Stirrer TV

ROCKIN ROBIN'S EARBASHING FOR LOCAL RADIO

02-11-200

BRMB legend "Rockin' Robin" Valk has hit out at his former station and other commercial channels for ignoring the local talent on their doorstep. Talking to Stirrer TV at yesterday's Gigbeth launch, he said it made good business sense to support homegrown bands.

Valk recalled his own heyday in the late 70s and early 80s when he had a three hour evening rock show, and bands like UB40 recorded sessions for the programme.

He said it generated a "halo effect", helping to grow audiences and ultimately increase ad revenues.

BRMB's current audience has plummeted below 400,000 and bosses have put their faith in syndicated "network" shows hosted by celebrities like Myleene Klass and Jeremy Kyle.

Playing more local music would pay dividends argued Valk, who also argued that Heart FM and even Smooth should be more proactive in seeking out Brummie sounds.

He had kinder words for the rock station Kerrang and BBC WM, who he said had both been proactive in encouraging new music.

Should local stations play more local music?

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