{{short description|British national radio station}} {{Use British English|date=May 2020}} {{Use dmy dates|date=January 2022}} {{Infobox radio station | country = UK | name = BBC Radio 1 Dance | logo = frameless|class=skin-invert | logo_caption = Logo used since 2022 | city = London and Belfast | area = United Kingdom | airdate = {{start date and age|2020|10|09|df=y}} | frequencies = DAB+: 12B (BBC National DAB) | language = English | format = Dance and electronic music<br>(incl. DJ mixes and live performances) | network = BBC Radio | owner = BBC | licensing_authority = Ofcom | sister_stations = BBC Radio 1<br>BBC Radio 1Xtra<br>BBC Radio 1 Anthems | coordinates = | website = [https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/live/bbc_radio_one_dance Radio 1 Dance] via BBC Sounds }} {{BBC Radio sidebar}} '''BBC Radio 1 Dance''' is a British digital radio station owned and operated by the BBC. It specialises in a wide range of dance and electronic music, featuring a mix of presenter-led programmes, curated DJ sets and live or pre-recorded performances.
The station was launched in October 2020 as a spin-off from Radio 1 exclusively on BBC Sounds. From September 2025, the station began broadcasting on DAB+. Some shows are simulcast on Radio 1 during late-night slots or events. Such shows from Radio 1 are also occasionally re-broadcast on Radio 1 Dance independently.
==History== 200px|thumb|Previous BBC Radio 1 Dance logo Dance and electronic music has a long history on BBC Radio, beginning in the late 1980s and early 1990s, coinciding with the rise of dance culture and the rave scene in the UK.
BBC Radio 1 under then-controller Matthew Bannister played a pivotal role in bringing these genres to a wider, mainstream audience.<ref>{{cite web |last=Sutherland |first=Mark |date=2017-09-26 |title=Complete controllers: Former Radio 1 bosses Andy Parfitt and Matthew Bannister on running 'the nation's favourite' radio station |url=https://www.musicweek.com/media/read/complete-controllers-former-radio-1-bosses-andy-parfitt-and-matthew-bannister-on-running-the-nation-s-favourite-radio-station/069903 |access-date=2025-06-29 |website=Music Week}}</ref> Its shows, such as ''Pete Tong's Essential Selection'' which launched in 1991, have shaped UK club culture, providing a valued platform for DJs and producers.<ref name="urbanplanet" />
Many significant figures in the dance scene have had shows on Radio 1, including Judge Jules, Annie Nightingale, Dave Pearce, and Danny Rampling. Radio 1 also broadcasts many live electronic shows and performances, including from music festivals such as Creamfields and Glastonbury, events such as The Warehouse Project, and Ibizan clubs. BBC Radio 1Xtra was launched in 2002 as a dedicated platform for contemporary black music, often featuring dance genres such as drum and bass, UK garage, grime, and dubstep.<ref>{{cite web |date=2002-08-16 |title=Launch of 1Xtra |url=https://www.bbc.com/historyofthebbc/anniversaries/august/launch-of-1xtra/ |access-date=2025-06-29 |website=BBC Home}}</ref>
=== Launch on BBC Sounds === From as early as November 2019, reports showed that the BBC was considering launching 'spin-off stations' of their popular music stations, including a dedicated dance stream.<ref>{{Cite news|title=Is the BBC planning radio spinoffs to get more listeners?|url=https://radiotoday.co.uk/2019/11/is-the-bbc-planning-radio-spinoffs-to-get-more-listeners/|access-date=2019-11-25|website=RadioToday}}</ref> Jonathan Wall, controller of BBC Sounds, confirmed in February 2020 that Radio 1 Dance was to launch in spring 2020,<ref>{{Cite news|title=Brand new Radio 1 Dance to launch on BBC Sounds |url=https://radiotoday.co.uk/2020/02/bbc-radio-1-dance-to-launch-on-bbc-sounds/|access-date=2020-02-27|website=RadioToday}}</ref> but this was later delayed due to reduced broadcast schedules at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic.<ref>{{Cite news|title=BBC Radio 1 implements changes to schedule amid Coronavirus crisis|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/mediacentre/latestnews/2020/radio1-coronavirus|access-date=2021-04-23|website=BBC Media Centre}}</ref>
Radio 1 Dance launched exclusively on BBC Sounds on 9 October 2020 with Annie Mac, Danny Howard and Pete Tong hosting a 4-hour dance marathon from 6 pm, simulcast on Radio 1.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Brand new Radio 1 Dance stream to launch this October |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/mediacentre/latestnews/2020/radio-1-dance-stream|access-date=2020-09-18|website=BBC Media Centre}}</ref> The station was initially a 24-hour radio ''stream'', with all programming made up of archive or repeat content, or simulcasts from Radio 1.
The launch was met with criticism from commercial bodies. Andy Carter, chair of the All-party parliamentary group on Commercial Radio, said: "new services like Radio 1 Dance do not appear to meet the important public value tests that the BBC must observe."<ref>{{Cite news|title=Concerns raised over the launch of Radio 1 Dance |url=https://radiotoday.co.uk/2020/09/concerns-raised-over-the-launch-of-radio-1-dance/|access-date=2020-09-19|website=RadioToday}}</ref> In late September 2020, following complaints from commercial bodies, Ofcom reviewed Radio 1 Dance, saying "we do not require the BBC to conduct a Public Interest Test [...] because we consider the impact of the Radio 1 Dance stream on the market is likely to be small, particularly given it will be online only and will contain no new or exclusive content."<ref>{{Cite news|title=Materiality assessment of Radio 1 Dance stream |url=https://www.ofcom.org.uk/__data/assets/pdf_file/0019/203464/radio-1-dance-stream-materiality-assessment.pdf/|access-date=2020-09-23|website=Ofcom}}</ref>
In 2021, commercial radio body Radiocentre challenged Ofcom’s decision not to require a Public Interest Test (PIT) before the launch of Radio 1 Dance.<ref>{{Cite news |title=Commercial operators challenge Ofcom approval of BBC Radio 1 Dance online stream |url=https://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/crime/ofcom-high-court-london-dab-bbc-sounds-b2225752.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230519003928/http://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/crime/ofcom-high-court-london-dab-bbc-sounds-b2225752.html |archive-date=19 May 2023 |access-date=2025-03-24 |work=The Independent |language=en-GB |url-status=live }}</ref> Radiocentre argued that Ofcom had acted unlawfully by failing to assess the impact of the new BBC service on the wider radio market. The case was heard in the High Court in 2023. In July of that year, the court ruled in favour of Ofcom, stating that its decision had been lawful and rational, and that it had properly considered the relevant statutory duties before concluding that the impact of Radio 1 Dance was likely to be minimal, especially as it was online-only.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Swift |first=Mr Justice |title=R (on the application of Radiocentre Ltd) v Office of Communications [2023] EWHC 1977 (Admin) |url=https://www.bailii.org/ew/cases/EWHC/Admin/2023/1977.html |website=BAILII |access-date=2025-03-24}}</ref>
In April 2021, the BBC launched another music stream on BBC Sounds, Radio 1 Relax which closed on 24 July 2024.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Brand new wellbeing stream Radio 1 Relax launches on BBC Sounds |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/mediacentre/2021/radio-1-relax|access-date=2021-04-22|website=BBC Media Centre}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-07-24 |title=Sian Eleri and Jess Iszatt present the final ever show on Radio 1 Relax! |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m0021cm3 |access-date=2024-07-21 |website=BBC |language=en-GB}}</ref>
===Expansion=== In February 2024, the BBC announced plans to expand the Radio 1 Dance stream, including a launch on the corporation's existing DAB+ spectrum.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Plans announced for new, distinctive digital music stations as extensions for BBC Radio 1, BBC Radio 2 and BBC Radio 3 |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/mediacentre/2024/plans-digital-music-stations-extensions-bbc-radio-1-bbc-radio-2-bbc-radio-3|access-date=2024-02-07|website=BBC Media Centre}}</ref>
