Annie, who judged the Grand Final last year alongside former Sex Pistols Manager Malcolm McLaren, will be casting her eye over unsigned talent in three of the Area Finals around London.
Annie Nightingale is best known as Britain’s first female DJ on Radio 1. She is now the Radio 1’s longest serving broadcaster and remains the only female DJ in the world to have been honoured with an MBE by The Queen. Her career has been a fantastical musical journey beginning with hanging out with the likes of The Beatles, The Rolling Stones and The Who. She went on to become a journalist and TV presenter, whilst co-owning a chain of fashion boutiques. Having cracked the all male preserve of DJs at Radio 1, she began a long and dedicated career in broadcasting at the BBC. Always insisting to choose her own music, Annie championed dozens of artists who went on to gain world wide success.
When talking of judging last year, Annie commented, “I am as enthusiastic as always at discovering new music talent. I look forward to hearing and seeing all the finalists at Live and Unsigned, and will do my best to encourage them on their way to an exciting and successful future. Bring them on.”
Alan Farmer, Director of Live and Unsigned, said, “Annie was on the judging panel last year and obviously impressed everyone! Her experience and knowledge of the music industry is extensive and her comments have always been valued by both up and coming and established musicians. Annie will be at the Area Finals and I’m confident that as the longest serving broadcaster of Radio 1, she’ll have plenty of comments for the bands!”