Olly Alexander, Mel C, Anne-Marie, Jess Glynne, MNEK, Sigala, Regard, Ella Henderson and Gok Wan have been announced as guest hosts for new dedicated LGBTQ+ pop-up station Hits Radio Pride, in addition to an already fantastic line-up of Hits Radio hosts including Fleur East, Jordan Lee and James Barr and new faces to the station, Stephanie Hirst and Charlie Powell.
With the Years & Years frontman joining Jordan Lee for the very first show this Friday at 8am, the station will play some of the 21st century’s biggest artists who are much loved by the LGBTQ+ community – including Lady Gaga, Lizzo, Kim Petras, Sam Smith, Harry Styles and Ariana Grande – and exclusive interviews with stars such as Kylie. Olly Alexander, Mel C, Sigala, Regard and Gok Wan will be playing a mix of their favourite Pride party tracks, and MNEK, Anne-Marie, Jess Glynne and Ella Henderson will be hosting unique shows; playing the biggest hits and throwbacks that have helped shaped their lives.
Hits Radio Pride will also aim to educate and raise awareness of LGBTQ+ issues and encourage inclusion and tolerance. In partnership with The Co-operative Bank and working with LGBT+ helpline Switchboard, the station will ensure listeners can get access to the right support and advice. It will also air a series titled ‘Tough Talks’, where contributors from the LGBTQ+ community will discuss the struggles the community often experience in a society which has and can continue to be intolerant. For example, in one of the episodes, Alfie, who is transmasc, and their partner of eight years Rachel reflect on the moment when Alfie told Rachael that they were questioning their gender identity. At the age of 18, Rachael was the first person Alfie told.
Hits Radio presenter Jordan Lee said “I’m absolutely buzzing to be a part of the Hits Radio Pride family and to have Olly, Mel C, Anne-Marie, MNEK, Gok Wan and more join us for some extra special shows! Being your authentic self and celebrating diversity in the queer community is more important than ever, especially with physical Pride events being cancelled across the UK. We can’t wait to go live and bring the party – Olly and I will see you bright and early on Friday!”
Deb Darlington, Brand Director at The Co-operative Bank, said “As the original ethical bank we’re delighted to be partners of this new station that embraces diversity and inclusion, two values that we’re passionate about and that are at the heart of our business. The incredible line-up of presenters and guests for Hits Radio Pride shows what a great opportunity the launch of this station is to not just celebrate these important values but also raise awareness of LGBTQ+ issues.”
Hits Radio Pride launches on Friday 28th August at 8am. To listen, retune your radio on Wednesday 26th or listen online, on smart speaker or via the Hits Radio app.
The full line up is below:
Monday to Friday
7-11am: Jordan Lee
11-2pm: Non-Stop Pride Hits and Throwbacks
2-7pm: Charlie Powell
7pm: Hits Radio Pride In the Mix
8pm: Non-Stop Pride Hits and Throwbacks
Saturday
9-12pm: Saturday Morning with Fleur East
12-2pm: Non-Stop Pride Hits and Throwbacks
2-7pm: The Hits Radio Pride Residency
7pm: Stephanie Hirst
8pm: Hits Radio Pride in the Mix
Sunday
9-12pm: James Barr
12-2pm: The Hits Radio Pride Mixtape
2-7pm: The Hits Radio Pride Residency
7pm: Non-Stop Pride Hits and Throwbacks
