Sir Elton John has made a desperate plea to save BBC Introducing shows (Picture: Getty Images)
Sir Elton John has expressed concerns over cuts to BBC Introducing, calling it a ‘worrying step’ that shows ‘neglect for musicians’.
In January, plans to merge local BBC Introducing shows were confirmed, which led to a campaign – supported by Nile Rodgers – to keep the existing structure in place.
Taking to Instagram, 76-year-old Sir Elton shared his thoughts on the devastating move and wrote: ‘BBC Introducing’s network and support of new music has been one of the best ways for emerging artists to get airplay and find listeners from local to national radio.
‘After reading recent reports of cuts to certain services, I look forward to seeing the BBC make good on their promise to continue to support up-and-coming acts and not compromise the essence of BBC Introducing.’
He continued: ‘To stop investing in the future of the UK’s influential music industry whilst cuts are being made to the creative sector across the board would be a worrying step and neglect of musicians who bring culture and capital to the UK at home and abroad.’
The proposed restructuring, starting this month, would result in a cut back from 32 shows to 20, which would leave many production stars and presenters without jobs.
According to Rogers, the network is ‘a true outlet to shine a positive light on some of our most creative talent. If the restructuring goes ahead, it would cause both local music scenes and emerging talent to lose out.’
BBC 6 Music broadcaster Tom Robinson also criticised the changes, saying: ‘Those shows, staffed by enthusiasts and volunteers have been supporting local music communities around the country with airplay, interviews and sessions ever since the network was founded in 2007.
‘Many have worked to set up local gigs, festival stages and outside broadcasts for musicians in their area,’ he wrote on his blog. ‘From August onwards, all that is about to change.’
Sir Elton’s comments come after Robinson called for listeners to post messages of support for local BBC Introducers.
Chic hitmaker Nile Rodgers also addressed the changes (Picture: Redferns)
Last month, after wowing crowds during his headlining set at Glastonbury, the iconic musician brought his Farewell Yellow Brick Road Tour to an end in Sweden, signalling the end of his live touring career.
Sir Elton took to Instagram to describe his feelings about his final tour, stating: ‘When we set off on my final tour in 2018, I couldn’t have foreseen in my wildest dreams the twists and turns and the highs and lows this tour – and the whole world – would have experienced in the next 5 years.’
‘I can’t tell you how much I’m going to miss you all and how much your support has humbled me – it will stay with me forever.’
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BBC Introducing shows are going through major changes.