Legendary broadcaster Bob Harris has decided to step down from BBC Radio 2 after over five decades due to “ill health”, and described the move as “one of the hardest decisions of my life”.
The broadcaster is leaving both of his shows on the station: Radio 2 Country (Thursdays, 9-10pm) and Sounds of the 70s (Sundays, 3-5pm).
He has shared a statement explaining that the move was done due to health issues, and expressing what it meant to be a part of the station – which he describes as the “Champions League” – for 30 years.
“It’s incredible to think that my broadcasting career has spanned almost 56 years. I am very fortunate to have spent my entire working life doing something I love so much,” he shared, adding that he was grateful to have “always been given the freedom to build my programmes in my own way.”
Harris went on to call the company a “world-class radio station”, and share his gratitude at being able to help play “such a massive part in propelling Country to become the fastest growing music genre in the UK, and presenting Sounds of the 70s on Sunday afternoons”.
“[It] has been a real pleasure and made my time here the most special of my entire life. But more than anything, I want to say thank you to my listeners. I have put everything I have into every show I’ve ever done, and it’s all been because of you,” he continued.
“Your love and loyalty mean more to me than words can ever say. I am so sorry that my health issues are forcing me to step down, but I realise that I must concentrate on getting myself well again.”
“This has been one of the hardest decisions of my life, but I would never want to be doing programmes knowing that I am unable to give you 100 per cent,” he concluded. “I am going to miss you, and I love you very much. Thank you for listening.”
Throughout his career, Harris has presented on Radio 1, BBC 6 Music and television, including his celebrated tenure on the BBC music show Old Grey Whistle Test during the 1970s.
He became quickly recognised for his passion for country, folk, Americana and singer-songwriters, and has helped raise the popularity of country music in the UK. Throughout his time on BBC Radio, he has also become renowned for his deep musical knowledge and commitment to championing new artists.
Harris presented his last episode of Sounds of the 70s on March 8, and his last Radio 2 Country Show on April 2. Shaun Keaveny will officially take over as host of Sounds of the 70s each Sunday (3-5pm), in addition to hosting the Radio 2 Rock Show (Fridays 11pm-midnight).
“As long as I can remember, I’ve loved the music of the 70s,” said Keaveny. “It was the thrill of my life to meet Bob, the man who has done more to maintain the spirit of Rock, Roll and Radio than almost anyone.”
“I consider it not just an honour but a mission, to continue Bob’s work of showing the world the greatness of the music of that special decade,” he added. “Somewhere, every week, some kid hears ‘Won’t Get Fooled Again’ for the first time! You did that for me Bob, and millions like me. We’d like to say Thank You For the Music, you’ll always be our Rock n Roll Doctor.”