Planet Rock

Planet Rock: The UK’s Definitive Classic Rock Station

Planet Rock, a cornerstone of British digital radio, has been fueling the country’s passion for classic rock since its launch on November 1, 1999. As the first dedicated classic rock station in the UK, it continues to serve as a go-to destination for fans of the genre. Owned by Bauer Radio, Planet Rock is available nationwide on DAB digital radio, Freeview, Sky, Virgin Media, Freesat, and online, making it accessible to rock enthusiasts across the UK and beyond.

The station’s musical repertoire spans from the 1970s onward, spotlighting the era-defining sounds of rock legends such as Led Zeppelin, Pink Floyd, The Rolling Stones, and Deep Purple. With a blend of hits from the 60s through the 90s, Planet Rock offers listeners a chance to revel in both the nostalgia of classic rock anthems and the deeper cuts that shaped the genre’s evolution. Its programming is meticulously curated to include everything from hard rock and blues rock to progressive and alternative, ensuring that listeners experience the full spectrum of classic rock.

Planet Rock’s success is built on its team of iconic presenters, who bring authenticity, expertise, and personal flair to the station. The lineup features some of the biggest names in the rock world, including former BBC Radio 1 DJ Paul Anthony, Alice Cooper, Black Sabbath’s Tony Iommi, Fish from Marillion, Def Leppard’s Joe Elliott, and legendary Yes keyboardist Rick Wakeman. These hosts provide more than just music; they share their personal stories, insights, and in-depth knowledge of the rock scene, making each show a unique and compelling experience.

The station’s reputation for exclusive content is another reason for its devoted following. Listeners are treated to in-depth interviews and live sessions with some of rock’s most influential artists, offering behind-the-scenes glimpses into the lives and careers of legends like The Who, Led Zeppelin, and Pink Floyd. These sessions often include rare acoustic performances and candid conversations, giving fans access to content they won’t find anywhere else.

One of the highlights of Planet Rock’s annual calendar is its flagship event, the Planet Rockstock festival. Held every December, Rockstock has become a pilgrimage for classic rock fans, featuring a lineup packed with genre-defining acts such as Iron Maiden, Judas Priest, and Deep Purple. The festival brings together fans and artists in an electrifying celebration of rock music, complete with live performances, meet-and-greets, and exclusive stage appearances.

Over two decades since its inception, Planet Rock remains a beloved and influential player in the UK’s radio landscape. Its commitment to delivering high-quality programming, championing classic rock, and supporting the rock community has solidified its position as a beacon for rock enthusiasts. For those who crave the thrill of guitar solos, the power of stadium anthems, and the legacy of rock’s greatest names, Planet Rock is an indispensable part of the journey.