Much respect to you Mr. Peel.
My heartfelt thanks John,
Here's to you.
You made us all feel
We had somewhere to belong.
On the radio with you.

When I think of all the years,
And how you made me feel,
Simple words will not do.
I smile through the tears,
You have made so real,
As I am reminded of you.

When I was told to go to bed,
I'd have your show quietly won,
There beneath my sheets.
Late nights inside my head,
Became comfortably numb,
With roots reggae and beats.

I know it sounds dramatic,
But it's the day that music died.
The day that you took the Fall.
The records found in your attic,
Show what bands have tried,
Just to get that phone call.

You mixed with wheels of steel,
You mixed with all the bands,
And welcomed them to your home.
You played what made you feel,
And everyone understands
The choice of speed was your own.

Now you've seen the pearly gates,
Shaken hands with God himself,
Get Elvis for a session.
Sheila now quietly waits
For your cuddle all by herself,
As you take on a new mission.

I hope you don't mind the shows
Playing tribute to your special self.
First Radio 1, then Andy Kershaw,
Records you aired on our radios.
And probably now by yourself
At ethereal discos you play for.

Your shows were an education.
Softly spoken, strongly held views
Inspired generations to music.
From death metal annihilation
To the most soulful of blues
Only you could possibly pick.

So here's to you John.
You put style into the groove.
I raise my glass to a wonderful man
Who lived to become an icon.
I hope you don't disapprove
These words from a long time fan.

Here's to you John.
Here's to you.