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Martyn Bassey on 21 August 2026
Great selection of songs on Back In The Saddle this evening. It was a joy to hear Houston Wells on the show. He made some lovely recordings with Joe Meek. Many thanks Vic. Fabulous 👍
Vic Groves on 22 August 2026
Thank you Martyn. Just love Houston Wells’ voice. He recorded in New Zealand up until his death. There is a good double CD of his output, both in the UK and N.Z. He also worked with Irish Showbands for a while in the late 1960s. Regards, Vic.
Barbara Heathcote on 20 August 2026
Hi Peter. It was interesting to hear about the film Casbah starring Tony Martin. I first saw it on Talking Pictures and became a fan of Tony . It’s been shown a few times. And now enjoying hearing Vic Damone. Thank you.
David Burdon on 20 August 2026
Sonia, I recently bought a double dvd of the first 16 episodes of M*A*S*H in a charity shop in Eastbourne. I just need to find the dvd player.
To digress and name drop on a Mediterranean cruise we were lucky enough to find ourselves on a table of six with Sidney Lotterby the renowned BBC producer and director of such comedy classics as Last of The Summer Wine, Porridge and Open All Hours. He really was very modest about his career. He said that Judy Dench sent him a bottle of champagne every Christmas as he earned no royalties for the repeats of As Time Goes By. He also said he had worked for Glenn Miller in his first jobs at the BBC. He was unique as the only person from our cruises that we exchanged Christmas Cards with. Which is more than we did with Jimmy Saville who was on the same adults only cruise
Chris Cobb on 19 August 2026
Sonia.
Many thanks and congratulations on an absolutely fantastic selection of music this morning!
David on 16 August 2026
“Where the past has been lost, and the future is still to be won/ Ah, the cares of tomorrow can wait till this day is done.” I’m growing rather partial to the recordings of The Pattersons on Soft Folkus. I don’t remember them at all on Morecambe & (Arsenal!) Wise. This week’s ear-opener was The Home Service and Bonny at Morn featuring some fabulous jazz licks which I thought really worked. The biggest smile came from David Bromberg’s delightful I Like to Sleep Late although I suspect even he, like Roger, has to get up in the middle of the night to open the conservatory doors for a shower. Gretchen Peters’ Five Minutes is superb and her reference to west Texas made me long to hear a truly great songwriter from that neck of the woods. Roger, is there any chance you’d have Townes Van Zandt’s To Live Is to Fly on the books?
Roger Williams on 17 August 2026
Hello David
I’m pleased you liked The Home Service. Their defining album is Alright Jack, released many years ago when John Tams was at the helm. It’s their brass section led by Andy Findon that gives them that special quality along with Graeme Taylor’s electric guitar. Bob Fox is a brilliant choice for their leader since John Tams stepped down. I saw them live a few weeks ago and they were excellent.
I’ve made a note of the Townes Van Zandt suggestion. I won’t be adding to the library until September so it’ll be a while before it pops up.
The Pattersons songs were in the library before Soft Folkus started and like you, I’m coming to appreciate thier material more and more.
Thank you for listening
Roger
David on 16 August 2026
Thank you, Mark Steyn, for introducing the wonderful Buddy Greco to me. His vibrant, upbeat and infectious recordings really hit my sweet spot in these interesting times. Around the World and Like Young were a blast. I find all the ‘hep’ talk terms from yesteryear fascinating as well as the lyrical sentiments. My favourite selection from On the Town was the delicious Girl Talk which I’ve heard is going to be the new theme tune for the Naga Munchetty Show. Once again, thanks to Mark Steyn – you’re real gear, daddy-o!
Mark Steyn on 19 August 2026
My pleasure, David. I only wish I could have introduced you to Buddy a few decades back, when he was still around and you could have seen him for yourself live and in person. As Don Black and I agreed back in the Nineties, you always came out of a Buddy Greco gig happier than when you walked in. That said, good luck talking Naga into “Girl Talk”.
Jan Baldwin on 14 August 2026
Loved Paul Ruddock this evening
Paul Ruddock - Swing Time on 14 August 2026
Thanks for tuning by Jan, your company is greatly appreciated.
Barbara Heathcote on 13 August 2026
Listening to Max Bygraves. I wonder how many children sang Gilly Gilly oxenpepper catsanella bogun by the sea. I still do. 🤣
Steven Suddens on 12 August 2026
Great to hear ‘The one I love (belongs to somebody else)’ by Jo Stafford. This song can also be found on the US version of Matt Monro’s first LP ‘Blue and Sentimental’, recorded in 1957 for Decca and licensed to London Records for the US release which included two extra tracks, this being one of them. There’s some other great tracks so perhaps worth a look. ‘A Cottage For Sale’ is a favourite of mine. It was 3 years before his breakthrough at Parlophone with George Martin and some little known tracks to enjoy.
Nick Hingley on 10 August 2026
Soft Folkus: Jake Thackray: Great to hear ‘The Widow of Bridlington’. I dare you to play ‘On again’ anytime soon! I remember the tears streaming down my face when he performed it at the Red Lion Folk Club (Kings Heath, Birmingham) about four decades ago. Sadly, what listeners miss is Jake’s deadpan delivery – which continued for his entire appearance though he did manage to suppress the occasional crack – and made the song even better. How about an outing for ‘Country Bus’?
And what an inspired idea for the Bank Holiday special! I fully expect Clifford T Ward’s ‘Home Thought’s From Abroad’ to make an appearance – and perhaps Nick Drake’s ‘Three Hours’. I wonder, when travelling north on the M6, and I see the sign for a certain service station, am I alone in singing ‘Knutsford City Limits’?
Roger Williams on 12 August 2026
Hello Nick
Sorry for the slow response. Country Bus definitely needs to go on the list. I shall try not to forget. I wonder if you’ve come across John Watterson who trades as “Fake Thackray”? He really is very fine indeed and knows his stuff. Well worth seeing should he come your way. I like a “dare” so I’ll ponder “On Again.”
I’ve created a fairly strict rule for myself for the Bank Holiday Special. I’m hoping that the name of a place will be in the title of the songs – (a la Tulsa, San Jose and Phoenix). The final list isn’t quite sorted yet though and one or two of the songs are just bizarre!
