CHILLI JAZZ RADIO WEEKLY SHOW NEWS

Matt Monro: The Lost Sessions Restored — The 1982 Ron Goodwin & Billy May Recordings Reborn

A Landmark Release for Fans of Britain’s Finest Voice

Out on 25th September, this remarkable new album unveils a treasure long thought gone forever — a collection of stunning 1982 recordings Matt Monro made with two legendary figures: Ron Goodwin and Billy May.

Originally broadcast on BBC Radio, the Ron Goodwin sessions were believed lost for decades until an unexpected rebroadcast revealed that the tapes had survived after all. The Billy May recordings, however, remained unheard for more than 40 years. The BBC did not retain the original tapes, and only off‑air cassettes circulated among collectors.

The breakthrough came thanks to the late Alan Dell, who had quietly preserved the master tape of the Billy May session. After his passing in 1995, the tapes were transferred to the National Sound Archive, where they remained locked behind layers of administrative red tape — until now.

After years of work, the recordings have finally been recovered and lovingly restored. Expertly remastered by Richard Moore, these sessions sound fresh, vivid, and breathtaking, capturing Matt at the height of his artistry with two of the greatest arrangers of the 20th century.

This is not just an album — it’s a historic moment. A rediscovery. A restoration. A celebration of a voice and legacy that continues to shine.

A must‑hear release for every Matt Monro fan — and a proud moment for the world of classic orchestral jazz.

WITH TOM STEVENS

MONDAY'S 11.00PM

The Lighter Side of Big Bands & Jazz – Celebrating Feel‑Good Jazz Across the Decades

Big Bands and Beyond

Modern Power, Classic Legends Presented by Paul Rigby

On Air: First Monday, 8–10pm Repeat: , 8–10am Omnibus: Sunday, 8 -10am

Join broadcaster and bandleader Paul Rigby for Big Bands and Beyond — a monthly showcase of modern big bands and legendary ensembles. Paul is leader of the Northern Jazz Orchestra and brings expert insight, great music, and special guests.

THIS TUESDAY 6th October STARTING THE - 8PM

YOU DIG? — Jazz Stories, Big Personalities, Real Insight

Smart, relaxed conversations with the musicians and creators shaping today’s jazz world — hosted by Grammy‑nominated Steve Wiest.

This week Steve welcomes Martin Heathershaw: Acclaimed Trombonist, Recording Artist and Soloist

Celebrated trombonist and first-call Los Angeles studio musician Martin Heathershaw has built an outstanding career spanning the worlds of jazz, film, television and live performance. With 12 albums as a leader or co-leader, including a critically acclaimed collaboration with the renowned Metropole Orchestra, Martin is recognised for his exceptional musicianship and expressive solo work. A longstanding member of Gordon Goodwin's Big Phat Band and former featured soloist with the legendary Bill Holman Big Band for 15 years, he continues to be a driving force in the contemporary big band scene. Martin also performs with Chris Walden's Pacific Jazz Orchestra and has been part of Tom Kubis' Big Band since its inception. His impressive recording and touring credits include Quincy Jones, Michael Bublé, Arturo Sandoval, Earth, Wind & Fire, Lady Gaga, Coldplay, Metallica, Lizzo, The Who and many other internationally acclaimed artists.

STAR-SPANGLED RADIO HOUR

With Dennis M. Spragg – Historian, Author & Curator

Dennis M. Spragg is the lead historian of the Glenn Miller legacy, coordinating the Glenn Miller Collections at the University of Colorado Boulder and serving with the Glenn Miller Birthplace Society. He co‑produces the acclaimed Star‑Spangled Radio Hour, manages the Glenn Miller Collections’ online presence, and writes widely published articles on American history and exceptionalism. His work is featured by major media, the Smithsonian, and the Library of Congress, and he appears frequently across radio, TV, podcasts, and live events.

Wednesday 7th October 5pm

Friday 5pm, Sunday 12pm

THIS WEEK

Dennis Spragg Celebrates the Timeless Genius of Duke Ellington

Join Dennis Spragg as he pays tribute to the legendary Duke Ellington, one of the most influential figures in jazz history. From his groundbreaking years at Harlem's Cotton Club to his celebrated collaborations with Billy Strayhorn, Ellington transformed the sound of big band jazz with a catalogue of more than 1,000 compositions. Featuring classic works, remarkable orchestra performances and the stories behind the music, the show shines a spotlight on the composer, pianist and bandleader whose legacy continues to shape jazz around the world.

WITH TOM STEVENS

Wednesday 30th September 8.00pm

This Wednesday, Tom welcomes one of our own — John Petters, the drummer, bandleader, historian and broadcaster who has shaped British jazz for decades.

This week on The Jazz Set, Tom is joined by John Petters — drummer, bandleader, jazz historian, writer, lecturer and long‑time broadcaster. A familiar voice to Chilli Jazz Radio listeners, John has written extensively for Jazz Journal International and Just Jazz Magazine, documenting the evolution of jazz drumming and preserving the stories of the music he loves. In this special Jazz Set crossover, John brings deep knowledge, sharp insight and a lifetime of experience to an unmissable conversation with Tom.

NOT TO BE MISSED DRIVING HOME WITH TOM

Thursday's 5pm

The Michele Monro Podcast

The first Thursday 3rd September of every month 7pm -8pm

Michele Monro talks about her father the legendary singer Matt Monro.

