David Rodigan has worked as a DJ for Kiss FM for 22 years but he has now resigned, after his show was shunted back to a midnight slot, The Evening Standard reports.
Rodigan specialises in reggae music and resigned in protest at the station’s “marginalisation of the genre. In a statement, the DJ, known as Ram Jam, said “Due to their continued marginalisation of reggae music into the twilight zone of radio scheduling, it has left me no option but to make a stand for my passion and the music I love so dearly.”
The 61 year-old – who received an MBE for his services to broadcasting - has now removed his award-winning show from Kiss FM’s schedule, saying that reggae music was worthy of more respect and expressed his regret at his departure. “I've been with the station for 22 years, shared some wonderful times with many fantastic artists and members of staff, and it's with great sadness that I've come to this decision” said the veteran DJ. He continued “Reggae was originally played on the streets, not on radio, and Kiss's refusal to schedule the only reggae show on their network to a socially accessible time has resulted in this decision. Reggae is worthy of more respect and so are the fans and lovers of this music."
A statement from the radio statement read “We are very sad and disappointed to confirm that David Rodigan has left Kiss after 22 years. We have the utmost love and respect for David, both personally and professionally - he leaves with our sincere appreciation and gratitude for all that he has achieved with Kiss."