Thank you for listening
Roger
Suzy on 13 August 2026
Well, of course, I couldn’t resist finding On Again, with lyrics, and I’m still laughing. Sheer genius and so wonderfully non-PC. 😂
Nick Hingley on 13 August 2026
Hello Suzy
Like many, my first exposure to the genius of Jake Thackray was on the Bernard Braden show on BBC1 TV. This might be the late 1960s. Immediately, he was the ‘did you see … ?’ talk of my school.
In these trigger-happy po-faced ‘can’t broadcast that because too many people won’t understand the point of the joke’ times I really cannot imagine Jake Thackray getting any airtime at all today. I doubt his recordings ever get played on our (UK) ‘via the ether’ radio stations: disregarding the content that would frighten the horses into a gallop along with a visit from Ofcom, his (along with much of the content on Serenade) is not the genre.
Nick Hingley on 13 August 2026
Hello Roger
I can’t say I know of Fake Thackray. However, having been fortunate to have seen the genuine article a few times – and perhaps even more fortunate that Jake actually turned up! – I have a tendency to resist tribute acts as, for me, they risk spoiling the memories, and perhaps the natural rose tinting that might have accumulated over forty years or more.
I was going to mention a Vin Garbutt song. I saw this stalwart of the pub and club folk scene many times and myself and a late friend always used to comment, usually disparagingly, if a bit jokingly, about ‘Guisborough Road’ which seemed to crop up every time in the Tees-sider’s set. Years later, travelling through North Yorkshire in a minibus, I actually glimpsed this road made famous to us by the then late Vin; my excitement being such that my companions thought me bonkers – or perhaps just a bit more bonkers than they had already decided. Unfortunately, I was too slow with my camera to capture the road name for forwarding and, indeed, posterity, as we swept on. However, having yesterday looked among the catalogue, sadly, I cannot find a song by this title – so it must be in the lyrics. However, let me just suggest that you might find the Vin Garbutt oeuvre worth a look…
Roger Williams on 13 August 2026
Hello Nick
Yes I’ll definitely try and get some Vin Garbutt into the library. I saw him live on a number of occasions and I’m not sure his recorded work always conveyed the essence of the man. As for Fake Thackray, to me he’s not just a tribute act. His scholarship is impeccable and he performs songs that were not released as such; he’s gleaned material, where it is available, from shows like Braden’s Week and radio broadcasts and places the songs in the context of his life very informatively.
Not worth travelling a vast distance for but if he comes your way I don’t think you’ll be disappointed.
Roger
Janet Finn on 10 August 2026
Thank you so much,Mark Steyn, for your fascinating series about the origins of our most favourite songs.
I have just listened to the one about Norman Newell and his song ‘More’. I love all the research you do that enables us to fully appreciate the background of these memorable songs that we have loved and listened to over many years.
Keep them coming!
Mark Steyn on 15 August 2026
Thank you, Janet – although I’m not sure I’d call what we do for Song of the Week anything so onerous as “research”. It’s terrific fun to talk to songwriters about their songs – and about their friends’ and mentors’ songs, as in the case of Gary Osborne and Norman Newell. I’m so glad we play records by Gary’s dad, Tony Osborne, here at Serenade.
David on 9 August 2026
“And sometimes she would drop the shopping/leave the bed unmade/and sit till evening on the esplanade.” Such a thrill to hear the late Jake Thackray masterpiece, The Widow of Bridlington, on Soft Folkus tonight. The song is about a colourful, carefree and unconventional older woman (echoes of Beeswing?) who scandalises the sensibilities of the local curtain-twitchers until they take drastic action to punish her. The genius of Jake was that he didn’t just demonise the petty, small-minded local harridans but his innate humanity painted them with compassion: “Some few of them came back in shame to ask her if she’d stay/but if you ever startle blackbirds, blackbirds fly away.” God, how I love that song! How I wish I could play it… Thank you so much, Roger, for including it tonight.
Roger Williams on 12 August 2026
Hello David
It is a bit of a masterpiece isn’t it? Most of Jake’s material is still usable but “The Bantam Cock” might be past it’s sell by date now. I mentioned “Fake Thackray” above – if he comes your way he is well worth seeing and has studied Jake’s work in considerable depth. You’re right about the essential humanity in his work.
Best wishes
Roger
Chris Clarke on 9 August 2026
Sundays on Serenade – an unbeatable lineup of presenters and music….with the jewel in the crown for me being Roger’s Soft Folkus – one of the best shows on UK radio….👌
Roger Williams on 12 August 2026
Hello Chris
Thank you for your kind comments about Sunday on Serenade and especially Soft Folkus. The tricky part is balancing well known artists that people know and love against lesser known artists that I might get over enthusiastic about. Do feel free to let me know who you think might suit the show. I need my Soft Folkus Group to tell me sometimes! Best wishes and thank you for listening,
Roger
Nancy on 12 August 2026
Soft Folkus provides some of the best moments of my Sundays. Joni Mitchell, Emitt Rhodes, Art Garfunkle, Catherine Howe, Danny O’Keefe, and so many more are favorites of mine. Thank you Roger for your wonderful program!
Fraser Sutherland on 15 August 2026
Seconded, Nancy, even down to your list of artists. What with Steyn on Saturday and Roger on Sunday that’s an unbeatable early and mid-evening line-up. Real enjoyment week after week.
David on 8 August 2026
I’ve long nursed a suspicion that the Hollies never really got their due. Allan Clarke had a sensational voice and the Hollies’ harmonies were one of the great glories of pop. Bus Stop electrified On the Town with its glorious groove and life-affirming vocals. As Mark might say, a fabulous recud.
Richard Mauzer on 8 August 2026
My ” go to” for musical entertainment, ANYTIME, ALL THE TIME!
Gary Martin on 8 August 2026
At last a relaxing radio station, wonderful music and presenters who don’t constantly chatter over the music!
Martyn Bassey on 8 August 2026
Great selection of songs again on Back In The Saddle last night. Especially liked Connie Smith, Sonny James, and Ray Price. Always love to hear Anita Carter also. Fabulous.
Many thanks Vic.
Vic Groves on 8 August 2026
You’re very welcome Martyn. Thanks for listening. Regards, Vic
Nick Hingley on 8 August 2026
Jeff Owen: Car stickers: what ever happened to them? My ancient Ford Escort mentioned below had a ‘dealer’ sticker in the rear window: ‘Another quality car supplied by Arthur Daley Motors’.