Subject to regulatory approval, including a Public Interest Test (PIT), the stream would be upgraded to a full-time station and no longer remain online-only. The expanded station would feature newly commissioned programming, with a minimum of 45% of music from UK artists and at least a third of daytime music from new artists. Radio 1 Dance would also increase its coverage of live events and provide a platform for emerging DJs.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Expanded version of the existing BBC Sounds Radio 1 Dance stream |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/mediacentre/2024/plans-digital-music-stations-extensions-bbc-radio-1-bbc-radio-2-bbc-radio-3#:~:text=Radio%201%20Dance%20on,other%20third%20party%20events.|access-date=2024-02-07|website=BBC Media Centre}}</ref>
On 15 July 2024, an expanded schedule was introduced ahead of a launch on DAB+. The new line-up included a weekday morning show hosted by Arielle Free and a daily playlist programme presented by Connor Coates, broadcast from Belfast. These additions marked the first exclusive daytime shows for the stream. In its July 2024 review, Ofcom confirmed that the schedule changes to the Radio 1 Dance stream were not considered material under the BBC Charter, allowing the corporation to proceed without conducting a Public Interest Test.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-07-16 |title=Review of the BBC's materiality assessment of proposed new music streams on BBC Sounds |url=https://www.ofcom.org.uk/tv-radio-and-on-demand/bbc/review-of-the-bbcs-materiality-assessment-of-proposed-new-music-streams-on-bbc-sounds |access-date=2025-09-12 |website=www.ofcom.org.uk |language=en}}</ref>
On 2 July 2025, following a formal consultation process the plans to launch on DAB+ were approved by Ofcom.<ref>{{cite web |date=2025-07-03 |title=Three new BBC DAB+ stations given final go-ahead – but not Radio 2 spin-off or extended Radio 5 Sports Extra |url=https://www.ofcom.org.uk/tv-radio-and-on-demand/bbc/three-new-bbc-dab-stations-given-final-go-ahead--but-not-radio-2-spin-off-or-extended-radio-5-sports-extra |access-date=2025-07-04 |website=www.ofcom.org.uk}}</ref>
===Launch on DAB+=== Following Ofcom's approval, Radio 1 Dance launched without prior announcement on DAB+ in the United Kingdom on 9 September 2025, alongside Radio 1 Anthems and Radio 3 Unwind.<ref>{{Cite web |title=BBC National DAB config has just changed |url=https://forums.digitalspy.com/discussion/2459503/new-bbc-spin-off-stations-on-dab/p84#:~:text=ALERT%20%2D%20The%20BBC%20National%20DAB%20config%20has%20just%20changed.%20Main%20stations%20down%20to%20112kbps.|access-date=2025-09-10 |website=Digital Spy Forums}}</ref>
The BBC formally confirmed the launch in a press release issued on 12 September 2025, marking what it described as a "significant milestone" in its radio history. The statement noted that Radio 1 Dance, Radio 1 Anthems and Radio 3 Unwind were the first music networks to be added to the BBC's radio portfolio since the launch of 1Xtra, 6 Music and Asian Network in 2002.<ref>{{Cite web|title=BBC launches three brand-new digital music radio stations on DAB+ for the first time|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/mediacentre/2025/bbc-launches-three-brand-new-digital-music-radio-stations-on-dab|access-date=2025-09-12|website=BBC Media Centre}}</ref> To accommodate the new services, the BBC National DAB multiplex was reconfigured, resulting in reduced bitrates for several existing stations.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Highlighted changed to configuration of existing stations |url=https://forums.digitalspy.com/discussion/2459503/new-bbc-spin-off-stations-on-dab/p84#:~:text=BBC%20Radio1%20%E2%80%93%20MP2,kbps%20%E2%86%92%2016%20kbps|access-date=2025-09-12 |website=Digital Spy Forums}}</ref>
Radio 1 Dance was described by the corporation as "24/7 dance music from the world’s biggest DJs", providing a genre-led service focused on electronic music, house, techno and drum and bass. To celebrate the launch, the station began a week of special programming on 15 September 2025, featuring a mix of classic and exclusive DJ sets, including an exclusive Essential Mix from Carl Cox recorded live at [[UNVRS|[UNVRS]]] in Ibiza, a replay of the Radio 1 Ibiza Prom from 2015, and sets from Eric Prydz, Disclosure and Peggy Gou.<ref>{{Cite web |title=BBC Radio 1 Dance - DAB+ Launch Week Schedules, 15 - 21 September 2025 |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/schedules/p080kbtk/2025/w38 |access-date=2025-09-12 |website=BBC |language=en-GB}}</ref>
Alongside the press release on 12 September 2025, Radio 1 Dance launched an official [https://www.instagram.com/bbcr1dance/ Instagram account], debuting with a shared post in collaboration with BBC Radio 1. The reel featured a loading bar animation beneath the station's logo, accompanied by the caption: "15.09.25... 🚀".<ref>{{Cite web |title="15.09.25... 🚀" from @bbcr1dance on Instagram |url=https://www.instagram.com/p/DOfqN52jbyN/ |access-date=2025-09-12 |website=Instagram}}</ref> The post drew supportive comments from several BBC presenters, including Danny Howard, Sarah Story, Charlie Hedges and Connor Coates.
==Programming== At launch in October 2020, Radio 1 Dance primarily featured repeated dance music programming from the main BBC Radio 1 schedule.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Radio 1 Dance Schedules |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/schedules/p080kbtk |access-date=2020-10-12 |website=BBC |language=en-GB}}</ref> This included one-hour playlist shows originally broadcast as part of ''Radio 1 Early Breakfast'', which were then repeated across the week to form the majority of the daytime output. Regular hosts during this period included Adele Roberts, Arielle Free and Connor Coates.<ref>{{Cite web |title=BBC Radio 1 Dance - 24/7 Dance, First Radio 1 Early Breakfast show slot broadcast hosted by Adele Roberts|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m0020mv6 |access-date=2026-01-04 |website=BBC |language=en-GB}}</ref>
The schedule also drew on presenters from Radio 1's Friday Early Breakfast initiative, in which emerging radio DJs at the start of their broadcasting careers are given month-long stints on the Friday edition of the show.<ref>{{Cite web |title=BBC Radio 1 Schedule, Friday 11 February 2022, Showing Elliott Darby as Friday Early Breakfast host and the first hour of Radio 1 Dance |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/schedules/p00fzl86/2022/02/11 |access-date=2026-01-04 |website=BBC |language=en-GB}}</ref> These presenters subsequently contributed to Radio 1 Dance. During its early years, the overall schedule remained largely unchanged, aside from adjustments to Friday night simulcasts, which were revised following the departure of Annie Mac in July 2021.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/newsbeat-56814062|title='Legend' Annie Mac is leaving BBC Radio 1 after 17 years|work=BBC News|date=20 April 2021 |accessdate=20 April 2021}}</ref>
In June 2024, the corporation announced a significant schedule refresh for Radio 1 Dance, introducing new and exclusive programmes to the stream from 15 July 2024.<ref>{{Cite web|title=BBC Radio 1 unveils new summer schedule|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/mediacentre/2024/radio-1-summer-schedule-2024|access-date=20 June 2024|work=BBC Media Centre}}</ref> This also ended the repeated playlist shows from ''Radio 1 Early Breakfast''.<ref>{{Cite web |title=BBC Radio 1 Dance - 24/7 Dance, Final Radio 1 Early Breakfast show slot broadcast hosted by Connor Coates|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m0020mv6 |access-date=2026-01-04 |website=BBC |language=en-GB}}</ref> These changes were made in anticipation of the station's expansion beyond online streaming, ahead of its eventual launch on DAB+ in September 2025.
===Monday to Friday Daytime=== Arielle Free hosts ''Radio 1 Dance Morning'', which airs from 9 am to 12 pm. This is followed by ''Radio 1 Dance'' with Connor Coates, a daily playlist broadcast from Belfast. This the first show on the station to be regularly broadcast outside of London as part of the BBC's Across The UK strategy.<ref>{{Cite web |title=The BBC Across the UK Strategy |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/mediacentre/across-the-uk |access-date=2024-07-21 |website=BBC |language=en}}</ref>
From 3 pm, ''Radio 1 Dance Party Starters'' airs for an hour. This show is hosted by Jess Iszatt six days a week (Saturday to Thursday), while the Friday edition is hosted by Sam MacGregor and Danni Diston, and simulcast with the main Radio 1 network.<ref>{{Cite web |title=BBC Radio 1 Dance - Radio 1 Dance Party Starters |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m002jhlr |access-date=2025-10-30 |website=BBC |language=en-GB}}</ref> In the drivetime slot, ''Radio 1's Dance Anthems'', a flagship dance programme on the network featuring classic dance music in the mix, airs for two hours at 4 pm with Charlie Hedges.
