Legendary radio DJ Johnnie Walker has died at the age of 79. He was previously diagnosed with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) and announced his retirement plans from radio earlier this year.
He presented his final Sounds Of The 70s show on BBC Radio 2 in October. His death was announced by BBC Radio 2’s Bob Harris, who took over presenting Sounds Of The 70s in November, live on air.
Walker began his radio career on Swinging Radio England in 1966. He then moved to Radio Caroline where he quickly became a household name.
Walker joined BBC Radio 1 in 1969 where he worked until 1976. He later moved to San Francisco where he recorded a weekly show broadcast on Radio Luxembourg, before returning to the UK in the 80s.
Walker then worked on various BBC stations before taking over Drivetime. He earned a reputation as a DJ who accorded more importance to the records he played than the chat between tracks.
His wife, Tiggie, said in tribute to him: “I couldn’t be more proud of Johnnie – how he kept broadcasting almost to the end and with what dignity and grace he coped with his debilitating lung disease. He remained his charming, humorous self to the end, what a strong amazing man. It has been a rollercoaster ride from start to finish.
“And if I may say – what a day to go. He’ll be celebrating New Year’s Eve with a stash of great musicians in heaven. One year on from his last live show. God bless that extraordinary husband of mine who is now in a place of peace.”