The extremely sad New Year's Eve news was that veteran radio DJ Johnnie Walker has passed away. The 79-year-old had been suffering from cancer and in November said his on-air goodbyes to the listeners he served so well on BBC Radio 2 and Radio Caroline, the pioneering offshore radio station that helped him become a household name in the 1960s.

Along with John Peel, Walker flew the flag for new, innovative artists at a time when the BBC's music policy was deeply conservative. He reputedly gave Bruce Springsteen's 'Born To Run' its first European play and, unlike many of his contemporaries, fully embraced punk. When the Beeb became just too stifling, he quit his big salaried job and headed to California where he worked on freeform rock radio.

"So long Johnnie Walker, all across the years a defender and gatekeeper of great musical taste," Robert Plant notes. "A cool, kind man who kept the bar high for all of us who loved him."

Echoing those sentiments, Joan Armatrading says: "RIP Johnnie Walker. Thank you for all you did for my music and the many other musicians you brought to the public's attention. I loved talking with you on your shows. I will miss you. You will be very missed by many x."

"So sad to hear of the death of DJ Johnnie Walker," Paul Brady posts. "He was a great support to me in the early 80s when he was at Bristol Radio West. Played ‘Crazy Dreams’ many times and continued supporting me when he returned to BBC Radio One. One of the great music radio presenters. RIP Johnnie. You are sorely missed."

Adds Irish Eurovision winner Paul Harrington: "Adored his voice and charm. Listened since the 1970’s. Loved when he would send pre-recorded shows from the States too."

Here are a few more of the tributes to a genuine broadcasting legend:

RIP to a great DJ and a wonderful friend to me and DR HOOK! The man knew what people wanted to hear and gave it to them from land …and sea! Condolences to his family. 💖✨#johnniewalker pic.twitter.com/V6xgnoNJEA

— Dennis Locorriere (@DrHookOfficial) December 31, 2024

The great Johnnie Walker....Once a pirate always a pirate! Loved his music. Always fought his corner. Never rolled over. An inspiration to so many. Cue: Duane Eddy...'Because They're Young....' pic.twitter.com/QvUoI3kbXl

— Mike Read (@MikeReadUK) December 31, 2024

The first great interview we ever got on radio was from Johnnie Walker and I'm still grateful. More than that, it was on his lunchtime show I first heard Born To Run, Doctor Wu and Misstra Know It All. Rest in peace Johnnie. ❤️

— Ricky Ross (@rickyaross) December 31, 2024

Very sad to hear of the passing of Johnnie Walker. He was a pioneer - I was honoured to be on his show when the other guest was Ian McLagan, what a day that was. Safe Home Johnnie you will be greatly missed X pic.twitter.com/9wTwdUiAnH

— Ian McNabb. Cultural attaché: Kensington, L,pool. (@empiresend) January 1, 2025