Johnnie Walker

Johnnie Walker started broadcasting in 1966 on the pirate radio station, Swinging Radio England, and later, Radio Caroline, where he loved playing Buddy Holly songs, especially ‘That’ll Be The Day’, ‘True Love Ways’ and ‘Everyday’.

He was one of only two DJs who decided to carry on broadcasting after the Marine Offences Act in August 1967, thus making him a radio legend and a potential criminal in one move.

He joined BBC Radio 1 in 1968 where he championed many artists. He left Radio 1 after seven years to work in the USA which included time at KSAN in San Francisco. He joined BBC Radio 2 in 1999 taking over the Drivetime show. Still on Radio 2, today he presents Sound of The 70’s and The Rock Show.

“There was never anyone like Buddy Holly, before or after. It’s incredible that in such a short time he recorded so many wonderful tracks that not only stand the test of time but get even better with time. His ability to go from a great rock and roll song to the most tender and emotional love song was another thing that made him so special.”

Subscribe to our newsletter

The Buddy Holly Educational Foundation is a registered charity in the United States and the United Kingdom, with a mission to extend musical education to new generations regardless of income or ethnicity or learning levels.

Office Hours​

© The Buddy Holly Educational Foundation 2023