Hey Mister DJ …

It starts with the sound of rain. A woman’s voice tells us it is night in the city, and a nurse is smoking the last cigarette in the pack. Then comes a nasal, gravelly voice, more familiar in song: ‘It’s time for Theme Time Radio Hour. Dreams, schemes and themes.’ The career of Bob Dylan, radio DJ, has begun.

Once the most iconic recluse in the music business, Dylan will spring a surprise on fans next month by broadcasting a weekly music show across America. His debut behind the mic, due to be broadcast on 3 May, has been heard exclusively in advance by The Observer.

As the quaint title, Theme Time Radio Hour, implies, it is a simple format, even old-fashioned. Taking a different theme each week, Dylan introduces his favourite records with a wry line or pithy anecdote, then lets the music do the talking. First is ‘weather’. Sounding utterly imperturbable in his new role, he drawls in characteristically rhythmic tones: ‘Today’s show, all about the weather. Curious about what the weather looks like? Just look out your window, take a walk outside. We’re gonna start out with the great Muddy Waters, one of the ancients by now, who all moderns prize.’ He has been provided with a digital recording kit so that he can present the hour-long programme from home, studio or tour bus. He sends a playlist to XM Satellite Radio’s researchers, who then assemble the music around his narration.
guardian.co.uk

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