’s most popular pirates, and the musical impact it had on a changing city.


    As well as playing incredible soul and funk, LWR helped popularise the hip hop and electro sound that was sweeping London, and was pivotal in the early house music scene with pioneering shows like The Jacking Zone.


    In this episode, we hear from the own of the station Zak Dee, who took over LWR and changed it into a black music powerhouse for London.


    Produced, presented and written by Tayo Popoola

    Additional production by Richard Attley

    A Furious Styles Production

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
    Show More Show Less
    36 mins
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