Naxi Radio
The renowned pirate radio station – Radio Caroline – put up a remarkable three-day broadcast extravaganza during the Easter weekend to commemorate its 60th anniversary.
Back in 1964, Radio Caroline boldly challenged the authorities by launching continuous pop music broadcasts from offshore locations and the legend lives on. Reflecting on its eventful journey, station manager Peter Moore emphasized the “profound legacy” shaped by Radio Caroline’s turbulent history.
The station served as a launching pad for numerous illustrious broadcasting careers such as Johnnie Walker, Simon Dee, and most notably Tony Blackburn who hijacked The Zoe Ball Breakfast Show on BBC Radio 2 in a stunt celebrating the anniversary of the UK’s first pirate radio station.
During an era dominated by the BBC, where pop music was a rarity on the airwaves, Radio Caroline’s rebellious spirit reshaped the landscape of broadcasting.
The station’s influence extended beyond the realm of music, as artists like The Kinks, Status Quo, and Chris de Burgh attributed their rise to stardom to exposure on Radio Caroline. In a gesture of appreciation, these artists, among others, contributed messages for the anniversary broadcast.
Promising a nostalgic journey through six decades of memorable tunes and significant moments, along with insightful interviews with key personalities, the broadcast is set to captivate audiences. Moreover, plans for expanding broadcast operations underscore Radio Caroline’s enduring commitment to its mission.
Housed in the Ross Revenge, a converted 200-foot former deep-sea fishing trawler dating back to 1960, Radio Caroline continued its offshore broadcasts until 1991, when the vessel was marooned off the Kent coast. Despite this setback, the station persevered, transitioning into an internet and digital service catering to audiences across England and northern Europe.
As part of the anniversary festivities, listeners had the unique opportunity to tour the historic vessel and interact with presenters, fostering a sense of community and support. The event also served as a fundraising platform to facilitate a much-needed overhaul of the 64-year-old vessel, ensuring its preservation for future generations.
