Pete Tong

Pete Tong (born July 1960) is a British DJ who works for BBC Radio 1 in the United Kingdom. He is known worldwide by fans of electronic music for hosting programs such as Essential Mix and Essential Selection on the radio service, which can be heard through Internet radio streams, for his label FFRR Records, and for his own performances at nightclubs across the globe. Tong has also worked as a music producer.

Radio Career

Pete's first appearance on Radio was in the early 80's when he appeared on local radio station BBC Radio Medway in the 'Soul Mafia' and doing occasional mixes for Radio London. Then in 1981 he made his first appearance on Radio 1 hosting a 15 minute feature on Peter Powell's show, playing the new tracks and covering the latest gossip and news from the dance world.

Related Topics:
Radio London - Peter Powell

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When Invicta Radio started up in Kent in 1984, Pete joined them to host a regular soul show, where he stayed until 1987. He was then hired by Capital Radio to present a weekly dance program.

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Finally in 1991 Pete returned to national radio. As part of its desire to provide coverage for the growing club culture Radio 1 hired Pete to host the "Essential Selection".

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The Essential Selection is a three hour radio show on Friday night's from 6-9pm in the UK. Often referred to by Pete as the "weekend warmup," it showcases the latest dance music, with the focus being on house, and informs listeners what club nights are on around the United Kingdom that weekend.

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He still hosts the Essential Selection today and since 1993 has also presented the Essential Mix on Saturday nights.

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