===Monday to Wednesday Evening=== Monday to Wednesday, the evening show (6–8 pm) is a repeat of Pete Tong's Friday night Radio 1 show. This is followed by ''Radio 1's Classic Essential Mix'' from 8 pm, a replay of two-hour mixes from the Radio 1 Dance archive. A two-hour industry partnership programme airs from 10 pm with current partnerships including Defected Records, HE.SHE.THEY. and DnB Allstars. From midnight to 2 am, ''The Residency on Radio 1 Dance'' airs on Mondays, ''Martha'' on Tuesdays and ''Radio 1's Essential Mix'' on Wednesdays.
===Thursday Evening=== Danny Howard presents ''Radio 1's Dance Party Warm-Up'' from 6 pm to 8 pm, showcasing features from the Friday night show and ''Club Mix''. This is followed by ''Radio 1's Classic Essential Mix'' from 8 pm to 10 pm. At 10 pm, ''BBC Introducing on Radio 1 Dance'' with Jaguar airs, simulcast on Radio 1, showcasing emerging dance music talent. The evening concludes with ''The Residency on Radio 1 Dance'' from 11 pm to 1 am, featuring a monthly rotating lineup of resident DJs, which is simulcast on BBC Radio 1 also.
===Friday Evening=== Friday night dance shows on BBC Radio 1 are simulcast on Radio 1 Dance from 6 pm, this includes ''Radio 1's Dance Party'' with Danny Howard (6–8 pm), ''Radio 1's Future Dance'' with Sarah Story (8–10 pm), ''Pete Tong'' (10 pm-midnight), ''Radio 1's Essential Mix'' (midnight – 2 am) and ''Radio 1 Dance Presents...'' (2–3 am).
===Saturday=== On Saturdays, ''Radio 1 Dance Morning'' with Arielle Free is broadcast from 9 am to 12pm. From midday, the ''Radio 1 Dance'' playlist hosted by Connor Coates airs. This is followed by Jess Iszatt's ''Radio 1 Dance Party Starters'' at 3 pm. ''Radio 1's Dance Anthems'' with Charlie Hedges (4–7 pm) is simulcast from BBC Radio 1. This is followed by ''Pete Tong's Essential History of Dance'' (7–9 pm), ''Radio 1's Essential Mix'' (9-11 pm), ''Radio 1's Drum & Bass Show'' with Charlie Tee (11 pm – 12 am), ''Radio 1 Dance Drum & Bass Mix'' (12–1 am) and ''Radio 1's Classic Essential Mix'' (1-3 am).
===Sunday=== The station broadcasts a similar schedule of shows as Saturdays, including an exclusive three-hour edition of ''Radio 1's Dance Anthems'' with Charlie Hedges from 4 pm. ''Pete Tong's Essential History of Dance'' airs from 7 pm, while this is followed by ''BBC Introducing on Radio 1 Dance'' with Jaguar (9-11 pm). From 11 pm, Danny Howard's Club Mix is rebroadcast, followed by ''Radio 1's Essential Mix'' (midnight - 2 am).
==Flagship shows== ===Radio 1's Dance Party=== Broadcast on Thursday and Friday evenings from 6 pm, the Dance Party is a two-hour programme hosted by Danny Howard, who took over the Friday slot from long-serving DJ Annie Mac in 2021.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/mediacentre/2021/clara-amfo-host-radio-1-future-sounds|title=Danny Howard to take on Radio 1's Dance Party|work=BBC Media Centre|accessdate=7 September 2021}}</ref> The programme showcases new and popular British electronic music, with the Friday show simulcast on the main Radio 1 network as well as Radio 1 Dance. Show features include: * '''Radio 1's Hottest Record''' - The Hottest Record is a daily feature on BBC Radio 1 that showcases a brand new track chosen as the "hottest" song of the day. The feature was introduced in 2002 and has become a popular way for the station to highlight exciting new music, with Friday's record from the dance genre. * '''The Radio 1 Mini Mix''' - The Mini Mix is a five-minute mix from a different guest DJ or producer which typically features a selection of their favourite tracks and remixes mixed together in a creative and dynamic way.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p02nrtyg|title=The Radio 1 Mini Mix|work=BBC|accessdate=8 May 2023}}</ref> * ''' Battle of The Bangers''' - This feature welcomes DJs and music producers to go against the show's host, Howard, playing a selection of records each, with the audience voting for their favourite through text messaging. * '''Club Mix''' - The Club Mix is an hour mix from Howard, sometimes themed depending on the time of year. Previous themes have included the ''Summer Feels Club Mixes''<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m0019djr|title=Danny Howard's Summer Feels Club Mix|work=BBC|accessdate=8 May 2023}}</ref> and ''Feel Good Club Mixes''.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m000rt24|title=Danny Howard's Club Mix: The Feel Good Series|work=BBC|accessdate=8 May 2023}}</ref> From July 2024, it was announced that Danny Howard would host ''Radio 1's Dance Party Warm-Up'' on Thursday evenings exclusively on Radio 1 Dance.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/mediacentre/2024/radio-1-summer-schedule-2024#:~:text=Danny%20Howard%20will%20present%20Radio%201%E2%80%99s%20Dance%20Party%20Warm%20Up%2C%20a%20weekly%20show%20available%20every%20Thursday%20(6pm%20%E2%80%93%208pm)%20getting%20listeners%20ready%20for%20the%20weekend.|title=Danny Howard to host Radio 1's Dance Party Warm-Up|work=BBC Media Centre|accessdate=20 June 2024}}</ref>
===Radio 1's Dance Anthems=== Dance Anthems is mix show that plays a selection of classic, remixed and contemporary dance tracks. First introduced by Dave Pearce in October 1997, the Dance Anthems brand has been a regular part of the main Radio 1 schedule.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b006wkh1|title=Radio 1's Dance Anthems with Dave Pearce|work=BBC|accessdate=20 June 2024}}</ref> The show took a brief hiatus from October 2008 before being relaunched in May 2012 by Danny Howard and Greg James. Howard hosted the slot for five years until November 2017 when MistaJam took over the programme.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/mediacentre/latestnews/2017/mistajam-1xtra-drivetime|title=MistaJam to present BBC Radio 1's Dance Anthems|work=BBC Media Centre|accessdate=5 October 2017}}</ref>
Charlie Hedges took over hosting duties from MistaJam in September 2020.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/mediacentre/latestnews/2020/radio-1-and-1xtra-reece-parkinson-charlie-hedges|title=BBC Radio 1 announces new show for Charlie Hedges|work=BBC Media Centre|accessdate=23 September 2020}}</ref>
It was announced that from Summer 2024, the show would be hosted every weekday by Hedges on Radio 1 Dance from 3pm to 6pm.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.instagram.com/p/C8b2LoANjmz/?hl=en|title=Monday to Friday Radio 1 Dance Anthems announcement|work=Charlie Hedges on Instagram|accessdate=20 June 2024}}</ref> This is in addition to the usual on Saturday afternoon shows from 4pm to 7pm, simulcast on the main Radio 1 network.
