Kid Jensen: For The Record

Few of a generation do not recall listening to Radio Luxembourg ‘under the bed clothes’. At a time when the station was huge, David ‘Kid’ Jensen was one of its best-known names, broadcasting to millions across Europe, showcasing music at a key moment of change. Transferring eventually to the BBC, he was part of a golden era for Radio 1. When the station was reaching peak audiences he was on board, working alongside the radio names who have become part of folklore such as John Peel and Kenny Everett, and appearing in person in front of thousands at the Radio 1 Roadshows and on television to millions on Top Of The Pops. David Jensen’s encounters with the big names are incomparable: Michael Jackson teaching the moonwalk on the shag pile carpet; playing football at midnight on an airport runway with the Rolling Stones; an exclusive party at the Holiday Inn with a young Freddie Mercury; going on holiday with Paul McCartney. As a knowledgeable and high-profile music-loving radio presenter, the list is never-ending and in this book he tells of his impressions of the characters: who was fun, and who was more difficult. Two years ago, David revealed he’d been battling incurable Parkinson’s, saying he’d delayed disclosing his illness to all but family and close friends for fear that people might think less of me. This is the personal story - with all its ups and downs - of the Canadian who sold his motorbike and trumpet to venture to London to pursue his dream - and achieved it.