One I remember seeing on the rear of a seen better days Ford Anglia: ‘This car may be old but it’s in front of you and what’s more it’s paid for.’
Perhaps Serenade Radio should produce a sticker for those drivers of a certain age who will recognise such things.
Barbara Heathcote on 8 August 2026
Oh Jeff I love your programme. Why would I want to read the stories when you paint a better picture. Just the image of a steak knife in someone’s naked lap, you’d have to make sure you grabbed the right thing.
Nick Hingley on 8 August 2026
Great to hear two fabulous radio theme tunes on Steve James this morning: ‘Imogene’ by Les Reed which was John Dunn’s theme – an intelligent show back in the days when Radio 2 was an intelligent radio station (happy listening days driving home in my brush repainted black 1968 Ford Escort) – and Soul Coaxing by Raymond Lefevre which was Graham Gill’s request show theme on Radio Nordsee International.
Karen on 7 August 2026
Great show from Vic Groves as usual tonight. A good balance of music and a Merle Haggard tune i hadnt heard before which is always a bonus.
Vic Groves on 8 August 2026
Thanks Karen, That’s very kind of you. The Merle Haggard song came from an album called “Let Me Tell You About A Song” ad later released as the second single from that album. Regards, Vic.
Nicolas Barlow on 6 August 2026
Always a wonderful mix of music, especially the Big Band and jazz tracks. Brilliant presenters with no waffling
Barry Williams on 6 August 2026
A day off work today catching up on some DIY , keeping me company is Serenade Radio . What a joy this station is with its wonderful playlist and brilliant presenters .
Uplifting music by talented artists , and orchestras , with knowledgeable presenters so different from the mainstream radio tedium that pervades the airwaves these days.
Thank you Serenade
Barbara Heathcote on 5 August 2026
Hi Ian I also enjoyed Vic’s version of Moon River. I’ve heard Vic played a few times today. Thanks so much
Fraser Sutherland on 3 August 2026
Blue sky. Light coolish breeze wafting in. Eyes closed. Tune in to “The Voice” , Jane Markham. dead on 6pm. Edna Savage ” Maybe this Time”. Simple song about human
yearning. No, it’s not the peak of musical achievement, I suppose. But boy I loved it.
Thanks Jane. Thanks Serenade.
Chris B on 2 August 2026
For Steve James…As a loyal watcher of The Goodies here in Maine, USA, I had no idea that the Bill Oddie single existed. Thank you so much for playing it. No exaggeration, you always have at least one or two things on LNE each week that are a surprise. Even if they don’t have the right beat for me to do The Funky Gibbon to. Thank you again till next week.
David Small on 1 August 2026
Hello Roger and Paul.
Thank you for the request tonight on the Dance Band Days –
The Organ, The Dance Band and Me – vocals Terry Devon – Organ H Robinson Cleever – There’s A New Apple Tree – 6 January 1939 –
What a lovely choice and a lovely recording that I had not heard before .
Also a lovely selection of music tonight again including my favourite singer Al Bowlly . Love all his recordings .
Thank you again
David
Roger Williams on 4 August 2026
Hello David
Slightly belatededly thank you for your kind comments about DBD and our choice of dedication for you, which was entirely down to Paul. We’re pleased you approve! Must dash…. need to plug the mic in for this week’s edition. Thank you for listening.
Roger and Paul,
or Ruddock and Williams
(except that sounds like an Estate Agent, or possibly a harmony duo in Jack Hylton’s Band)
Paul Ruddock on 5 August 2026
‘Williams, Ruddock & Co’ sounds like some dodgy old firm of solicitors to me….!
So very pleased you enjoyed the Billy Thorburn track David and thank you for dedication and support of Serenade.
Armando Loni on 1 August 2026
Mark Steyn ‘On The Town’s
Mark – Billy Vaughn, ‘Wheels’ (which you just played) – who remembers the bodybuilder on Opportunity Knocks that made his muscles dance along to this theme….. 😂
Steve in Worcs. on 1 August 2026
Tony Holland, if I remember correctly! Blimey, that’s going back, Armando!
I think he’s still around, in his 80s, according to Wikipedia.
Nick Hingley on 1 August 2026
As soon as the tune started I thought of that. We kids tried to wobble our bellies in the same way. Couldn’t do the side to side thing though.
It was a weird but somehow mesmerising act; and, friends, I mean that most sincerely, really I do.
Steve in Worcs. on 3 August 2026
🤣 You too, Nick!?
We had a ‘steam-powered’ black and white telly in those days, and even though my dour parents watched O.K., they didn’t have much time for Hughie Greene (or several others). I think they just enjoyed the acts – as it was basically a variety show.
There is a black and white clip of him ‘dancing’ on YT, it’s taken from the film Melody and Romance (1937).
He did a couple of different shows, IIRC. Maybe Cap’n Andy will consider them for the next edition of The Television Show?
Nick Hingley on 3 August 2026
The delights of ITV came late to our household when the old 12-inch TV finally packed up. Even as a young child I got adept at going around the back to adjust the vertical hold on our single channel BBC set.
We got a new set and all of a sudden there was Fireball XL5, Coronation Street and advertisements which were often 30-second epics in their own right. Double Your Money, also Hughie Green’s thing, came from Radio Luxembourg, I think. Similar format to $64,000 Question; the Bilko episode featuring that is one of my favourites.
I had a schoolfriend whose parents were in minor showbiz and his mother got on Opportunity Knocks. We were all encouraged to send in votes. A few people made the big time out of it but I remember a lot of novelty acts, and child performers – I think Lena Zavaroni was one. It was probably a cheap way of making an hour’s entertainment. And if there wasn’t much on ‘the other side’ a good audience guaranteed.
Then New Faces came along and the main attraction was what Tony Hatch would have to say, but some good calibre acts came out of that show.
Our new TV was one of the super-duper ‘dual standard’ ones that did 405 and 625 in readiness for BBC2. But it never worked properly so the household remained on 2-channel black and white until the late 1970s.
Steve in Worcestershire on 8 August 2026
Hi Nick,
In case you haven’t seen it, we’re famous! Both mentioned in Mark Steyn’s newsletter today, also on his website, extracted from the above conversation 😎
Nick Hingley on 8 August 2026
Thanks, Steve,
I couldn’t bring myself to watch the YouTube video but was quite taken by the lass getting on the bus!