===Pete Tong=== Pete Tong's Global Dance HQ is a long-running programme on the main Radio 1 network, first broadcast in 1991. Currently two-hours in length, the show features new and cutting-edge electronic music from around the world. A regular feature of the show is Tong's designation of one track as the ''Essential New Tune'' of the week. This is a significant accolade within the dance music community.<ref name="urbanplanet">{{cite web|author=Hannan, Rachael|url=http://www.urbanplanet.co.uk/dj_interviews/yousef.php|title=DJ Interviews: Yousef|publisher=Urban Planet|access-date=2006-12-05|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060823024933/http://www.urbanplanet.co.uk/dj_interviews/yousef.php|archive-date=23 August 2006|df=dmy-all}}</ref>
From Summer 2024, Tong began hosting a new weekly show (''Essential History of Dance'') dedicated to telling the story of the Dance genre, airing on Saturdays from 7 pm to 11 pm.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/mediacentre/2024/radio-1-summer-schedule-2024#:~:text=Pete%20Tong%20will%20curate%20his%20Essential%20History%20of%20Dance%20a%20weekly%20show%20(Saturdays%2C%207pm%20%E2%80%93%208pm)%20dedicated%20to%20telling%20the%20story%20of%20the%20Dance%20genre.|title=Pete Tong to host Essential History of Dance on Radio 1 Dance|work=BBC Media Centre|accessdate=20 June 2024}}</ref>
===Radio 1's Future Dance=== Supporting grassroots DJs and music producers, ''Future Dance with Sarah Story'' is a two-hour programme broadcast from 8 pm on a Friday night. The show was introduced in 2021 as part of the station's commitment to supporting emerging talent in the dance music scene.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.musicweek.com/media/read/aled-haydn-jones-on-why-radio-1-still-rules-for-new-music/082109|title=Aled Haydn Jones on why Radio 1 still rules for new music|work=MusicWeek|accessdate=4 December 2020}}</ref> Features include the ''Future Dance Track ID'' (selected by Story), the ''Peak Time Mix'' and the ''Future Dance Mix''.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m000zjxg|title=Future Dance Mix with Sarah Story|work=BBC|accessdate=8 May 2023}}</ref>
===The Residency on Radio 1 Dance=== Providing established and emerging DJs with access to a prime late-night slot, ''The Residency on Radio 1 Dance'' is a two-hour programme broadcast from 11 pm on Thursday nights on both Radio 1 and Radio 1 Dance.<ref>{{Cite web |title=BBC Radio 1 Dance - The Residency on Radio 1 Dance |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b01d76k4 |access-date=2026-01-04 |website=BBC |language=en-GB}}</ref> The show offers rotating month-long residencies, allowing artists to curate four consecutive weekly programmes and showcase their musical influences, new material and club-focused selections.
Originally launched in April 2012 as ''Radio 1's Residency'' for the late-night Radio 1 schedule,<ref>{{Cite web |title=BBC Radio 1 - BBC Radio 1's Residency |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b01d76k4 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120727153522/http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b01d76k4 |archive-date=2012-07-27 |access-date=2026-01-04 |website=BBC |language=en-GB}}</ref> the programme has featured residencies from a wide range of internationally recognised and rising DJs across electronic and dance music genres. Based on the ''In New DJs We Trust'' show from the early 2010s,<ref>{{Cite web |title=BBC Radio 1 - In New DJs We Trust |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b006wv6r |access-date=2026-01-04 |website=BBC |language=en-GB}}</ref> each residency typically runs for four weeks, with occasional one-off editions hosted by guest artists. The format is designed to give DJs extended creative control in a prominent broadcast slot, distinguishing it from shorter guest mixes or standalone appearances.
In September 2025, following Ofcom’s approval of Radio 1 Dance as a full-time DAB+ service, the programme was rebranded as ''The Residency on Radio 1 Dance'', reflecting its central role within the station's specialist output.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Oppidan, KETTAMA, SG Lewis and Taylah Elaine to join BBC Radio 1's Residency |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/mediacentre/2025/oppidan-kettama-sg-lewis-taylah-elaine-radio-1s-residency/#:~:text=Later%20this%20year%2C%20Radio%201%E2%80%99s%20Residency%20will%20be%20rebranded%20to%20%E2%80%98The%20Residency%20on%20Radio%201%20Dance%E2%80%99%20following%20OFCOM%E2%80%99s%20approval%20of%20the%20new%20BBC%20DAB%2B%20station%20%E2%80%98Radio%201%20Dance%E2%80%99. |access-date=2026-01-04 |website=BBC Media Centre |language=en}}</ref>
The programme has featured residencies from artists including Amelie Lens, Andy C, The Blessed Madonna, Carl Cox, Charlotte de Witte, Disclosure, Eats Everything, Ewan McVicar, Gorgon City, Hannah Laing, Helena Hauff, Josh Baker, KETTAMA, Nia Archives, Peggy Gou, SG Lewis, Sonny Fodera, and Vintage Culture; with additional one-off shows hosted by ANOTR, John Summit, Major League DJz and Prospa.
===Radio 1's Essential Mix=== The Essential Mix is a weekly radio mix which features an uninterrupted two-hour mix from different contemporary DJs and music producers. The show has been presented since its inception in 1993 by Pete Tong, and is one of Radio 1's longest running programmes in the current schedule.<ref name="ddr">{{cite web|last1=Vidovic|first1=Kono|title=The 15 Best Radio 1 Essential Mixes Ever Broadcasted.|url=https://www.dirtydiscoradio.com/the-15-best-radio-1-essential-mixes-list-ever-broadcasted/|website=Dirty Disco Radio|access-date=9 February 2023|date=4 December 2022}}</ref>
==Events and specials== ===Radio 1's Big Weekend=== Since 2019, Radio 1 Dance has had a presence at Radio 1's flagship music festival, Radio 1's Big Weekend, hosting the line-up for the Friday night in Middlesbrough.<ref>{{Cite web|title=BBC Radio 1's Big Weekend adds Friday night event|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/mediacentre/latestnews/big-weekend-friday|access-date=2019-04-18|website=BBC Media Centre}}</ref> Following the launch of the BBC Sounds stream, the brand has played a bigger part in ''Big Weekend'' events.
At the 2022 festival in Coventry, Radio 1 Dance hosted a stage across the full weekend<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/events/ebrp8g/performances#s4gbc8|title=Radio 1 Dance Stage at Big Weekend 2022|work=BBC|accessdate=27 May 2022}}</ref> and curated the Friday night line-up.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/mediacentre/2022/harry-styles-radio-1-big-weekend|title=Radio 1's Big Weekend 2022 Full Line-Up|work=BBC Media Centre|accessdate=25 April 2022}}</ref> The same format was repeated at the Dundee event in 2023, with a headline set from Jamie xx on the Friday night.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/events/ed8wxj/performances/2023/05/26#all|title=Radio 1's Big Weekend 2023 Friday Line-Up|work=BBC|accessdate=25 April 2023}}</ref>
===Radio 1 Dance Weekend=== Radio 1 has annually held a dance music weekend broadcast live from Ibiza since the 1995, formally called ''Radio 1 in Ibiza''. The event is usually the first weekend in August and has performances from world-famous DJs and Radio 1 Dance talent such as Pete Tong, Danny Howard, Annie Mac and Sarah Story.
====2020==== In 2020, the event was renamed ''Radio 1 Dance Weekend'' and hosted entirely virtually due to the COVID-19 pandemic.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Becky Hill, Jax Jones, Disclosure, RAYE, Carl Cox and more announced for BBC Radio 1's Dance Weekend 2020, joining the station's mammoth 70-hour celebration of dance music |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/mediacentre/latestnews/2020/r1-dance-weekend|access-date=2020-07-17|website=BBC Media Centre}}</ref> Main proceedings were hosted by Annie Mac, Danny Howard, Pete Tong and MistaJam.
Sets were pre-recorded mixes from artists and DJs at home and included Disclosure, The Blessed Madonna, Duck Sauce, Franky Wah, Danny Howard, Black Coffee, Jayda G, Four Tet, Pete Tong B2B Bonobo, Carl Cox, Becky Hill, RAYE, Duke Dumont, Gorgon City B2B Sonny Fodera, Jax Jones, MistaJam and MK. The event aimed to turn BBC Sounds into "the world's biggest nightclub" to celebrate 25 years since Radio 1's first broadcast in Ibiza.<ref>{{Cite web|title=BBC Radio 1 creates world's biggest nightclub on BBC Sounds to celebrate 25 years in Ibiza |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/mediacentre/latestnews/2020/radio-1-ibiza|access-date=2020-05-29|website=BBC Media Centre}}</ref>
====2021==== The event in 2021 was the first to be broadcast on both Radio 1 and Radio 1 Dance. In similar format to 2020's event, sets were pre-recorded and broadcast across the weekend, with over 70-hours of dance music content.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Swedish House Mafia, MK, Paul Woolford, Carl Cox and more will join Radio 1's Dance Weekend 2021 for 70 hours of music all day and all night |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/mediacentre/2021/swedish-house-mafia-mk-paul-woolford-carl-cox-radio-1-dance-weekend|access-date=2021-07-28|website=BBC Media Centre}}</ref> Programmes were hosted by Danny Howard, Pete Tong, Sarah Story and Charlie Hedges.
