Simon takes over the afternoon slot, following the recent death of Jazz FM’s Jamie Crick

Jazz FM have announced that presenter Simon Phillips is swapping Magic Radio drivetime for Jazz FM, and is set to join the station to take on the weekday 2-6pm ‘afternoon drive’ slot, following the recent and sudden passing of long-term presenter Jamie Crick.

Launching on Monday 23rd October, the programme will feature the usual superb mix of jazz, soul and blues but also play to Simon’s passion for soul music with classic albums and featured pieces of music to highlight his knowledge.

Of his new daily afternoon show, Simon Phillips said: “It goes without saying that Jamie has left some BIG shoes to fill, and this is a very bittersweet moment.  But I’m incredibly excited to join this incredible team of tastemakers, pioneers, and passionate music lovers on a station I have listened to religiously since I was a kid.  I can’t wait to wrap up the workday in the best possible way.  I really feel like I’m coming home!”

Jazz FM Content Director Nick Pitts said: “Simon is no stranger to the Jazz FM audience having hosted the weekend breakfast show in 2020 and 2021 and we’re so pleased that he is joining us to look after our new afternoon show.  We miss Jamie terribly and he’s a very difficult act to follow, but I know that Simon will be the perfect host to see our listeners through their afternoon and into the early evening.” 

It has also been announced that from Sunday 29th October, Simon will host a brand-new landmark eight-part documentary series “The Story of UK Soul.”

This series is from an idea by Simon and will also simulcast on Bauer sister station Magic Soul. It chronicles the complete history of this music, from the underground scene in the 1970’s to a genre that sells out stadiums and headlines festivals today. Simon, along with a sensational list of expert contributors, tells the story of the music and artists, and how it has developed over the last 50 years.