BBC Radio 2’s The Rock Show bids farewell to longtime host Johnnie Walker in an emotional final episode. The veteran presenter shared a touching message with listeners as he announced his retirement after 58 years in radio, citing health issues related to idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. Walker, known for his love of rock music, kicked off the show by handpicking some of his favourite rock anthems to play for his audience.
The episode featured iconic tracks such as “Sweet Jane” by the Velvet Underground and The Who’s “Won’t Get Fooled Again,” with Walker describing the latter as a “classic.” Throughout the show, he reminisced about his time on air and the joy of sharing music with his audience. Each week, The Rock Show includes a segment where guests choose their “rock god,” and Walker’s pick was Bruce Springsteen, whom he fondly described as a “lovely man.”
As the episode came to a close, Walker expressed his gratitude to his team, including his producer and his wife Tiggy, who shared a playful photo of him preparing for the show. Following his departure from The Rock Show, Walker’s final episode of Sounds of the 70s will air this weekend before he passes the baton to former The Old Grey Whistle Test presenter Bob Harris.
Johnnie Walker’s illustrious career in radio began in the 1960s with pirate radio before making his mark at BBC Radio 1 and eventually returning to the BBC in the early 1980s, where he has remained a beloved fixture ever since.
In summary, Johnnie Walker’s farewell message on BBC Radio 2’s The Rock Show was a poignant tribute to his legendary career in radio, filled with heartfelt moments and iconic rock anthems. His impact on the music industry and his listeners will be cherished for years to come.