(Made my day that has. Made my day! Now c’mon get that bus out!)
Mark Steyn on 3 August 2026
I had no idea, Armando, that there was such a large overlap between Serenade Radio listeners and Tony Holland fans. But I’ll say this for Mr Holland: it’s a brilliant choice of music for his purposes, and his bicep choreography suits the tune more than anything to do with wheels.
Barbara Heathcote on 1 August 2026
Hi Cindy I can see 8 trees and a small wood from my window if interested 😂
Dave Tinson on 1 August 2026
To Steve James.
I’m hooked on Saturday morning, love the mix of music. The sixties and the orchestra recordings and a bit of folk. You must be good I’ve upgraded you to being played through my hifi instead of my phone!
Bye for now
Karen on 1 August 2026
Another beautifully relaxing show to wake up to from Ed Wellman this morning. The breakfast sounded rather delicious too !
Martyn Bassey on 31 July 2026
Many thanks to Vic Groves for another hugely enjoyable Back In The Saddle. Fabulous song by Merle Haggard called “It’s All In The Movies”.
Thanks again Vic👍
Vic Groves on 1 August 2026
Thank you Martyn.
Karen on 31 July 2026
Yet another great start to the weekend with a brilliant Swingtime from Paul Ruddock. Setting the bar high for the weekend
entertainment to come as usual.
Paul Ruddock - Swing Time on 1 August 2026
Thank you Karen, kind words and really glad you enjoyed – tune in on Sunday at 6pm if you fancy some big band stuff too – just call me the slices of Nimble for the Serenade weekend sandwich! Actually they would have gone nicely with Ed’s hard boiled eggs for breakfast earlier….
Frank on 31 July 2026
Lovely music again today, Sonia. Thank goodness we still have great presenters who can play the kind of music of yesterday!
Thank you so much,
Barbara Heathcote on 31 July 2026
Currently listening to Sonia and Ethel Merman for some reason put Tessie O Shay into my head. Have you got Nobody Loves a Fairy when she’s forty in the serenade library please
Sonia Beldom on 7 August 2026
We love a Merman Moment, don’t we Barbara? I’ll ask the boss in charge of library and fantastic music about “Nobody loves a fairy …”
Mary on 30 July 2026
This is a fantastic radio station. I am only in my early 20s, but I love it! I find it very comforting and happy! Thank you!
Eric Cummings on 28 July 2026
Many thanks for posting the daily programme schedules on Facebook I look out for them everyday. Am enjoying being able to listen to radio again without my ageing ears being offended. I tune in at different times every day and there is always something to enjoy.
David on 26 July 2026
As someone who grew up on mid-1970s American funk I don’t tune in to Soft Folkus expecting a groove but Roger Williams always surprises! The Papa Wemba track really started cooking and hearing JJ Cale again was a trip! Cale’s masterpiece,5, was centrefold-reviewed in the NME alongside Dylan’s ‘born again’ Slow Train Coming, the title track of which I play a lot these days. Bert Jansch’s Veronica was fabulous, John Renbourn’s song has become an earworm and The Allotment could easily be the show’s theme song but what stopped me in my tracks was Brenda Wootton’s The Mermaid featuring something that sounded like a high church organ. Extraordinary vocal and instrumentation.
Roger Williams on 27 July 2026
Hello David
Thank you for your lovely comments. As the weeks go by I am adding more breadth and depth to my section of the Serenade Library.
The Brenda Wootton recording telling the tale of The Mermaid Of Zennor is extraordinary and was recorded in Zennor Parish Church with the accompaniment of the organ. I grew up in the south west and it is a matter of regret that I never bothered to hear Brenda live. She was always showing up in the What’s On section of The Evening Herald but I was too busy exploring American artists of the time – a classic case of a prophet not being honoured in her own county. I was prompted to go back to her work courtesy of Petroc Trelawney’s book Trelawney’s Cornwall which is very well written and taught me a lot about a county I thought I knew quite well.
Thank you for listening – it means a lot.
Roger
Roger
Fraser Sutherland on 27 July 2026
I thought David’s post was spot on and I share his reaction to the show. I also agree with your comments re the breadth and depth of recordings presented. SoftFolkus has become an eagerly awaited and umissable show every Sunday evening. Thanks Roger, great stuff.
Roger Williams on 28 July 2026
Hello Fraser
Thank you for joining me on this musical journey – I’m pleased you approve. However every time I receive such positive comments I think to myself “I’m not going to top that – I’ll quit while I’m ahead.” I’ll carry on for a bit though and it’ll probably work out just fine.
Thank you for listening
Roger
Ian Simmonds on 26 July 2026
I’d just like to thank Paul Ruddock for an excellent Big Band Special – well done Paul!
Paul Ruddock on 26 July 2026
I appreciate your kind words Ian. Thank you for tuning in!
Daren Overington on 26 July 2026
Hi All
We’ve been away and just back listening on a Sunday expecting Johnny Beerling at 6pm but see it’s Paul Ruddock not that we are disappointed I just wanted to check in and see if Johnny B was ok.: keep up the good work.
Paul Ruddock - Big Band Special on 26 July 2026
Hi Daren
Thanks for tuning in to Big Band Special!
I’m very pleased to report that our friend and colleague Mr Johnny Beerling is enjoying a well deserved retirement at the grand age of 89.
Johnny presented his final show two weeks ago having been at the helm of BBS for almost the last six years.
I’m honoured to have been asked to step in as custodian of the show and will do my best to carry on the tradition of playing the very best big band sounds on Sundays at 6pm.
Best wishes to you and yours
Paul
Nick Hingley on 29 July 2026
Sadly, after listening to nearly all of Johnny’s shows since the first edition I missed his last one. Has it really been six years?! It’s been most enjoyable and prompted me to explore Ted Heath’s back catalogue courtesy of some second-hand vinyl I found at a vintage fair. Some are BBC recordings so perhaps Johnny was involved. I wish Johnny well in his retirement and pleased the show is continuing and in good hands.
Paul Ruddock on 30 July 2026
Hi Nick
Thanks for your message and I’ll pass your good wishes on to Johnny when I next speak with him.