The theme of Friday 6 August 2021 was "Around The World with Radio 1", and featured sets from Swedish House Mafia (Sweden), MK (USA), Ewan McVicar (Scotland), Shermanology (Holland), Krystal Klear (Ireland), Hannah Wants (UK), Vintage Culture (Brazil), THEMBA (South Africa), Nina Kraviz (Russia) and Andrea Oliva (Ibiza).<ref>{{Cite web|title=Radio 1 Dance Schedule for Friday 6 August 2021|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/schedules/p00fzl86/2021/08/06#evening|access-date=2021-08-06|website=BBC}}</ref>
Special editions of ''Radio 1's Essential Mix'' were recorded at two events, some of the first following the lifting of lockdown restrictions, in the UK. The first, recorded on 24 July 2021 at Circus presents Elrow in Liverpool,<ref>{{Cite web|title= Circus presents Elrow Liverpool 2021 featuring Jamie Jones, Paul Woolford, Richy Ahmed, Yousef, Tini Gessler & AmyElle|url=https://ra.co/events/1383317|access-date=2021-07-24|website=Resident Advisor}}</ref> aired on Saturday 6 August with DJ sets from Yousef and Paul Woolford, and the second recorded a few hours earlier in Newcastle at Shindig<ref>{{Cite web|title=Shindig Pres. Carl Cox, Adam Beyer, Anfisa Letyago, Anna Tur - Facebook Events|url=https://www.facebook.com/events/1132506930604204|access-date=2024-07-21|website=Facebook Events}}</ref> showcasing a set from Carl Cox aired in the early hours of Sunday 7 August.
====2022==== Radio 1 Dance Weekend returned in 2022, with a mix of both recorded sets at live events in Ibiza and exclusive radio mixes.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Diplo, TSHA, Swedish House Mafia and more announced for Radio 1's Dance Weekend 2022, joining the station's mammoth 70-hour celebration of dance music |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/mediacentre/2022/radio-1-dance-weekend|access-date=2022-07-29|website=BBC Media Centre}}</ref> Hosted by Radio 1 DJ's throughout the Friday, Saturday and Sunday, main Dance programmes were hosted by Danny Howard, Pete Tong, Sarah Story, Jaguar and Arielle Free.
Pete Tong hosted the Friday night proceedings from a studio at Café Mambo, while Danny Howard, Sarah Story and Jaguar hosted from Broadcasting House in London. Recorded sets were broadcast from Diplo, LF System, Skream (UKG Set), TSHA, Meg Ward, Gorgon City B2B Sonny Fodera (Ibiza Classic Mix), Jeremiah Asiamah (Afrohouse Mix), Rene LaVice B2B Charlie Tee and Sarah Story B2B Jaguar.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Radio 1 Dance Schedule for Friday 5 August 2022|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/schedules/p00fzl86/2022/08/05#evening|access-date=2022-08-05|website=BBC}}</ref>
For the first time, the BBC licensed a new ''Radio 1 Dance LIVE'' brand to the Defected event at Eden on Friday 5 August,<ref>{{Cite web |title=Defected Presents Radio 1 Dance LIVE at Eden Ibiza |url=https://grayarea.co/events/defected-presents-radio-1-dance-aug-5-2022 |access-date=2024-07-21 |website=Gray Area |language=en}}</ref> and ANTS at Ushuaïa on Saturday 6 August.<ref>{{Cite web |title=ANTS {{!}} Radio 1 Dance LIVE at Ushuaïa Ibiza |url=https://grayarea.co/events/ants-or-bbc-radio-1-aug-6-2022 |access-date=2024-07-21 |website=Gray Area |language=en}}</ref> These sets were recorded and broadcast on Radio 1 and Radio 1 Dance over the following weeks.
Radio 1 Dance also partnered with Ushuaïa, Hï and Amnesia clubs in Ibiza to showcase specially recorded Essential Mixes from Swedish House Mafia, Vintage Culture and Marco Faraone B2B Eats Everything.
====2023==== Danny Howard announced the line-up for ''Radio 1 Dance Weekend 2023'' in January 2023. This was the first event to return to a format of full sets broadcast live at a night club in Ibiza, last used in 2019 for ''Radio 1 in Ibiza''.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Eats Everything, FISHER, Hannah Wants and more announced for Radio 1 Dance Weekend Ibiza 2023|url=https://www.bbc.com/mediacentre/2023/radio-1-dance-weekend-ibiza-2023|access-date=2023-01-20|website=BBC Media Centre}}</ref>
The main event on took place on Friday 28 July 2023 at new venue 528 Ibiza, with two stages - Radio 1 Dance stage and Radio 1 Dance Anthems stage.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Chase & Status, Jamie Jones, Katy B, MK and more join the Radio 1 Dance Weekend Ibiza 2023 line-up|url=https://www.bbc.com/mediacentre/2023/radio-1-dance-weekend-ibiza-2023-line-up|access-date=2023-06-01|website=BBC Media Centre}}</ref> Hosted by Danny Howard, Sarah Story and Pete Tong, sets included Becky Hill, Camden Cox, Chase & Status, Eats Everything, FISHER, Hannah Wants, HoneyLuv B2B Danny Howard, Jamie Jones, Jax Jones, Katy B, LP Giobbi, The Martinez Brothers, MK, Patrick Topping, Sam Divine and Sonny Fodera B2B Arielle Free. Sets were broadcast across Friday evening (those on the Radio 1 Dance stage)<ref>{{Cite web|title=Radio 1 Dance Schedule for Friday 29 July 2023|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/schedules/p00fzl86/2023/07/29#evening|access-date=2023-07-29|website=BBC}}</ref> and Saturday evening (those on the Radio 1 Dance Anthems stage).<ref>{{Cite web|title=Radio 1 Dance Schedule for Saturday 30 July 2023|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/schedules/p00fzl86/2023/07/30#afternoon|access-date=2023-07-30|website=BBC}}</ref>
Similar to 2022, the BBC licensed the ''Radio 1 Dance X'' (formerly ''Radio 1 Dance LIVE'') brand to other already established events across Ibiza. This included ANTS Ibiza on Saturday 29 July at Ushuaïa featuring sets from Andrea Oliva B2B Patrick Topping, Arielle Free, LF System, Pete Tong, Dunmore Brothers and Solardo.<ref>{{Cite web|title=BBC Radio 1 Dance X ANTS - Sat 29 Jul 2023 - Event|url=https://grayarea.co/events/ants-bbc-radio-1-dance-live-jul-29-2023/recommendation|website=Gray Area|date=22 July 2023 }}</ref> On Sunday 30 July, the brand was licensed to LoveJuice Playground pool party at Ibiza Rocks with sets from Alex Mills, Charlie Hedges and D.O.D.,<ref>{{Cite web|title=Radio 1 Dance Anthems X LoveJuice Playground|url=https://www.ibizarocks.com/stories/radio-1-ibiza-rocks-2023/|website=Ibiza Rocks|date=17 July 2023 }}</ref> and Glitterbox at Hï, which included Roger Sanchez and The Shapeshifters on the bill.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Radio 1 Dance X Teams Up with Glitterbox for 2023|url=https://www.hiibiza.com/news/bbc-radio1-dance-team-up-with-glitterbox-and-hi-ibiza/|website=Hï Ibiza}}</ref> Again, these sets were recorded and streamed over the following weeks as part of ''Radio 1 Dance Presents...''.
