Charlie Gillett 1942-2010

Worldwide tributes pour in to the much-loved world music pioneer

by Peter CulshawThursday, 18 March 2010

Charlie Gilett: Influential and much lovedSteve Double

The music world is reeling from the death of Charlie Gillett. He was not just an influential DJ who was instrumental in widening the listening habits of millions of listeners on his World Service and other radio shows, a journalist, writer and a key figure in promoting global music. He was also a beacon of decency and rare integrity in the music world who affected so many people. Heartfelt tributes have been pouring into his site with postings from complete strangers the other side of the world, to members of his family and even his post-man.

Buy

Find The Sound of the City on Amazon

Explore topics

Share this article

...

Permalink Submitted by joe.muggs on Fri, 19/03/2010 - 11:21

I've had reason to contact Charlie a number of times for quotes in articles I've written over the last few years, and every time, often despite his illness, he was helpful beyond the call of duty - and seemed genuinely interested in my take on what I was writing about to boot. Truly one of the good guys.

...

Permalink Submitted by Michael Leigh (not verified) on Mon, 29/03/2010 - 09:35

Charlie has left a gaping hole which will be impossible to fill. A truly great DJ with a real passion for the music he played. Listening to Charlie's radio shows was like getting a mix tape from a dear friend.

...

Permalink Submitted by T (not verified) on Mon, 12/04/2010 - 09:59

I'll never forget Charlie playing BIM one of my favourite bands at the time of his radio show 'undercurrents' on capital radio it was a good while before other radio stations played them. very wise and warm I won't forget him very easily neither will the worldI'll never forget Charlie playing BIM one of my favourite bands at the time of his radio show 'undercurrents' on capital radio it was a good while before other radio stations played them. very wise and warm I won't forget him very easily neither will the world rest in peace Charlie T , London rest in peace Charlie T , London

Add comment

The future of Arts Journalism

You can stop theartsdesk.com closing!

We urgently need financing to survive. Our fundraising drive has thus far raised £33,000 but we need to reach £100,000 or we will be forced to close. Please contribute here: https://gofund.me/c3f6033d

And if you can forward this information to anyone who might assist, we’d be grateful.

Subscribe to theartsdesk.com

Thank you for continuing to read our work on theartsdesk.com. For unlimited access to every article in its entirety, including our archive of more than 15,000 pieces, we're asking for £5 per month or £40 per year. We feel it's a very good deal, and hope you do too.

To take a subscription now simply click here.

And if you're looking for that extra gift for a friend or family member, why not treat them to a theartsdesk.com gift subscription?

more New music

Kenny Barron Trio, Ronnie Scott's review - a master of the cool Eloquent story-telling from jazz giant

Music Reissues Weekly: Magazine - Real Life, Secondhand Daylight, The Correct Use of Soap The first three albums from Howard Devoto’s post-punk marvels hit the shops again

Bob Dylan, Royal Albert Hall review - cracked ritual from rock elder A glorious mixture of mask and authenticity

ARK: United States V by Laurie Anderson, Aviva Studios, Manchester review - a vessel for the thoughts and imaginings of a lifetime Despite anticipating disaster, this mesmerising voyage is full of hope

Album: Linkin Park - From Zero California metal icons mark new era with captivating eighth album

Rachel Chinouriri, Queen Margaret Union, Glasgow review - a formidable and genre-hopping talent The singer lifted elements from throughout pop history during an exciting set

Album: Jon Batiste - Beethoven Blues Beethoven's hits reimagined by the American musical celebrity

Album: Silkroad Ensemble with Rhiannon Giddens - American Railroad American railroad history retold in a song cycle

Interview: Roy Haynes, Jazz Drumming Giant (1925-2024) The jazz legend reminisces, from Satchmo to Metheny

Album: Dolly Parton & Family - Smoky Mountain DNA - Family, Faith & Fables Forlorn hope, and a beautiful expression of family, from the American heartland

Amyl and the Sniffers, O2 Academy, Birmingham review - rowdy Aussies let loose Melbourne pub rockers set Sunday evening alight

Album: Tomorrow X Together - The Star Chapter: Sanctuary From heavenly pop to reggaeton heat, TXT's musical universe knows no bounds

Follow @theartsdesk