The Heath band will continue to play a large part in BBS going forwards, as they are pretty much one of the defining sounds of our kind of music.
Do stay tuned!
Best wishes
Paul
Nick Hingley on 1 August 2026
Hi Paul
Many thanks. I’ll be staying tuned – I’ve been here ten years.
I also never miss Dance Band Days. Though Alan Dell is a more distant and sporadic memory for me, I often think of Malcolm Laycock on Radio 2.
If it wasn’t for Serenade I don’t think anyone would know this music existed.
Keep up the good work!
Paul Ruddock on 1 August 2026
Thanks Nick!
So glad you enjoy Dance Band Days as well – it’s such a pleasure putting the shows together with Roger and rediscovering all that wonderful music.
Watch this space for a new series coming later in the autumn, each edition spotlighting one of the great British dance band leaders telling their story and playing their music – should be a lot of fun!
Best wishes
Paul
Barbara Heathcote on 26 July 2026
Hi Peter listening to you saying about Roger Moor being married to Dorothy Squires. I remember as a young girl my gran had ladies magazines, Red Letter and Family Star and Roger was the model for the mens knitting patterns. Who’d have thought he’d become James Bond decades later.
David on 26 July 2026
As always, Mark’ll tell you. I had thought the practice of shortening words for song lyrics might have begun with the fabulous Bert Lahr (“Put ’em up! Put ’em up!”) as the Cowardly Lion in The Wizard of Oz (“Though my tail would lash/I would show compash/for every underling.”). On the Town demonstrated that it was actually Ira Gershwin, not Yip Harburg, who started the syntax squeeze one hundred years ago with Sunny Disposish. If some savvy singer covered it today, might it become this year’s Don’t Worry, Be Happy? (“Imposserous!”)
Dave in London on 26 July 2026
Ah that Steve James fellow on his Late Night Extra, he always sets personalised homework for us all.
For this listener the latest task is find out why the names of Vigrass and Osborne seem so familiar even though I can’t associate them with a specific song or year. I’ll certainly have lots of fun trying to place them.
Thanks for another great listen Steve.
Martyn Bassey on 25 July 2026
Lots of my favourites on A Little Night Music with Johnny Mac. Great songs by Vikki Carr, Glen Campbell, Barbara Streisand, The Cowsills, Louis Armstrong, The Beach Boys, Connie Francis, and Bobbie Gentry to name just a few.
Fabulous show as always . Many thanks Johnny 👍
Johnny Mac, A Little Night Music on 26 July 2026
Thank you, Martyn. Next week’s artist of the week is Paul Anka, as he turns 85 – hope you can tune in, Saturday at 3am.
Little Sparrow (Linda) on 25 July 2026
Very nice listening to you from South Florida today. Thank you for sharing these memories with us.
Jon Lindstrom on 22 July 2026
I just have to say the playlists today have been so good! I play you all each day in the office at work and just love the music. I was a kid in the 60’s-70’s and really love those artists. The only thing that I have to remember is that you’re 8 hours ahead of us here on the West Coast of the USA. So hi from Portland, Oregon and keep that stellar music going!!!
Barbara Heathcote on 21 July 2026
Whoever thought of 15 mins of Val Doonican thank you. Brings back memories of a rocking chair and fairisle jumpers.
Phil Driscoll on 21 July 2026
I’ve been listening to Serenade Radio for most of today. Essentially I’ve been transported to sitting at my Grandad’s knee, listening to the light programme 60 years ago. Excellent work everyone. They call it ‘easy listening’, but as a musician, I know that that means ‘hard playing’.
Barbara Heathcote on 20 July 2026
Ian it was great to hear PJ Proby “Somewhere “. That was the very first record I bought. No record player but I just had to have it and use friends players.
David on 20 July 2026
How on earth was Catherine Howe’s Harry not a monster hit? I would have bet cash money it would have been as big as Nilsson’s Without You. The lady seems to have some rough luck along the way. I hope she gets her day in the sun. Soft Folkus also featured Jaki Whitren’s Give Her the Day which always makes me misty. I think of those generations of mums who had to raise a family in an age before the Pill, disposable nappies, ready meals, CBGBees, Primark or mental health awareness. (I’m sure the list goes on!)
Nick Hingley on 5 July 2026
Soft Folkus: The demise of long wave
Great to hear those French troubadours that cropped up on France Inter and especially Georges Brassens, the template for the late much-missed Jake Thackray.
Back in the olden days of steam radio and Droitwich was on 1500m 200 kc/s (kHz came later), and was the purveyor of the Light Programme, the AM transmissions received on a valved wireless set were not far off FM quality, especially in reasonable proximity of the transmitter. Such a warm sound from a speaker in a large wooden box. Sadly, the 1978 replanned Medium Wave which allowed more channels but resulted in the bandwith of transistor radios being reduced led to the perception of AM being a somewhat inferior modulation mode.
I miss my excursions onto Long Wave for the BBC, France Inter and more recently RTE on 252 who used to play some interesting Irish folk music on their late night programmes. There was something exotic about listening to stations from afar on a simple set – as there was with the offshore pirate stations.
The Droitwich towers (actually at Wychbold) are a familiar landmark to me as I am not located very far from them, and they will be around a while as 5-Live on 693kHz still uses the system.
Can’t help but think that Serenade Radio would be great on 198kHz, though, a few more shillings would have to be raised for the meter to keep a 400kW transmitter operating…
Fraser Sutherland on 4 July 2026
Return of “On the Town”:
So great to hear Mark Steyn again these past two weeks. He truly is a legend. He’s been through the wars lately – literally!- so welcome back Mark. You’ve been much missed. Go Sensei!
Martyn Bassey on 4 July 2026
Great edition of Back In The Saddle on Friday evening. So many enjoyable songs, and what a beautiful track by Timi Yuro and Willie Nelson. Fabulous.
Many thanks to Vic Groves 👍
Vic Groves on 4 July 2026
Thank you Martyn. I love Timi Yuro’s voice.
Barbara Heathcote on 4 July 2026
Old lady old lady on the loo. 🤣 You’re hilarious Jeff.
Ed Moon on 4 July 2026
As a relatively new listener to Serenade Radio, I woke up early today and listened to the dawn chorus. What a lovely programme. Beautifully chosen music all held together by the calm tones of Ed Wellman. I will have to make sure I am awake for this little gem of a show in future. Thank you Ed from your fellow Ed.