====2024==== In January 2024, it was announced by Danny Howard and Greg James on Radio 1 Breakfast that ''Radio 1 Dance Weekend'' would take place over two weekends, one in Ibiza from 2 to 5 August<ref>{{Cite web |title=Radio 1 Breakfast with Greg James, The final Jan Slam tickets to Ibiza! |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m001vhq1 |access-date=2024-07-21 |website=BBC |language=en-GB}}</ref> and a new event in Malta from 15 to 23 August,<ref>{{Cite web |title=Radio 1 Breakfast with Greg James, Win tickets to Radio 1 Dance in Malta! |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m001vhp5 |access-date=2024-07-21 |website=BBC |language=en-GB}}</ref> with tickets available to win through the main Radio 1 network's ''Jan Slam'' competition.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Radio 1's Jan Slam 2024 - Amazing prizes up for grabs! |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/articles/51ZxlRGm09Qw2TFcSj04TV4/jan-slam-2024-amazing-prizes-up-for-grabs |access-date=2024-07-21 |website=BBC |language=en-GB}}</ref>
The event in Ibiza took place again at 528 Ibiza on Friday 2 August 2024 across two stages - Radio 1 main stage and Radio 1 Dance stage - featuring artists Armand Van Helden, Ben Hemsley, CamelPhat, Dom Dolla, D.O.D., Hannah Laing, Gorgon City, Jazzy & Belters Only, Kelli-Leigh and LF System.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Radio 1 Dance: Ibiza 2024 - Line up, ticket info + more|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/articles/5zywNW9081mZD3HtWnDdmlt/radio-1-dance-ibiza-2024-line-up-ticket-info-more|access-date=2024-07-21|website=BBC}}</ref> Following the expanded schedule on Radio 1 Dance launched in July 2024, the stream broadcast live sets from the Radio 1 Dance stage,<ref>{{Cite web|title=Radio 1 Dance Schedule for Friday 2 August 2024|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/schedules/p080kbtk/2024/08/02#evening|website=BBC}}</ref> while BBC Radio 1 broadcast live sets from the Radio 1 main stage.<ref>{{Cite web|title=BBC Radio 1 Schedule for Friday 2 August 2024|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/schedules/p00fzl86/2024/08/02#evening|website=BBC}}</ref> Arielle Free and Danny Howard hosted on the main Radio 1 network,<ref>{{Cite web |title=BBC Radio 1 - Radio 1 Dance Weekend, Radio 1 Dance Ibiza: 2024, The warm-up with Danny and Arielle |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m00218l7 |access-date=2024-08-07 |website=BBC |language=en-GB}}</ref> while Martha hosted on Radio 1 Dance.<ref>{{Cite web |title=BBC Radio 1 - Radio 1 Dance Weekend, Radio 1 Dance Ibiza: 2024, Radio 1 Dance Stage warm-up |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m0021fck |access-date=2024-08-07 |website=BBC |language=en-GB}}</ref>
Radio 1 Dance licensed their ''Radio 1 Dance X'' brand to other events across the island. This included the Radio 1 Dance X After Party at Eden on Friday 2 August,<ref>{{Cite web |title=BBC Radio 1 Dance X After Party from Eden on Instagram|url=https://www.instagram.com/p/C6ZK5JTMJa_/ |access-date=2024-07-21 |website=Eden Ibiza on Instagram}}</ref> ANTS Ibiza on Saturday 3 August at Ushuaïa,<ref>{{Cite web |title=Radio 1 Dance X ANTS 2024 from Ushuaïa on X|url=https://x.com/ushuaiaibiza/status/1799039952229126649 |access-date=2024-07-21 |website=Ushuaïa on X}}</ref> and Glitterbox at Hï on Sunday 4 August.<ref>{{Cite web|title=BBC's Radio 1 Dance Brings Headliners to Ushuaïa and Hï Ibiza|url=https://www.edmtunes.com/2024/06/bbcs-radio-1-dance-brings-headliners-to-ushuaia-and-hi-ibiza/|access-date=2024-07-21|website=EDMTunes|date=7 June 2024 }}</ref>
On 17 August 2024, Radio 1 Dance hosted their first official event at UNO Malta. Presented by Charlie Hedges, Jeremiah Asiamah and Danny Howard the line-up featured Camden Cox, Charlie Hedges, Jax Jones, Jeremiah Asiamah, Jodie Harsh, Solardo, Sonny Fodera and Zerb.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Radio 1 Dance: Malta 2024 - Line up, ticket info + more |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/articles/1cCpfS3bD6v32vpFWP00BD3/radio-1-dance-malta-2024-line-up-ticket-info-more |access-date=2024-07-21 |website=BBC |language=en-GB}}</ref>
Additionally, the BBC licensed the ''Radio 1 Dance X'' brand to the main event for SummerDaze Festival on 15 August with Sam Smith, Charlie Hedges and Becky Hill,<ref>{{Cite web |title=Official SummerDaze 2024 Line-Up on Facebook Events |url=https://www.facebook.com/share/xoyhvzFDBHiwqruZ/ |access-date=2024-07-21 |website=Facebook |language=en}}</ref> and ''Radio 1 Dance X'' at Café del Mar Malta with Danny Howard and Kungs on 18 August.<ref>{{Cite web |title=BBC Radio 1 Dance x presents KUNGS supported by Danny Howard at the picture perfect Cafe Del Mar on the 18th of August! |url=https://www.instagram.com/p/C7CDj-OoN-y/ |access-date=2024-07-21 |website=SummerDaze & Café Del Mar on Instagram}}</ref>
====2025==== As part of the main Radio 1 network's ''Jan Slam'' new year competition, Greg James and Danny Howard announced in January 2025 that Radio 1 Dance would return to Ibiza<ref>{{Cite web |title=BBC Radio 1 - Radio 1 Breakfast with Greg James, Win tickets to see Olivia Rodrigo at in Hyde Park, and Danny Howard joins for a special announcement! |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m00270m8 |access-date=2025-01-24 |website=BBC |language=en-GB}}</ref> and Malta<ref>{{Cite web |title=BBC Radio 1 - Radio 1 Breakfast with Matt and Jerry, Win tickets to Radio 1 Dance in Malta! |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m00273y4 |access-date=2025-01-24 |website=BBC |language=en-GB}}</ref> for a second year. Line-ups and further details were confirmed in April 2025.
The station returned to 528 Ibiza on Friday 1 August 2025 for its third consecutive year at the venue.<ref>{{Cite web |title=BBC Radio 1 - Radio 1 Dance Weekend - Radio 1 Dance Weekend in Ibiza - 2025 - Event info |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/articles/46yt35C2Y9Nzff4y3HY5H2r/radio-1-dance-ibiza-2025-event-information |access-date=2025-01-24 |website=BBC |language=en-GB}}</ref> The event featured two stages – the Radio 1 Main Stage and the Radio 1 Dance Stage. Unlike the previous year's event, both Radio 1 and Radio 1 Dance simulcast the same sets, broadcasting the Main Stage live on Friday night and the Dance Stage (recorded on Friday) on Saturday night. This change, confirmed following editorial reshuffles in the BBC Music team after the Glastonbury broadcast controversy, marked a shift from 2024 where Radio 1 and Radio 1 Dance aired separate streams.<ref>{{Cite web |title=BBC music head steps back from duties after Bob Vylan broadcast – report |url=https://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/home-news/bbc-bob-vylan-idf-lorna-clarke-b2782625.html |access-date=2025-07-21 |website=The Independent}}</ref> The station was also required to broadcast the Friday night live show with a 15-minute time delay.
The 2025 line-up included Alok, Biscits, Chloé Caillet, Chris Lake, Coco & Breezy, Disciples, Emily Nash, Jess Bays, Miss Monique, Olive F, Sonny Fodera, TSHA, Zerb and a special guest B2B set with Locky. Winners of BBC Introducing’s talent search, Declan Knapp and Baobei (宝贝), also performed.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Emerging DJs Declan Knapp and Baobei (宝贝) win the chance to perform at Radio 1 Dance Weekend Ibiza 2025 |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/mediacentre/2025/djs-declan-knapp-baobei-radio-1-dance-weekend-ibiza |access-date=2025-07-21 |website=BBC Media Centre |language=en-GB}}</ref> The broadcast was hosted by members of the Radio 1 Dance family, with performances made available on BBC Sounds and iPlayer.
