The Impact of 1Xtra

When BBC Radio 1Xtra first arrived in 2002 via DAB (Digital Audio Broadcasting)—as BBC Radio 1's sister station, specifically aimed at fans of Black music—it ushered in a new era for radio. 

For the first time, a station of its kind was considered mainstream from launch, one which had the energy of pirate radio but with a level of professionalism (via broadcast journalists Charlene White, Jacqueline Springer et al) that was so desperately needed.

Many of those who find themselves on 1Xtra playlists today were only kids when the station debuted on the airwaves; budding artists had now been given a new destination to aspire to get to in their musical careers. 

Few moments in 1Xtra's history were as memorable as the Hackney Weekender, held across two days exclusively for Hackney Residents who could attend for free. 

To celebrate London being the host city for the Olympics in 2012, BBC Radio 1s Hackney Weekender represented the moment 1Xtra had cemented its status—by way of its own stage, which had none other than Jay-Z and Kanye West providing the highlight of the weekend.

Today, 1Xtra boasts an array of hosts and DJs who represent the past, present and future of tastemaking, such as Trevor Nelson, Rampage, Nadia Jae, Tiffany Calver, Sian Anderson and Kenny Allstar.