Suzy on 4 July 2026
Welcome to the avid Dawn Choristers, Ed 2. All that and Ed 1 shares his breakfast too!
Ed - Dawn Chorus on 4 July 2026
Thank you, fellow Ed! So glad you found Serenade. Welcome to the Dawn Chorus family, membership includes it being okay to drift in and out of slumber. We have nibbles, the coffee is on, and the cushions are plumped up so swing by whenever you can. Come on in 🙂
Nancy on 4 July 2026
A Little Night Music was exceptional this evening. Johnny Mac hit it out of the park!
Johnny Mac, A Little Night Music on 4 July 2026
And Happy American Independence Day, Nancy!
Next Saturday’s artist of the week is Linda Ronstadt, ahead of her 80th birthday. See you at 3am!
Martyn Bassey on 4 July 2026
He sure did Nancy! Great music from Johnny Mac once again. Happy July 4th 🇺🇸 😊
Helen on 3 July 2026
Wow Paul, another fantastic programme. Every track, just like a firework going off. Absolutely loved it. Swing time should be minimum 2 hours. Thankyou Paul and James for all your hard work. Well done guys ❤️
Paul Ruddock - Swing Time on 5 July 2026
Thank you Helen, we do aim to please and it’s lovely to know that you enjoyed. Although I’ll refrain from using firework related language on air, such as ‘banger’ or ‘cracker’ as I know it’ll get a very stern look and plenty of tutting from James ‘the producer’ Pickering! Stay tuned for more toe-tapping tunes this Friday at 6pm.
Lawrence on 3 July 2026
Peter Tomlinson’s Those Academy Award Years is always a highlight, but last night’s focus on 1960 was truly outstanding. I loved every single musical choice, and hearing the British film songs brought back wonderful memories and added a lovely touch to the show. Thanks Peter.
Barbara Heathcote on 2 July 2026
So sad that’s end of the TV theme tunes. They’ve all been brilliant and brought back happy memories. Thank you Andy for playing our requests, particularly the westerns this evening. Have you thought of doing a series of the title music composed for Films. I’ve a list 😂
David on 29 June 2026
Can you imagine someone now on prime-time BBC Saturday night telly singing about a blue-rinsed OAP satanic orgy? That was Jake Thackray back in the 70s: “After the witches’ picnic and the devil’s grog/After the savage pantings/their hysterical leap-frog.” Extraordinary skill and craftmanship for ‘only’ a comic song. Imagining all the gossip and scuttlebutt there must have been swirling about the Castleford Ladies’ Magic Circle, pairing the song with Hank Williams’ Mind Your Own Business was sublime. How can such simple chords and straight strumming create such a groove? Thackray and Williams also share a connection in that neither ever made a duff recording. Sadly, both also succumbed to that devil’s grog. Still, with musical legacies like theirs and champions such as Roger Williams keeping their memories alive then their names and astonishing talent will always be with us.
Mark on 29 June 2026
Hi I’m listening on my phone app, and the song titles are not working I’m not sure ignite my app
David on 27 June 2026
I remember a cartoon featuring a doctor on his hospital round surveying the patients on a ward. All of them were unconscious apart from a giant green lizard in the last bed. On his clipboard the doctor wrote down, “Coma… coma… coma… chameleon.” Welcome back, Mark!
Barbara Heathcote on 27 June 2026
So good to hear Mark Steyn back again with his wonderful stories of Frank Sinatra. Hope he is now fully recovered and thank you to his colleagues and the neighbours who found him.
chris on 27 June 2026
Such a happy day, to have the return of Mark Steyn with a new show for our enjoyment. If I kept a diary, today’s entry would be “unless someone gets Morrissey to pull a Rod Stewart and record a set of standards, this will be the only time I ever hear The Smiths on Serenade Radio.” A completely appropriate choice for the circumstances. All the best wishes for your continued recovery.
David on 27 June 2026
Morrissey sings the American Songbook? That’s a mind-bender! Mind you, plenty of OAP rock stars have had a go and made a right bog-hole of it. It was surreal to play Girlfriend in a Coma as I’ve always heard a song about a psychopath worried that his victim might pull through and identify him all set to the sweetest lullaby chords. (Maybe that’s just me…) Welcome back, Mark!
Nancy on 27 June 2026
Welcome back Mark Steyn! God bless your talent and health!
Barbara Heathcote on 27 June 2026
Cindy. Thank you so much. Vic has the most beautiful voice and he reached the high notes perfectly . Fabulous. My favourite of all his songs. Made my day. Xx
Suzy on 27 June 2026
I’m enjoying your ads as much as the music 😂. “Quietly superior … before standards slipped.” Quite! “Oh, Ron …”
Sonia Beldom on 2 July 2026
So glad you’re enjoying the trailers Suzy – and as Eth would have said … “ thank you, beloved”
Barry Alan on 27 June 2026
No other show like it on radio. I call the music W&C: western ‘n country!
Thanks Vic for another great ‘Back In The Saddle’ show!
Vic Groves on 27 June 2026
Hi Barry, I’m pleased you like it. Thanks for listening. Vic.
Martyn Bassey on 26 June 2026
I really enjoy listening to Back In The Saddle. Tonight’s show was excellent. Many thanks to Vic Groves 👍
Vic Groves on 27 June 2026
Hi Martyn,
Thanks for listening. I’ pleased you enjoyed it. Same time next week?
Steve in Worcs. on 26 June 2026
I am looking forward to Mark Steyn’s programme – On The Town – tomorrow at 5:00 pm (UK).
I had no idea he’d been so terribly ill – these lines from his website (Steyn Online) : “ So it was that I spent over a month in Ukraine, venturing hither and yon and trying to stay one step ahead of the bombs and drones……
Instead, I have spent much of the time since last we spoke in a coma.“
You can’t keep a good man down! All power to you, Mark.
Nick Hingley on 26 June 2026
I wish Mark a speedy return to good health.
Mike Matthews on 26 June 2026
Such a great radio station. I listen to it here in Australia. Always on in the background.
Howard Del Monte on 26 June 2026
Thank you for now including the original broadcast date for the Music While You Work programmes. It is very helpful for finding out more about the pieces played, as dated lists of some of the programmes can be found online with details of the titles and composers.
