Tony Blackburn is of the most recognisable voices in British radio history, recently awarded an OBE in the New Years Honours list for his services to broadcasting and charity. This year, Blackburn is heading back out on the road, transforming his BBC Radio 2 Sounds of the 60’s staple into a live show which will feature music and stories from one of the most transformative decades in fashion, music and pop culture.
The announcement with the anniversary of Tony's broadcasting debut almost 60 years ago, which took place off the coast of Essex on the airwaves of pirate station Radio Caroline on 25th July 1964. Tony then went on to launch and be the first voice ever heard on BBC’s Radio 1 in 1967, opening with ‘Flowers in the Rain’ by The Move.
With the extra dates announced, the Sounds of the 60s tour will now be heading to all corners of the UK, performed live by an All-Star Band and Singers, including classic hits from the likes of Diana Ross & The Supremes, The Everly Brothers, Elvis, The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, The Beach Boys, The Drifters, Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye, and many more.
Tony’s illustrious career has seen him present on Top of the Pops, BBC Radio 1, Capital Gold, BBC Radio London and much more. His multiple awards include two Gold Awards for Outstanding Contribution to Radio, making him the first person in history to receive two of these lifetime achievement awards.
Tony is also recognised for becoming the very first King of the Jungle in the original series of ITV’s I’m A Celebrity – Get Me Out of Here. Since 2017, he has presented Sounds of the 60’s on Radio 2.