John Peel dies

• 26th Oct 2004

Legendary DJ John Peel has died suddenly in Peru.

The 65-year-old Radio 1 DJ was on holiday with his wife Sheila in Cuzco when he suffered a heart attack.

He had been in the business for over 40 years, and helped countless bands gain recognition. The Undertones, Elbow and Blur have all paid tribute and acknowledged the vital role he played in launching their careers.

Undertones bass player Michael Bradley said: “He always had his finger on the pulse of the music industry and the fact that Radio 1 played the Undertones, the White Stripes and the Strokes today showed just how relevant he remained throughout his career.”

Radio 1 controller Andy Parfitt said : “John Peel was a broadcasting legend. I am deeply saddened by his death as are all who work at Radio 1.

“John's influence has towered over the development of popular music for nearly four decades.”