Brian Reynolds on 27 June 2026
I think it is an excellent idea . Sadly, most of the bandleaders, conductors etc. are long gone, once famous, – now mostly forgotten, despite having been household names in their day. I hope that Serenade Radio listeners appreciate them as much as I do!
Ken on 24 June 2026
I LOVED your spotlight on Jo Stafford. I discovered her for myself on Serenade Radio years ago and always enjoy her music. Well done!
Suzy on 23 June 2026
My new favourite record is ‘Open the door, Richard’, that I heard on Bottom Drawer last Saturday! 😅 I really enjoyed the whole programme of quirky vintage choices and the info Robert Walton gave us about them. Will it be on again or was it a one-off?
Edgar on 24 June 2026
Long before I discovered Serenade Radio, there was a big band show on KTUC Tucson AZ. They had a tendency to play every song almost every week. This was one of them, and I agree it was a fun song.
Mark on 23 June 2026
Hi Ian, enjoying your new show, it was great to hear Central Park parade by Syd Dale, brings back memories of The John Show, all the best, Mark.
Barbara Heathcote on 22 June 2026
Hi Ian. Enjoyed tonight’s selection. You caught me by surprise repeating my comment about Christmas. Yes Vic is my absolute favourite so now you know. 🤣.
David on 21 June 2026
At the moment I can only pop in and out of Soft Folkus – how on earth did I miss Jake Thackray last week? – so it would be a real treat if the show could be repeated at some stage, if possible. I did manage to hear a wonderful Clive Gregson song tonight as well as an eerily atmospheric instrumental concerning pine tree monoculture. And Roger’s Dutch sounded bang on! Why is it some people can soak up foreign languages like a sponge whereas most of us have to grind away for years? Fortunately, my youth was not misspent as I adored the Swedish chef on The Muppet Show so now I can speak fluent Scandinavian especially when making de poopa-de-corn in de mickory wuff…
Roger Williams on 22 June 2026
Hello David
Pleased you enjoyed what you heard. I have an uneasy relationship with Country Music but have very much been enjoying Vic Groves show here on Serenade when I’ve caught it. A country song has to be quite exceptional to make it onto Soft Folkus and Steve, below, argued the case well for Don Williams.
As for my grasp of Dutch….when I was a kid I signed up to a Dutch By Radio course via shortwave Radio Nederland. The ONLY phrase I can say with fluency is the one they said every week that means “goodbye to all of you until next time.” So, if you ever want someone to say goodbye to a Nederlander, I’m your go to guy!
Thank you for listening.
R
Steve Morson in Worcs. on 22 June 2026
🤣🤣 Absolutely creasing up here, David. The Swedish Chef also a huge favourite, great compilations on YouTube.
I’m loving the breadth of Soft Folkus, and look forward to each episode, as Roger, with all Serenade presenters, have become radio heroes.
For chickadee sooop, forsta catcha da chickee chick…! Happy listening!
Regards,
Steven dot morson at gmail dot com
Steve Morson in Worcs. on 21 June 2026
Good Evening, Sir Roger 😊
Listening in, many thanks! I’m no big country music fan, but Don Williams voice and this song – just amazing.
Roger Williams on 22 June 2026
Hello Steve
I’m the sane as you, there’ll only ever be a sprinkling of country songs on Soft Folkus – but Don Williams made the cut in the last show. I think it was your suggestion too!
Thank you for listening
R
David Pearson on 21 June 2026
Fantastic show last night Steve- an hour of US sunshine pop! It doesn’t come any better for me. L
Steve James on 21 June 2026
Thanks David, I’m glad you enjoyed listening to the tracks as much as I enjoyed playing them. More to follow!
Jane Bozian on 21 June 2026
Another dose of beautiful sunshine pop and other gems with Steve James last night. My only wish was that Late Night Extra was on more than once a week.
Steve James on 21 June 2026
Thanks so much Jane, I’m pleased you liked the selection. It sounds like I’m going to have compile another US edition (which will be no great hardship I can assure you!)
Wim de Lang on 21 June 2026
Yes, I hear it too now. I m glad it s ok. Serenade has become a wonderful part of my life. Have a great Sunday Mark, best wishes from The Netherlands.
Mark on 21 June 2026
You too Wim
Mark on 21 June 2026
I’m not sure if it’s me or there is a problem with Ed’s program
Wim de Lang on 21 June 2026
No, it s not you Mark, I hear the same problem. Also with Steve now. I think it s the computer at serenade headquarters .
Let s hope they hear it and can solve the problem soon.
Mark on 21 June 2026
Thanks Wim, seems to be ok now
Martyn Bassey on 20 June 2026
Fabulous music once again on “The Night Shift” with Sean Usher and Johnny Mac.
Absolutely perfect for the early hours of Saturday morning here in Cardiff, Wales 🏴.
Many thanks Sean and Johnny 👍👍
Johnny Mac, A Little Night Music on 21 June 2026
Thank you, Martyn – always appreciated.
Next week’s special artist is Tony Hatch, ahead of his 87th birthday.
David Small on 20 June 2026
Thank you Adrian for a lovely selection of music from the musicals again this Saturday night
David Small on 20 June 2026
Thanks to Roger and Paul for another lovely selection of music on The Dance Band Days and Roger Keep them tits off the tops of the milk bottles– Happy Days Regards David
Paul Ruddock on 22 June 2026
Hello David – glad you enjoyed, it’s always fun pulling the shows together for Roger. Stay tuned for The London Piano Accordion Band this Saturday – my best wishes as ever. Paul
Roger Williams on 22 June 2026
Hello David
Pleased that you’re enjoying DBD. You’ll be aware of course that Professor Ruddock does the hard work – I just seek the glory, while checking on my gold tops.
Thank you for listening
Roger
Barbara Heathcote on 20 June 2026
Listening to Cindy and the song Don’t bring Lulu. I don’t know why but i suddenly remembered Dorothy Provine in the 60s tv series The Roaring Twenties. Anyone else remember it? I was still at school I might add. 😄
Dave in London on 21 June 2026
Ah yes, some misted memories of those early sixties wafting in and out here Barbara. It was on ITV (the UK’s one commercial station at the time) late at night.