Additional commercially branded ''Radio 1 Dance X'' partner events ran across the weekend: * '''Friday 1 August:''' Following the main event at 528 Ibiza, the ''Radio 1 Dance X Afterparty'' took place at Amnesia Ibiza with sets from Josh Baker B2B Kettama, Caal, Chloé Caillet, Danny Howard and Sarah Story.<ref>{{Cite web |title=BBC Radio 1 Dance X After Party - Amnesia - 2025 |url=https://www.ibiza-spotlight.com/night/promoters/bbc-radio-1-amnesia |access-date=2025-04-16 |website=Ibiza Spotlight |language=en-GB}}</ref> * '''Saturday 2 August:''' ''Radio 1 Dance X'' collaborated with ANTS at Ushuaïa Ibiza for a daytime party, featuring Djammin, Franky Rizardo B2B Cloonee, Jaguar, John Summit, Max Styler and Pete Tong.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Just Announced: BBC Radio 1 Dance X ANTS METALWORKS |url=https://www.theushuaiaexperience.com/en/club/news/just-announced-bbc-radio-1-dance-x-ants-metalworks |website=Ushuaïa Ibiza |access-date=2025-04-16 |language=en-GB}}</ref> * '''Saturday 2 August:''' Following ANTS at Ushuaïa, [[UNVRS|[UNVRS] Ibiza's]] ''Elrow'' event hosted a ''Radio 1 Dance X'' special, with Radio 1 Dance's Arielle Free, George Privati, Hugel and Matroda.<ref>{{Cite web |title=BBC Radio 1 and The Night League are joining forces once again to present Radio 1 Dance Weekend: Ibiza 2025. |url=https://discoveribiza.com/bbc-radio-1-and-the-night-league-are-joining-forces-once-again-to-present-radio-1-dance-weekend-ibiza-2025/#:~:text=SATURDAY%202ND%20AUG%20(NIGHT)%20%E2%80%93%20ELROW%20AT%20%5BUNVRS%5D%20I%20FULL%20LINE%20UP%20TBA |website=Discover Ibiza |access-date=2025-04-16 |language=en-GB}}</ref> * '''Sunday 3 August:''' Glitterbox hosted a ''Radio 1 Dance X'' takeover at Hï Ibiza, featuring sets from Dan Shake B2B Myd, DJ Minx, Sophie Lloyd, Eli Escobar, Floorplan, Rich Medina, Joshua Lang and Mike Dunn.<ref>{{Cite web |title=BBC Radio 1 Dance X Glitterbox This August at Hï Ibiza |url=https://www.hiibiza.com/news/bbc-radio-1-dance-x-glitterbox-this-august|website=Hï Ibiza |access-date=2025-04-16 |language=en-GB}}</ref> * '''Monday 4 August:''' Following the ''Radio 1 Dance X'' pool party residency in 2024, Ibiza Rocks hosted a one-off ''Radio 1 Dance X'' day rave with DJ sets from Fish56Octagon, lau.ra, Connor Coates, Patrick Nazemi and Ibiza Rocks resident DJs.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Radio 1 Dance to throw day rave at Ibiza Rocks |url=https://www.ibizarocks.com/stories/radio-1-dance-x/ |website=Ibiza Rocks |date=2025-04-11 |access-date=2025-04-16 |language=en-GB}}</ref>
On Saturday 16 August 2025, Radio 1 Dance returned to UNO Malta for a large-scale showcase of global DJs. The line-up included David Guetta, Becky Hill, MK, Anabel Englund, Belters Only, Charlie Hedges, Jeremiah Asiamah and Sam Divine.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Radio 1 Dance: Malta 2025 - Event info |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/articles/27TNCNTb0gFCXZL4h2mC1tn/radio-1-dance-malta-2025-event-info |website=BBC |date=2025-04-12 |access-date=2025-04-16}}</ref> The event ran from 19:00 to 04:00 local time and was broadcast live on BBC Radio 1. As with the Ibiza broadcast, the station aired the sets with a 15-minute time delay.
Ahead of the main Malta event, ''Radio 1 Dance X'' partnered with Café del Mar Malta on Tuesday 12 August 2025 in St. Paul's Bay, with performances from Oliver Heldens and Arielle Free.
===Radio 1 Dance X Pool Party at Ibiza Rocks=== In 2024, Ibiza Rocks Hotel in Sant Antoni de Portmany licensed the ''Radio 1 Dance X'' brand from the BBC, hosting weekly pool parties every Monday at the venue from 3 June 2024 to 26 August 2024.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Shock waves as Radio 1 Dance X goes weekly at Ibiza Rocks |url=https://www.ibiza-spotlight.com/magazine/2024/03/shockwaves-bbc-radio-1-dance-x-goes-weekly-ibiza-rocks |access-date=2024-07-21 |website=Ibiza Spotlight |language=en}}</ref>
The line-up for 2024 included Alex Mills, Billy Gillies, Charlie Hedges, Connor Coates, D.O.D., Goodboys, Hannah Boleyn, House Gospel Choir, Jax Jones, Jazzy, Kelli-Leigh, LF System, Luude and Venbee.
===Europe's Biggest Dance Show=== ''Europe's Biggest Dance Show'' is a series of radio specials produced by BBC Radio 1. First broadcast in October 2019, Radio 1 joined with several European radio stations, all members of the European Broadcasting Union.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/mediacentre/latestnews/2019/biggest-dance-show|title=BBC Radio 1 to host biggest dance show ever|work=BBC Media Centre|access-date=12 October 2019}}</ref>
Since 2021, Danny Howard has hosted the UK segment from London, with a warm-up show airing ahead of the main broadcast each year. The programme continues to be mixed centrally by the BBC and simulcast across all participating stations.
====2019==== The inaugural broadcast included hour-long shows from BBC Radio 1 (United Kingdom), NPO 3FM (Netherlands), Mouv' (France), RTÉ 2FM (Ireland), Studio Brussel (Belgium), 1LIVE and {{ill|Fritz (radio station)|lt=Fritz|de|Fritz (Hörfunksender)}} (Germany), and Sveriges Radio P3 (Sweden). Annie Mac hosted the first hour for Radio 1 before passing onto her counterparts across Europe.<ref>{{Cite web |title=BBC Radio 1 - Europe's Biggest Dance Show 2019, Annie Mac showcases the best in UK dance |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m00094z0 |date=2019-10-11 |access-date=2025-04-16 |website=BBC |language=en-GB}}</ref>
====2020==== In 2020, two editions of the show were produced. A spring edition aired in May following the announcement of COVID-19 lockdown restrictions across the continent, along with a second broadcast in October. The October 2020 show marked the first time the programme was simulcast on Radio 1 Dance, and introduced new participating countries, including NRK mP3 (Norway) and YleX (Finland).<ref>{{Cite web|title=Europe's Biggest Dance Show returns at Radio 1 for 2020|url=https://radiotoday.co.uk/2020/10/europes-biggest-dance-show-returns-at-radio-1/|access-date=16 October 2020|work=RadioToday|date=16 October 2020}}</ref> Annie Mac continued to host the UK element for Radio 1 and Radio 1 Dance.<ref>{{Cite web |title=BBC Radio 1 - Europe's Biggest Dance Show October 2020, Annie Mac from London! |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m000nn7g |date=2020-10-23 |access-date=2025-04-16 |website=BBC |language=en-GB}}</ref>
====2021==== From 2021, Danny Howard became the UK host following the departure of Annie Mac from Radio 1.<ref>{{Cite web |title=BBC Radio 1 - Europe's Biggest Dance Show 2021, Danny Howard in London |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m0010yj6 |date=2021-10-29 |access-date=2025-04-16 |website=BBC |language=en-GB}}</ref> That year, Radio FM4 (Austria) joined the line-up for the first time, while Mouv' (France) and NPO 3FM (Netherlands) did not feature. The programme continued to include contributions from RTÉ 2FM (Ireland), Studio Brussel (Belgium), 1LIVE and {{ill|Fritz (radio station)|lt=Fritz|de|Fritz (Hörfunksender)}} (Germany), Sveriges Radio P3 (Sweden), NRK mP3 (Norway), and YleX (Finland).The simulcast started at 18:30 BST on 29 October 2021, but unlike in previous years, where each radio station contributed an hour, the participants contributed 30 minutes of dance music from their respective country.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/mediacentre/2021/europes-biggest-dance-show|title=Radio 1 Dance to host return of Europe's Biggest Dance Show|publisher=BBC Media Centre|access-date=8 October 2021}}</ref>
====2022==== The 2022 edition introduced Radio Promin (Ukraine) to the show for the first time.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/mediacentre/2022/europes-biggest-dance-show|title=Ukraine joins Europe's Biggest Dance Show for the first time as it returns to Radio 1 Dance|access-date=5 October 2022|work=BBC Media Centre}}</ref> NPO 3FM (Netherlands) also returned, with Danny Howard hosting the first 60 minutes from 18:00 BST on Radio 1 and Radio 1 Dance,<ref>{{Cite web |title=BBC Radio 1 - Europe's Biggest Dance Show 2022, BBC Radio 1 in the UK |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m001d7cl |access-date=2025-04-16 |website=BBC |language=en-GB}}</ref> followed by contributors from RTÉ 2FM (Ireland), Studio Brussel (Belgium), 1LIVE and {{ill|Fritz (radio station)|lt=Fritz|de|Fritz (Hörfunksender)}} (Germany), Sveriges Radio P3 (Sweden), NRK mP3 (Norway), YleX (Finland), and Radio FM4 (Austria).
