* Radio Times article – “Face Behind The Voice”
Age ‘I was born on 5 April – but I’m not saying which year!’
Current job Presenter and producer of BBC Radio Gloucestershire’s The Acoustic Music Show (Saturday). He is also a singer/songwriter, composer and Musical Director of the Festival Players Theatre Company since 1992.
CV Born and brought up on the London/Essex border, he played in bands from the age of 13 and studied Architecture at the Gloucestershire College of Art (now University of Gloucestershire). Formed the acoustic band Decameron in 1969 and began a full-time music career. Solo career since the late 70s, including tours, festivals and running songwriting workshops. His many albums include Forest and Vale and High Blue Hill and his collaboration with Laurie Lee, Edge of Day. TV includes BBC2’s Song of Gloucestershire. Joined Radio Gloucestershire in 1996.
Best moments ‘Playing the main stage of the Glastonbury Festival with my own band and recording Edge of Day with writer Laurie Lee – a tribute to his poetry.’
Worst moment ‘Trying to perform at the Colchester Arts Centre with jetlag, having just flown back from the States.
It was like treading through treacle but I got through it.’
Off air ‘I live in the Stroud Valleys with my partner, the artist Katharine Neilson, and 14-year-old son Ross.’
First radio memory ‘Saturday Club with Brian Matthew, followed by Radio Luxembourg and Radio Caroline’
Favourite broadcasters ‘Bob Harris for his great musical knowledge and totally relaxed interviewing style and Jo Whiley and Claudia Winkleman,
who both sound effortless and so natural.’
Ambition ‘To run a Songwriters’ Festival. And – always – to write more good songs!’
Dream job ‘Running a national acoustic radio station playing the whole range of singer/songwriters, folk, americana, blues, etc – Acoustic FM.’
Secret skills ‘Playing tennis (to a good club level) and map reading (I don’t need or like sat-nav) – both skills learnt from my Dad, Alan, who is now 90.’
David Gillard for The Radio Times
Johnny Coppin 