How many of us only ever saw the opening credits as it ran perilously close to and beyond bedtime? But now I’m wondering if for the London region it was shown on Friday or Saturday without the threat of school the next day. I shouldn’t have thrown those 60’s editions of TV Times magazine away.
Barbara Heathcote on 21 June 2026
Yes Dave the dreaded school night when parents were strict and no tv after a certain time. My absolute favourite programme at the time was another American one Hawaiian Eye. Obviously a Sunday night starring Connie Stevens (married to Eddie Fisher, ( who wasn’t)) and Robert Conrad (yummy). I could only watch when no school next day. But if they left the hall door open I could sit on top of stairs and listen. 😂. No repeats, recording or catchup then. Connie sang with Ed Byrnes ( another yum). on Cookie Lend me Your Comb if you can remember it.
Cindy Kent on 23 June 2026
Hi Barbara – thanks for getting in touch. I don’t remember that series – but just checked her out. Great looking lady! What a lot of movies she made! Sadly left us in 2010. Thanks for listening and let me know if I can play you a request? 😊
Barbara Heathcote on 25 June 2026
Hi Cindy. I’m probably a bit older than you. I’d be about 12/13 at the time and if Saturday night I would be babysitting my baby brother whilst grown ups were at the pub 🤣. Thank you. It’s probably well know my fav singer is Vic Damone but I would like to hear Al Martino Here in my Heart. The first ever No. 1 in the charts please or All the things You Are by Vic . I don’t mind which.
Cindy kent on 26 June 2026
Hi Barbara – thanks for getting back. I’m going to play ic for you around 3.15. Hope you enjoy it? 😊
Barbara Heathcote on 26 June 2026
Thank you Cindy. That is very nice of you. I’ll be looking forward to hearing Vic. Xx
Cindy kent on 26 June 2026
Hi Barbara – thanks for getting back. I’m going to play Vic for you around 3.15. Hope you enjoy it? 😊
Cindy Kent on 23 June 2026
Hi Dave – thanks for joining in the chat. I really don’t remember the singer – but it sounded good, so I played it! And yes, this’d TV Times would have been fu. To look through now. What were you doing with ITV back in the day? Great to have you listening with us.
Cindy Kent on 23 June 2026
Hi Barbara – thanks for getting in touch. I don’t remember that series – but just checked her out. Great looking lady! What a lot of movies she made! Sadly left us in 2010. Thanks for listening and let me know if I can play you a request? 😊
Gerri Hobbs on 20 June 2026
Cannot thank this heartfelt station enough!
Evokes such happy memories of the distant past …
Superb!
Andy Grahamme on 20 June 2026
Thanks Stuart Linnell for today’s programme…sadly have to miss the last 15 minutes but I so enjoyed today’s music especially the 3 from Camelot earlier and Robert Goulet who had such a great voice!
Stuart Linnell on 25 June 2026
Thank you Andy. Always great to hear from you, and thank you for listening.
Mark Sutherland on 19 June 2026
Really good to have Those Academy Award Years back on the air on Thursday nights following the excellent They Don’t Make Them Like That Anymore. Enjoyed Peter Tomlinson’s relaxed narration and Neil Anthony’s excellent and very informative script. Looking forward to future episodes. Keep up the good work Serenade Radio.
Dave in London on 20 June 2026
An honorable mention also for Colin Hamilton, heard on ‘They Don’t Make Them Like That Anymore’. What a perfect voice he had for radio presenting; calm, consistent, worthy of trust.
Our individual memories of hearing him the first time around will probably vary. For this listener it was on the World Service’s Outlook news magazine. I think he had a spell presenting Radio 2’s Roundabout and on Radio Luxembourg’s English service, but it’s said that he preferred working in news departments.
It was lovely to hear his voice again thanks to Serenade.
Barbara Heathcote on 19 June 2026
Ian if you look on YouTube you’ll see Lee Marvin on the Ed Sullivan Show sing Wandrin Star accompanied by a male choir. We now need Clint Eastwood singing I Talk to the Trees.
Barbara Heathcote on 19 June 2026
Paul. Swing Time goes by far too quickly. Great programme. Not heard that Glenn Miller tune before, as least don’t remember it. Hope mum enjoyed it. Be interesting to see if they include in the play list when I go in December.
Paul Ruddock on 19 June 2026
Thanks for your kind words Barbara and really pleased you enjoyed Glenn Miller. You know me, I like to feature the more obscure tunes, it’s what makes it even more interesting!
kevin on 16 June 2026
where have you been all my life?
Ryan on 15 June 2026
A great first show Ian with a nice selection of tunes. Looking forward to many more!
Elizabeth Morton on 15 June 2026
Both me and my mother Mary want to thank Ian Timms tonight for his beautiful taste in music. We both enjoyed it so much, as we enjoy all your other presenters every day. Delighted Ian has joined your team, please thank him for us. We have made a donation as it all helps. Very grateful
Barbara Heathcote on 15 June 2026
Welcome to the Family Ian. Enjoyed tonight’s selection. The typewriter music made me smile. When I was first learning to copy type in the late 60s a group of us had lessons in a private house. Picture the typewriters straight out of a museum. And in the corner a large wind up gramophone with the large trumpet. We had the shields over the keys so couldn’t see the keys and copied printed text to the tempo of Willian Tell overture. The lady went out of the room for a few mins, meanwhile the record gradually wound down to a slow speed until it stopped it was hilarious. The sound of the bell when you pushed the return lever brought back some great memories.
Dave in London on 15 June 2026
Big thanks to Ian Timms for a lovely first show this evening. Gentle but engaged banter and the sort of music we need with our spaghetti on toast for dinner. Looking forward to lots more enjoyable hours from Ian, with thanks to him for joining the illustrious team of dedicated and talented Serenade presenters.
Eddie Mulligan on 15 June 2026
As l walk with my dog Max it’s lovely to listen to music of my past. Keep up the good work. Thank you all for creating this wonderful station.
John Walsh on 15 June 2026
Serenade Radio, my constant companion every day of the week over here in the Emerald Isle.
Keith Phillips on 15 June 2026
I listen daily from Ontario Canada, great music!
Jim Sears on 15 June 2026
Thank you for making Serenade Radio a joy to listen to daily 👏👏
Ken Buckingham on 15 June 2026
Thank you for bringing your wonderful programs all the way to my iPhone at night in Mint Hill, North Carolina.