====2023==== In 2023, ERR Raadio 2 (Estonia) and iCat (Spain) joined the line-up for the first time.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/mediacentre/2023/europes-biggest-dance-show-returns |title=Europe’s Biggest Dance Show returns to BBC Radio 1 and Radio 1 Dance for 2023 |date=2023-09-14 |access-date=2025-04-16 |work=BBC Media Centre}}</ref> RTÉ 2FM (Ireland) did not participate in this edition. Returning contributors included Radio Promin (Ukraine), Radio FM4 (Austria), Studio Brussel (Belgium), 1LIVE and {{ill|Fritz (radio station)|lt=Fritz|de|Fritz (Hörfunksender)}} (Germany), Sveriges Radio P3 (Sweden), NRK mP3 (Norway), YleX (Finland), and Danny Howard on Radio 1 Dance (United Kingdom).<ref>{{Cite web |title=BBC Radio 1 - Europe's Biggest Dance Show 2023, Warm-up with Danny Howard |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m001qyqg |access-date=2025-04-16 |website=BBC |language=en-GB}}</ref>
====2024==== Europe's Biggest Dance Show 2024 included contributions from Radio Promin (Ukraine), RTÉ Pulse (Ireland), Radio FM4 (Austria), Studio Brussel (Belgium), NRK mP3 (Norway), ERR Raadio 2 (Estonia), 1LIVE and {{ill|Fritz (radio station)|lt=Fritz|de|Fritz (Hörfunksender)}} (Germany), YleX (Finland), Sveriges Radio P3 (Sweden), and Radio 1 Dance<ref>{{Cite web |title=BBC Radio 1 - Europe's Biggest Dance Show 2024, Warm-up with Danny Howard |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m0022s2s |access-date=2025-04-16 |website=BBC |language=en-GB}}</ref> hosted by Danny Howard.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/mediacentre/2024/bbc-radio-1-europes-biggest-dance-show-2024 |title=Europe’s Biggest Dance Show returns to Radio 1 Dance in 2024 |date=2024-09-05 |access-date=2025-04-16 |work=BBC Media Centre}}</ref> Due to scheduling conflicts with Culture Night, the Irish simulcast was broadcast via RTÉ Pulse, although it retained on-air branding from RTÉ 2FM.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.rte.ie/radio/2fm/news/1469020-2fm-at-culture-night-2024/ |title=2FM at Culture Night 2024 |date=2024-09-09 |access-date=2025-04-16 |work=RTÉ}}</ref>
===Radio 1 Dance at The Warehouse Project=== Radio 1 Dance has curated line-ups at ''The Warehouse Project'' in Manchester, following its reopening after COVID-19 lockdown restrictions. These have included an event in November 2021 headlined by CamelPhat,<ref>{{cite web|title=WHP21 /// RADIO 1 DANCE|url=https://x.com/WHP_Mcr/status/1464222173384613931?s=20|work=The Warehouse Project on X|accessdate=26 November 2021}}</ref> and in October 2022 that was headlined by Fisher.<ref>{{cite web|title=Radio 1 Dance at The Warehouse Project 2022|url=https://www.thewarehouseproject.com/event/bbc-radio-1-dance|work=The Warehouse Project|accessdate=12 October 2022}}</ref>
===Printworks Closing Weekend=== Radio 1 Dance hosted an event at Printworks in London for their closing weekend, before the venue shuttered in May 2023.<ref>{{cite web|title= Printworks Closing Weekend [Radio 1 Dance]|url=https://printworkslondon.co.uk/event/closing-weekend-friday/|work=Printworks London|accessdate=3 December 2023}}</ref> The event was headlined Black Coffee - his debut at the club - and Maya Jane Coles, with support from Radio 1 Dance DJs Danny Howard, Arielle Free and Sarah Story. The closing weekend shows quickly sold out, marking a significant moment in the venue's history.<ref>{{cite web|title=Printworks Closing Weekend Sold Out|url=https://x.com/Printworks_LDN/status/1643931386783449089?s=20|work=Printworks London on X|accessdate=6 April 2023}}</ref>
===Radio 1 Dance x DRUMSHEDS=== To celebrate 30 years of Radio 1's Essential Mix, Danny Howard announced in December 2023 on his Friday night ''Dance Party'' that Radio 1 Dance are collaborating with new London venue, DRUMSHEDS for an event on Good Friday 2024.<ref>{{cite web|title=Radio 1 Dance x DRUMSHEDS Event Announcement|url=https://www.instagram.com/p/C0UjLCstKWE/|work=BBC Radio 1 on Instagram|accessdate=1 December 2023}}</ref> The BBC also made thirty Essential Mixes from the last 30 years available on BBC Sounds, as picked by a select panel and the Radio 1 Dance family.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p0gqmfzd|title=The Essential Mix 30|work=BBC|accessdate=28 November 2023}}</ref>
==Current presenters== * Arielle Free (''Radio 1 Dance Morning'', 9 am – 12 pm)<ref>{{Cite web |title=Radio 1 Dance Morning |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m0021277 |access-date=2026-04-12 |website=BBC |language=en-GB}}</ref> * Connor Coates (''Radio 1 Dance'' playlist, 12–3 pm)<ref>{{Cite web |title=Radio 1 Dance |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m0009y7t |access-date=2026-04-12 |website=BBC |language=en-GB}}</ref> * Jess Iszatt (''Radio 1 Dance Party Starters'', 3–4 pm)<ref>{{Cite web |title=Radio 1 Dance Party Starters |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m002jhlr |access-date=2026-04-12 |website=BBC |language=en-GB}}</ref> * Charlie Hedges (''Radio 1 Dance Anthems'', Monday to Friday 4–6 pm; Saturday and Sunday 4–7 pm)<ref>{{Cite web |title=Radio 1's Dance Anthems |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b01dmw9x |access-date=2026-04-12 |website=BBC |language=en-GB}}</ref> * Pete Tong (''Global Dance HQ'', Monday to Wednesday 6–8 pm; Fridays 10 pm – midnight;<ref>{{Cite web |title=Pete Tong |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b006ww0v |access-date=2026-04-12 |website=BBC |language=en-GB}}</ref> and ''Essential History of Dance'', Saturday and Sunday 7–9 pm)<ref>{{Cite web |title=Pete Tong's Essential History of Dance |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m0022y6c |access-date=2026-04-12 |website=BBC |language=en-GB}}</ref> * Danny Howard (''Radio 1's Dance Party'', Thursday and Friday 6–8 pm)<ref>{{Cite web |title=Radio 1's Dance Party Warm-Up with Danny Howard |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m0021bbv |access-date=2026-04-12 |website=BBC |language=en-GB}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Radio 1's Dance Party with Danny Howard |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b09c19f4 |access-date=2026-04-12 |website=BBC |language=en-GB}}</ref> * Sarah Story (''Radio 1's Future Dance'', Friday 8–10 pm)<ref>{{Cite web |title=Radio 1's Future Dance with Sarah Story |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m000zc82 |access-date=2026-04-12 |website=BBC |language=en-GB}}</ref> * Jaguar (''BBC Introducing on Radio 1 Dance'', Thursday 10–11 pm; Sunday 9–11 pm)<ref>{{Cite web |title=BBC Introducing on Radio 1 Dance |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m000h0zx |access-date=2026-04-12 |website=BBC |language=en-GB}}</ref> * Martha (Tuesday midnight – 2 am)<ref>{{Cite web |title=Martha |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p0h6fm6m |access-date=2026-04-12 |website=BBC |language=en-GB}}</ref> * Charlie Tee (''Radio 1's Drum & Bass Show'', Saturday 11 pm – 1 am)<ref>{{Cite web |title=Radio 1's Drum & Bass Show |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b09c12lj |access-date=2026-04-12 |website=BBC |language=en-GB}}</ref>
==See also== * BBC Radio 1 Relax * BBC Radio 1 Anthems
==References== {{reflist}}
{{BBC Radio}} {{BBC Radio 1}}
Dance Category:Digital-only radio stations 1 Dance Category:Radio stations established in 2020