LBC (Leading Britain's Conversation) is rapidly becoming one of my favourite radio stations. In a time where civilised debate is lacking, LBC allows for (mostly) reasonable discussion between presenters and listeners. All kinds of topics are exposed to scrutiny and each presenter has their own style when anchoring their precious hours on air. Every host stands out in a different way.
One presenter that is most definitely rememberable, indeed, one I can't stop listening to, is Steve Allen. He's, as his twitter biography modestly describes, a 'leg end.' A long standing LBC presenter of 40 years, Steve is unforgettable. Devoted to radio, he currently presents the weekday early breakfast show between 4am and 7am and the Sunday early breakfast show between 5am and 7am. That's before all his extra commitments, like his 'Little Bit Extra' podcast and fascinating 'In Conversation' discussions are mentioned. This timing of his show would seem unsociable. Perhaps you may even term it the 'graveyard shift.' You couldn't be more wrong. He has a unique way about him, partially because he is the only presenter to take no calls. None whatsoever. And that works perfectly. We listeners have more time to hear his musings on life, moaning and ranting about z-listers seeking fame and disclosing the latest royal gossip. Often, we'll hear Steve talking to his producers without hearing their follow-up remarks. Hearing 50% of a conversation is great for the imagination! Steve also effectively rounds up the newspaper stories before Nick Ferrari takes the helm, focusing on slightly alternative snippets that may not always receive the attention they deserve! Loyal listeners to Steve are known as 'Spikers', a truly wonderful community who adapt their lifestyle to wake up at 4am on the dot (you better not be late!). Allen has admitted that his show is mostly 'light-end.' When listening, I am perfectly aware so-called celebrities I have never heard of will be discussed, with their latest drama or failings in their quest for fame ripped apart and mocked by Steve. Yet this is done in such a truly hilarious way, as Steve states what we listeners think but would never say! Don't get me wrong, I remain obsessed with my political debates, podcasts, current affairs and highbrow global, environment and social issues. But I'm also able to laugh at Steve's show, which is the complete opposite. Enjoying both is not mutually exclusive. That said, Steve can still tackle the breaking, serious stories. I recall tuning in the day Boris Johnson (the blond bombshell in my book) became Prime Minister. Theo Usherwood, LBC's political editor, was effectively interviewed by Steve to inform listeners about the day's events. LBC is first and foremost a news station after all. This is clearly evident in Steve's morning round-up of the papers. It's possible to hear Allen physically turning the newsprint, deciding which juicy nuggets to read out, items that wouldn't get a second glance on the main breakfast show. Part of the liberty presenting so early is that the lighter, quirkier, relaxed side of life can be discussed in greater depth. Apart from loyal spikers, the sorts of people listening at 4am are probably shift workers, early risers, insomniacs and, according to Iain Dale, breakfast presenters! Listeners know the flagship, in-depth political and international news can be heard later in the day. Steve's remit gives him the freedom to explore the alternative side of life. Articles are quickly read out, with a brief comment from Steve, before he moves on. The speed of news, the spontaneity of his remarks, allows for much humour and joy which can last hours after he has gone off air. Once I asked Steve how he presents his programme on Christmas Day when there are no papers to browse through. I had no need for concern. His show is built around hilarious, bizarre anecdotes about his daily life, the people he's met, his past experiences. This is the main bulk of interaction with listeners for, while no calls are taken, texts and tweets are frequently read out. Perfect for me! All I need to do at 4 in the morning is pop my headphones in, open the Global player app and go on twitter. He's answered many of my questions about visiting Brighton, his 6ft rose, watching the Harry Potter films, going on Strictly Come Dancing, the most overrated London tourist attractions, his favourite brand of tea and many more! Often, one question will spark a memory that fills up the show and leaves listeners aching with laughter. Steve's commitment to his listeners and radio generally is clear. Nobody works a six day week (and is on air everyday!) with unsociable hours unless they have passion for the job. Nobody takes hardly any holiday at all, regularly presenting over Christmas, unless they love what they do and their connection with the listeners. Steve is most definitely one of those presenters. His further passion is demonstrated through 'In Conversation' where fabulous guests are interviewed. I listened to a great talk with Matt Cardle, who was discussing his role in 'Jesus Christ Superstar' at the Barbican (which I saw!). Allen gives his guests time to breath and open up, allowing for a flowing, seamless conversation, demonstrated with Piers Morgan, Robert Harris and Eddie Mair in particular. While the broad formula of papers, anecdotes and light-end discussion is similar, every show otherwise is different. While I have no idea what will be discussed in his slot, I know it will be memorable. Steve is obviously loyal to LBC and its listeners. Listeners in return are loyal, enjoying the warmth in his voice, the mischievous sniggering and the heartfelt anecdotes that have both shaped Allen's personality and provided listeners with some company to commence their day. I look forward to listening, whether live or on catch-up, to Steve Allen for many years to come. In an age of eternal turbulence and uncertainty, the knowledge of a daily smile from the radio is nothing but reassuring.
3 Comments
Dave Pinder
23/8/2019 12:46:41
That was a most entertaining and informative read, even if some of us don't rate Mr Allen quite as highly as you obviously do.
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Jim Nixon
12/5/2021 22:02:35
Steve Allen is a nauseous, untalented hack. Vile piece of work. I can't fucking stand him.
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Andy
25/10/2021 13:51:58
Re..Tilly Ramsey: Classic Steve Allen -unscripted and direct from the man to you via rambling monologue, and also completely true ! But not offensive. If Steve Allen had a daughter I can well imagine him having a dig at her and the quality of his cooking! I shall be tuning in as usual , cheers me up no end.
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