Clara Amfo, who danced her way into our hearts on Strictly Come Dancing in 2020, has decided to say goodbye to her BBC Radio 1's Future Sounds show after two years. The DJ announced that she'll be leaving the show in 2024 to take on new exciting projects.
Jack Saunders, known for presenting Future Artists and The Official Chart shows, will be stepping into Clara's shoes from April 15. Clara shared a heartfelt message saying how proud she was of her work on the station and how grateful she was for her listeners.
The show has seen some big names like Zane Lowe, Annie Mac and Steve Lamacq at the helm before.
She said: "I'm so proud of the work I've been able to do on every show, whether it's been from the 8th floor, a city in the UK or a pop star's house across the pond. I'm grateful to have had the ears of the listeners who have consistently shown up for me.
|I'm enamoured by everyone I've had the privilege of working alongside for each and every broadcast. I'm energised and excited for my next chapter as part of the network and beyond."
Since taking over the show in 2021, Clara has been championing new artists with her "hottest record" feature. She's also known for hosting Radio 1's Live Lounge, The Official Chart on Radio 1, and her 1Xtra programme.
After many successful interviews with stars like Doja Cat, Pink Pantheress, Raye, Sir Elton John and Sir Paul McCartney, she's now set to focus on artist specials for the network over the next year. Plus, she'll be launching a new BBC Sounds music show in 2024.
Jack, who will host the show from 6pm Monday to Thursday, said: "All I've ever wanted to do is host this show on Radio 1 and all my dreams have become a reality. I can't wait to champion new music and be the voice for a new generation of artists."
During his time at Radio 1, he's covered major UK festivals like Glastonbury, Download Festival, Reading and Leeds and BBC Radio 1's Big Weekend.
With Jack moving on from Future Artists, Welsh radio DJ Sian Eleri will host a new show that will spotlight artists and bands from all genres.
Sian, who's "overjoyed" to take over the show starting in April 2024 (airing Monday to Wednesday from 8pm to 10pm), said: "Covering the show has always been a delight, and I'm excited to build on what is undoubtedly one of the most rewarding parts of the job finding and championing the best new artists in the world for listeners to enjoy, at such a prestigious time slot for the station. I can't wait."
Alyx Holcombe will be the new host of Radio 1's Indie Show, which will air every Sunday from 9pm to 11pm starting January 7.
Scottish presenter Arielle Free is set to host a new dance show on Thursday nights starting in April 2024.
Aled Haydn-Jones, Head of BBC Radio 1, expressed his excitement: "Jack was born to host this show I am so excited to hear what he delivers for Radio 1's music-loving audience."
He also shared his delight about Sian, Alyx and Arielle gaining new shows, saying: "They join a great line-up of specialist presenters on Radio 1 who will put a strong spotlight on new UK music artists, bands and DJs."
Aled thanked Clara for her contributions to Future Sounds and expressed his happiness that she will continue with Radio 1 and BBC Music: "I'd like to thank Clara for everything she has done for Future Sounds and I'm delighted that she will be staying with Radio 1 and BBC Music to continue to bring some amazing artist highlights over the next year and beyond."
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