45 Radio

45 Radio focuses on the more upbeat music of the 1960s, 1970s, 1980s and 1990s. Its selection is aimed particularly at listeners who grew up with those decades and want to hear a wider range of familiar songs. The station places variety at the centre of its approach, reaching beyond a small collection of repeatedly played favourites.

Experienced DJs guide the music, with artist interviews and themed bank holiday programmes adding to the regular output. The emphasis remains on recognisable recordings and an energetic mood, rather than treating older music solely as a subject for reflection. Songs from several generations share the same programme, allowing listeners to revisit different stages of their musical lives.

The presenters bring quite different backgrounds to that musical brief. Kev Roberts began at Wigan Casino, while Carol Dooley contributes from Dublin. David Hamilton's Million Sellers adds stories about artists and records with substantial UK and American sales. Bobby Jay presents America's Greatest Hits and Funky Friday, and Richard Searling supplies Northern Soul's Greatest Hits on bank holiday weekends. The roster also includes Emperor Rosko and Scott Wilson, adding further experienced voices to the station's retrospective selection.

45 Radio describes its purpose as bringing good times and music together, with fewer interruptions to the selection. Its appeal rests on that balance of familiar voices, musical breadth and an upbeat sound. For an audience interested in the songs they remember but keen to hear more than the most obvious hits, the station offers a broad view of four decades of popular music.