ArtistInfo

Steve Barker

Spoken Word

Back in 1980, Steve Barker presented "Spin Off", the first alternative music show at Radio Blackburn, and this evolved into "On The Wire", first broadcast on BBC Radio Lancashire on 16 September 1984. Adrian Sherwood, Keith LeBlanc, Depeche Mode and Lee Scratch Perry were among the first guests. Way back in the 20th Century, Steve aired the first UK radio plays of Derrick May, Kevin Saunderson and 808 State's "Pacific State" and his uncompromising laconic style of playing full track new releases by little known artists endeared him to his audience for three hours on a Sunday afternoon. But times, broadcasting and the BBC change and OTW was almost axed until someone realised it was a unique BBC product. Steve and other contributors to the show were saved but with a 2 hour show now going out 10 till 12 on a Saturday night (2010). It is the longest running UK alternative music show and still at the cutting edge, thanks to a modest almost shy Steve Barker being a very clued-up man when it comes to quality music. Steve also writes for The Wire magazine, collaborates with musicians (especially dub) and occasionally DJs at special events.