John Peel

[sharksfan2000]

I read a couple of internet news reports today that longtime BBC DJ John Peel has died of a heart attack. I'm in the US, but I've certainly heard a lot about him. From everything I've read, he was probably the most influential DJ in England over the years, and constantly championed new bands that the more conservative DJs didn't play. He's particularly known for giving airplay to many of Britain's punk and post-punk bands (Joy Division, the Undertones, etc.) at a time few others would do so.

Early in his BBC career in the late '60s, Fleetwood Mac was one of the bands who he helped with radio exposure. I'm sure some of the other people who posthere can elaborate on Peel's career and his relationship with Fleetwood Mac - many of the band's early BBC recording sessions were played on his show. He was one of the key people in the band's early years who helped Fleetwood Mac reach the great popularity they attained. He'll definitely be missed.