The Voice Behind the Stories, The Legacy Behind the Music

Michele Monro Talks with Anita Harris – A Golden Era Conversation

Michele Monro sits down with Anita Harris, the much‑loved singer and entertainer whose career spanned chart hits, cabaret, and memorable Carry On film roles. Together they reflect on the vibrant world of British showbusiness that Anita and Michele’s father, Matt Monro, helped define — a warm, nostalgic chat between two women connected through music, legacy and timeless charm.

Michele Monro brings a uniquely personal perspective to the world of classic song and showbusiness. As the daughter of legendary singer Matt Monro, she has spent years preserving, curating and celebrating his legacy — and now she shares those stories, insights and rare moments on her new Chilli Jazz Radio show.

Expect warm, witty and deeply informed storytelling as Michele opens the door to a lifetime surrounded by music: the hits, the hidden gems, the studio tales, the family memories and the remarkable journey of one of Britain’s greatest vocalists. Her show blends nostalgia with discovery, offering listeners an intimate look at the man behind the microphone and the music that continues to inspire generations.

A heartfelt, engaging and beautifully crafted programme — Michele Monro brings history to life with charm, honesty and a deep love for the art of song.

TODD'S TURNTABLE

Do not miss the brilliant Tod Gordon and his themed shows

THURSDAY 1st October 8PM

FRIDAY 2AM & 7PM, SUNDAY 4PM,

Tonight on Todd's Turntable The Leo Robin Songbook – A Celebration of Wit, Romance, and Hollywood Glamour

Join Todd this evening for The Leo Robin Songbook, a tribute to one of the most charming lyricists of the Golden Age of American music. Leo Robin’s words brought sparkle and sophistication to over 500 songs for Broadway and Hollywood, including the unforgettable classics Thanks for the Memory and Diamonds Are a Girl’s Best Friend.

Working alongside legendary composers like Harold Arlen, Harry Warren, and Ralph Rainger, Robin crafted melodies that defined an era of elegance and wit. With ten Oscar nominations and a place in the Songwriters’ Hall of Fame, his legacy continues to enchant generations.

Tune in tonight and let the timeless romance and lyrical brilliance of Leo Robin fill the air.

Tom Meets Big Band Royalty: Jeff Bush talking about the Legacy of the Tommy Dorsey Orchestra on 10th October -2pm

This Saturday on Big Band Heat, Tom welcomes a very special guest, Jeff Bush, Music Director and leader of the world-famous Tommy Dorsey Orchestra. From his early days in Apollo, Pennsylvania, to leading one of the most celebrated big bands in history, Jeff's remarkable career has taken him around the globe performing with jazz legends, major orchestras and superstar entertainers.

A gifted trombonist, educator and bandleader, Jeff has appeared with the Count Basie Orchestra, Vanguard Jazz Orchestra and Harry Connick Jr.'s acclaimed big band, while also performing alongside artists ranging from Christina Aguilera and Frankie Valli to The Temptations and Manhattan Transfer. In 2024, his musical journey came full circle when he became Music Director of the legendary Tommy Dorsey Orchestra.

Join Tom for an exclusive conversation exploring Jeff's extraordinary career, the enduring magic of the Tommy Dorsey sound, and what it means to lead one of the greatest big bands of all time. Don't miss this fascinating edition of Big Band Heat this Saturday.

Tom's brilliant show's are always packed with new music and interviews

Saturday 3rd October

Sunday 7pm, Monday 7pm, Tuesday 12am, Wednesday 5am

John Welcomes Mike Pointon – A Tribute to a True British Jazz Original

Tonight, John pays tribute to Mike Pointon, the versatile trombonist, broadcaster and jazz historian who helped shape the UK jazz scene for decades. Pointon’s career began early, playing with Ken Colyer’s band as a teenager before moving through groups like the Blue Crow Jazzmen and the Perdido Street Six.

A gifted musician with a sharp wit and a deep love for traditional jazz, Mike recorded and performed with leading players across Britain, Europe and the US. His contributions to music, arts and comedy made him one of the scene’s most recognisable and respected voices.

A warm, insightful celebration of a man who lived and breathed jazz.

Saturday 3rd October 8pm

Sunday 2pm Monday 4am, Tuesday 6pm

Join David Harding-Price tonight for his fabulous Blue's Show

Featuring Barbarella And The Boogie Blues: Keeping the Spirit of British Blues Rock Alive

Barbarella And The Boogie Blues, the acclaimed British blues rock band founded by singer-songwriter Rachel Medina, are bringing fresh energy to a classic sound. Inspired by the legendary British Blues Boom and the roots of blues music, the band, featuring guitarist Edwin Leonard of The Outsiders, has been winning audiences across Europe with its powerful live performances and authentic blues-rock style.

Following the critical success of their self-titled debut album in December 2024, the band returned with For Love Or Money in July 2026, a release already making waves on blues radio shows from the UK to Chicago. Renowned for their raw passion, musicianship and unmistakable 1970s blues-rock spirit, Barbarella And The Boogie Blues continue to build a loyal following as they prepare for their highly anticipated 2027 tour.

THE SUNDAY REWIND - ALL THE WEEKS SHOWS IN ONE DAY

MEET THE PRESENTERS