The broadcaster Brian Matthew, who hosted Sounds of the 60s on BBC Radio 2 for 27 years, has died weeks after presenting his last edition of the show.
Radio 2 played the show’s signature tune, Foot Tapper by the Shadows, as a tribute to Matthew, who was 88. A statement from his family said: “Our beloved Brian Matthew passed away last night.”
Speaking on his show after Matthew’s death was announced, Jeremy Vine told his audience that his colleague was a “much loved and much respected Radio 2 presenter”.
The BBC was criticised this year by Matthew’s fans after it decided to replace him citing concerns about his health after a fall. Matthew had dismissed the suggestion that he was too ill to present the programme as “absolute balderdash”.
He last presented the show on 25 February and was due to record a farewell edition to be broadcast over Easter. Instead Radio 2 has changed its schedule to broadcast a tribute programme to Matthew on Friday, to be presented by the station’s former controller Jim Moir.
The BBC director general, Tony Hall, said Matthew was “an outstanding broadcaster who entertained and engaged millions over generations”.
“He had a wonderful style of delivery and a real connection with his listeners. Brian was a true broadcasting great. We will all miss him and, of course, that voice,” said Hall.
Matthew’s career at the BBC started in 1954 on the Light Programme, at a time when the broadcaster rarely played pop music. He was one of the first DJs on Radio 2, and hosted shows including Saturday Club, Thank Your Lucky Stars and Late Night Extra.
Before Sounds of the 60s he was best known for the long-running Round Midnight programme which won the 1987 Pulitzer Publishing award.
Lewis Carnie, the head of BBC Radio 2, said: “Brian was one of this country’s most popular and best loved presenters, delighting millions of listeners with his memories and favourite tunes on Sounds of the 60s for 27 years. On behalf of everyone at Radio 2, we send love and our best wishes to his family at this difficult time.”
Bob Shennan, the director of BBC Radio and Music, and a former BBC Radio 2 controller, said: “Brian was a radio legend. For decades, his voice was the sound of Saturday mornings, giving pleasure to listeners on Sounds of the 60s with his wit and warmth. He will be sorely missed.”
